Newly appointed principal of St Patrick’s Primary School in Humansdorp, Nigel Prins, plans to use his many years of experience as an educator to improve various aspects at the school with help from the staff and parents.
The seasoned teacher began his teaching career at Hankey Secondary School in 1992, as a woodwork teacher for 12 years, before he accepted a post at Pellsrus Primary School, where he taught mathematics.
After hard work and dedication to teaching, in 2012, Prins was appointed as the head of department at the school.
He was then transferred to St Patrick’s Primary School in 2013, and taught various subjects which included mathematics, life orientation, technology, English and economic management sciences to grade 7 learners.
Finally, in 2020, he was appointed as deputy principal at the school. After diligently fulfilling his duties as deputy principal for two years, last month Prins was appointed as principal of the school, after Valerie Lippert retired in December last year.
“Having been at St Patrick’s Primary School for the last nine years will make the transition to my new post as principal at the school easier,” said Prins.
As part of his mission to improve the school some of the projects he plans to embark on include, establishing a home reading programme with assistance from parents and creating learning centres in different communities.
Since the school has been inundated with requests for Grade R classes, he hopes to construct classrooms for Grade R learners to start their formal education at the school.
Furthermore, he said he hopes to reduce the school’s carbon footprint by erecting water tanks and installing solar panels.
“Unfortunately, all of these projects can only happen through sponsorships, and we therefore need support,” said Prins.
He said his new post as principal of the school comes with great responsibilities, but with the help of God and the assistance from the staff and parents he believes that they will be able to overcome any adversities that might come their way.
“I am looking forward to building a wonderful relationship with the teaching and non-teaching staff and making St Patrick’s a pleasant learning environment.
“I am also hoping to get more parents involved in the school,” said Prins.
