IN WHAT was a fairytale final chapter for two principals who dedicated their lives to education, Amanzimtoti Primary and Athlone Park Primary schools bid farewell to John and Tracey Vorster on July 31 in separate, but similarly emotional programmes.

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The pair started their careers at the same time and both retired just shy of 40 years in education.

A whirlwind of emotion struck both principals as they each set off on their final walks through their respective schools. John, who closed a 10-year-long chapter as principal of Athlone Park, said that after grappling with mixed feelings during his final few weeks at the school, he felt truly happy.

“It’s like a rollercoaster ride coming to an end. I am passionate about working with children and have absolutely loved my career as a teacher. I would organise parting functions for teachers retiring when I was the head of department and then deputy principal. It’s a surreal experience to have reached this point myself,” said John.

He spoke fondly of his wife and felt it only right that after knowing each other for 50 years and sharing such similar careers, that they share a story as well.

Originally from Benoni, the pair went through high school together before following suit in university. Both started teaching in Limpopo at a boarding school where they remained for eight years. During their tenure they welcomed two children into the world. They taught at different schools back in their home town for the next 12 years.

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For the past 20 years, John had been working at Athlone Park while Tracey spent four years at Umbogintwini Primary School and the following 16 years at Amanzimtoti Primary. She was principal there for five years. Astonishingly, all three of their children followed in their footsteps in education, despite all initially planning different career paths.

Tracey explained her love for teaching with a powerful quote by former president Nelson Mandela, who said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” She added that while she is not often a very emotional person, during her last week, she went through a slew of emotions before being given a beautiful send-off by learners.

“I believe that we play such a vital role in the lives of these children because we spend so much time with them. Kindness and love should be our key focus when we teach them, so too should teaching them discipline and self-discipline,” said Tracey.

The pair, in equal measure, look forward to their future, and will be moving to Mtunzini, where they plan to spend more time with their daughter and grandchild. John said that while they are well-travelled, they plan to check more locations off their list of destinations and he hopes to establish a garden in their new home. Tracey, on the other hand, hopes to put her camera to use more, while also delving deeper into her love for graphics and design.

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