Boishaaier 2024

Dinee

DEREK ADRIAAN SWART DEREK ADRIAAN SWART DEREK ADRIAAN SWART DEREK ADRIAAN SWART DEREK ADRIAAN SWART DEREK ADRIAAN SWART DEREK ADRIAAN SWART DEREK ADRIAAN SWART

and modelling the behaviour he wished to see, he created an environment where teachers felt motivated to strive to do their best. His focused guidance elucidated the purpose behind their work and how it contributes to the overall success of the school and its learners. His one-on-one sessions were both educational and inspiring, and he gave teachers the opportunity to develop their own career by giving them opportunity and trust. In his years as principal at Paarl Boys’ High, Mr Swart improved the school in various ways, one of which was its digitalisation. Under his leadership the school went from a single computer room in 2007 to a computer in every class, three computer rooms, an EGD-computer lab, white boards, projectors and TVs to support the teaching and learning experience. The improvements in student engagement and performance suggest that learners benefit from these technology-conscious teaching strategies. He also created a system for administrational and organisational continuity that improves the functionality of the school. The system is documented in the so-called Blue File. His employment of educational tools during COVID rightly earned him and the school a Certificate of Achievement from the Schools Evaluation Authority (SEA). Mr Swart maintained balance within the schooling environment, lending equal importance to academics, culture and sport. He also willingly served the broader community, like in 2023 when he helped Tulbagh Secon dary School, which at the time was in the process of appointing a new headmaster, by restructuring the school’s organisational style and processes effectively. He is an example of a lifelong learner and has authored a book about the school, and earlier this year he completed his law degree – education is his passion! He has the ability to make important decisions and defend what he believes is best for his learners and teachers. He attended every school event, did everything expected of a headmaster, and so much more.

Contribution to the teaching profession and broader community Always striving to improve the school environment, Mr Swart modelled ethical behaviour, professionalism and a commitment to lifelong learning. He stayed informed about the latest developments in education, and could introduce innovative practices that enhance teaching and learning outcomes. He advanced the profession by mentoring and developing other educational leaders and collaborating with peers. He also put great emphasis on out-of-the-box thinking and encouraged boys to pursue entrepreneurial activities to the point of including an award for young entrepreneurs at the annual prize-giving ceremony. Further proof of Mr Swart’s commitment to innovation is the implementation in 2024 of a “bring-your-own-device” academic strategy to start incorporating digital devices as part of the learning process. He was also responsible for the whole school now using Microsoft Teams as supportive to the learning process. He also contributed to curriculum development: in 2022 he rewrote the Life Orientation syllabus and enhanced and personalised it for our school context. Mr Swart has a radio programme on a local station, Radio KC. He often uses the radio station to address educational topics. He also gives prominence to community members by means of radio interviews, and gives children from the broader community exposure and opportunity. The broadcast also serves the community by presenting music from diverse genres, giving prominence to South African artists and even local outfits such as The Rockets . He commissioned charity fundraisers, such as National Braai Day, to support certain schools and organisations in the community. Under his leadership, Paarl Boys’ High is involved in a mentorship programme with Groenheuwel Primary School.

BOISHAAI 156 YEARS 9