It was a sad yet celebratory atmosphere at Laerskool Culembeeck as the curtain closed on principal Henning Germishuys’ career (21 October).
What made the day even more special was that he was also celebrating his 62nd birthday. The school’s hall was filled with educators from different schools in Roodepoort, former pupils and as well as district education officials and representatives from the Roodepoort SAPS.
They were there to say their final farewells and look back at the good work Germishuys has done at the school.
Germishuys started teaching at the school in 1988, teaching mathematics and coaching rugby.
In 2002 he then became principal of the school, taking over from Ferdi van der Merwe.
“I always knew teaching was for me because that is a gift I received from God. I love working with children. Shaping young minds and making an impact in their lives is wonderful,” he said.
With more than 25 years at the school, Germishuys said he has many highlights of his time at the school but only a few moments truly stand out for him.
“I have some wonderful memories of my time here at the school. Every second year, the pupils participate in the National Eisteddfod of South Africa competition in either poetry or art. About 300 pupils participate and the teachers get involved, transporting them to the venue and helping them. It’s wonderful to see,” he said.
Another memory he shared is about the public speaking at the school which has become a tradition, helping pupils with their confidence and self esteem.
“Every year the school has a public speaking competition for all the grades. To see the Grade R to three pupils getting up on stage with their small notes is heart warming. And then you see the older pupils who are more experienced. The school should continue with this competition,” he said.
Germishuys thanked the parents and community for working together with the school and assisting where it is needed.
“The parents and community took ownership of the school and I appreciate it. They became involved and it has been great working with them to try and make the school better for the pupils,” said Germishuys.
Germishuys now plans to travel with his wife who is still at teacher at Hoërskool Die Adelaar and do some alterations at his home.
“At the end of every term, I will be waiting for my wife at the gate with the car packed with our bags and I’ll whisk her away for a trip,” he said.
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