KAZIMLA MFIKILI
For the first time in 41 years, Selborne College will begin its academic year without the presence of recently retired and beloved history teacher Peter Coetzee, who taught at the college for more than four decades.
Coetzee dedicated his entire teaching career to Selborne, having started in 1984, fresh out of graduating from the University of Cape Town.
Over the years, in addition to teaching, he held numerous leadership positions, including vice-principal, providing invaluable mentorship, guidance, and wisdom to both pupils and his colleagues.
He served as a grade tutor, head of history, tennis coach, MIC of prefects, and coach of the U14A cricket and rugby teams.
Beyond his contributions on the field and in the classroom, he played a significant role in the cultural life of the school and pastoral care of its pupils.
Coetzee said: “If I could change the life of one boy positively, then my teaching career has been rewarded its worth.”
He said the school’s culture and his joy for teaching boys were what compelled him to stay at the school for his entire career.
“I loved Selborne so much that it was impossible to see myself teaching at other schools,” he said.
Besides being a passionate history teacher, Coetzee found joy out of the classroom in coaching cricket and rugby at the school.
Doing so made him realise that teaching boys was a unique challenge, and even more rewarding.
Even after so many years of teaching, he said he found it hard to accept that the time had come for him to retire.
“When you are 65 years of age, it is mandatory for one to retire.
“I find it hard that you get valuated by a number rather than your ability. I haven’t accepted that unfortunately and if it were up to me, I would carry on teaching.
“Leaving is bittersweet as new challenges face you but simultaneously you are excited.
“Retirement leaves you with a bit of apprehension as you are left unsure with what life has to offer you.
“Selborne has given me 41 years to try and fulfil the mission of changing the lives of many boys.
“It has been a wonderful experience, from the classroom to the rugby field seeing these boys develop into well-rounded men with the confidence to take on life.”
Even though Coetzee will continue to coach rugby at the school, he is planning to spend some time travelling around SA.
In a statement released on Facebook, the school said: “Coetzee fostered a spirit of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship at the school, helping to shape countless young minds.
“He has been a role model, and friend to staff and pupils alike.
“Under his guidance, many have grown not only in their academic abilities but also in character and integrity.
“His incredible passion has been evident throughout his tenure.
“He has embraced challenges, a demanding schedule, weekend duties, and after-hour commitments, all with the goal of enriching the lives of pupils.
“His legacy will continue for years to come.
“As we celebrate his well-earned retirement, we extend our deepest gratitude for his extraordinary contributions and wish him all the best for the next chapter of his journey.”
Former pupils and colleagues of Coetzee’s praised him for his exceptional dedication and mentorship, describing him as a remarkable educator whose passion and sacrificial commitment to the school left a lasting impact on countless pupils.
Former pupil, Warren Leonardo White remembered Coetzee’s animated and memorable lessons, noting his ability to mentor and guide boys into adulthood with a balance of sternness and empathy.
Armand Toma highlighted Coetzee’s unrivaled classroom control and engaging teaching style, which made learning effortless and impactful for pupils of all backgrounds.
Hayden Rutters and Wayne Muller lauded him as a legendary educator and mentor, with Muller saying that former pupils spoke fondly of Coetzee’s classes.
Colleague Stephen Jule Houzet referred to Coetzee as “the best history teacher in SA”.
