Kirsty

My name is Kirsty Anne Ledsham, and I am a passionate educator with over 20 years of teaching experience. Born in Stellenbosch, Cape Town, in 1982, I completed most of my schooling in Durban before matriculating in Johannesburg in 2000. After travelling abroad for a year, I returned to South Africa to study at the University of Johannesburg, where I earned a Bachelor of Education degree, majoring in Psychology and Education. My teaching career began at my former high school before I joined the African Leadership Academy, where I became involved in educational outreach programmes supporting underprivileged schools. I helped establish remedial literacy and numeracy programmes, contributed to fundraising initiatives for computer centres, and participated in community development projects in Muldersdrift. These experiences strengthened my belief that education has the power to transform lives and communities. From 2013 to 2021, I served as Head of the English and Art & Design Departments at Charter College International High School. I taught Cambridge IGCSE and AS Level English and Art while leading numerous extracurricular portfolios, including Public Speaking, the English Olympiad, fundraising, charity initiatives, school events, hockey, and the Matric Dance. I also managed the school's website and social media platforms. In December 2021, I joined Cambrilearn as Head of Languages before moving to my current position as an English teacher. Throughout my career, I have also taught CAPS English, Art and Culture, and Life Orientation, and I have been appointed Head of the English Department in my last three teaching positions. I believe learning should be engaging, meaningful, and enjoyable. My philosophy, "Learning through Laughter," reflects my commitment to creating classrooms where learners feel inspired, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. I remain dedicated to lifelong learning, educational excellence, and making a positive difference.