After almost 37 years at Cathkin High School in Heideveld, acting principal William Stockenstroom, 60, is handing over the baton.
Mr Stockenstroom’s name is synonymous with Cathkin High School, as he has been the deputy principal for more than 30 years, and served as acting principal over the past seven months. He remembers when he applied for the job: he did not even know where Heideveld was and got lost on the way to his interview. Now he says he can hardly imagine a life without this community.
“When I finally made it to the school for my job interview, I climbed through a hole in the fence, and the then principal admonished me for doing that,” Mr Stockenstroom laughs.
His dream was always to be a teacher, as he wanted to make a difference, he says. His mother also encouraged him to follow this career path. Looking back, he says being a young teacher during the 1980s uprisings was a privilege.
“Cathkin was at the forefront in the fight against apartheid. It was the political base where meetings were held and the former teachers’ union, Western Cape Teachers Union (WECTU), was formed here. We stood for liberation, but never neglected the education of the learners. We had a Cathkin document, which stated that the old school inspectors of that time were not allowed on the school grounds. I was privileged to be part of that era.”
Over the years, many other challenges surfaced, but it was only through the support of the entire staff that these were tackled head-on, he says.
“Despite the challenges, I had the support of all the staff – not just the teaching staff. We emulated teamwork and everybody played a role while we try to make a difference. I am very grateful also for the role our parents play. Yes, the challenges are there still, but our learners push through.”
One of the things he is proud about, he says, is that the school stands for non-racialism.
“Our school is a microcosm of South Africa and the African continent. We have never experienced any racism or xenophobia in the school’s history. This year it celebrates its 50th anniversary, and I am proud of the competent teachers who can continue for another 50 years.”
Armand Anhuizen, who took over the reins as acting principal from yesterday, Tuesday August 1, describes Mr Stockenstroom as a Cathkin stalwart.
“Mr Stockenstroom is my mentor, and he taught me a lot, including punctuality. He is a true leader and served the Heideveld community well. He is well-respected in the community. This is going to be big shoes to fill. He used to sacrifice so much of his family time to be at the school – over weekends and school holidays – and I wish him all the best.”
Acting deputy principal Adré Gordon said although she has only been at the school for five years, she too learnt a lot from Mr Stockenstroom.
“He brought out the leadership qualities I have in me. I was not even aware I had these until his guidance. I wish him well on his retirement and that he will enjoy spending quality time with his loved ones.”
School secretary Lorraine Fritz says they worked together for 17 years.
“He is a very punctual person and does not like doing things at the last minute. He is also very humble and he refuses to listen to any gossip. He also treats everybody with respect and does not have a racist bone in his body. I will miss him and the gifts he used to spoil me with for secretaries’ day.”
Former pupil and teacher’s assistant, Boitumelo Moiloa, 20, says Mr Stockenstroom is a giant who taught them there is much more to explore in the world beyond the school.
“It is a bittersweet moment that he is retiring. This is a big loss for Cathkin, but we wish him well. I’ve learnt so much from him. He is a disciplinarian, but also very caring.”
Mr Stockenstroom says for now, he is hitting the pause button but will “always be available when it comes to education”.
“I am looking forward to travelling with my family. I love reading and now I will also have more time for that. However, I am going to miss this community. I want our teachers to continue teaching our learners about values, and not just the textbook stuff, because in so doing we can make a change.”