DESPATCH – From being named the Best Grade R Teacher in the Eastern Cape in 2020 and the second-best Grade R teacher in South Africa, to becoming one of the youngest principals in the history of Despatch Preparatory School, Asja-Leah Strydom continues to make her mark in education.

The announcement of her appointment has been met with great excitement among learners, staff and parents.

Having served as Deputy Principal, Strydom is already a familiar and respected figure within the school community.

Strydom is known for putting children at the centre of everything she does. Determined to build meaningful relationships with every learner, she learnt basic isiXhosa to communicate more effectively with the majority of learners at the school.

She is as comfortable singing and dancing with children as she is mentoring teachers and leading educational initiatives. Her lessons have become legendary among learners, often involving hands-on activities, outdoor exploration and creative experiences that bring learning to life.

Her appointment is the culmination of a distinguished career in Foundation Phase education.

Holding an Honours Degree in Education with a special focus on language development and literacy, Strydom has established herself as one of the Eastern Cape’s leading authorities in early childhood education.

She has mentored educators across Nelson Mandela Bay, presented professional development workshops throughout the province and served as Chairperson of the Eastern Cape Board of the Literacy Association of South Africa.

Throughout her career, she has been a passionate advocate for literacy and inclusive education.

“Every learner, regardless of background, ability or language, deserves the support they need to succeed. My ambition is for this school to become a centre of excellence that develops outstanding learners and serves as a beacon of innovation and opportunity in the Eastern Cape,” said Strydom.

During the challenging years following the COVID-19 pandemic, she played a key role in helping academically vulnerable learners recover lost ground through targeted interventions, remedial reading programmes and learner support initiatives.

As she steps into her new role, Strydom brings with her an ambitious vision for the future of Despatch Preparatory School. She believes that the school has never been content with simply doing what has always been done and describes both herself and the school community as disruptors – people who challenge conventional thinking in pursuit of better opportunities for children.

My vision is not to follow educational trends, but to disrupt them.

Rather than merely keeping pace with change, she aims to position Despatch Preparatory School at the forefront of innovation and future-focused learning. Her vision includes expanding opportunities in robotics, coding, science, leadership development and sport, ensuring that learners are equipped with the skills, confidence and creativity needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

She also envisions the development of a modern library, science laboratory, multi-purpose sports facilities and dynamic learning spaces that inspire curiosity, critical thinking and a love of discovery.

Guided by the school’s vision, “We will always value unique characters, nurture growth, and empower every child to make their mark,” Strydom is committed to creating an environment where every learner is encouraged to think differently, challenge limits and realise their full potential.

For Strydom, disruption is not about change for the sake of change. It is about courageously reimagining what education can be and ensuring that Despatch Preparatory School remains a place where innovation, opportunity and excellence flourish

Her ambition is for the school to become more than just a place of learning. She hopes to see it recognised as a centre of excellence that develops outstanding learners, mentors future educators and serves as a beacon of innovation and opportunity in the Eastern Cape.

Beyond her professional achievements and vision for the future, it is Strydom’s heart for children that has endeared her to the school community.

“Leadership is about service, inclusion and empowering others. Whether supporting struggling readers, mentoring teachers or uplifting families in the community, my goal is to lead with authenticity, compassion and purpose,” said Strydom.

For the learners, staff and families of Despatch Preparatory School, Strydom’s appointment represents more than a new principal. It is the beginning of an exciting new era led by a passionate educator, respected leader and proud member of the school family.

As one of the youngest principals in the school’s history, she takes the helm with the energy, vision and determination to ensure that every learner is empowered to make their mark on the world.

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