TZANEEN – Theo Janse van Rensburg, who joined Ben Vorster High School last year, has been appointed as acting principal. This is after the recent departure of Jan van Staden, who accepted an appointment at Monument High School in Krugersdorp.

Read more: Vossies groet Jan van Staden

van Rensburg brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to education and leadership.

The school community has full confidence that he will fulfil this responsibility with integrity, vision and dedication. Last year, when he joined the school as the deputy principal, he told the Herald that it was an honour for him to be part of an excellent school.

He said that he has received nothing but support from his new colleagues, and he is already immersing himself in the management of the school.

He was born in Orkney in the North West province and lived there until he was four years old, after which the family relocated to Polokwane, where he grew up.

“I was privileged to be raised in a loving home where I had endless opportunities to participate in anything my heart desired. My father is a pastor, and my mom is the house mother at Ngwana Baby House in Polokwane.”

Van Rensburg attended Pietersburg Laerskool and went on to Hoërskool Pietersburg. He says his passion for education started in high school, when he helped coach sports to primary school learners for pocket money. He realised that he had a passion for working with children.

“Teachers influenced my entire life, and now it is my turn to give back. It is a privilege and an honour to see them develop into young adults. I want to make a difference in children’s lives and give them a sense of belonging,” Van Rensburg says.

“Every child is important, and it is my responsibility to make them believe in themselves.”

He started his career at Pietersburg Laerskool as a student teacher, then taught at Laerskool Pietersburg-Oos and Curro Heuwelkruin.

He was later appointed deputy principal at Pietersburg Laerskool.

Van Rensburg says he hopes to make a contribution to the success of the school and that his legacy will be to one day leave the school a better place.

Meanwhile on Friday, September 26, the school hosted a heartfelt send off to Van Staden.