A guiding hand, a measured disciplinarian or a quiet motivator are just a few of the multitude of roles adopted by a school principal. Fulfilling these roles for the past 23 years and counting is Ridgevale Primary School’s pillar of strength, Mr TJ Jordaan.
The adored principal celebrated his 60th birthday on Monday, 16 March, with a heroes parade of banners and balloons. Devoted staff assembled the school on the upper sports field and waited patiently for their humble leader. Escorted by his deputy, Nirvana Girhawa, they made their way to the field to be met with a guard of honour made up of prefects, balloons and signs.
Mr Jordaan gave his thanks to the school, who had encircled him in the shape of a heart, before each class would present him with a personalised birthday card. “A big thank you to those who organised this and to all of you who make Ridgevale such an amazing school. You have made my day very special, and I cannot thank you enough,” said the emotional principal.
The show was not over though as sirens blared and engines roared for Mr Jordaan’s special surprise. John Shawe, Divan Snyman and Clive Sutherland of DMS Security supplied the sirens and lights while Bees Fourie and David Kolm from Bikers Against Bullies brought their steel chariots to treat the man of the day to a few laps of the quiet suburb.
After his leather-clad joyride, Mr Jordaan returned to school for a buffet of snacks with staff and guests. Mrs Girhawa showered him with praise, saying, “On behalf of staff and learners we thank you for being such an awesome boss. You are always so approachable and you fill us with confidence.”
There were not enough kind words to describe the admiration felt by staff as they wished their Principal many more birthdays to come.
