Wally Borchard is a man who has watched generations pass through the corridors, guiding and inspiring each one along the way. With decades of experience as a teacher and principal, he has shaped more than just minds—he’s helped shape character and the very heartbeat of the school.
For him “Back to School” isn’t a date on the calendar — it’s a pulse that’s carried him through decades of leadership at CBC, ever since he first walked through its doors in January 1985. He’s entered many first days, yet each one still fires him up. Driven by self-discipline, grounded in respect, and fuelled by a desire to leave a positive mark, Wally steps into every new year determined to shape character as much as curriculum. His story is one of steady purpose, strong values, and a passion for making every return count.
What drew him to teaching in the first place was simple: the chance to help, to mould, to uplift, and to step in where he was needed most. Becoming principal? Never part of the plan. Even in 1998, when the role was offered, he accepted with just one condition: ‘I continue to teach Grade 10, 11 and 12 Geography.’ Because at his core, Wally is a teacher, one who leads from the front of the classroom, not the corner office.
What keeps Wally coming back? he really loves what he’s doing. Every day at CBC is for the students. He isn’t here for the title or the prestige; he’s here for the kids — to guide them, challenge them, and help them grow, even the problematic ones. “I’ve always had a knack for problem teenagers,” he says with a grin. “Mainly because I was so vrek stout at school myself, so I could relate to them.”
He even jokes that his years in the police force couldn’t prepare him for teaching: “I’ve spent time in the force, but nothing quite readied me for the classroom.” For Wally, the classroom is its own wild terrain — and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
When Wally isn’t wearing his principal’s hat, he’s all about family, adding to his massive LEGO collection, spending time with his grandson, and enjoying the simple things. He’s also a motorbike enthusiast, and when he’s not out on the road, he’s glued to sport on TV. As he laughs, he doesn’t watch much else: the last time he saw a movie? That was during lockdown.
When asked about balancing family life with the demands of being a principal, he sighs before admitting that school has often taken precedence, sometimes at the expense of his family. Still, he believes that anything worth doing must be pursued with passion and heart. ‘So, my wife will say, if you start a hobby, then you always go overboard, don’t you? But I’d rather be a person with passion,’ he says with a wry smile. ‘I think throughout my whole life, my passion has driven me—and sometimes, it even gets me into trouble.’ It’s a trait he owns proudly, often reminding those around him that if you’re not making waves, you’re wasting your time.
Wally believes that education is the pathway to real growth, and each new year he looks forward to the fresh personalities who walk through the school gates. His hope is that CBC becomes a place where both students and staff feel comfortable enough to be fully themselves.
Text: SAZLY MOSES Photographs: GYPSEEENIA LION
