WHEN THE ‘TAUGHT’ BECOMES THE TEACHER

January 26, 2024

Inspired by Crawford International teachers to become a teacher herself, this is the journey of Petra Saringer.

A woman is standing in front of a sign that says educating petra.


Alumnus: Petra Saringer

School: Crawford International College Lonehill

Year: 2019

 

Every individual’s journey through life is a unique composition of experiences, choices and opportunities that shape their identity and purpose. For Petra, a former student of Crawford International Lonehill, this journey has been a tale of self-discovery, academic growth, and a profound connection to the world of education.
 
 

Where it all began?
Petra’s educational journey began at Crawford International Lonehill, where she spent her formative years from Grade 000 to Grade 12. In 2019, Petra matriculated, leaving her ‘taught’ years behind as she headed for her teaching years with excitement.

 


Embracing new opportunities post-school?
While many graduates opt for a gap year or grand adventures after school, Petra chose a different path. She immediately pursued a Bachelor of Education (BEd) Foundation Phase, signalling her commitment to nurturing young minds and shaping the future through teaching. Notably, Petra also embraced the challenges of the pandemic by engaging in afternoon au pairing, a testament to her adaptability and determination to work with children.
 
 

When teaching chooses you: a calling found
Petra’s journey into the teaching profession was far from conventional. Rather than actively choosing teaching, she believes that teaching chose her. Influenced by the heartfelt dedication of her Crawford International Grade 4 teacher, Mrs. Beyleveld, Petra felt a strong connection to the world of education. Witnessing the impact of a passionate teacher with her students, Petra knew teaching was her true calling.
 
 

Words of wisdom for aspiring educators 
For those aspiring to follow in Petra’s footsteps, she offers invaluable advice.

“It is important to have a genuine passion and love for teaching, as the profession extends far beyond the classroom,” she says. “Teaching requires dedication and a profound commitment in order to make a difference in our students’ lives”.
 
 

Challenges and opportunities in the Education Industry
Looking at the future of the education industry in South Africa and globally, Petra acknowledges the persistent demand for skilled educators. However, she also highlights the challenge of inadequate funding for many schools, which can hinder the employment of quality teachers. While some private schools align with global trends, addressing challenges in other areas remains a priority for Petra. 
 
 

Crawford’s Impact: equipping for success.
“Crawford International played a significant role in preparing me for success,” says Petra. “Crawford fostered teamwork, leadership, self-belief and resilience in me – all these attributes continue to guide me as I navigate my teaching career.”
 
 

 

 

A Glimpse into Petra’s world beyond teaching 
Beyond her professional life, Petra is an avid equestrian enthusiast. Her love for horseback riding embodies trust, horsemanship, and a connection with nature. Additionally, she shares her life with her cherished horse, Quantico, and her two-wire hair terrier dogs, cooper and Elsie.
 
 

Looking ahead: dreams and aspirations
As Petra gazes into the future, her vision is filled with dreams to do great things in education, both in South Africa and abroad. Her long-term goal includes the possibility of moving to Australia to expand her horizons.

 

A tribute to special memories and teachers

“The two teachers who has a profound influence of me was Ms. Kankowski, my Geography teacher, and Mrs. Beyleveld, my Grade 4 teacher! The way they nurtured and inspired me is something I plan to give to the children that I teach!”

 

A Grateful Heart for Crawford’s Opportunities
Petra’s gratitude shines through as she acknowledges Crawford’s comprehensive approach to education. “The school not only nurtured me in my academic growth but also provided opportunities for my sporting, social and cultural development too”. I look back on my years at Crawford with fondness and appreciation”.
 
Petra’s story is one of serendipity and passion, a journey that led her from being a student at Crawford International Lonehill to a dedicated educator shaping the minds of the next generation. With unwavering determination and the lessons learned at Crawford, Petra is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of education, embodying the spirit of innovation and excellence that her alma mater instilled in her.

 

We are proud of you Petra!
 

A woman in a black jacket is standing in front of a flower wall.

