Potchefstroom Gimnasium is a prestigious public Afrikaans medium co-educational high school located in Potchefstroom, North West, South Africa. Established in 1907, this institution has a rich history and has made significant contributions to education and the community over the years.
Beginnings
Founded by the Theological Centre of the Reformed Church of South Africa, Potchefstroom Gimnasium began its journey in the Theological Centre's Library. The founders, including J. Kamp, A.P.C. Duvenage, J. Lion Cachet, F. Postma, and J.D. du Toit, laid the groundwork for what would become a cornerstone of education in the region. The first headmaster, J.A.A. Coetsee, served until 1938.
Headmasters Through the Years
Following Coetsee, the school has been led by several dedicated headmasters:
W.deK. Kruger (1938–1965)
A.J. Combrink (1965–1974)
A.B.J. Kruger (1974–1979)
L.A. Dreyer (1979–1982)
A.N. Grobler (1982–1985)
C.A. Janson (1986–1999)
J. Breed (2000–2008)
R.A. Oosthuizen (2009–2021)
FW Van der Merwe (since February 2022)
Changes Through the Years
The school, initially known as "Voorbereidende Skool" (Preparatory School), changed its name to Potchefstroom Gimnasium on 13 November 1914. It transitioned to a government school in 1915 and adopted Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in 1916. In May 1947, the school moved to its own dedicated building, marking a significant milestone in its development.
Motto and Crest
The school's motto, "Fac et Spera," translates to "Work and Hope." This phrase, derived from the Dutch States Bible, reflects the school's ethos. The crest features an anchor symbolizing hope, alongside a pick and shovel representing hard work.
Hostels
Potchefstroom Gimnasium offers accommodation in two hostels:
Notable Alumni
The school boasts an impressive list of alumni who have excelled in various fields, including:
Tjaart Marais: Rugby Fly-half for Western Transvaal
Henriette Grové: Writer
Greta Jones: Singer
Theuns Eloff: Former Vice Chancellor of Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education and Executive Director of the FW de Klerk Foundation
Theo Jansen van Rensburg: Springbok rugby player
Jan Brand van Rooyen de Wet: Singer
Ockert Potgieter: South African Missionary and movie director
International Connection
Since 2005, the school has maintained a long-term agreement with Växjö Fria Gimnasium in Sweden. This collaboration focuses on development work in South African townships, with students from both schools participating in fundraising projects and practical construction and repair of local schools.
Achievements
Potchefstroom Gimnasium has consistently demonstrated excellence in academics and sports:
Best school in the North West Province (2018)
Best academic school in the country (2017)
Overall Provincial winner in athletics (2018)
Top rugby team in the country (1967)
Potchefstroom Gimnasium continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, providing quality education and fostering the development of its students. With a history spanning over a century, the school remains a beacon of hope and hard work, living up to its motto, "Fac et Spera."
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