A School Where I Belong

Overview

Over the past few years, it has become clear that the path of transformation in schools since 1994 has not led South Africa’s education system to where we had hoped it could be. Through tweets, posts and recent protests in schools, it has become apparent that in former whites-only state schools, and private schools, children of colour and those who are ‘different’ don’t feel they belong. Following the astonishing success of How to Fix South Africa’s Schools, the authors sat down with young people who attended former Model-C and private schools, as well as principals and teachers, to reflect on transformation and belonging in South African schools. These filmed reflections, available for streaming, are honest and insightful. Drawing on the authors’ experiences in supporting schools over the last twenty years, and the insight of those interviewed, A School Where I Belongoutlines six areas where true transformation in South African and world classrooms and schools can begin.

Author Biography

Dylan Wray is co-founder and director of Shikaya – a non-profit that supports teachers and school leaders in South Africa to ensure young people leave school thinking critically, and being compassionate, engaged, democratic citizens. Wray has worked globally as a teacher, facilitator, materials developer and author, and is co-founder of FutureProof Schools.

Roy Hellenberg has served on senior management teams of two top traditional boys’ schools in South Africa. Hellenberg has special interest and expertise in education in post-conflict societies, and has worked with Shikaya and FHAO over the past 11 years in equipping teachers to develop inclusive classrooms that encourage critical thinking and democratic practice. Hellenberg is also a co-founder of FutureProof Schools.

Jonathan Jansen is Distinguished Professor of Education at the University of Stellenbosch, after serving for many years as the Vice Chancellor of the University of the Free State, South Africa. Jansen has a formidable reputation for transformation and a deep commitment to reconciliation in communities living with the heritage of apartheid. He holds an impressive collection of degrees and awards including the Education Africa Lifetime Achievement Award. Jansen is also the author or co-author of Song for Sarah, Letters to My Children, Great South African Teachers, We Need to Talk, We Need to Act and How to Fix South Africa’s Schools. Jansen has lived all over South Africa and in the United States. He is married with two children.