Buhlebenkosi Mpala
Freetown,W
Summary
Experienced with creating dynamic and nurturing learning environments for young children. Utilizes innovative teaching methods to enhance early childhood development. Knowledge of building strong relationships with parents and colleagues to support holistic child growth.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Early Years Teacher and Head Teacher
British International School& Montessori Education
Freetown, Sierra Leone
09.2021 - Current
- Continuously updated personal knowledge of early childhood education best practices through professional development courses, workshops, and conferences.
- Improved communication skills among students by facilitating regular classroom debates and discussions on relevant topics.
- Boosted student engagement and participation through the implementation of interactive activities and group projects.
- Achieved higher student retention rates by providing consistent support, encouragement, and feedback throughout the academic year.
- Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs.
- Developed and implemented classroom routines to address varying student needs.
- Completed student progress reports mid-term to notify students and parents of strengths and areas of improvement.
- Fostered student curiosity and interest through creative hands-on activities.
- Participated in department meetings to provide input to colleagues about student achievement and improvement.
- Modified lessons and curriculum to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.
- Improved student engagement by incorporating technology and real-world examples into lesson plans.
- Allowed for ample outdoor discovery time in schedule each day.
- Worked with teaching staff to evaluate individual progress and recommend appropriate learning plans.
- Enhanced parent-teacher communication by holding regular meetings, discussing student performance, concerns, and areas for improvement.
- Mentored junior teachers, sharing best practices and providing constructive feedback to improve their teaching techniques.
- Assessed student progress and provided feedback on educational development.
- Helped new preschool children get used to classes by giving one-on-one support.
Home Schooling
Private Clients
Johannesburg , South Africa
02.2020 - 05.2021
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
Toddler/Pre School Lead Teacher
I-M-Smart Montessori pre-school
Johannesburg, South Africa
01.2018 - 01.2021
- Completed student progress reports mid-term to notify students and parents of strengths and areas of improvement.
- Fostered student curiosity and interest through creative hands-on activities.
- Developed and implemented classroom routines to address varying student needs.
- Created and developed lesson plans to meet students' academic needs.
- Helped students explore concepts with engaging, learning-focused activities.
Pre School Teacher
Storyville Montessori
Johannesburg, South Africa
02.2017 - 12.2017
- Maintained organized, fun and interactive classroom to help children feel safe.
- Designed creative lesson plans that incorporated hands-on activities and interactive learning experiences to foster curiosity and engagement in young learners.
- Ensured a safe and nurturing environment for all students, adhering to health and safety guidelines in the classroom.
- Established positive communication with parents in daily conversation and formal conferences.
- Gave one-on-one attention to children while maintaining overall focus on entire group.
- Boosted children''s social development by promoting positive interactions among peers through group activities and collaborative projects.
Toddler Assistant Teacher
Cherry Tree Montessori
Johannesburg, South Africa
07.2016 - 12.2016
- Assisted in preparing lesson materials, contributing to effective classroom instruction.
- Supervised students during recess to ensure safety and adherence to rules.
- Managed classroom supplies and resources to maintain organized learning space.
- Ensured a safe and supportive learning environment by enforcing classroom rules and addressing behavioral issues promptly.
- Assisted lead teacher in providing individualized attention to students, resulting in improved academic performance.
Toddler Assistant Teacher
Villa Maria Edu care
Capetown, South Africa
01.2016 - 06.2016
- Assisted in preparing lesson materials, contributing to effective classroom instruction.
- Supervised students during recess to ensure safety and adherence to rules.
- Supported teacher in implementing behavior management strategies to maintain discipline.
- Assisted in maintaining classroom displays, enhancing the learning environment.
- Ensured a safe and supportive learning environment by enforcing classroom rules and addressing behavioral issues promptly.
- Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
Attachments
Shereens Montessori Pre-Primary School
Capetown, SouthAfrica
08.2015 - 11.2015
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
Au pair
Private Clients
Capetown, South Africa
11.2012 - 06.2014
- Developed strong bonds with host family members resulting in lasting relationships beyond contract term.
- Promoted healthy eating habits by preparing nutritious meals and snacks for the children.
- Taught children to organize toys, wash hands, and share by leading by example.
- Ensured household cleanliness by performing light housekeeping tasks such as laundry, tidying up toys or organizing play spaces.
- Kept children's areas neat and clean.
- Facilitated bedtime routines by reading stories, playing calming music or engaging in relaxation techniques promoting restful sleep for the children.
- Played games, worked on puzzles, and read books to young children.
- Bathed, dressed, and helped with teeth brushing as part of bedtime preparation.
Receptionist
Grain Marketing Board Guest House
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
02.2008 - 03.2009
- Confirmed appointments, communicated with clients, and updated client records.
- Answered phone promptly and directed incoming calls to correct offices.
- Kept reception area clean and neat to give visitors positive first impression.
- Responded to inquiries from callers seeking information.
- Answered central telephone system and directed calls accordingly.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly addressing inquiries and providing accurate information.
Education
BA (Hons) Montessori Early Childhood Studies - Early Childhood Education
Anglia Ruskin University
Campuses Cambridge,Chelmsford, ARU Peterborough,UK07-2025
Early Childhood Course
Montessori Centre South Africa
Capetown, South Africa09-2016
Skills
- Early intervention techniques
- Gross motor skills development
- Parent-teacher communication
- Play-based learning
- Observation and assessment
- Documentation and reporting
- Sensory integration
- Social skills promotion
- Fine motor skills development
- Lesson implementation
- Literacy development
Timeline
Early Years Teacher and Head Teacher
British International School& Montessori Education
09.2021 - Current
Home Schooling
Private Clients
02.2020 - 05.2021
Toddler/Pre School Lead Teacher
I-M-Smart Montessori pre-school
01.2018 - 01.2021
Pre School Teacher
Storyville Montessori
02.2017 - 12.2017
Toddler Assistant Teacher
Cherry Tree Montessori
07.2016 - 12.2016
Toddler Assistant Teacher
Villa Maria Edu care
01.2016 - 06.2016
Attachments
Shereens Montessori Pre-Primary School
08.2015 - 11.2015
Au pair
Private Clients
11.2012 - 06.2014
Receptionist
Grain Marketing Board Guest House
02.2008 - 03.2009
BA (Hons) Montessori Early Childhood Studies - Early Childhood Education
Anglia Ruskin University
Early Childhood Course
Montessori Centre South Africa