Leana Strydom
About Candidate
Educational leader with over 16 years of experience supporting the academic, emotional and social development of learners across both independent and public schools. Holding a BA Honours in Psychology, formal counselling training and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, I have developed extensive expertise in learner wellbeing, pastoral care, child and adolescent development and inclusive educational practice.
Throughout my career I have worked collaboratively with school leadership, parents and multidisciplinary professionals to support learners with diverse educational and emotional needs. My leadership experience includes pastoral care, examination administration, staff collaboration, curriculum leadership and implementing inclusive teaching strategies that enable learners to achieve their full potential.
I am recognised for my empathy, sound professional judgement, discretion and ability to build strong relationships with learners, parents and colleagues. I am passionate about fostering inclusive school communities where every learner feels valued, supported and empowered to succeed.
Location
Education
A professional teaching qualification focused on educational theory, teaching methodology, classroom management, assessment and practical teaching experience. The qualification prepares graduates to effectively teach and support learners within a school environment.
Advanced study in Psychology, focusing on human behaviour, psychological theory, research methods, assessment and the application of psychological principles to individual and social contexts.
An interdisciplinary degree combining the study of physical and human geography with tourism. The degree covered human-environment interactions, geographical processes, tourism development, destination management, sustainability, travel and tourism impacts, as well as the social, cultural and economic significance of tourism.
Work & Experience
Teaching Geography to Grades 8–12, including lesson planning and preparation, development of interactive and engaging learning activities, and delivery of the curriculum. Responsible for setting, administering and marking tests, tasks and other assessments, as well as maintaining accurate learner records. Provide regular communication and feedback to learners and parents regarding academic progress and areas for development. Serve as a mentor teacher, providing academic and pastoral support to a class of boys, with a focus on their overall wellbeing, development and progress. Assist with the coaching and development of the Junior Debating programme and contribute to the broader co-curricular life of the school.
Supported learners through differentiated teaching practices, provided targeted academic interventions, maintained regular communication with parents regarding learner progress, and contributed to learner wellbeing through pastoral support.
Taught Geography across Grades 8–12, planning and delivering engaging lessons, developing assessments and educational resources, and implementing differentiated teaching strategies. Served as a Grade 12 Grade Controller, providing pastoral care, monitoring academic progress and supporting learners with academic, emotional and personal challenges. Worked closely with parents, colleagues and school leadership to support learner wellbeing and development. Also managed examination administration, including venue planning, invigilation schedules and examination logistics, while working within IEB assessment requirements. Contributed to the wider school community through involvement in hockey, swimming, equestrian and marimba programmes.
