Dear Parents and Guardians,
RE: FROM THE RECTOR’S DESK
In a complete departure from the norm, I share a tribute to teaching. This formed the basis to my
introductory commentary to staff at the beginning of the term, entitled, I am a Teacher it reads;
“I am a teacher.
I was born the first moment that a question leaped from the mouth of a child.
I have many people in many places.
I am Socrates exciting the youth of Athens to discover new ideas through the use of questions.
I am Aesop and Hans Christian Anderson revealing the truth through countless stories.
I am Marva Collins fighting for every child’s right to an education.
I am Mary McCloud Buthune building a great college for my people using orange crates for desks.
The names of those who have practiced my profession rings like the hall of Fame for humanity … George
Washington, Buddha, Leo Buscaglia, Moses and Jesus.
I am also those whose names and faces are long forgotten but whose lessons and character will always be
remembered in the accomplishments of their students.
I have wept for joy at the weddings of former pupils, laughed with glee at the birth of their children, and
stood with head bowed in grief and confusion by graves dug too soon for bodies too young.
Throughout the course of a day, I have been called upon to be an actor, friend, nurse and doctor, coach,
finder of lost articles, taxi driver, psychologist, politician and keeper of the faith.
Despite the maps, charts, formulas, verbs, stories and books, I really have nothing to teach, for my
students have only themselves to learn, and I know it takes the whole world to tell who you are.
I am a paradox. I speak loudest when I listen the most. My greatest gifts are in what I am willing to
appreciatively receive from my students.
Material wealth is not one of my goals, but I am a full – time treasure seeker in my quest for opportunities
for my students to use their talents and in my constant search for those talents that lie buried in self-defeat.
I am the most fortunate of all who labour.
A doctor is allowed to usher life into the world in one magic moment. I am allowed to see that life is
reborn each day with new questions, ideas and friendships.
An architect knows that if he builds with care, his structures may stand for centuries. A teacher knows that
if he builds with love and truth, what he / she builds will last forever.
I am a warrior, daily doing battle against peer pressure, negativity, fear, conformity, prejudice, ignorance
and apathy. But I have great allies; intelligence, curiosity, parental support, individuals, creativity, faith,
love and laughter all rush to my banner with indominable support.
And who do I have to thank for this wonderful life I am so fortunate to experience, but you the public, the
parents. For you have done me the great honour to entrust me with your greatest contribution to eternity,
your children.
I have a past rich in memories, a present which is challenging, adventurous and fun. I am allowed to
spend my days with the future.
I am a teacher”
John Wayne Schlatter
Chicken Soup for the Soul
These are the men and women in the school who stand up in the classroom every day, shaping the future
of this country and the world.
We have enjoyed a successful start to the term. In the classroom, the focus is on the upcoming mid-year
examinations. Beyond the classroom, our sports teams have shown real character and produced some
encouraging results.
We have just hosted Emma Sadlier, South African social media expert, at Peterhouse. In three
presentations to parents and the school she offered an incredible insight into the dangers and legal
implications of inappropriate social media usage. Her message is a powerful one and has resonated
strongly with the school. We will be seriously considering some of her suggestions in managing our
digital spaces. Our thanks go to Hartmann House and their Headmaster, Mr Mervyn Jutha, for providing
us their Hall in hosting the Emma Sadlier parent consultation. To those who attended, I hope you found
her insights supportive and useful.
A break from a full sporting weekend is welcomed, albeit all our provincial representatives are involved
in national trials selections over the weekend.
With warm regards,
Jon Trafford
Rector