Teacher Spotlight: Mr Chris Herbst Afrikaans Teacher at Crawford International Sandton

April 25, 2025
A Lifelong Educator Mr Chris Herbst has spent 41 years in the classroom. With a Bachelor of Education from the University of the Witwatersrand, he has taught countless learners over the decades. He joined Crawford International Sandton in 1999 and currently teaches Afrikaans to students from Grade 8 to Grade 12. His role spans across five different year groups, a challenge he embraces. “I have my hands full as I navigate the excitement and challenges of teaching an additional language to five different grades,” he says. Why Teaching Still Matters For Mr Herbst, teaching is not a job. It is something he feels deeply connected to. “Teaching is my great passion and calling. The classroom is where I find my motivation and inspiration,” he shares. “When we have a really good lesson and I see our students leave having learned something new, or figured out a challenging concept, then I am motivated and inspired all over again.” These everyday moments keep him grounded in his purpose. They are the quiet victories that reaffirm his place in the classroom. Freedom to Teach with Meaning Mr Herbst values Crawford’s approach to learning, particularly the way it supports teacher agency and student-centred learning. “I love the fact that the focus is student-centred, and that as teachers we have the freedom and the responsibility to create a teaching and learning environment that works best for every learning need,” he says. He believes this flexibility allows for learning to become more meaningful. “If I identify that a particular topic or poem has piqued the interest of my class, I have the freedom to delve deeper and really explore the subject matter without being bound by rigid syllabus rules and time frames.” Connecting Language to the Real World Teaching Afrikaans in a school where it is often an additional language means finding ways to make it resonate. Mr Herbst understands that for many students, the subject may not come naturally. “For many students, learning another language may initially feel like a requirement rather than a passion,” he explains. To bridge that gap, he brings the language to life through content that students can relate to. “It’s important to integrate engaging, real-world content such as music, movies, and stories that align with the students’ interests.” These tools, he believes, help students see the language in context and build an emotional connection to it. A Teaching Legacy  Over the course of his career, Mr Herbst has taught more than one generation in the same family. It is a milestone he reflects on with pride. “I have taught students who are now parents, and I am teaching their children today. It doesn’t get better than that.” But what stands out most for him is being remembered. “By far my biggest kick is when a past student recognises me and comes over to strike up a conversation and talk about their life and work after school.”
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK Crawford International Sandton From the classrooms of Crawford International Sandton to the forefront of aeronautical engineering in the Netherlands, Dylan Bizjak’s journey is one of ambition, resilience and innovation . Pursuing a Passion for Engineering After matriculating in 2019, Dylan initially pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Wits University. However, six months into his studies, a new opportunity emerged, one that would take him beyond South Africa’s borders. He secured a place at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Delft, Netherlands, where he embraced the challenge of international study, even navigating his first year remotely due to the pandemic. Now a graduate with a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering (2024), Dylan has stepped into the professional world, joining Eve Reverse, a pioneering start-up dedicated to climate-positive innovation. What began as an internship in his final year evolved into a full-time role as a Research and Development Engineer, where he contributes to the creation of sustainable, carbon-negative materials. His proudest achievement? Playing a key role in the development of the Eve Dry Tile, an innovative flax fibre material designed to reduce emissions and waste in manufacturing. Achievements at Crawford International Sandton Gareth Beach Award (2019) – Recognised for bravery, dedication, self-development and outstanding achievement in swimming. Sportsman of the Year (2019) – Acknowledged for excellence in swimming, basketball and boxing.  Reflections on Crawford Dylan credits his time at Crawford for preparing him for both academic and personal success on the global stage. “Crawford’s approach equips you for university and beyond, whether in South Africa or internationally. It’s not just about academics but about becoming a well-rounded critical thinker and team player. Exposure to diverse cultures, teamwork, individuality and taking responsibility for my outcomes were invaluable lessons I carried with me.” Words of Wisdom To his younger self, Dylan would say: “Step out of your comfort zone sooner. Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Leaving home was tough, but the personal and professional growth was worth every stumble along the way.” Dylan’s story is a testament to courage, hard work and the power of embracing the unknown. From South Africa to the Netherlands, he is proving that the sky isn’t the limit, it is just the beginning.
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