By Jimmy Zwane
Thursday, 16 October 2025
Cape Town — Passionate educator and Master of Education student Ammarah Ford-Pieters has added a prestigious national accolade to her growing list of achievements, winning a National Teaching Award (NTA) for Excellence in Teaching Life Skills (Grades 1–6).
Ford-Pieters, who teaches at Cedar Primary School in Bonteheuwel, received the national honour following her earlier recognition at the provincial level. The award celebrates her learner-centred and compassionate approach to education, especially in a community facing socio-economic challenges.
Teaching Where It Matters Most
Having grown up in Bonteheuwel, a historically underserved community on the Cape Flats, Ford-Pieters has made it her mission to give back by teaching in the same area where she was raised. Her classroom, she says, is designed to be a safe and nurturing space where learners feel seen, heard, and supported.
“This award is incredibly humbling,” she said. “I truly appreciate the recognition and am extremely grateful. It motivates me to continue growing as a teacher.”
A Journey of Academic Excellence
Ford-Pieters is no stranger to achievement. Earlier this year, during CPUT’s Autumn Graduation in April, she and her twin sister Ra’Eesah graduated with Bachelor of Education Honours degrees, earning summa cum laude and cum laude, respectively.
Currently pursuing a Master’s in Education at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), she continues to balance her academic ambitions with her full-time teaching role—proof of her deep commitment to lifelong learning and community development.
A Message to Aspiring Teachers
Speaking to fellow education students at CPUT, Ford-Pieters offered words of encouragement:
“I want to encourage all BEd students to believe in themselves and their dreams. Teaching is incredibly challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding paths you can take. Every small effort—guiding, listening, inspiring—makes a lasting difference.”
She hopes her recognition inspires the next generation of teachers to embrace the profession with passion and persistence, reminding them that dedication can lead to transformative opportunities and leave a lasting impact on learners’ lives.
Jimmy Zwane is an education correspondent reporting on student achievement, teaching excellence, and leadership in South African schools and universities.
