BELOVED Voorpos Primary School teacher, Electa Schmidlin, has retired after 23 wonderful years at the school.
Starting out as a Sub A (Grade 1) teacher in April 1994, she taught various Foundation Phase subjects, including a music class for Grade 3. She then took over the Grade 4 library class and Grade 7 Economic and Management Sciences.
Schmidlin has always believed that being a teacher is a calling.“It sounds like a cliché, but I really wanted to help make a difference in children’s lives and to prepare them for their future.”
The many friendships made, sorrows and the love and companionship shared between colleagues, pupils and parents alike are treasured memories for her.
“Although it was at times quite difficult for both of us, it was such a privilege to be able to teach my own daughter to read and write during her Grade 1 year.“
Other wonderful moments have been when matriculants, after completing their final exams, have come back to thank me for starting them on the path to success.
”Following in her mother’s footsteps, her daughter has returned to Voorpos, years later, to gain teaching experience while studying for her B Ed degree.
The retired teacher is looking forward to spending her free time sightseeing, camping and exploring South Africa.
“I would sincerely love to thank the whole Voorpos family for 23 years and nine months of happiness, and of knowing that I have a support structure in this family.”
