Principal drives change in the classroom and community

Brandon Broderick, principal of Dalpark Independent School, aims to not only make a difference in the lives of children and staff at the institution, but also the community.

The dynamic 38-year-old took up the role of principal at the school, formerly Dalpark Private School, in June last year.

The Edenvale resident, who is a married father of three girls, has come full circle in his career in education, as the school is where he first discovered his passion for teaching.

Despite growing up with a teacher parent, Broderick’s love for sport initially pushed him in a different direction and he holds a degree with honours in biokinetics. He told the Brakpan Herald, he previously ran his own practice, but closed it in 2012.

“I found it mundane. I then had the opportunity to job shadow at the school. I came here to see what it was all about, and was sort of thrown in the deep end with a class of Grade Two learners, but it started my love for teaching.

“Some people are just meant for teaching,” he said.

Following this experience, Broderick obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. He completed his internship at Pridwin Preparatory School in Melrose, Johannesburg, and was a science teacher at this school until 2016.

Broderick returned to Dalpark Private School in 2017, where he taught science and was also the school’s sports director.

In 2019, he spearheaded the opening of the institution’s high school, where he first held the position of acting principal, and then principal. Broderick then made the move to KwaZulu-Natal when a second school was opened in Tongaat. He was the principal of this school from 2022 until its closure last year.

He has returned to the local school with enthusiasm and is excited about its future. Broderick’s passion for education is evident. He still teaches (Grade 10 life sciences) but he is also passionate about strategic thinking and the problem solving that comes with the position of principal.

“It’s a bit of a mix and the teaching gets me out of the office, but it’s nice to be part of the engine room. Ultimately my passion lies with children and they are the ultimate goal.

“My focus is on the unemployment rate in this country. I want to get rid of it. I want these children to walk out of here and go to tertiary education or join the workforce. I want them to live and be happy,” he said.

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Asked how he thinks his learners would describe him, Broderick responded, “I believe I’m approachable, and they see me as a happy, walk-the-line figure. They know where they stand with me, and that I’m here to assist and guide them.”

Community safety is another important issue for Broderick and he wants to become involved in uplifting safety in the area.

“The community is looking for measures to improve safety in the area. I’m on the neighbourhood WhatsApp groups and there is a need to uplift safety, so it’s high on the school radar and we want to help,” he said.

The school has been used as a venue by the CPF for meetings, but Broderick is hoping for more involvement.

“I would like to join on a patrol. The school definitely wants to be part in driving community safety,” he said, adding that the safety measures at the school are comprehensive.

Looking ahead, Broderick explained the school is going in a new, positive direction.

“The ship is strong. I’m excited for the growth and development of our offerings which now includes science labs, robotics and more. Our sport and cultural offerings are also growing, and I’m excited for the school and where we’re going,” he said.

Outside of school, Broderick enjoys spending his free time with family and friends. He is also passionate about music and sports, especially rugby. Keeping fit is also a priority, and Broderick is an avid runner who hopes to one day conquer the Comrades Marathon.

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