After 35 years in education, Wilhelmina Hoskins Primary School principal Mpho Leng has retired.

Leng began her teaching journey in the 1990s after studying education at Sefikeng College in the Free State. She later continued her studies at the University of Johannesburg, where she majored in mathematics and science.

She also holds an Honours Degree in Education and completed a course in leadership and governance.

Leng said her decision to become a teacher was driven by her desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people, a passion that started at a young age.

“I used to do homework for learners in my township, and I think that is where the passion began,” she said.

When she started her career, Leng taught high school learners before securing a post in Johannesburg as a Grade Seven teacher at Wilhelmina Hoskins Primary School, where her journey at the school began.

Leadership journey at Wilhelmina Hoskins Primary

Her career at the school progressed over the years. In 2006, she was promoted to head of department for mathematics and science. In 2009, she became the school’s deputy principal before being appointed principal in 2016.

Leng said serving as a school principal came with its own challenges as she was responsible for overseeing various aspects of the school.

“It was challenging because you are an overseer of the entire school, including administration, counselling, support, safety, policy and hygiene, just to name a few,” she said.

However, her desire to make a difference in the lives of children kept her motivated. “Because I wanted to make a difference in children’s lives, that is what kept me going,” she said.

Rewarding moments and community impact

One of the highlights of her career has been seeing former learners return to the school to give back to the community.

Leng said seeing the impact of her work through the achievements of former learners has been one of the most rewarding parts of her career.

Reflecting on her years in education, she said teaching children from her own community brought her great joy and provided her with valuable experiences.

“It brought excitement, happiness and added a lot of experience to my career,” she said.

For Leng, however, the greatest reward has been watching former learners succeed long after leaving her classroom.

“When I see my learners in the workplace, it makes me proud,” she said.

Encouragement for new teachers

As she closes the chapter on her 35-year teaching career, Leng encouraged young teachers entering the profession to remain committed to learning and to never give up.

“Teaching is a lifelong learning journey and a calling. Be committed, passionate and provide a safe space for the learners, almost like being a friend to them,” she said.