New head in touch with modern world
SELBORNE Primary school’s new principal, Riaan Bisschoff described himself as a family man who believes children should spend more time with their families, which is why he is a devotee of assigning homework only if it has a clear purpose.
“My philosophy is straightforward. Society has changed so much and I don’t believe families are spending as much time together.
“Mom and dad come home late and then it’s supper and bed.
If education is happening effectively in class, then there is not necessarily a need for homework.
“Homework should not be given just for the sake of it, but if the teacher has a clear purpose and the homework will benefit the child, then yes.”
Bisschoff, 41, who took over the reins from acting principal Abrie Pepler at the beginning of this month, said he was “humbled and honoured” to lead the school.
With Martizburg College and the University of KwaZuluNatal (formerly the University of Natal) as his alma maters, he left his post as deputy head of Merchiston Preparatory School in Pietermaritzburg to take up the Selborne Primary hot seat.
“I am a Maritzburg boy through and through,” he told the Daily Dispatch in the formal confines of his newly inhabited principal’s office.
“But I have been very warmly received by staff, boys and parents – it’s been a great East London welcome.”
Bisschoff’s father, a teacher, had told his son he would be a teacher “over my dead body”, but once Bisschoff junior had completed his BA, and then Honours, in geography, the rugby and basketball enthusiast landed a job at a school and knew he had found his “calling”.
“I did my PGSE in 2000 and taught overseas for a while before joining Merchiston Prep as a Grade 7 teacher.”
After completing a B Ed Honours in education management, law and policy he became the deputy head five years ago.
Like any modern teacher, Bisschoff has noticed how social media has influenced the lives of this generation of children. “They want information and answers immediately.”
Asked how in a rapidly shifting career landscape education practices could future-proof children, Bisschoff said the most effective way was to enhance the ability to think critically and analytically.
“We don’t know what the future will hold so we must teach them to think on their feet.
“Also, if a child good values and morals, then have future-proofed that child.
“We are also a Google school and we do robotics and have a fantastic media centre, which is fantastic for future-proofing kids.”
Fiercely anti-bullying, Bisschoff said in his last position as deputy head he was tasked with dealing with the problem. “I don’t accept it, but my philosophy is to get to the reasons and help both parties.”
Married to teacher Kerri-Lyn, the couple and their son Benjamin, three, currently live in rented accommodation near the school. — has you