The Somerset West Methodist Primary School community is mourning following the passing of its principal, Trevor de Waal on Friday 19 September.
The 58-year-old lost his battle with cancer, leaving a legacy of dedication and service to the school.
Born in the Northern Cape town of De Aar on 1 October 1966, De Waal’s life was deeply rooted in education and in the Helderberg community. He was head boy of Gordon High School in 1985 and went on to earn a Diploma in Education from the Bellville College of Education.
He later pursued further studies at the University of the Western Cape, obtaining his honours and master’s degrees in education, and was in the process of completing his PhD.
De Waal began his teaching career in Tarkastad, a small town in the Eastern Cape, and had a brief stint at Gordon High before finding his true calling at Somerset West Methodist Primary in 1993.
Over the years he rose through the ranks, becoming the head of department in 2000, then deputy principal and, finally, acting principal in 2022.
De Waal was also a passionate sports coach, heavily involved in the school’s athletics, rugby, and cricket programmes.
A long-time friend and colleague, teacher Winston Baard, described his leadership as exceptional. “He did a great job and steered the ship well. The school was his life. He was proud of the history of the school and continued a long-standing tradition of excellence. What a pity he left us in his prime,” Baard said.
Acting principal Dinah Meyers, who worked closely with De Waal, shared a heartfelt tribute: “He was vibrant, full of life and always carried a warmth that made people feel seen and valued.”
Meyers credited De Waal with shaping her as a leader. “He never gave me the easy answers, but guided me to think more deeply, to grow and lead with courage and compassion. That was his gift โ he believed in developing people, in helping others reach their full potential.”
He and wife Hayley were married 29 years without issue, and he was a beloved father figure and pillar to his extended family.
According to Meyers, De Waal’s “legacy will live on, in the laughter and spirit of our Squirrels [a popular reference to Somerset West Methodist Primary’s learners], and the dedication of our educators”.
De Waal’s passing has been a shock to the local community. His last day at school was on 29 January. He is survived by his wife, 88-year-old mother and last remaining brother.
The school will host a memorial service for its much-loved leader this Friday (26 September) at 09:00.
๏ฎFuneral details were yet to be confirmed, but the date was expected to be Saturday 4 October.
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