The country’s matric results were released a few days ago. I remember when the release of matric results was a big event on my calendar. This use to be this way because I was a part of the process of producing the results that the country celebrated and criticised.
I was a Grade 8-9 English teacher at the time and would also take my holidays to work at marking centres. Do not be deceived, I did not do this for altruism’s sake. I did this because the money was good. I do miss the thrill of reviewing marksheets, getting them approved and watching the envelope leave for additional processing.
But the release of this year’s results was different. It felt different too. My biggest reminder that the results were out was seeing my old high school’s noticeboard: “MATRIX 2021 100%” it proclaimed!
My mind swelled with pride! That’s my old high school… or the school I last attended before matriculating. But more than that I was reminded of how the school arrived at this moment.
I was the second class of matriculants at Eagle’s Nest Christian School. This was back in 2006. And every so often when I drive past the school the school, I’m reminded of how much the world can change because one man and woman decided to start and keep a school running.
Since then Eagle’s Nest has completed its entire high school block. I remember when Mr Mac first told me about this block. He would point to the school gate and explain how the area would look once completed. I was 13 at the time. The first building in block was completed in my late 20’s.
Every time I drive by the school I’m reminded of this story. Mr Mac laughs every time I tell the tale to learners when I’m around him. I introduce him to the pupils I have taught as my high school principal. This feels special because it is special. My old high school principal lives in my neighbourhood and has built one of the more successful private schools in the area.
It isn’t a flashy school. Mampara brick is the brick of choice for all new buildings with exception to the Admin Block. Mr Mac used face brick for that. Mr Mac together with Ma’am Elsa, true to the missionary focus of the school, have built a school that provides a good education with all the bells and whistles. But without anything lavish.
When I look at how I manage my affairs I realise I try do the same. Get results and don’t try be fancy while doing it. I really do aim to do the basics right, reliably. Crazy to think that may well be because of the high school experience the school afforded me. We really all are connected and remain connected.