Tasmeerah Darson

Dynamic English teacher and pastoral leader with over seven years of experience across international and South African schools, teaching learners from Grades 3–11. Recognised for improving academic outcomes, strengthening student wellbeing systems, and leading whole-school student leadership initiatives. Currently serving as Head of Year, English Teacher, Global Perspectives Teacher, English Support Lead, and Prefect & SRC Lead in a Cambridge international school.

Known for designing inclusive, student-centred learning programmes, implementing targeted interventions, and building effective pastoral and leadership structures across multiple year groups. Specialist in Cambridge ESL, Checkpoint preparation, inclusive education, and inquiry-based learning. Currently pursuing Master's In Education in Educational Management.

Head of Year | English & Global Perspectives Teacher | Student Leadership Lead at ABQ Education Group (2022-01 – Present)

• Deliver Cambridge English lessons focused on literacy, writing, and critical thinking, preparing students for Checkpoint assessments.
• Design differentiated instruction for mixed-ability and ESL learners.
• Teach Global Perspectives through inquiry-based, collaborative learning.
• Lead and manage the English Support programme across four year groups.
• Deliver targeted small-group and individual interventions for ESL and supported learners.
• Oversee behaviour, wellbeing, and academic monitoring for Grade 6.
• Implement targeted interventions to improve engagement and conduct.
• Liaise with parents, teachers, and senior leadership on student progress.
• Lead the Prefect and SRC programmes across the entire primary school (Grades 3–6).
• Oversee elections, leadership training, and school-wide initiatives and mentor student leaders to develop responsibility, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Awarded Top Employee of the Primary School.

English Lead at Laudium Secondary School (2018-01 – 2022-12)

• English lead for Grades 10–11 under the CAPS curriculum, ensuring high standards of teaching and assessment.
• Mentored trainee and newly qualified teachers through lesson planning, resource development, and professional support.
• Delivered booster sessions and exam preparation programmes, improving student performance and language proficiency.
• Collaborated with counsellors and inclusion teams to implement targeted learning strategies.
• Led Spelling Bees, speech contests, and literacy events, increasing participation by 40%.
• Monitored student progress and implemented interventions to close learning gaps.

Volunteer - Commerce, Humanities, and English Departments at Laudium Secondary School (2018-01 – 2021-12)

Volunteered across Commerce, Humanities, and English departments, teaching subjects including Business Studies, Economics, Social Studies, English, and Life Orientation. Gained cross-disciplinary teaching and classroom management experience, leading to full-time employment.

• Awarded Top Employee of the month for 5 consecutive months.

Teaching Practicum at Jacaranda Primary School (2016-01 – 2017-12)

• Delivered English and Humanities lessons during teaching practicals.
• Designed personalised learning strategies for students requiring additional support. In contrast, creating a structured, nurturing classroom environment that promotes engagement and collaboration.
• Supported behaviour management systems to maintain high learning standards.
• Identified learning gaps and worked with senior teachers to ensure consistent academic progress.

Master's in Education in Educational Management – University of South Africa (UNISA)

Honours in Education in Comparative & International Education – University of South Africa (UNISA) (2026-12)

Bachelor of Education in Intermediate & Senior Phase – University of South Africa (UNISA) (2021-12)

Matric – Laudium Secondary School (2015-12)