New era for Alberview Primary as Janine van der Merwe steps in as principal

Janine van der Merwe is ready to embrace her new role as the principal of Alberview Primary School, a position she will officially take over on April 1.

With a teaching career spanning over two decades, Van der Merwe’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to education.

Her teaching career began in 1999 at Laerskool Montanus Primary, a school in South Hills.

After several years there, she explored teaching in a private school but soon realised that her heart lay in the public education sector.

In 2011, she joined Mulbarton Primary School, where she quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the head of department for the foundation phase in 2012.

Rising through the ranks at Alberview

The impact she made in this leadership role motivated her to apply for a deputy principal position, which led her to Alberview Primary in 2018.

Over the years, she has taken on various responsibilities, including serving as the School Based Support Team (SBST) coordinator, Learner Teacher Support Material (LTSM) coordinator, a member of Quality Management System (QMS) and Performance Management and Performance System (PMDS) and part of the discipline and fundraising committees.

“As a deputy, you are involved in all areas of the school,” Van der Merwe shared. “It was a role that prepared me well for the challenges ahead.”

Stepping into the role of principal

In 2024, Van der Merwe had an opportunity to serve as the acting principal of Alberview Primary, a first-hand look at what it truly takes to lead a school.

“Every decision had to come through my office, and I had to have the final say,” she explained. “There is so much that happens behind the scenes that you only fully grasp once you’re in the position.”

Her year of shadowing outgoing principal, Petra Vermeulen, further prepared her for the role.

“Being principal is more than just a title,” Van der Merwe said. “It’s about making an impact, creating opportunities, and ensuring the best possible environment for both learners and staff.”

Vision for Alberview Primary

Van der Merwe is stepping into her new role with big plans for Alberview Primary.

With increasing learner numbers, she aims to expand school facilities by building more classrooms, improving sports infrastructure, building a larger tuck shop to better serve learners and staff, extending the school’s grandstands to accommodate more spectators at events, and introducing teaching assistants in each foundation phase class to support learners facing academic challenges.

“Our school already stands out with its purple colours and strong brand identity,” she said. “With my staff and school management team (SMT) we want to build on this and instil even more pride in our learners, parents, and staff.”

A love for education and leadership

Van der Merwe’s love for teaching stems from her deep connection with people. She thrives in an environment that requires flexibility, quick thinking, and problem-solving.

“Every day is different,” she explained. “Your day can be planned, and then something unexpected happens – it keeps things exciting!”

Her biggest inspirations in education include her former teachers, Martie Greyling from Laerskool WH Coetzer, and Slabbert and Grobbelaar from Hoërskool Alberton.

They played a role in shaping her passion for learning and leadership.

She also credits her first principal, Johan Kruger of Laerskool Montanus Primary, along with Lawrence Kistadoo of Mulbarton Primary and Vermeulen, for guiding her through her career.

“They taught me that even with limited resources, creativity and hard work can help you achieve great things.”

Balancing work and family

Despite the demands of being a school principal, Van der Merwe makes time for her family.

“It’s all about balance and lots of frozen meals!” she said with a laugh.

She credits her husband for being a huge support in her life. “He helps with our daughters and always steps in when I need him. My mom is also a lifesaver, especially on weekends when I have school events to attend.”

To maintain a healthy work-life balance, Van der Merwe ensures that work stays at work.

“If we burn out, we can’t give our best to the learners and staff,” she said.

Advice for future educators

For young educators and future school leaders, Van der Merwe offers this wisdom: Be open-minded and embrace change, learn as much as possible early on so you can handle any challenge, and don’t be afraid to step up when new opportunities arise.

She believes that God’s grace has played a major role in her career progression.

“If you had asked me five years ago if I would be principal, I might have hesitated. But now, I’m loving this new phase in my life and the opportunities it brings.”

Building Alberview’s future

Under Van der Merwe’s leadership, Alberview has already launched its first-ever Facebook and Instagram pages to connect with the community and seek sponsorships for future projects.

She also wants to strengthen partnerships with neighbouring high schools. “If we produce good learners, those learners move on to high school and continue to excel. It’s about creating a cycle of success.”

Her message to the Alberview community: “Thank you for entrusting us to provide the best education possible for your children,” she said.

“To the teachers, thank you for believing in me. And to the learners – use every opportunity at your disposal to grow into well-rounded adults.”

With a clear vision, a dedicated heart, and a passion for education, van der Merwe is set to lead Alberview Primary into a bright and promising future.