Pearson principal accepts Cape post
AFTER 21 years of loyal service to Pearson High School, principal Andre van Staden has decided to accept a post as rector of Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch.
Van Staden, who will take up his new post on May 1, said: “My decision to accept this post has come after much thought and agonising, and my belief is that it is time for a new challenge in a different milieu and under different circumstances.”
Deputy principal Hela Roux will act as principal until a new head is appointed.
“My senior team functions at a very high level as portfolio directors of specific areas of the day-to-day running of the school,” Van Staden said.
“They have all been part of discussions concerning the future development and vision of Pearson.”
Starting as one of the smallest schools in Port Elizabeth in 1956, the school is now one of the city’s largest.
In a press release, the school said it wished Van Staden all the best for the future.
“Pearsonites will always be indebted to Mr Van Staden for leading Pearson High School to the excellent and proud school that it is today,” it said.
School governing body chairman Paul Louw said: “The offer to our principal has not come as a shock to us, as we have anticipated such an offer for a top achiever, and a succession plan had been in place for some time.
“There is no doubt that Mr Van Staden's enthusiasm, commitment and vision has been paramount in the phenomenal growth and development of Pearson and its superb facilities.
“He has personally taken our school, with his team, from one of the best in Port Elizabeth to arguably among the three best schools in the city, by any set of criteria – some may even say the best.
“The platform he has developed of academic, sport, culture and our spiritual base has set the school in a position to grow from strength to strength.”