My name is Canden Potgieter, and I began my journey at BASIS International School Shenzhen in August 2017 as a Grade 1 Learning Expert Teacher (LET). Within six months, I transitioned to a Grade 1 Math & Science Subject Expert Teacher (SET). In 2019, I joined the Early Childhood Education team as a kindergarten teacher, and a few years later, I returned to Primary School to teach Grade 2 Humanities.
My family and I made the difficult decision to leave China. However, we returned, and in 2023, I joined BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen as a Grade 1 homeroom teacher.
As my children have grown older (now 10 and 13 years old), I felt ready to take on greater responsibilities. This year, I was honored to accept the role of Math & Science Chair for Grades 2 and 3. In this new position, I’m excited to contribute to the growth and development of my colleagues.
Training to Support a Transition to Leadership
The training and support provided by BASIS International & Bilingual Schools China have been instrumental in my transition to a leadership position. After accepting the Chair role, I received one-on-one training from one of the network’s Chief Instructional Officers (CIOs). His presence in the classroom, observing alongside me, and the subsequent debriefing was incredibly insightful. The coaching session that followed boosted my confidence in my abilities as a Chair. Additional support during the BASIS International & Bilingual Schools China Summer Institute and on-site training before the school year began helped me shift my mindset from teacher to leader.
I am so grateful for the recommended readings the CIO provided. I have consistently incorporated these resources into my professional development, and they continue to be immensely helpful.
Culture of Continuous Professional Growth
BASIS fosters continuous professional learning and growth for managers and teachers through regular professional development days and training weekends throughout the year. The culture is highly professional, and teachers are valued and respected. Since joining BASIS International & Bilingual Schools, I have become a better, more professional educator. It has been a pleasure to serve in my new role, which has led to my decision to further my studies in Leadership and Administration.
A Wonderful Community and Connection
As an educator, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside families from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to enrich our school culture. On a personal note, one of the joys of working abroad has been witnessing the way families come together, adults and children alike, forming lasting friendships that transcend borders. I am grateful for the friends I have made over the years. Whether they are still in China, returned to their home countries, or have made a new life somewhere else, we continue to keep in touch. This sense of community and connection is truly invaluable, and I am honored to be a part of it.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
As educators, one of the most effective ways for us to grow and improve is by regularly reflecting on our teaching methods, assessing our strengths and weaknesses, and identifying areas for improvement. As I have learned in my role, engaging in this process of reflective practice can be incredibly valuable. If you are looking for professional advancement within the BASIS International & Bilingual Schools network, my advice is to reflect regularly, work hard, be professional, collaborate with your colleagues, and make your ideas and thoughts heard in a manner befitting a seasoned educator.
I am grateful for the opportunities and support I have received from BASIS International & Bilingual Schools, and I look forward to continuing to grow and contribute to the success of our students and colleagues.
Canden Potgieter
Math & Science Teacher
Chair of Math & Science, Grades 2 and 3
BASIS Bilingual School Shenzhen
For more information about teaching abroad with BASIS International Schools, visit our careers website.
