Cape Town – A 23-year-old Pretoria teacher at Bronkhorstspruit Primary School, Kay van Greunen, gained viral fame on TikTok for her unique and compassionate teaching approach.
In a video titled “Hello Teacher, What’s My Name?”, she showcased her ability to identify her Grade R students by voice, impressively scoring perfectly.
The clip, originally intended as a keepsake of her first teaching year, garnered over 4 million views and widespread admiration.
Known as “Miss Kay”, Van Greunen prioritises fostering joy, love, and individuality in her classroom
@misskayxx♬ original sound – Miss_Kay
Despite initial challenges with a language barrier -most students speak Zulu or Tswana, while she is Afrikaans-speaking – she bridged the gap by learning their languages and connecting through educational games, IOL reported.
“The key is to grow with them, showing them that life won’t always be easy. If you’re feeling bad or struggling, you need to put on your big pants and face the world,” the report quoted her as saying.
Her teaching, conducted in English, integrates emotional well-being with academics, preparing students for life’s challenges while valuing their uniqueness.
Parents and viewers praised her dedication, with many commending her for making each child feel seen and valued.
Van Greunen considers teaching a blessing and emphasises that children shouldn’t feel the need to change who they are. Her heartfelt methods and viral video have inspired countless individuals, highlighting her passion for her students’ growth and happiness.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
