The challenges of teaching at-risk learners at a secondary school in Cape Town

Abstract

The study focused on the challenges of teaching at-risk learners at secondary schools. A qualitative investigation based on interviewing and observation was conducted with sixteen teachers teaching at-risk learners. Findings revealed that pre-service teacher training does not prepare teachers adequately to teach learners at risk constructively. Findings also revealed that at-risk learners have no control over themselves due to lack of parental support as parents show no commitment and support for their children’s education. Interventions to counter challenges with teaching at-risk learners relate to applicable preservice teacher training to engage with at-risk learners constructively and continuous in-service teacher training as professional development to empower teachers to engage with at-risk learners appropriately. At-risk learners must value second-chance education opportunities with schools ensuring that a supportive school culture prevails. The study contributes to the discourse on effective teaching practices to support at-risk learners for acceptable academic attainment.