Valhalla High palie Diego Adams makes his mark

Valhalla High School, in Elsies River, is experiencing a noticeable shift, one marked by improved learner morale, stronger attendance and a renewed sense of pride echoing through its corridors.

At the heart of this transformation is the newly-appointed principal Diego Adams, 31, whose leadership style blends firm discipline, empathy and a refreshingly human touch.

When Adams first stepped into leadership as the acting principal in 2025, he quickly realised that passion alone would not be enough.

Many will recall him from his hilarious yet deeply personal TikTok clips that have circulated widely on social media including a few memorable moments of him skipping rope and exercising on school grounds, reminding learners that movement and wellness matter too.

Behind the humour, however, Adams admits the early days were challenging.

“I tried building my management portfolio harder and faster than anticipated,” Adams said.

“I took on every task I could and didn’t delegate because I never wanted to burden my colleagues.”

Despite appearing confident, self-doubt followed closely.

“One of my biggest internal struggles was comparing myself with others. I doubted my work and my ability to lead and only believed in myself when I saw positive results,” he explained.

Those reflections reshaped his approach. Alongside former principals Mr Lesch and Mrs Wareley, Adams strengthened the implementation of the school’s Code of Conduct, ensuring that structure, consistency and accountability were clearly understood.

“Learners appreciate structure and order, even if we don’t always believe it,” Adams said. “That’s exactly what we strived for.”

An open-door policy soon became central to the school’s culture, allowing learners to speak freely about academic, emotional and personal challenges. In late 2025, the school introduced an anonymous bullying reporting line, reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance.

“Learners were reminded that it’s not okay to suffer in silence,” Adams said.

“Bullying is not only a violation of someone’s rights, but a criminal act.”

Adams’ visibility around the school during breaks, between periods and before and after school has further strengthened relationships. “I want learners to know I’m not just stuck in an office doing admin,” he said. “Creating a safe space that promotes excellence while allowing learners to have fun is extremely important.”

His accidental rise on social media has helped break down traditional barriers between leadership and learners. “Once I realised it was breaking barriers, I capitalised on it,” Adams said. “It allows learners to see educators and leadership as human beings before titles.”

Equally intentional has been Adams’ openness about his sexuality, a decision he describes as rooted in integrity and authenticity.

“Leadership requires honesty and vulnerability,” he said. “I want my learners to know that you do not need to hide parts of yourself to belong, to lead or to succeed.”

He believes this visibility has strengthened inclusivity, tolerance and emotional safety within the school community.

Adams’ open-door leadership is literal. “I only close my office door when I’m in a meeting or when I leave for home,” he said, adding that learners often stop by to share concerns, crack jokes or simply check in.

Educators echo this sentiment. Colleagues described Adams as accessible, transparent and supportive. One educator said his return brought a sense of relief to discipline management, while another described him as a role model who supports staff while holding them accountable.

Learners have also been vocal.

“The most common thing I hear from learners and parents is: ‘There is order, discipline and structure again,’” Adams said.

The Western Cape Education Department has also noted progress. WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said there have been improvements since 2023, including a 15% increase in NSC results in 2024.

“The current principal was appointed as Acting Principal on 1 October 2025,” Hammond noted. “As per departmental practice, leadership and performance are monitored through circuit-level support, school visits, engagement with the SMT and observation of the overall functioning of the school.”

Despite his approachable nature, Adams remains firm on discipline. “I attended this school. I grew up in Elsies River. I know the struggles of our people,” he said. “I cannot accept mediocre dreams and goals. Our learners are capable of achieving the best.”

That belief is deeply rooted in his upbringing on the Cape Flats, where exposure to poverty, violence and limited opportunities shaped his purpose.

“I was once these kids,” Adams said. “I walked these passages. I sat in these classrooms.”

Though teaching was never part of his original plan, Adams now sees it as his calling. “Once I started this journey, I realised this was no longer about me,” he said.

As Valhalla High School continues its upward trajectory, Adams remains clear that success is collective. “A chain is only as strong as its weakest link,” he said.

At  time of writing this story, Adams announced he was permanently appointed as the principal of Valhalla High*

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Weekend Argus