WRITTEN BY LEBO MJANGAZE
The sun has set for Beaconhurst High School founding principal Johannes Coetzer who passed away at the age of 90 on August 31.
Coetzer played a pivotal role in shaping Beaconhurst into the wonderful school it is today.
He was officially appointed as the first principal after the school was founded in 1959, putting him in charge of ensuring the foundation was laid administratively for the school’s survival.
At the time a fledgling school, the onus fell on him to ensure Beaconhurst, like every other school, had its own uniform, school badge, code of conduct, and school song.
Beaconhurst school described him as an innovator, and credited the school’s success to his dedication, passion and unwavering commitment to education. The school said Coetzer was a pioneer in outdoor education, promoting its benefits among many educators from other institutions and organising numerous outings for Beaconhurst pupils, with the annual trip to Hobbiton on Hogsback being a highlight that he treasured.
His love for cooking would see braaing the perfect steaks for the teachers.
Those who worked with him described him as someone with a big heart, who was full of initiative and believed in family values.
In a statement marking his passing, the school said: “Embracing new ideas was another hallmark of Mr Coetzer’s leadership.
“He introduced initiatives such as drum majorettes, school concerts, and various exhibitions that brought Beaconhurst families together.
“An annual dinner for parents and staff became a cherished tradition in our lovely school hall, where he often took on the role of chef for the evening.
“Mr Coetzer was known for his kind heart. He would leave everything and climb onto the school roof to fetch a ball for one of the children.
“His greatest contribution to the musical culture of Beaconhurst has to be the founding of a symphonic orchestra at the school in 1976, arranged with Mr Gordon-Hamilton Spencer, which at one stage comprised 37 children playing 11 symphonic instruments.
“This orchestra toured many towns in the Border region at the time and took part in festivals and Eisteddfods and many schools’ hereafter copied Beaconhurst and followed suit.”
He was described as someone who shared his love and humour with all he met.
“Hannes Coetzer is fondly remembered and respected by everyone that attended Beaconhurst Primary. The staff were inspired by the academic leadership he provided and his passion for teaching.
“His contribution was not limited to Beaconhurst alone as he shared his expertise with fellow principals.
“He has left a huge educational legacy that is respected and acknowledged by all at Beaconhurst School.
“He was and will be our legend.
“He never cut ties with Beaconhurst School over the years since his retirement. He maintained a loving and caring relationship with the school which Beaconhurst appreciated.
“How privileged our school has been to have a very special, unique relationship with our founder father.”
In a press release issued by his son Jan Coatzer, the family described him as a person who was dedicated to his community, pupils and staff.
“As long as I can remember my father had been a member of the Rotary Club, ploughing back his knowledge, skills, and energy into the community.
“As a result, various overseas visitors frequently visited our house and exchange students often lived with us for months on end and some of them still write letters to my parents.
“My father also served his religious community as an elder in the church.
“Many past pupils and past parents contacted him and who would often walk up to him in shopping centre or other places – asking after his wellbeing.
“Amazingly he could remember them all and can quite easily put a name to a face and a family.
“He still had a keen interest in the achievements of the learners.”
