Greenside High School principal Nicola Whyte said she was grateful for the dynamic, innovative and community-based achievements that have taken place at the school during this unprecedented year.
Whyte said this year began with the usual busy start with Olympiads, robotics, cultural programmes, co-curricular programmes etc. “Sadly, as concerns around the virus grew, the country was expecting something to happen. I think it is fair to say nobody knew exactly what was coming,” said Whyte.
She extended her heartfelt thanks to staff, learners and parents at the school who have enabled the school to achieve against all odds. “Our teachers became online learning professionals as soon as they saw the need. The mix of strengths of our staff meant we were able to cater to all learners,” said Whyte, adding that she is proud to see the way in which learners worked alongside teachers.
She said the biggest priority has been to guarantee the success of the matric Class of 2020. “As soon as schools could open again, the matric learners were back in full force, and committed to their future success. One of the saddest parts of this year is that our Grade 12s didn’t have any of the traditional events and awards ceremonies they so deserve.”
Whyte said an undeniable benefit of this period is that it has given the school and the entire country new, exciting and impactful ways of teaching learners that will transcend the pandemic and be implemented going forward.
Whyte wished the entire Greenside family and community a safe and joy-filled holiday and festive season.
“The teachers and learners have been blessed with an extended holiday. This will no doubt be essential as 2021 will be a year of rebuilding the spirit of the school that is needed now more than ever.
“The amazing talent of our learners was paused but we hope that the opportunities to experience a full and balanced school life will present themselves in the course of 2021.”
