New executive head aims to develop creative thinkers

Curro Helderwyk School has a new head at the helm with the appointment of Patrys van Zyl as executive head. Van Zyl graduated with a BA degree from the University of Pretoria in 1982 and completed a teaching diploma in 1983, followed by an honours degree in history in 1984.

“I entered the wonderful world of education as a young graduate in 1984, teaching history and Afrikaans,” she said.

“I started my teaching career in Pretoria and then moved to the beautiful town of Ficksburg in the Free State.”

From 1993, van Zyl was a stay-at-home mom for a few years and raised her two sons Ignus and Xander. The family lived in England for a few years.

“I soon rekindled my passion for teaching and returned to the classroom in 2004 where I joined the teaching team at Felixton College on the north coast of KwaZulu-Natal,” she said.

“During my teaching career at Felixton, I was appointed by the IEB as regional history portfolio moderator, sub examiner from 2007 and senior sub examiner till December 2015.

“I have reached many goals in my life and achieved much success, but I regard raising, as a single mom, two boys to become great men, as my highest calling, best accomplishment and most fulfilling experience.

“I am also blessed to have my mother, who will be turning 90 next year, living with me. Family truly blesses one’s life and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to move closer to my sons, my sister and, now also, to add the Helderwyk family to my life.”

Van Zyl joined Curro in 2014 and was appointed executive head at Curro Heritage House in Durban in 2016.

“I was very happy at the school and have been part of much-needed developments during my time as executive head,” she said.

“It was, however, Covid-19 that reminded me that life is about more than just work and if you can be close or closer to your family, you need to make the chances in your life and move closer to them.”

As for the unique aspects or advantages, van Zyl will contribute to the school’s team. She believes that the success of any team is based on trust, strong relationships and self-belief.

“I motivate people and help them find their inner strengths and abilities so that they can discover what truly inspires them,” she said.

“I am a strategic thinker who looks for the best path and way to achieve the goals set. I am a leader who believes in the power of diversity.”

Asked about her vision for the school, van Zyl told the Herald every child has the potential to succeed at something, whether academics, sports, culture or service to the school and the community.

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“I believe that teachers should inspire confidence and hope in their learners. I aim to develop creative thinkers who not only have a great awareness of the problems facing our world today but also learners who have been inspired to ask questions, and who have the confidence and self-belief to help produce answers to solve them,” she said.

Van Zyl is inspired by the little things in life and tries to make time for nature at least once a term.

“I am a passionate woman who lives with my head in the clouds, my feet on the ground and my life anchored in my God,” she said.

“My aim has always been to succeed where others have struggled or failed, to improve where others couldn’t and to celebrate and enjoy the successes of those around me.”

With regards to the importance of the role and involvement of the community when it comes to building or growing and running the school, van Zyl stated there is less direct human engagement due to the digital revolution.

“For this reason, the role of the community as a source of connection and relational growth is critical. You cannot separate the school and the community as they directly influence each other,” she explained.

“Compassion is one of the most needed aspects, which we need to teach our children to survive the 22nd century awaiting them. I believe that your relationship with the community is of paramount importance and must form an integral part of your vision.”

In her spare time, van Zyl enjoys spending time in nature and sharing good coffee with family and friends.

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