A Free State teacher has once again proven that consistency, commitment and a deep belief in learners can deliver extraordinary results. Lerato Ramabodu, now 31, has achieved a 100% matric pass rate in physical science for the ninth consecutive year, continuing a remarkable record that began in 2017.
The latest milestone came with the Class of 2025, whose physical science results maintained Ramabodu’s unbroken run of perfect passes across multiple schools and roles.
From changed plans to a clear calling
Born in Phomolong near Hennenman, Ramabodu initially set his sights on becoming a radiographer. That dream was paused when limited space at the University of the Free State forced him to reconsider his path.
What began as a temporary shift into teaching soon became something more permanent.
“I told myself I would teach for a year,” he explained in an interview, “but by the second year I had fallen in love with teaching. Looking back, I think it was a calling.”
Building a reputation for excellence
Ramabodu was just 21 years old when he achieved his first 100% physical science matric pass rate at Lekgulo Senior Secondary School in Phuthaditjhaba in 2017. From there, the results kept coming.
In 2022, he was appointed head of department for physical science at Sekgutlong Secondary School in Monontsha, QwaQwa, where his learners again delivered flawless results. Last year, he took on the role of deputy principal at Makwane Secondary School, without stepping away from the classroom.
Despite management responsibilities, he insisted on continuing to teach.
“I want to groom other teachers so they can be better than me,” he said.
Turning an 81% pass rate into 100%
When Ramabodu arrived at Makwane Secondary School, physical science had an 81% pass rate in 2024. Within a year, that figure rose to 100% under his guidance.
He acknowledged that the task was not easy, especially as he met the learners for the first time with limited preparation time.
“It was challenging, but we had to go the extra mile,” he said. “Sometimes I even went to learners’ homes to teach them.”
A hands-on approach to teaching science
Ramabodu credits his success to a combination of parental support, time investment and relentless hard work. His teaching philosophy is simple but demanding: no learner is allowed to fall through the cracks.
He uses lunch breaks to revisit difficult chapters and reinforces easier sections to help learners secure higher marks. Extra lessons, personal follow-ups and constant assessment form part of his routine.
“My strategy in every lesson is to make sure no child is left behind,” he said.
Teamwork behind the triumph
Despite the accolades, Ramabodu is quick to deflect attention away from himself.
“This was not about me alone,” he said. “It was about teamwork. I’m very happy for the learners and my colleagues. We work as a team.”
As South Africa continues to grapple with poor performance in maths and science, Ramabodu’s nine-year streak stands as proof that dedicated teaching, supported by schools and communities, can deliver world-class outcomes — one classroom at a time.
