Charné Kemp talked with Micheal Ludick, headmaster of the Kimberley Technical High School (KTHS).
What is the core mission of the school, and how is it implemented?
The KTHS aims to provide holistic education, balancing academics with technical skills, leadership, and cultural enrichment.
As the only technical-focused school in the Northern Cape, we prioritise hands-on learning through the Department of Basic Education’s Three-Stream Model, ensuring learners are placed in pathways suited to their abilities and career goals.
Our curriculum integrates core academics with technical subjects like Mechanical and Electrical Technology, fostering real-world applications.
What new projects were launched since your appointment?
Transformative projects were launched to position the KTHS as a leader in technical education, academic excellence, and holistic learner development. Our involvement in the Department of Water and Sanitation’s (DWS) programmes has led to more than eight learners receiving full university bursaries, fostering innovation and environmental responsibility.
Participation in national debating and public speaking competitions were enhanced, helping learners engage with social justice issues while developing critical thinking and public discourse skills.
Involvement in Maths and Science Olympiads, the National AstroQuiz, and international learning programmes were increased.
Rugby was reintroduced, and hockey, netball, athletics, and soccer helps to promote discipline and teamwork.
Curriculum transformation has been a major focus. Some subjects were phased out, with learners now starting with Mechanical Technology, Civil Technology, Electrical Technology, and Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD) from Gr.8. This ensures learners gain practical skills from the outset.
We are introducing new streams in Construction, Electronics, Coding and Robotics, and Computer Applications Technology (CAT) to enhance digital literacy.
What are the biggest challenges at the school?
The misconception that we have shifted away from technical education. We have strengthened and modernised our technical focus, maintaining fully functional workshops that produce learners with top-quality practical skills.
Another misconception is that we only prepare learners for artisan careers. While we take pride in training skilled artisans, our curriculum also equips learners for professional careers in engineering, science, medicine, law, and commerce by combining Mathematics and Physical Sciences with technical subjects.
Some believe our curriculum is less demanding, but the opposite is true. We set high academic standards, requiring learners to take Mathematics or Technical Mathematics, along with Physical or Technical Sciences. This ensures strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
How is inclusivity and equal opportunities handled?
All learners receive support and empowerment. Once a boys-only institution, we are now proudly co-educational with a near 50/50 gender ratio.
Recognising linguistic diversity, we plan to reintroduce Afrikaans Home Language in 2026, making education more accessible and culturally responsive.
Our learners participate in leadership and civic engagement initiatives, such as My Voice SA and ENKE Trailblazers, fostering ethical leadership and social justice awareness.
Learners excel in academic and advocacy competitions, ranking among the province’s top Moot Court schools, with learners presenting arguments at the Constitutional Court. Beyond academics, we provide mentorship, learner support, and anti-bullying initiatives to create a safe and nurturing environment.
What are some recent achievements or successes?
The KTHS has grown into a powerhouse of academic, technical, cultural, and sporting excellence. At the heart of our success are our outstanding educators – four national teaching awards finalists and Viki Mpompolas, recognised as South Africa’s best secondary school educator and honoured by the African Union.
In 2024, we achieved top academic rankings, including the Northern Cape’s Best EGD School, second place in Technical Sciences and Technical Maths, and the top technical school for Gr.10 to Gr.12 in the Frances Baard District. Our matriculant, Kutlo Motlhoioa, made history as the province’s top student and secured first place in Mathematics and Electrical Technology.
We won the Heritage Education Schools Outreach Programme and placed second in Moot Court.
Learners were placed second in the South African Youth Water Prize for two consecutive years, earning full university bursaries for over eight learners.
Our learners continue to shine in national AstroQuiz, Olympiads, and youth development platforms.
How is mental health and well-being prioritised?
Mental health is a key component of academic success and overall well-being. Our School-Based Support Team (SBST) works with educators, social workers, and counsellors to assist learners facing emotional, behavioural, or academic challenges. We partner with the Department of Social Development and wellness organisations to run workshops on bullying, substance abuse, gender-based violence, and stress management.
How is innovation incorporated?
The KTHS prioritises technology and innovation, equipping learners with digital and technical skills for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Our state-of-the-art Cyberlab focuses on agriculture, mining, renewable energy, and astronomy, providing hands-on, project-based learning in coding, simulations, and data analysis.
Technology is integrated into every subject, with interactive teaching tools like data projectors and document cameras enhancing learning. Educators use digital resources to engage students, extending beyond traditional subjects – for example, analysing satellite imagery in science classes.
How is safety and security ensured on campus?
Through a multi-layered security approach. The campus is protected by 24/7 security services, with uniformed guards monitoring access points daily. CCTV cameras in classrooms and across the premises provide real-time surveillance, enhancing discipline and incident response.
A dedicated disciplinary head enforces the school’s code of conduct and manages behavioural interventions, fostering respect and accountability. These measures create a secure, structured environment where learners can focus on their education without fear or disruption.
How are learners prepared for future challenges, whether in high education, workforce, or society at large?
KTHS prepares learners for higher education, careers, and active citizenship through a holistic, future-focused approach. Our technical subjects provide hands-on learning aligned with industry demands, while enrichment programmes at the Sol Plaatje University enhance academic excellence and leadership skills.
To strengthen career readiness, we are introducing regular guidance sessions and annual career fairs, connecting learners with universities and industry professionals. Career counselling is integrated into life orientation to support learners in mapping their futures.
Through rigorous academics, technical training, leadership development, and career preparation, we ensure every learner is ready to thrive in university, the workforce, and beyond.
What qualities do you value most in teaching staff, and how is professional growth supported?
KTHS holds its educators to high standards of excellence, valuing subject expertise, technological integration, leadership, and mentorship. Our teachers are not just instructors but role models, with many achieving national recognition, including four national teaching awards finalists and an African Union-honoured winner.
To support professional growth, we collaborate with the Sol Plaatje University and the Northern Cape Department of Education on workshops, ICT training, and leadership development. Teachers also engage in national conferences and innovation platforms to stay ahead in education.
Within the school, we foster collaboration through peer mentoring, co-teaching, and reflective lesson planning. Educators receive constructive feedback, lead projects, and mentor student leaders, ensuring continued teaching excellence and a dynamic learning environment.
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