As a fresh-faced Latin teacher at Benoni High School (BHS), Frederick Charles Barnicoat walked the corridors dressed in his characteristic brown suit for four decades.

Starting his career in 1959, Barnicoat did more than just teach; he took a keen interest in his learners, motivating them to spread their wings.

Upon joining the learner body in 1980, Rev Dr Peter Langerman had great aspirations to pursue a career as an attorney and therefore elected to add Latin, the core of legal terminology, to his high school curriculum.

Under Barnicoat’s tutelage, Langerman not only spewed the language with the confidence of Julius Caesar but also developed a bond with a man who would become his mentor and esteemed friend.

Following Barnicoat’s passing at the age of 88 in September last year, Langerman thought it only appropriate to endow an award to the school in honour of the educator and world-renowned figure in avicultural circles.

“During our matric year, fellow-learners Mark Pearce, Kevin Snyman and I discussed at length our plans to one day have an award established in Fred’s honour,” said Langerman.

“We agreed that his innate ability to recognise each learner’s raw potential and then commit to nurturing it to fruition made him more than just an educator; he was a mentor.”

Admittedly, Langerman said nothing more came of the trio’s idea as they forged ahead in building their futures.

Continued contact with Barnicoat meant that he was privy to his ongoing sage advice and guidance.

“Mentors, such as Fred, are gifts to learners. I did not realise what profound role he played in my growth and development until much later in my life.

“He challenged every learner and invested precious time nurturing their ideas and guiding them to reach their fullest potential.

“The newly founded Frederick Charles Barnicoat Award for Excellence in Education aims to acknowledge BHS educators whose influence extends well beyond the classroom.”

The exquisite glass trophy with Barnicoat’s portrait eternally etched into it will, for the first time this year, form part of the school’s prestigious prize-giving evening.

“I want the award to become highly sought after, and I want educators to have receipt of it on their bucket list,” said Langerman.

“The criteria of awarding it rest solely with the school; there are, however, two conditions. An educator may only receive it twice and may not receive it consecutively.

“I hope that the award would not only contribute to ensuring Fred’s legacy is firmly imprinted on the school’s rich history and traditions, but that it will foster a generation of educators who strive for excellence.”

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