GEORGE NEWS - Mr Helmie du Toit (63), principal of George Preparatory School for the past 28 years, will step out of his role at the school tomorrow to start the next chapter of his life.

Completing his education as a primary and high school teacher at the Oudtshoorn Teachers Training College, Mr du Toit spent 12 years at Blanco Primary before taking up his seat at George Preparatory. And it seems that the principal cap runs in the family; his two brothers and sister have all served as school principals at various educational institutions.

Although he confirms "ek gaan nie aftree nie, ek gaan uittree", Mr du Toit will now have more free time to spend with his wife Vina and his daughter and newborn grandchild. He can also practise his hobbies of woodwork, travelling, fishing and hunting and says he will alternate his time between his house in George and the family's beachhouse in the Glentana area.

"The mutual trust" and the "innocence of the children" is what this experienced principal says he will miss most from his role as a teacher. And his advice to his successor, Mr AD Roux? "Just stay yourself and go on your knees and ask for help."


George Preparatory School's Mr Helmie du Toit and his wife Vina. Photo: LeeAnne Pratt

ARTICLE: LEEANNE PRATT, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST