The Life of an EnCutie (NQT) in South Africa: It is not always cute, but we try

The Life of an EnCutie (NQT) in South Africa is a personal, reflective, and heartfelt account of what it means to be a newly qualified teacher in the South African education system. Written by Sithembiso Mbatha, a passionate mathematics teacher turned author, this book shares the lived experiences of someone who entered the profession with hope and purpose, only to encounter the complex realities of teaching in an under-resourced and emotionally demanding school environment. It blends memoir-style storytelling with professional insights to highlight the everyday wins, systemic frustrations, identity shifts, burnout, and leadership challenges (amongst other topics) that teachers often face but are rarely addressed. This book is not a manual, but a mirror—offering stories that are relatable, honest, and rooted in lived truth. It is both a tribute to those who stay and a note of solidarity to those who are just beginning. Short enough to read between meetings and marking, but long enough to make you pause and reflect. It is a thank you, a release, and a reminder that teachers are human, too. If you’ve ever taught, mentored, cried behind your classroom door, or asked yourself if you’re making a difference—this book is for you. Read more