Nova Pioneer Boksburg is thrilled to announce the appointment of our new school leader, whose dedication to education spans over three decades. With a remarkable career marked by academic excellence, a love for teaching, and a strong commitment to student success, our new leader Dr Robyn Thompson is set to guide Nova Pioneer Boksburg into an exciting new chapter.
She has dedicated her life to fostering a love for learning and ensuring academic excellence. Her journey in education began at the Johannesburg College of Education, now the University of Witwatersrand School of Education, where she graduated in 1993. Since then, she has continually sought to deepen her understanding of education, completing a Bachelor of Education with Honours, followed by a Master’s in Education.
In March 2020, she achieved a significant milestone by earning a PhD from the University of Cape Town’s School of Education. Her doctoral research, titled “Teaching Intra-Active Comprehension with Picturebooks in a Grade Three South African Classroom”, explores the dynamic relationships between the classroom environment, time practices, and students’ bodily actions in shaping literacy teaching and learning. This research underscores her innovative approach to education, rooted in understanding the holistic ways children interact with their learning environment.
Throughout her extensive career, she has worked in both private and public schools, gaining invaluable experience across a wide range of educational settings. From teaching in the Foundation Phase to working with higher grade levels, she has developed a deep understanding of the diverse developmental stages and needs of students. This wide-ranging experience enriches her approach to supporting student growth at every level.
In 2020, she joined Nova Pioneer as the Associate Dean of Instruction at the Boksburg campus. In this role, she has made a profound impact on the lives of students and worked closely with educators to uphold the highest standards of teaching and learning. Her primary goal has always been to create a nurturing environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and experiences the joy of learning.
“I believe that when students feel valued and supported, they are more likely to engage deeply with their studies and to achieve their full potential,” shared Thompson. “This commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment is at the heart of her leadership philosophy.”
Her dedication extends beyond the classroom, as she is deeply committed to partnering with parents, teachers, and the broader community. She believes in setting high expectations not only for students’ academic achievements but also for their personal growth and development. By cultivating a culture of excellence and mutual respect, her aim is to empower students to become confident, capable, and compassionate individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.
One quote that resonates deeply with her is by Albert Einstein: “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” This philosophy reflects her belief that education should not only impart knowledge but also inspire creativity and a lifelong love for learning.
She is driven by a deep care for our students and a strong commitment to their success. She is eager to continue fostering an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By working together with parents, teachers, and the community, we are confident that Nova Pioneer Boksburg will continue to provide students with the tools they need to achieve their dreams and become future leaders.
We are incredibly excited to welcome such an accomplished and passionate leader. With her extensive experience, deep love for education, and unwavering commitment to student success, Nova Pioneer Boksburg is set to flourish under her leadership.
Let’s all give a warm welcome to Dr Robyn Thompson as we look forward to a bright future filled with growth, learning, and success!
