Magazine 2020

36 | Edition No. 23 | 2020 PREPARATORY Lee-ann Steynberg Principal I have often referred to this year as a roller coaster ride, some highs, some lows with many exciting twists and turns. 2020 is definitely a year to document, remember and to celebrate the many differ- ent achievements of our par- ents, educators and learners. The year started with a whirlwind of activity: from our Grade Ones discovering the joy of reading and writing to our Grade Six’s working en- thusiastically on their Science Expo projects.There was an energy of learning, explora- tion and discovery across the school. At the end of last year I spoke to our Grade Six learners and their parents about the need for more “Purple Squirrels” in the world.A Purple Squir- rel for those who may not know - is a very rare, highly sought after, almost extinct species of candidate.Well this year, I think, we have created many “Purple Squirrels”. At the start of QuarterTwo, our learners and particularly our educators had to become overnightYouTube content creators, bloggers, vloggers, Instagrammers and mini video stars! The school went into lockdown but learning continued in many different ways. QuarterThree, once again, created excitement as our learners returned to the cam- pus! The school building was alive with the children’s voices and busy footsteps.A school never feels the same without its children and their return brought great enthusiasm and warmth. I believe that teaching is a passion, a calling, a dedication to supporting, guiding and helping children to achieve their potential and beyond. Our children face many choic- es on a daily basis and being a teacher is not always about counting, reading and writing, it is often about sharing, car- ing and guiding our learners along the path of life. The simple act of teaching a child to share builds team- work vital for the workplace, while caring creates empathy. Working with their teacher through an upset builds nego- tiation skills and never giving up even when we get it wrong, builds grit and determination. Taking the opportunity to stand first in line, waiting for our turn to talk (more so now with online meetings or our friends wearing a mask) or setting the ground rules of a soccer game at break are vital leadership skills. Lending a helping hand leads to collabo- ration and problem solving skills necessary for an ever- changing world. What this year has taught us, is that despite the changes and challenges, academics can happen anywhere and at any time. However, what is more, important is the relationships that our teachers have built face to face and online with our learners and the love and care they have shown.This year is truly one to remem- ber!