After nearly four decades of dedicated service, Our Lady of Fatima Dominican Convent School celebrated the farewell of its iconic Principal, Deirdre Horsfall, who is set to retire at the end of the year. A farewell ceremony was recently held to honour her contributions, including 11 years as principal.
Horsfall shared that she grew up on a farm and attended Ixopo School before obtaining her tertiary degree at Stellenbosch University. Her journey with the school began in 1985 on a part-time basis. She took a five-year break to teach at Inanda Seminary School but spent the bulk of her career at Fatima.
Reflecting on her inspiration to pursue a career in education, Horsfall said, “I had excellent teachers in my high school years who went way beyond teaching in the classroom. I wanted to do that and in fact copied many of their ideas, like overnight hikes in the mountains to appreciate the outdoors. I am passionate about helping people realise their potential, step out of comfort zones and flourish. I trust that they will. I believe that spiritual, emotional, physical and mental health are equally important. I wanted to give young people opportunities to stretch, ‘grow taller’ and blossom in all these areas.”
Horsfall expressed that she would miss connecting with staff, the school’s special ethos, and teaching and coaching young people. She encouraged the staff and learners to continue learning, pursuing truth, and exploring new ideas while staying rooted in the school’s foundational values.
Horsfall’s highlights at Fatima included navigating the growth of the high school, establishing a new foundation phase facility, and successfully handling the Covid-19 pandemic.
Head of Primary School, Samantha Beetge, paid tribute to Horsfall, affectionately known as Dee. “As a colleague and leader, she could be counted on for collaboration, support, and decisiveness. She came to be trusted as a confidante, a sounding board, someone to offer a fresh perspective or as the voice of reason when navigating challenges. Beyond work, she has shared countless laughs and sports discussions and above all, many friendships.”
