The Western Cape's top teacher, Llewellyn van der Ross graduated with a master's degree in education from Stellenbosch University (SU) on Saturday, 13 December. Picture: Ian Landsberg
Cape Town - At just 33, Llewellyn Van der Ross is changing lives one learner at a time through his passion for teaching.
The humble, yet outspoken teacher, on Friday obtained his master's degree in teaching at Stellenbosch University.
Van der Ross has dedicated his life to education and the growth of young minds in his community. For him, teaching isn't merely a job – it's a calling that resonates deeply in everything he does.
His commitment was recognised when he was named the Best Teacher in the province and moved on to the national stage, an accolade he described as a surprise. “To me, I was just doing my job,” he said.
Van der Ross' story begins with a childhood filled with challenges.
Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly as a factory worker, Van der Ross was the first in his family to attend university.
His father was absent, and he grew up in an environment where opportunities were scarce, and hardship was a constant reality.
“There is more to life than staying in a house without a shower or bath or standing on the corner asking for two rands. I decided long ago that this is not the life I want for myself,” he said.
After completing high school, Van der Ross initially dreamed of becoming a dentist. But life had other plans.
“I didn't choose teaching, teaching chose me,” he said. “It was preordained by God and the universe.”
Today, he considers the classroom his sanctuary – a space where his passion finds its fullest expression.
“My heart really beats in the classroom,” he said.
For Van der Ross, teaching is about much more than academics, it's about instilling confidence and fostering growth in his learners. He spoke with pride about a shy, introverted boy in his class.
“This child was my greatest highlight. He didn't have the courage to speak, but by term three, during a project presentation, he delivered his speech with so much guts. That, to me, is true development.”
Moments like these are what fuel his passion. “Growth is not just about getting A's,” he added. “It can also be about a child gaining confidence.”
Beyond his work in the classroom, Van der Ross is making strides in the academic world.
In 2023, he conducted research at Französi Gymnasium in Berlin, exploring global educational perspectives.
His master's research focuses on the effects of extended school closures on learners' reading abilities, a topic close to his heart after witnessing the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“After Covid, many learners could read but not with meaning,” he explained. “That is why I registered for my master's to improve myself so I could better aid my learners.”
Although opportunities to teach abroad have come his way, Van der Ross has chosen to stay in his community, where he believes he can make the greatest impact.
“I've had multiple chances to leave, but my heart is here. Even if I impact just one learner's life, that's enough, because that child can go on to impact others,” he said.
He draws inspiration from Michelle Obama's words: “For every door that has opened for me, I try to be a door for someone else.”
Van der Ross lives by the principle of uplifting others and creating opportunities for those around him.
“Each one, teach one,” he said. “If it's within your ability to bring someone up, do so, but it's important to remember that as much as we teach children, they can also teach us. It's a challenging profession, but it's worth it. We have the opportunity to change lives,” he said.
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za
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