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Changes to the leadership structure of Wynberg - Applications are in

As those at the school are all well aware, Wynberg is in the process of implementing a number of changes. In part it is a way of giving due recognition to and harnessing the leadership of our Wynberg girls, but it is also a way of enabling Wynberg to remain a caring community. As the size of the school increases, so it becomes easier to remain anonymous: the vertical system which will come into effect in 2004, and which is beginning to happen now will make this more difficult. The vertical system involves restructuring the school into eight houses - Apsley, Wellington, Wellesley, Copenhagen, Silverlea, Kirsten, Constantia and Cavanagh and working to promote the four existing pillars around which the school organises itself: academic, sport, service and cultural activities. Further than this there is the RCL - which because of the representative nature of the body - which is voted into position by the pupil body only. Each of these positions offer significant areas of responsibility and they together make up our school council.

Unlike they did in the past, where the Head and Deputy Head Girls were voted for by the school, girls now apply for the position of Head of School, and deliver speeches to the school, who will vote for whom they think fits the position best. Today saw the first of these speeches, and the significant changes that are will take effect for the year 2004.

The day, Founder's Day in fact, began with a few introductory words from our principal, Mrs. Harding, "For me this is an important and exciting day". She went on to mention the several tasks Head of School, and the two deputy head of schools, will have once they have been elected/appointed, and outlined just a few of the significant qualities they should possess as leaders: "articulate, well-presented... good ambassadors for Wynberg". While Mrs. Harding spoke, I wondered whether the eleven girls applying for the position who sat anxiously behind her, were considering withdrawing their applications. Indeed the task before them is enormous.

As they stood up to tell the school why they would like to be considered for the position they spoke about opportunities, challenges, as well as leadership and teamwork. The kind of humour and courage that is required for a position such as this was demonstrated when one of the first speakers, Rebecca Blundell, told us how someone had poked the eyes out of her photo attatched to her manifesto. Articulately, humbly she talked of her commitment to the school and at the end said: "The photo on my manifesto may be missing eyes, but I still have a vision." Indeed it was clear that each of them did, and it was a humbling experience to witness our peers who were willing to put themselves on the line for us.

So who were the candidates and what were some of the things they hoped for? Lindy Anderson, a name familiar to most, was among the eleven candidates today, "in our brown and gold". After quoting Ghandi's wise words, "You must be the change that you wish to see", Lindy's passion for life is evident. How she has bounced back as strong as ever, embracing each opportunity and inspiring others along the way, is indeed remarkable.Thozama Njobe spoke about her aim to empower the women of our school, to "eradicate the boundaries!". Ironically, she received an impromptu question about girls only school, "They empower us as they allow us to be ourselves and lead each other," she stated confidently. She ended off her speech stating to the school that she is "what driven and motivated are all about". There was a consensus that we, the students, are Wynberg's main asset, and what will help "market our school". Indeed, being a new system, it is likely to have a few faults, but, I believe candidate, Jade Hunter, said it best, "I am merely human. I'm not an answer to the problem, rather the start to the solution...We'll do it together!" Other candidates included Abbey Smith, Lauren Losper, Ondiene Corewjin, Thozama Njobe, Jade Hunter, Andrea Meyer, Kate Jennings and Jenny Williamson, all of whom represented the true leaders Wynberg turns out year after year. A school built on traditions, but with a modern approach.

The girls each received a huge applause as they ran back to their seats, after completing one of the greatest achievements of their school career. We will now wait in anticipation for the results. Mrs. Harding concluded the occasion with words which were clearly heartfelt: "On a day like this, it's very easy to be a proud prinicipal." While we are not all principals, we certainly were extremely proud to be part of this school.

Tamlin Wightman

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This page was last updated on 21 December 2003 07:10