He has had a long history with the school group, starting in 1996 at the Pretoria school as a maths and art teacher. In 2002 he was promoted to deputy principal, and the position of senior deputy principal followed in 2004.
“My passion lies in working with people. If I hadn’t been an educator I would probably have been in psychological services,” Rothman said.
He is also focused on maintaining the technological leaps the school has made. Earlier this year the school introduced tablet computers to classrooms, allowing pupils to leave textbooks at home.
“Technology in school is imperative. Pupils are able to access information at the click of a button, and how the school embraces the way pupils are gathering information is amazing.”
He has created a strong balance between work and home life and is interested in trends in education and the development of young people.
He is also a full-blooded Bulls rugby supporter.
“I am a Bull, born and bred. Despite working in Lions country, my allegiance is to them,” Rothman said.
As a result, the principal treks 48km each day from Pretoria to the school.
“A 48km trip can take less than an hour, providing you leave home at 5am,” he added.
He hopes integrity and accountability are two important life skills he can instil in pupils.
“Developing life skills is the most important role I have as principal. Knowledge can be acquired, but developing these skills is the most important,” he said.
