Nova Pioneer North Riding eagerly anticipates the arrival of their new school leader, Prathna Ramchunder. Set to officially step into her role in September of this year, Ramchunder brings a wealth of experience and a passion for education to her new position.
“Being the school leader at Nova Pioneer is a privilege. It is also a growth journey for me in my career and the relationship I built with the students, staff and parents over the last four years. Just as I am growing in my career, I would like to continue the growth with this entire family. I would like to take them to different heights and see how everyone develops.”
Having initially pursued a career in psychology, Ramchunder realised her true calling lay in the field of education. “I did a degree in psychology first and I did my honours in it too. I enjoyed it but it wasn’t giving me the kick that I wanted. I always wanted to be a teacher from primary school because of my teacher. I wanted to be a teacher just like her. I ended up doing education and doing well.”
Ramchunder’s dedication to education is evident in her journey that led to Nova Pioneer, where she has been for the past four years. “I started teaching in Durban and then I applied for a teaching position here in Johannesburg at a different organisation. I got into the Trailblazer’s programme for leadership at that organisation and got promoted to assistant principal there. After a year, I moved over to Nova Pioneer. Last year I got promoted to the dean of instruction at Nova and now I am on to the school leader.”
Reflecting on her journey she stated, “When I studied teaching, I didn’t know that being a principal or school leader was something that was possible for me. When I first started at Nova Pioneer, I wasn’t very confident as a leader and I have seen my growth journey now and I have seen that I am much more confident.”
With a focus on student-centred learning, Ramchunder aims to make a difference at Nova Pioneer North Riding. “I am hoping to have consistency. I want everyone to feel safe and to feel heard. Most importantly, I want to see my students grow and see what they can accomplish after they leave the school.”
As the Nova Pioneer community eagerly awaits Ramchunder’s official start to her role, she is ready to undertake this new challenge. “I am thrilled to take on this new role and I think it is natural for me to be nervous. I also feel comfortable because it’s not like I’m stepping into a new school as a school leader. However, it’ll definitely be a new challenge.”
Related articles: Nova Pioneer celebrate their rights
Nova Pioneer exchanges chapters instead of chocolates on Valentine’s Day
