Liberation through education
'I can be who I am because I allow you to be who you are.'
From the moment he became a father, Crawford College North Coast principal, André Loots’ view on education changed.
The father of two daughters, Anri (16) and Tarryn (18), who are both at the College, he obtained a Master’s Degree in Education at the University of Johannesburg, and the pinnacle of his career was being appointed as principal – something that he wanted to be since he started teaching.
“After the birth of my first child I felt a much stronger responsibility as a teacher. My daughters assisted me in seeing the bigger picture,” he said.
His other highlight however, is the continuous contact that he has with the past students he has taught after they have started their own families.
André’s dream for his school is for it to remain at the forefront of education, providing the best opportunities to enable students to be prepared for the real world.
“The school gives teachers the autonomy and freedom they need to teach in the best possible way. I think this is why I have always enjoyed being at Crawford. This freedom allows both the teachers and the students space in which to foster their individuality, while promoting mutual respect.”
“Respect is not about what you do in front of others, but what you do when they are not there. We want students to be inherently responsible. We encourage our students to have a voice, remembering that it is not what you say, but how you say it. We encourage individual-thinkers.”
André said he believes ‘I can be who I am because I allow you to be who you are.’
“Being able to guide students to change their behaviour for the better and seeing them grow into responsible, young adults is exceptionally fulfilling.”
Loots was deputy principal at Crawford College Lonehill, before moving to the beautiful Dolphin Coast to head up Crawford College North Coast in 2010.
“Crawford North Coast has this unique farm feel and setting. Living here has improved our quality of family life too.”
When the principal is not at school, he enjoys a good old fashioned braai and a visit with friends and family around a fire or a game of Sudoku.
“After our quiet time, I start my day with a cup of coffee and a Sudoku. I also enjoy crosswords, reading and CSI: New York.”
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