November 4, 2024

From forensics analyst to star teacher

QUISTYNN VELDSCHOEN

Mr Jaco Cilliers was born in Bloemfontein and attended school at Jim Fouché.  He studied Forensics, but decided that teaching was more challenging and interesting. He joined St Michael’s in Term 3 to replace Mrs Natasha Slabbert.

 He has a great sense of humour and is easy going, but a hard-working individual. Reading psychological books as well as books with a scientific background is one of his interests and he calls himself a movie buff. He enjoys older movies like Top Gun and Forrest Gump. Mr Cilliers loves listening to a variety of music genres but Opera is definitely not one of them. In his spare time, he enjoys jogging as, according to him, it helps clear his mind.  He also hopes to assist the Cross-Country team because he has a passion for running.

  As choir manager, Mr Cilliers attended the Chapel Choir Camp which took place at the ‘Be Human Farm Hotel’. He interacted with the girls and they all got to know each other on a more personal level. He plans to continue working with the choir.

   The rumours are true. This is Mr Cilliers’ first official teaching position. He has taught at many different schools as a substitute teacher, but never had the additional responsibilities that a full time teacher has. He had to admit that he may make teaching look easy, but it is not. As Physical Science is his main subject, he would love to teach it.

   He finds the culture at SMS appealing and enjoys getting to know his co-workers and learners better.

    Mr Cilliers is an incredible teacher who encourages his learners to excel.  He is extremely helpful and patient. He feels fortunate to have a post at St Michael’s and hopes to stay for a very long time.