New principal aims to drive change at Oranjekloof Moravian Primary

Oranjekloof Moravian Primary School (OMPS) has welcomed a new principal, Ryan Crouse, who officially took up the post with a focus on academic improvement and community involvement.

Originally from Factreton and raised in Tafelsig, Mitchell’s Plain, Mr Crouse brings years of experience in education and leadership, having previously served as deputy principal at Lantana Primary and worked with community and teacher organisations.

His father, a former shebeen owner, became determined to steer his eight children away from the clutches of gangsterism and crime, choosing instead to embrace a life of sport and education, he said.

“My father’s love for sport saved my life,” Mr Crouse said, adding that this choice was fundamental in shaping his path.

Mr Crouse said he was encouraged by inspiring physical education teachers at Aloe Primary and Tafelsig Secondary, before pursuing a BA in Human Movement Studies at the University of the Western Cape (UWC). 

His journey initially took him through several schools, but it was at Eisleben Road Primary that his passion truly blossomed. There, he began expressing his commitment to sports development and guiding children towards positive life choices.

Eventually, in 2017, he was appointed as deputy principal at Lantana Primary School, gaining experience that would serve him in his subsequent leadership roles.

He was also involved in the teachers’ union, NAPTOSA, and community initiatives like the Unchain the Plain Foundation, culminating into his recent appointment as principal of OMPS.

"I didn't choose Oranjekloof Moravian, God did. When I was 40, I told my priest that my desire was to be a principal by 45. He told me that God will grant my wish, but if it doesn’t materialise at that time, that I have to be patient and the right appointment will come," Mr Crouse said.

"That time is now."

Mr Crouse said he sees his position as a beacon of hope and excellence for the children of Hout Bay, believing that educational success must encompass both academics and co-curricular activities.

According to Mr Crouse, Hout Bay, with its "stark economic divides" presents a number of challenges for both its communities and the schools serving them.

Despite these hurdles, Mr Crouse said he was inspired by the multitude of non-profit organisations that actively contribute to schools and the community, easing some of the difficulties faced.

"My immediate focus lies in enhancing OMPS’s physical infrastructure to create a safe and effective teaching environment, alongside developing the school's management team and support structures for improved curriculum delivery," he said.

“Creating improved outcomes is not just a personal goal; it’s a collective mission. The motivation for our children is powerful, and we must channel that passion positively.”

He said he aims to foster a “pocket of excellence” within the institution, building on the rich history of OMPS, which has proudly served the Hout Bay community for over 70 years.

He also acknowledged the necessity of community involvement in achieving the school's objectives. “My vision is for OMPS to continually strive to improve our service delivery. Only through partnerships can we truly allow the sun to rise,” he states, encouraging local residents and organisations to collaborate for a brighter future for the next generation," Mr Crouse said.