A huge welcome for new St Martin’s headmaster
When he’s not in school, Thomas enjoys playing the piano and growing trees from seed, “I have grown over 60 indigenous trees so far. My garden nursery is where I enjoy complete peace and quiet.”
THOMAS Hagspihl was welcomed to St Martin’s High School on January 27, with invited guests and friends at the introductory morning.
Before introducing him, Mr Bill Pierce, the chairman of the governing council shared some of Thomas’ attributes, saying he has a keen sense of humour, he’s a strategic thinker and has a passion for education.
“I’m delighted to be at St Martin’s and it’s a great privilege. I’ve been married to Marion for 31 years and we have two sons and a new granddaughter. I was born in Krugersdorp and after matriculating went to Wits, to study mathematics. After I graduated, I went to the army to do my two years’ service and after that I taught at many schools throughout South Africa, enjoying the different towns and smaller country schools,” said Thomas.
Now back in Johannesburg, Thomas is all set for the challenge of headmaster of St Martin’s High School and looks forward to many happy and challenging years to come.
When he’s not at school, Thomas enjoys playing the piano and growing trees from seed, “I have grown over 60 indigenous trees so far. My garden nursery is where I enjoy complete peace and quiet.”
He went on to say, “The St Martin’s community has given me a huge welcome and I endeavour to take St Martin’s School through its next challenging years.”
“Many famous South Africans, including Hugh Masekela and his sons, have been associated with St Martin’s. Father Trevor Huddleston identified Hugh’s musical talent while they were both here and Father Trevor wrote a letter to the one and only Louis Armstrong, asking if he could send a trumpet for Hugh, which he actually did!”
“Oliver Tambo was also at this school, both as a learner and a teacher. The first headmaster at St Martin’s was Michael Stern who said, ‘St Martin’s is prepared to do some dangerously decent things.’ We’ve produced many good human beings at St Martin’s and we’ll continue to do so. Everyone can make a difference in their world if they want to,” Thomas went on to say.
“If it ain’t broken don’t fix it, let it go on! I am here to ask questions but I believe strongly in holding on to what is good and what works. The long-term planning and development committee is looking at the future. I think very exciting times are ahead for this school.
“As parents of learners here, I value your input and ask you to become involved in your child’s education. When your daughter or son sees you on the sidelines at their sports games, it will make all the difference to them. Always support them but don’t fight their battles for them.”
An informal brunch followed where Thomas and Marion met some of the parents and mingled with the guests.
Also Read:
https://www.citizen.co.za/comaro-chronicle/84068/st-martins-junior-touch-rugby-learners/
For free daily local news in the south, visit our sister newspapers Alberton Record, Comaro Chronicle, Southern Courier and Get it Joburg South Magazine.
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. You can also email our offices on cvdwalt@caxton.co.za, juliem@caxton.co.za or luckyt@caxton.co.za
Add us on WhatsApp today! Comaro Chronicle: 079 427 8074 and Southern Courier: 079 404 5789.
