As the final term of the year starts, Curro Holdings is pleased to announce the appointment of Zunelle de Ru as Executive Head of The King’s School Linbro Park. De Ru joined the Curro family over two years ago, having previously held the position of Head of High School at one of Curro’s schools in the Lowveld before taking up her current role at Linbro Park.
Since the beginning of October, The King’s School Linbro Park has welcomed an Executive Head who brings both passion and purpose to educational leadership. Originally from the Free State, De Ru believes everything happens for a reason – a philosophy that has guided her remarkable career journey.
“I am excited about this new season for The King’s School Linbro Park under Zunelle de Ru’s leadership. Terry Currin led the school with distinction through the years prior to and after Curro’s acquisition, until his retirement. De Ru will build on this strong foundation, bringing a unique focus on staff development and learner well-being. Supported by a passionate team, she is poised to lead the school to new heights in every area,” says Jopie Maasdam, Business Manager, Curro Schools.
With 26 years of experience in education, De Ru’s extensive background, qualifications, and unwavering work ethic position her ideally to provide quality education to the school community. She holds a Bachelor of Education (BEd) Honours degree in Educational Management and Leadership and recently completed her master’s degree in philosophy (Education and Culture) from St Augustine College of South Africa. Her Master’s research focused on Servant Leadership, a philosophy she embodies daily in her leadership approach.
When asked what excites her most about the role, De Ru identifies three core priorities: building relationships and community, driving academic and holistic excellence, and shaping the future of the school.
Her vision centres on creating an institution where education and ethos form the foundation, supported by a holistic and balanced educational offering and strong co-curricular programmes.
De Ru’s path to educational leadership shows determination and passion. She reflects, “I had some role models in my life that planted the seed of education, empowerment, and growth in my heart. At first, I pursued other careers but was always pulled back to the classroom.”
Despite advice that teaching might not be a fulfilling career, De Ru could not suppress her passion for education. “I finally decided that I have to follow my passion and dreams – for myself,” she shares. In an inspiring demonstration of commitment to lifelong learning, she commenced her PGCE at the age of 40 and completed her master’s degree at 54.
Her message to others considering a career in education resonates with conviction: “Follow your heart. The youth in our country need strong role models and excellent education that can open doors for them in the future. Keep believing in a brighter future for the learners we serve.”
De Ru is a proud mother of three daughters, whom she describes as her pride and joy. Outside of work, she enjoys the outdoors and finds that long walks help her clear her mind and maintain perspective. “I strive daily to be a leader who serves the people I work with,” she states, reflecting the servant leadership model that underpins her approach to school management.
De Ru brings a distinctive combination of qualities that align seamlessly with Curro’s values: creative thinking, visionary leadership, purpose-driven focus, devotion in faith, and a genuine love for children. Her approach celebrates each child as a unique individual with unlimited potential. “It is my hope and vision to make The King’s School Linbro Park a school in which each child is celebrated as the unique gift that they are,” De Ru concludes.
