The Teacher’s Creed

I am a member of the SGB of an amazing primary school in Grahamstown. It is blessed with an amazing head mistress and a very supportive staff.

I am also guardian of my grandchild who was accepted by a school two weeks after reopening in January 2014.

Knowing the procedures that are strictly adhered to regarding new admissions; I would not have been surprised if my child had not been accepted. But I was so desperate and nothing but humility, I think touched this lady’s heart. No matter how high and mighty you might be, arrogance is never the answer.

The head mistress promised to speak with the Grade 1 teacher and said she would phone me if I was successful, which she did two days thereafter.

I literally broke down with relief and amazement at her caring, loving and motherly nature.

I appeal to the community out there, to respect and honour our teachers who stand in for us. A school is our children’s second home, with the principal at the head.

Teachers’ Creed: This I believe

That when I chose to teach, I chose to serve. That every child is entitled to the best I have to give. Regardless of personality, mentality of situation. That my discipline should be firm, consistent and constructive:

This I should remember

Kindness, consideration and trust are not a sign of weakness in a teacher. That chil- dren are hurt by the same things that hurt us, sarcasm and ridicule. That I should exact a higher standard of conduct in matters of punctuality, responsibility and self-control.

This I myself possess

I have limitless opportunities to touch lives for good and treat every child as if were mine.