After dedicating 50 years to shaping young minds, Hettie Groenewald (73), principal of King’s College in Jeffreys Bay, will officially retire on June 27, closing a remarkable chapter in local education.
Groenewald’s journey at King’s College began in 2018 when she joined as a teacher.
Her leadership qualities quickly shone through, leading to her appointment as deputy principal in 2019 and principal in 2021.
Groenewald’s career in education started after receiving her teaching qualification at Dower College in Kariega in 1971.
She began teaching at Helenvale Primary School in Gqeberha in 1972, before moving to Humansdorp where she taught at St Patrick’s Primary School.
Groenewald’s journey continued at Pellsrus Primary School in Jeffreys Bay and later at Graslaagte Primary School in Humansdorp, before eventually finding her home at King’s College.
Despite her impressive career, she admits she initially had reservations about taking on a principal’s role.
“I was not interested in being a principal because I believed that I worked better with children than I would with adults. However, when I was appointed as principal at King’s College, I found that I was blessed with great staff members,” said Groenewald.
She said that during her time at King’s College, she has formed a special connection with the learners, and she looks forward to returning to the school in 2026 to celebrate a milestone, as the school’s first matric class is expected to complete their secondary education.
“Since I have a close bond with all the learners, I still want to be involved in their education by helping them with university admission and any other assistance they may need,” she said.
Retirement won’t mean inactivity for Groenewald, who hopes to dedicate her time to helping senior citizens in the Kouga area.
“I am still praying to God for guidance before I take on the next task. I want guidance on what role I can play in the lives of senior citizens,” said Groenewald.
Elaborating on her personal life, she explained that her first husband died in a tragic accident in 1992 involving a buggy he had purchased for their son.
Following his death, she raised five biological children and one adopted child on her own – a task she describes as difficult.
In 2019, she remarried, and today, she is the proud mother of five children, grandmother to nine, and great-grandmother to two.
Reflecting on her career, Groenewald emphasised the impact of her work.
“I will miss the children because for at least 50 years, my life revolved around them. Through my work, I have been able to impact many lives over the years,” said Groenewald.
She further expressed deep gratitude to the founders of King’s College, Johan and Astrid Vos.
“I have to give the honour they so greatly deserve to Johan and Astrid for what they have done throughout the Kouga region. I also must thank God for opening doors for them,” said Groenewald.
“Their faith and obedience to God are wonderful to witness. They are great examples of people who dream big and trust God for guidance, which is an amazing testimony to the children at the school.”
Groenewald said that both Johan and Astrid believe that each child deserves the best education possible, and breaking the cycle of poverty in the area is their mission.
Teacher Rachel Koopman, who has known Groenewald for many years, having taught with her at both Pellsrus Primary and King’s College, praised her character and influence.
“Hettie is a God-fearing woman who loves the children at the school, her community, and profession,” said Koopman.
“As a stylish and sophisticated person, Hettie always encouraged her learners to be neat, which included both their attire and schoolbooks.”
Teacher Anica Scott highlighted Groenewald’s fairness and elegance.
“To me, she embodies the regal qualities of the colour purple,” said Scott.
She further said that during Groenewald’s time at King’s College, she had elevated the school to new heights.
School bursar Danielle Olifant, who has worked alongside Groenewald for the past year, expressed how much she has learned in that short time.
“The school’s admin block will not be the same with Mrs Groenewald leaving,” said Olifant.
She further said that she admires her leadership style and firmness towards her staff.
“I will take all that I have learnt from her over the last year and use it in my own career,” said Olifant.
She has further wished Groenewald all the best as she enters a new phase in her life.
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