GEORGE NEWS - Carlene Swartz, manager of the George Community Learning Centre (CLC), an adult basic education and training centre, is retiring after serving in education for 45 years, of which the past 21 were at the CLC.

Together with an enthusiastic team of teachers, Swartz has been able to make a huge impact in the community, not only teaching illiterate adults to read, but also giving learners who fall out of the school system a chance at earning a qualification with the potential of providing better work opportunities. 

The centre's core aim is to take in learners of 16 years and older to help them achieve Grade 9, the minimum education level needed to be enrolled at a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college. Some 500 people are currently enrolled at the CLC.

Swartz was born into a family involved in and passionate about education, so it was no surprise that she chose a career in this field. "The fact that I could fulfil a dream of my father to have his children involved in adult education has always been a great inspiration to me during my time at the centre." 

Under her watch, the centre has been moving into skills development and it currently offers early childhood development level 1 and computer literacy level 1 along with entrepreneurship training. 

The centre's registration with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) is being processed and very soon it will be offering an extended range of skills training programmes. Training is free.

After completing her studies at Dower Training College in Gqeberha in 1979, Swartz began her teaching career at the Irene Primary School in Centurion where her father served as principal. 

She moved to Pacaltsdorp in 1981 where she worked at Heidedal Primary and later at St Mary's Primary, where she spent 18 years before being appointed as manager of the CLC in 2003.

"It has always made me proud to be involved in adult education. One of the highlights of my time at the centre has been the rehabilitation of drug-addicted students whose lives have been influenced for the better and who have become positive and valuable members of society. 

"What also gave me huge satisfaction was the many students we assisted who achieved their matric certificate.

"The awards ceremonies at the end of each year were always a highlight as they are a demonstration of the work we do and our impact on the community."

But it was not all smooth sailing. "The greatest challenge is the opposing aspects to education which are embedded in our communities. Drug addiction, gangsterism and overall poor discipline pose a challenge to the success of the student and that of the centre," says Swartz.

But in her striving for excellence, she was stern and firm. She says this approach was appreciated by her colleagues. "It strengthened our relationship and instilled a mutual respect. Respect truly goes a long way."

Swartz oversaw nine lecturers and two support staff members. She thanked her family for their support and various role players whose input and advice have contributed to the success of the centre. 

"I thank the principal of the Western Cape Education and Training College, Mr Phumezo Zita, his deputies and the staff at central office, for the mutual respect and the ability to speak frankly at times. To my colleagues and the centre managers of the Western Cape thank you for the opportunity to work alongside you, as we strive to improve and build this sector."

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