Brown hopes to continue predecessors’ legacy

WESTVILLE Senior Primary School has officially appointed its new principal, Richard Brown, who said he was excited to be working with a great team, as well as pupils.

Brown, who was a teacher at Westville Boys’ High School for 23 years before taking up this post at the beginning of March, said he’s a proud South African that loves the creativity that comes from the country’s diversity.

“I live in Hillcrest and am a keen golfer and avid sport fan, and I love music and animals,” he said.

After receiving his BA and a Higher Diploma in Education at the then University of Natal, Brown decided to take up a six-month locum teaching position at Glenwood Boys’ High School before joining the Westville Boys’ team.

“Initially I intended only a short experience in teaching, of about five years, to observe and be involved with our youth in an exciting time in South African history, in the early 1990s.

“However, I soon realised I had found my true passion and have been committed to education ever since. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to join Westville Boys’ High School, and I believe that working in such an exceptional school and community was a major factor in inspiring and motivating me to extend my personal abilities and develop a deep passion for the noble profession of teaching.

“When talking about being inspired, I must make mention of Westville Boys’ principal, Trevor Hall. He has been an exceptional leader and mentor in my development,” Brown said.

Looking to the future, Brown said it is his responsibility to respect the legacy of his predecessors and the contributions they’ve made to the school and the community: “They truly have been icons of excellence within the Westville community. Ultimately, a school where children are happy, develop a love of learning, are nurtured, have opportunities to maximise their abilities and strive for personal excellence is what this school is already about.”

He said acting principal and deputy principal, Veronica Dixon, ensured that he joined a school where he looks to the future with confidence and optimism.