TEACHING for more than 30 years, last month Bronwen Griffiths was inducted into the full-time position as the new Deputy Principal of Empangeni Preparatory School.
Proving that one is not born into the world to do everything, but to do something, Bronwen has made a difference to the lives of hundreds of pupils.
Graduating from the Teachers’ Training College in Pietermaritzburg, Browen took up a post in Empangeni.
‘My first teaching post was in New Hanover and then, not long after, I moved to Empangeni. I had no clue where Empangeni was. It sounded like the outback to me,’ she chuckled.
Born in Johannesburg but raised and educated in Klerksdorp, Bronwen is one of four kids.
With a doctor for a mother and a civil engineer for a father, brains and beauty were on the top of the gene list for this vivacious 59-year-old.
‘I actually, at one point, wanted to study law but I just woke up one day and knew in my being that I was destined to teach,’ she said.
‘The Grade 4 age group is my favourite. Life is so exciting for them. They just get enthused at any activity, and teaching music class to the little ones is such a thrill, they just love it!
Playing the role of Acting Deputy Principal since 2011, Bronwen was officially inaugurated and, with grace, eased into her duties.
‘It is a very big responsibility; duties include assisting the head, teaching, preparing timetables, doing parent and teacher interviews and more.
‘When people ask if I have any children, I’m like, ‘Yeah, 800,’ she laughed.
Teaching is a noble, but stressful and demanding career, so finding a release is important. I just love swimming, travelling and sewing.
‘The only thing you can control in your life is your attitude. Life is what you make of it and yes, I have my down days, but I don’t dwell on them. Rant, rave and move on,’ said Bronwen.
Taking a break from her passion, Bronwen spent a year travelling to Israel, London, America, New Zealand and even skied in Austria.
An avid swimmer and a member of the Highway Masters Swimming Club, Bronwen is a self-proclaimed water baby.
‘This year I swam my 23rd Midmar Mile. I enter swimming galas and any open water swimming activity,’
‘In March I am going to Bloemfontein for the SA Nationals. The reason why anyone joins the Masters club is for fun, fellowship and fitness. I’m going for the first two,’ she laughed.
If she is not teaching, swimming or travelling at every opportunity she gets, this dynamic woman enjoys a good meal and a glass of classic dry red wine.
