Every school day, no matter what season, come rain, wind, loadshedding or sunny skies, the principal of Despatch Preparatory, Madeléne Sachse will be on duty at the school’s entrance, welcoming each of the 608 learners.
“It all started during Covid, when we had to monitor learners: Do they have masks on? Did they sanitize? … and all those regulations. It also was a time where all, especially learners, felt anxious and uncertain. I realized, this is an excellent opportunity each day to see how our learners are and to manage situations on the spot in case a learner for some or another reason does not feel well,” said Sachse.
“It also gives parents the peace of mind that their children are in good hands and safe. And it is an excellent relationship- building opportunity. Sometimes I will even in a polite way be a traffic officer, assisting when there is a bit of a parking problem, or redirect parents to make use of the pedestrian crossing when they bring their children to school.”
Sachse admits that it is not always pleasant, especially during inclement weather, but the learners’ reaction or passers-by’s positive comments change her mood and bring a song to her heart.
“I keep my raincoat, umbrella, and hair dryer in my office. Rain won’t keep me away from my early morning duty. I love all the hugs and smiles, it makes my day.”
