Durban — After “moulding the minds” of pupils for 40 years as a teacher, the principal of St Theresa’s Roman Catholic Primary in Sydenham, Gregory Akkers, has retired after 24 years at the school.
Akkers was all smiles as he was surprised by his pupils and teachers, on Friday. They lined the corridors to bid him farewell, singing “we will miss you” and carrying colourful cards.
Akkers left a legacy of respect for religion, inclusivity and academic and sporting excellence as he walked through the school waving goodbye to his pupils on his last day.
He told the Daily News that shaping the minds of young people so that they take their place confidently in society has always been his passion, and when his mother encouraged him to find a job after he had matriculated, he decided to become a teacher.
Akkers began teaching at Wentworth Primary School and joined St Theresa’s in 2000.
He said the highlights of his career included the restructuring of the school over the years, adding extra classrooms, the activities after school such as sport, dance, agriculture, leadership camps, introducing swimming lessons at the home next door and the Chad le Clos Foundation, and the great relationship the staff have built over the years.
“Overall, my highlight is when learners come back to share their success stories. Many have grown to be excellent in their fields, from attorneys, doctors, swimmers abroad to business managers, that is where I find the reward,” he said as his face lit up when he recalled visits from former pupils.
He said the school taught respect for different religions. St Theresa’s is mainly a Catholic school but accepts all religions to promote inclusivity.
Akkers thanked the staff for their assistance in making the school great over the years and helping him to grow as a leader. He said the decisions he made were collective ideas. He also thanked parents for supporting his family and himself throughout his career.
A sports fanatic, Akkers plays squash competitively. As an avid traveller, he said he planned to do more travelling during his retirement.
He encouraged young teachers to look at all aspects of the subject they are teaching to make their lessons exciting. He also encouraged good manners from teachers to pupils.
“Make sure you know everything about your class, learn your pupils’ names and don’t just say ‘hey you, come here’. Be respectful and they will respect you too,” he said.
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Daily News