Apart from many other big plans he has for the school, newly appointed principal Kashif Oliphant (54) wants to empower learners to be computer literate.
With over 32 years’ experience as a qualified teacher, he assured the RECORD that learners of Eden Park Primary School are in safe hands.
Just recently, in October 2019, Oliphant was appointed as principal at Eden Park’s first built school, working alongside Millicent Phillips as his deputy.
Born in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal, he said that he has forever had passion for teaching.
“I came to Johannesburg to study teaching. After my studies I then decided to live in Eden Park. While growing up, when asked by my then educator I told him that I wanted to become a teacher and from there everything just clicked in place,” he said.
He told the RECORD that teaching is not just his profession, but his calling and that he is always willing to go beyond the call of duty.
“If I were asked to choose differently on what career to go for, I would still choose teaching. I have never worked in anything else in my life except in teaching,” he said.
Oliphant proudly holds a Higher Diploma in Education and an Advanced Certificate in Education accompanied by many years of experience.
Love for teaching
The dedicated educator started off his teaching career at Eden Park Secondary School, where he finally did what he had always set his heart to. He taught at the school for at least 20 years and was eventually made head of department in mathematics.
“I later applied at Eden Park Primary School in 2008 as deputy principal, and fortunately got the post. Without realising in 2014, I then became an acting principal at the school.
“I’m not a stranger here in Eden Park, this is my town, a community that I’ve lived in for 34 years,” said Oliphant.
Soon after, he left the school to teach at Abram Hlophe Primary School where he successfully attained numerous achievements within the school.
He then decided to come back to Eden Park Primary School to share his knowledge with learners.
Piet Smith, chairperson of the school governing body (SGB), confidently said they are pleased with his appointment.
“He has normalised relations among all stakeholders in the school, including teaching and non-teaching staff and parents, as well as department officials. The SGB enjoys a good working relationship with our principal,” he said.
Vision
The future seems bright for learners of Eden Park Primary School.
Oliphant said that with the new digital age, he wanted to prepare and advance learners with computer learning.
“Before I left the school as deputy principal, I was always working on the increased usage of computers at the school. I want children to be able to use computers and go to the point of being able to constantly access information instead of just using books,” he said.
The school’s senior classes recently had big-screen televisions fitted and they are in a process of purchasing notebooks for Grade Seven learners.
Oliphant also assured that under his auspices, the school will continue to have strong traditions, with a sole purpose of bringing change to the community.
He also thanked the support received from parents at the school and the SGB for welcoming him with warm hands.
