Sue downs chalk one last time

THIS year marks an important milestone for both Hillcrest High School and Waterfall College as at the end of 2016, Sue Combrink will step down from her successful teaching career at the two Upper Highway schools.

Craig Girvin, the headmaster of Hillcrest High School, said, “Skilled and experienced staff play a critical role in education today and the additional second languages often present a particular challenge in attaining academic excellence in the senior phases. All of the staff and learners extended their sincere thanks to the inimitable Ms Combrink, who served Hillcrest High for more than 25 years, where she taught Afrikaans and physical education. Sue always had a commanding presence, much needed in the school environment. She has earned a well deserved retirement. Thank you so much for all you did for our school.”

Ronel Jordaan, current head of Afrikaans at Hillcrest high, said, “Sue was my subject head when I started teaching here at Hillcrest High in 1987 and we were terrified of her. However, Sue was very systematic and I learned a lot from her, such as how things should be done, or not.”

“You can be sure her learners knew their ‘taalwerk’ off by heart. They say that good teachers are like candles in that they consume themselves to light the way for others, well, Sue has proved that over and over.”

Waterfall College‘s principal, Jeanette van der Merwe, and members of the Afrikaans department wished Sue Combrink a fun-filled but relaxing retirement.

At the recent farewell celebration, Jeanette spoke highly of Sue’s time with the school. She started there four years ago when she retired from full-time teaching.

“She has raised the standard of the Afrikaans department to a level where achievements include 100 per cent matric Afrikaans pass rate and matric distinctions for the language,” said Jeanette.

Sue embraced her part-time role at the school, and enjoyed the opportunity to share her wisdom, generosity and what her teaching team called the biggest heart. She made her mark in the school from an academic perspective, as well as in staff development, inspiration and fun.

“Here I have found a family that will always stay deep in my heart. Thank you very much for the honour of spending four of my 50 years as a teacher with the staff and learners,” said Sue.

Jeanette concluded, “We wish you well and look forward to keeping you close to us as we continue to row the boat in your absence, building on the solid foundation you have helped to create.”