Inside Education Reporter
Derek Swart, principal of Paarl Boys’ High School in the Cape Winelands Education District, received the Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 Western Cape Provincial Teaching Awards.
Swart’s dedication, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to educational excellence have profoundly impacted not only Paarl Boys’ High School but also the broader educational community.
Swart has been at the helm of Paarl Boys’ High School for over two decades, leading with a clear vision and a steadfast commitment to academic excellence. His leadership style is characterised by inclusivity, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Under his guidance, the school has consistently achieved outstanding academic results, maintaining a reputation as one of the top-performing schools in the country.
Swart has been hailed as a forward-thinking educator who has embraced and implemented innovative teaching practices to enhance the learning experience. He has been instrumental in integrating technology into the curriculum, ensuring that students are well prepared for the challenges of the modern world.
His commitment to continuous improvement and professional development for both staff and students has created a dynamic and progressive learning environment.
Beyond academic achievement, Swart is deeply committed to the holistic development of his students. His CV is very long but shows how impactful his role has played in the upliftment of young people.
He has championed numerous initiatives that promote physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. His emphasis on character education, sportsmanship, and community service has instilled strong values in his students, preparing them to be responsible and compassionate citizens.
This is evident in the accolades that his school receives in the rugby fraternity, with the 66th captain of the South African national team, Salmaan Moerat, being one of his former students.
Swart’s influence extends beyond the school gates. He is an active participant in the local community, fostering strong partnerships with parents, local businesses, and educational organisations. His efforts have strengthened the bond between the school and the community, creating a supportive network that benefits students and their families.
His ability to rally community support for school projects and initiatives is a testament to his exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills.
A dedicated mentor, Swart has nurtured the growth of countless educators over the years. His commitment to professional development and capacity-building has empowered many educators to reach their full potential. His mentorship has inspired a new generation of educators who are now making significant contributions to the field of education.
Throughout his illustrious career, Swart has received numerous accolades and awards in recognition of his outstanding contributions to education. His unwavering dedication and exceptional achievements have set a benchmark for excellence in educational leadership.
Derek Swart exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding educational leader. His visionary leadership, commitment to holistic student development, and dedication to community engagement make him a deserving candidate for the Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award.
His contributions have left an indelible mark on Paarl Boys’ High School and the broader educational landscape, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier on Saturday hosted the Western Cape Provincial Teaching Awards for 2024, now in their 24th year.
He said teachers are the most valuable asset, and communities must appreciate their love, care, and support for children every single day.
Celebrating teaching excellence with the winners, Maynier said awards give the government the opportunity to celebrate the incredible work that teachers in our public schools do every day.
“These teachers relentlessly pursue excellence, and their passion for improving learning outcomes is clear for all to see. It is wonderful to see how our teachers are making a lasting impact on the lives of learners in the Western Cape,” he said.
2024 Provincial Teaching Award winners are:
Excellence in Grade R Teaching: Heather van Staden, Irista Primary School, Sarepta, Kuils River
Excellence in Primary School Teaching: Christine Bester, Botrivier Primary School, Botrivier
Excellence in Primary School Leadership: Gershwin Kroukamp, Berzelia Primary School, Atlantis
Excellence in Secondary School Teaching: Liezel Reynolds, Hopefield High School, Hopefield
Excellence in Secondary School Leadership: Tiro Motaung, Centre of Science and Technology (COSAT)
Excellence in Special Needs Teaching: Chadwin Bagley, Rusthof School, Rusthof, Strand
Excellence in teaching Life Skills (Grade 1-6): Dorothy Jooste, Highbury Primary School, Highbury, Kuils River
Excellence in Special Needs School Leadership: Irma Mentoor, Ligstraal School, Paarl-East
Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (GET): Ethon Leigh Alexander, Fraaisig Primary School, Knysna
Excellence in Teaching Mathematics (FET): Dillon Seals, Apex High School, Blue Downs, Eerste River
Excellence in Teaching Natural Sciences: Ziyaad Noordien, West End Primary School, Lentegeur, Mitchells Plain
Excellence in teaching Physical Sciences (FET): Bernice van Blerk, Vredenberg High School, Vredenberg
Excellence in Technology enhanced teaching and learning – Lalindei Botha, La Rochelle Girls’ Primary School, Paarl
Best Teacher Award: Llewellyn van der Ross, Tuscany Glen Primary School, Tuscany Glen, Eerste River
Kader Asmal Lifetime Achievement Award: Derek Swart, Paarl Boys’ High School, Paarl
“We congratulate each one of these outstanding teachers, and look forward to seeing even greater achievements from them in the future,” Maynier said.
15 provincial winners will now go on to represent us at the National Teaching Awards, to be held in October 2024.
INSIDE EDUCATION
