[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=\”8259\” img_size=\”medium\” alignment=\”center\” style=\”vc_box_border_circle\” image_hovers=\”false\”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Dear Parents, Guardians and Staff   It feels like not too long ago that I was writing my Welcome to 2020 speech. And here I am already, preparing an End of Year notice. Time really humbles you. Time humbles you in a way you will never expect and won’t think you need and you don’t see it coming. It is the one thing that we take for granted. Yet, it is the one thing we need the most, to get where we want to be. But mostly Time teaches us to see, to see what matters and what doesn’t. Have we made full use of our time this year? That is for each of us to decide. If you have not, then do better next year. I am grateful that we were able to provide our learners with a 2021 curriculum, as normal as we could. The year has not been without its challenges, but it’s these challenges and obstacles that stare us in the face, and once we have kicked them out of the ball park, the victory is so, so sweet. Our learners and staff have been true warriors, tackling every hurdle, picking their battles wisely, knowing that no matter how tough things may feel, there is always something good waiting around the corner. Congratulations to our learners who have achieved academic success. For those who have not reached their goals, do not despair, just do better! Every student has the ability to learn, just not on the same day or in the same way. Persevere! We said farewell to five teachers and even though teachers can be replaced, I’ve realized that the value, the experiences, the emotions and the memories that we have of each of them are irreplaceable. They have left their mark at Normies and we will miss them dearly. I wish them well as they each begin a new chapter in their lives. Our matric 2021 results will be released on 21 January 2022. I look forward to celebrating this day with them. Learners return to school on Wednesday 19 January 2022. I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the staff, parents and the greater Normies community for their continuous support during another challenging year. While it may seem that 2021 should’ve seen us more prepared than 2020, it wasn’t without immense pressure to perform and to adjust to the “new normal.” We have experienced the loss of life due to Covid-related illness. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends and school communities who have been harshly affected by the pandemic. I, therefore, ask you to take every precaution to keep you and your family as safe and healthy as possible during these holidays. Every positive thought propels you in the right direction. Let us remain positive and hopeful that 2022 will be the best year yet.   Stay safe and enjoy the holidays [/vc_column_text][vc_separator style=\”shadow\” border_width=\”10\”][vc_separator style=\”shadow\” border_width=\”10\”][/vc_column][/vc_row]