EVANDER – With 26 years’ knowledge of the school system, the new headmaster of Laerskool Hoëveld is already settling in well.
Ms Marietjie Stuart began teaching at Laerskool Hoëveld after college where she began at the foundation phase and progressed through the years to the senior phase.
She appiled for the head of the department position at Laerskool Kinross where she worked for two years.
Ms Stuart then returned to Laerskool Hoëveld as a deputy principal for nearly six years.
“Every child is different and I believe each one deserves the same education and love, regardless of their skin colour,” said Ms Stuart.
Staying positive helps her to get through life, as well as having a support system.
She teaches those around her to build a good relationship with God.
Ms Stuart has been married for 37 years and her husband was diagnosed with cancer 13 years ago.
“Having a relationship with God invites a partner with the same goals. It was a tough time, but with the support I have and by God’s grace, he is now cancer free,” she said.
She has a strong value system which helps her to maintain positivity in her life.
Appreciation is important to her and she believes once people appreciate what life has to offer, they can strive to be the best that they can be.
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Her leadership style involves taking the time to know her staff and to create an effective two-way communication.
Ms Stuart handles conflict by giving people a chance to plead their case, and to remain non-biased.
She believes there is a time to lead and a time to follow.
“I cannot run the school alone, my staff must help me as well.
“Primary school is the foundation phase of learning the importance of good leadership.
“Every day is a chance to learn. Everybody is worthy and everybody has an important role to play.
“When you give support, your receive support. God has blessed me with a bubbly personality and talents and gave me wonderful parents.
“One must learn to balance work and personal life.”
The imprint that Ms Stuart is hoping to leave on the children is just to be yourself.
“Be yourself, do not try to be somebody else. Do not live in someone else’s shadow.”
