From the Principal’s Desk, 13th September 2019 – Cultivating an attitude of gratitude.

Dear Parents

This week, as I was marking the year 12 examination papers, I was filled with pride when assessing the quality of the work produced.  I taught this particular group when they were in year 7 and I remember, even back then, how much they enjoyed hearing real-life examples of the business world and its application in the curriculum.  Marking their papers and seeing how far they have come gave me such a sense of accomplishment. 

This experience reminded me of the dedicated staff I am surrounded by and of our shared love of teaching.  The job of a teacher is not an easy one and sometimes the challenges we face seem insurmountable.  We take decisions based on what is best for the collective and what will be of benefit to the students in the long-run.  We have all been guilty, I believe, of being too focused on what is important to us in our private sphere of influence, rather than focusing on the bigger picture.

I wish to thank all the staff at Blouberg International for the dedication and determination they show on a daily basis.  It is not always easy, but when students come and share their excitement with you or hug you from pure joy, that is what makes the job easier every day.

I had a chat with one of our year 12 students who I met years ago at a previous school.  She was only in year 4 then and soon relocated to the Blouberg area.  Years later when I started teaching at Blouberg International, we were reunited at our old campus.  We often joke about how I followed her and about how her family left for Abu Dhabi but returned once more to Blouberg (This time she followed me!).  I feel such joy when she relates her memories of us at our old campus and now at the current one.  It is wonderful to see what a special young lady she has become and it is these bonds we form, which make our years of teaching worthwhile.  I truly have a grateful heart.

Let us remember the good and cultivate an attitude of gratitude.  When one looks for the good in others, we are sure to find it.  The opposite of this is unfortunately true as well. 

To all the teachers: may you come to school every day to make a difference. 

This morning, I had the privilege of enjoying breakfast with the cast of our musical and the teachers who worked relentlessly to make the show the success it was.  Thank you to all the cast members for working so hard at rehearsals and to all the parents who supported their children.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Regards
Edna