Taking a stroll along the corridors of Hoërskool Hans Moore, the new principal Michael Mearns shakes hands with learners as they pass.
Looking each square in the eye, he asks them one question, and the answer is the same.
“Who are you?”
“I’m a winner, sir,” is the answer they all give.
At the beginning of the 2024 academic year, Mearns took over the reins from Jan Harm Hattingh.
The geography teacher and lover of nature has been a familiar face on the school grounds since 2010 when he was appointed as deputy principal.
As a born and bred Benonian, Mearns believes his deep-seated love for his community has not only cemented his role as a teacher but shaped his approach to teaching and relating to the youth.
“Our teaching motto at school is firm, fair and friendly,” he said.
“We believe the youth thrive in an environment which has a clear and consistent structure, where everyone is treated with the same dignity and respect while knowing they will be seen as individuals where their voices will be heard.”
He said it is not only important to relay educational material to learners, but teachers, management, and learners must consciously strive to make an impact by expressing care through words and deeds.
“The school’s vision is clear. Here we change the world and challenge the learners to be the light,” said Mearns.
“By making a difference in the life of another, you can light up the world.”
The father of three likens the education system to a living organism which is constantly evolving, and schools need to grow with their learners.
“High school is a challenging time for teens. Some may feel uncertain or face mounting challenges,” he said.
“Learners are now learning more effectively through digital and visual platforms and it is up to us to empower them with soft skills which build confidence.”
Of his vision for the future of the school, Mearns says that he believes it will grow from strength to strength.
“As Moories we work and play hard, thus encouraging a healthy balance between academics, sport and play,” he said.
“I still teach, despite the title change. The classroom is one of my happy places.”
Outside the school walls, Mearns immerses himself in micro-farming or taking the lesser travelled roads into the bush.
“In my youth, I had great ambitions of becoming a game ranger, but soon realised I love being around people more. That was when I pursued a career in teaching,” he said.
“My love for nature has, however, not diminished. Our children, my wife, Gillian, and I make an effort to break away to the bush as often as possible.”
Faculty, staff and learners wish Mearns well as the newly appointed captain of the Hans Moore ship.
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