After 40 years of dedicated service, Dhanasagren Moodley, Deputy Principal of Woolhope Secondary School, is retiring today, April 30. Having spent nearly his entire life connected to the school, Moodley has become an integral part of its history, growth, and heart.
“I first walked through the gates of Woolhope Indian High School in 1971 as a learner in Standard 2,” recalled Moodley. “I was among the learners who planted the grass and built the school rockeries. Both learners and teachers were unified by a shared vision for what this educational institution could become.”
In 1986, Moodley returned to Woolhope as a teacher, igniting a career filled with educational and extracurricular accomplishments. “I started teaching Physical Education and Industrial Arts. Back then, our Inter-House Sports and cross-country races were a yearly highlight. Each house competed fiercely for the top spot.” He added, “I was the housemaster of Falcon House and later became Sports Master, organising events and officiating at interschool athletics.”
During his teaching career, Moodley taught various subjects, including Woodwork, Technical Drawing, Engineering Graphics, Design and Technology, and later, Computer Application Technology (CAT). The transition to teaching CAT in 2005 was a turning point, where he played a significant role in advancing digital literacy, serving as a subject committee member, senior marker, cluster leader, and departmental liaison for CAT. “Adapting to changes in the curriculum meant going the extra mile to retrain and equip myself with new methods and materials,” he noted. “Implementing new strategies in an ever-changing educational environment was a challenge, but also an opportunity for growth.”
Moodley also held numerous leadership roles beyond the classroom, such as acting Head of Department for Technical Skills, Prefect Master, school rugby team manager, and Vice-Chairman of the Northern Areas High School Rugby Association. Despite his many achievements, he humbly remarked, “My one wish was to make a positive impact in at least one learner’s life.”
When asked what inspired him to choose teaching, he reflected on his church interactions with young people. “I saw education – especially teaching – as a way to enable people not only to become self-sufficient but also to help others in need,” said Moodley.
One of the most rewarding aspects of his career has been witnessing his students’ growth. “Meeting learners after they’ve matriculated and hearing about their achievements is incredibly fulfilling,” he shared. “When a former learner comes up to you and says, ‘Thank you for the impact you had on my life,’ it makes everything worthwhile.”
Reflecting on the evolution of education, Moodley said, “Teaching has become more personalised, inclusive and dynamic. Technology has left its mark, and assessments have shifted towards performance-based evaluations and portfolios. Teachers now facilitate learning, encouraging learners to be more interactive.”
As he bids farewell to Woolhope Secondary, Moodley shared his hopes for the school’s future: “Woolhope has a solid foundation in the communities it serves, backed by a committed staff. I hope the school continues to grow and thrive.”
When asked about his retirement plans, Moodley explained, “I’ll take some time to refresh and re-energise before embarking on the next chapter of my life. I intend to remain involved in the field of education.” Yet, he admits he will miss the energy of student life. “After all these years, I’ll miss the buzz, childish energy, and laughter of my learners and my school family.”
To aspiring teachers, he offered invaluable advice, “Teaching can be challenging, but knowing why you chose this path keeps you grounded. Get involved in various aspects of school life – it helps you develop new skills and allows learners to see you in different roles. The best teachers are lifelong students.”
In conclusion, the principal of the school, Allen Naidoo, said, “As a senior manager, he showed great concern for learners and the staff alike. I found Mr Moodley to be a very trustworthy, loyal and committed DP who always put the interests of Woolhope SS before his own. On behalf of the SGB, staff and learners, I would like to wish Mr Moodley all the best for the start of the next chapter in his life.”
