Rose de Doncker, the highly regarded principal of Paterson High School in Schauderville, has been recognised as being at the pinnacle of secondary school leadership in SA.
She was honoured with the prestigious Award for Excellence in Secondary Leadership at the 24th National Teaching Awards Ceremony, held on World Teachers' Day at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni.
De Doncker, who had already clinched the Eastern Cape title, showcased her exceptional skills on the national stage in September and, shortly after the announcement at the weekend, said she was still overwhelmed.
“My initial reaction was one of shock and surprise, but it was quickly followed by immense gratitude and profound humility,” she said.
“This recognition has reignited my passion and motivation to continue making a difference.
“I want to acknowledge my husband, Grant, for his support, guidance and belief in me throughout this NTA journey.
“I would also like to thank Mr Behaardien van Tonder and Mrs Brenda Paulsen for their support and encouragement to enter the competition.”
De Doncker said she was happy that she could bring the accolade home for the Paterson school community, the northern areas, the Nelson Mandela Bay district, and the Eastern Cape.
“It will also help to shine the light on the school as an acknowledgment of the tireless efforts and commitment of the educators to change our children’s lives.
“As we are heading to the [school’s] centenary, I hope this award will also help reflect and remind me of the school’s rich history and legacies.
“I am happy to add to those legacies in winning this award.
“We face so many challenges in the northern areas schools, mostly trying to motivate our children so that they can rise despite their circumstances.
“Paterson faces all the same challenges daily.
“Hopefully, this award demonstrates the possibility of success despite adversity, proof that excellence can thrive anywhere and that no matter what the circumstances are, there is hope for a better future.”
De Doncker said each province had a representative in the 15 categories at the national awards.
In his address, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the award recipients had done their profession proud.
“Continue to strive for excellence and be assured of our full support.
“Thank you to all the stakeholders in the sector, including the teacher unions and school governing bodies who are working with us to build a resilient education system that meets the challenges of the future.”
Paterson High deputy principal Kenneth Prins said the accolade was befitting of De Doncker’s dedication and service to the sector.
“How fitting it is for this honour to be bestowed upon Rose de Doncker, the principal of Paterson High.
“As educators at this historic 99-year-old institution, we are immensely proud to have such a strong, dynamic and innovative female leader who ensures the holistic development and growth of both pupils and educators.
“Her efforts enrich and empower the entire school community, leaving a lasting impact on Schauderville.”
Under De Doncker’s leadership, Paterson High has achieved remarkable feats, including securing provincial, national and international representation at the Science Expo competitions.
The school’s participation in robotics competitions in Indonesia and Greece has also thrust it into the international spotlight.
Paterson High also won the Herald Isuzu Schools Quiz in 2022 and 2023, and a grade 8 pupil secured a silver medal in the Sanlam WOW Spelling competition this year.
“How are these outstanding achievements possible?
“Rose de Doncker has a vision for Paterson High, and the learners and teachers of this institution of excellence share this vision,” Prins said.
“She fosters teamwork and collaboration among all staff members, ensuring that the education of pupils is always prioritised.
“Being part of this excellent institution inspires us educators to aspire to greater heights and success, always free as mountaineers! Montani Semper Liberi! (Mountaineers are always free).”
Paterson Alumni Centenary Committee chair Carrol Bouah said the National Secondary Schools Award for Excellence in Leadership was the cherry on top, and would propel the school with hope and pride into its centenary celebration in 2025.
“This most recent accolade bestowed upon principal Rose de Doncker and the school fills us, as alumni, with immense pride.
“Over the past few years, the Alumni Centenary Committee has worked closely with Mrs De Doncker and has come to know her drive, commitment and work ethic, which epitomise her leadership style.
“We are elated with the ‘captain of our ship’ being acknowledged on a national platform, but not surprised at all!
“In recent years, pupils and staff have performed excellently in various areas such as science and mathematics and won a multitude of competitions both nationally and internationally, all having brought honour to the Paterson High family, Gqeberha and the Eastern Cape,” Bouah said.
HeraldLIVE
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