The new headmaster at Heathfield High School has a vision to make the school the best in not only the immediate area but ultimately in the province and country.
Wesley Neumann was appointed principal at the beginning of this month.
The Pelican Park resident has a special devotion to the school because it’s his alma mater and he has been teaching there for nine years.
Mr Neumann is one of the youngest principals to be appointed by the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) but his vision for the school shows that he is wise beyond his 33 years.
Starting off the last school term of the year, Mr Neumann said he is excited that he has been given an opportunity to craft a new path for the school.
With the help of the staff, he plans to improve academics across the grades with a strong focus on retention rate and he also wants to put a greater focus on extra-mural activities.
He also plans to focus on the school’s old infrastructure and is excited about the sport precinct development. He is planning to ensure that teachers are given the resources and tools to ensure that effective learning and teaching can take place.
He said school must become fun again for pupils and teachers.
Asked why he chose teaching as a career, Mr Neumann said it was the best way to marry his passion for sport and youth development.
“Anyone who held a small child in their hands will realise that they should be part of the village that raises that child. My father and a few of my uncles and aunts were teachers and I grew up always listening to their intense discussions and planning around education and it must of rubbed off on me,” said Mr Neumann.
Asked how he feels about being one of the youngest principals, Mr Neumann said: “We need people in leadership positions to facilitate that adaption of the industrial revolution. Although we will always need the experience of the older educators, changes are happening at such a phenomenal pace that the younger educators should take up such positions so as to be able to take the lead.”
Mr Neumann encouraged parents and pupils to work with staff.
“We are prepared to go the extra mile to make sure that every pupil at Heathfield High School gets the opportunity to progress positively educationally,” he said.
Mr Neumann thanked everyone that contributed to his development.
“To my educator family and especially to former Heathfield principal Mr Derrick Moore who appointed me nine years ago as an educator when everyone else thought I was too young. I also thank the Heathfield School Community for their messages for congratulations and support. I am humbled and honoured to take up this challenge,” he said.
He appealed to the school’s alumni to make contact with the school and get involved with the various projects.
The school is hosting its annual 24-hour marathon camp-over on Friday October 12 and Saturday October 13. Plots are R100 each. All are welcome to attend. For more information contact the school on 021 715 4622.