In this episode, Dr Elzahn Rinquest sits down with Gabriella von Lieres, a lecturer at PH Weingarten in Germany — a fascinating, warm conversation about language, identity and belonging in education.

Growing up with three languages across three continents, Gabriella brings a unique lens to teaching. In this episode you'll hear:

• Why bilingual schools use CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) — and why it's "just really good teaching"
• How Germany's three-track school system works — and what the critics say
• Why a child's lived experience and home language are cultural capital, not a problem to fix
• What it really means to see every learner — and why teachers must give up a little power to let students in
• The honest truth about "loving children" vs. the creativity and values that keep teachers going

Whether you're an educator, student teacher, or just curious about how language shapes identity, this episode will change the way you think about the classroom.

Season 6 opens with a deep dive into multilingualism in education — and why language is so much more than words.

In this episode, we welcome an international panel of experts from the EQuiiP Summer School to unpack what happens in multilingual, multicultural classrooms. Our guests:

• Dr Estella Meima (University of Groningen)
• Dr Vernita Beukus (Stellenbosch University)
• Dr Carole Fuller (University of Groningen)
• Dr Ludmila Kalasnikova (University of Chile)

Together they explore:

• Why language shapes identity, belonging and social cohesion
• The real cognitive benefits of multilingualism (and why "language interference" is an outdated myth)
• How the EQuiiP programme is transforming staff development — including UNESCO-backed work at Stellenbosch
• What South Africa's multilingual reality means for truly inclusive education

Whether you're an educator, student, or just curious about how language shapes the way we think and connect, this is the episode to start your season with.

In this powerful episode, the host interviews Ms. Jasmin Joy Meyer, a dedicated special needs educator who exemplifies what it means to be an agent of change. With passion and perseverance, she integrates technology into her classroom to open new possibilities for her learners, champions special needs sports to build confidence and community, and pours her heart and soul into creating inclusive spaces where every student can thrive.

Listeners will be inspired by Ms. Meyer’s story of innovation, compassion, and commitment — a reminder that true change begins with those who choose to invest deeply in others.

In this inspiring episode, the host sits down with two dynamic voices from Stellenbosch University — Keagan Brown and George Davids — to explore what it truly means to be agents of change. Together, they share personal experiences, challenges, and visions for how students can shape their communities and influence the future. From campus initiatives to broader societal impact, this conversation highlights the power of young leaders to drive transformation and embody hope in action.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Mr. Stephen Price—school principal and founder of Teach the Nation and Shortlist ED. Known as an agent of change in South Africa, Mr. Price shares his journey, insights, and bold vision for empowering teachers and reimagining the future of learning. Tune in for a powerful conversation on leadership, innovation, and the heart of inclusive education.

In this powerful episode, hosts Nadia and Avu sit down with Professor Jonathan Jansen—Distinguished Professor of Education at Stellenbosch University and former President of the Academy of Science of South Africa. From his early days as a high school biology teacher to becoming one of the country’s most influential education voices, Jansen shares bold insights on how teachers ignite change in classrooms and communities. With stories of courage, resistance, and hope, this conversation explores how educators lead transformation from the ground up—often against the odds. A must-listen for anyone invested in inclusive, impactful education.

Welcome to another episode of Staffroom Chatter, where we delve into inclusive education. Our guest, Inge Ackerman, a seasoned educator with a background in psychology, shares insights on teaching learners with severe intellectual disabilities at a special needs school. Inge discusses her classroom dynamics, the importance of differentiated curriculum and individualized learning plans, and the role of societal stigmas and parental involvement. She also emphasizes the emotional and professional challenges of working in special needs education and offers advice for pre-service teachers on how to better prepare for this field. Join us for an eye-opening conversation about the crucial role of special needs education in fostering a more inclusive society.

Two passionate teachers from a full-service school in the Western Cape share real-life classroom experiences supporting learners with special needs. From ADHD and autism to inclusive desk setups and buddy systems, this episode explores practical strategies and heartfelt reflections on inclusive education in South Africa.

Episode Description

Dr. Ledwaba and Dr. Mophosho discusses inclusive education and assistive technology, emphasizing the importance of tailoring approaches to individual learners' needs. Speakers share insights on practical implementation, including changing attitudes and capacitating teachers on inclusive education practices. They also highlighted the need for inclusive education and the use of assistive technology to support diverse learners.

Key Takeaways:

(00:21) Inclusive education and assistive technology in South Africa.

(07:24) Inclusive education, attitudes towards disability, and the importance of valuing every individual.

(16:31) Assistive technology for children with disabilities in education.

(21:16) Accessible teaching methods for students with disabilities.

(25:06) Training teachers to support students with disabilities.

(29:51) Universal design and curriculum differentiation in education.

(35:19) Alternative and augmentative communication systems for students with complex communication needs.

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Presented by Stellenbosch University's Faculty of Education, Staffroom Chatter aims to create the space for critical conversation between academics, experts and students. It exists to paint a clearer picture by analysing the current South African education system.

Staffroom Chatter - from our eyes to your ears.

Hosts: Dr Elzahn Rinquest & Mrs Delecia Davids

The panel discusses the importance of inclusive education in South Africa, emphasizing the need for all teachers to support learners with diverse needs. Speakers highlighted the limitations of traditional education and the importance of continuous assessment and alternative methods that prioritize the learner's progress. They highlighted the need for personalized support and an inclusive learning environment and argued for prioritizing inclusive education and support for diverse learners.