Francois Scheepers (57) has been appointed as deputy principal at George Hofmeyr, a role he says is fitting due to his deep love and passion for working with LSEN learners.

Scheepers has lived in Standerton since 1991 and began his teaching career at Vaalrivier Hoërskool. He grew up in Pretoria and studied education at Normaal Kollege before joining the army. He spent a year in the infantry and achieved the rank of lieutenant.

After his military service, Scheepers returned to Vaalrivier Hoërskool, where he served as the head of the welding department. Inspired by a family of teachers, he said, “Our family was called to teach.”

At George Hofmeyr, Scheepers hopes to play a bigger role in school management and contribute to the holistic development of learners.

“We are here for the girls. We need to develop them to be the best they can be,” he said.

He is a strong supporter of sport and extra-curricular activities, believing they can be therapeutic for LSEN learners.

Scheepers also hopes to learn the names of each learner and support them in every aspect of their development.

Outside school, Scheepers is passionate about angling, gardening and restoring old cars. He achieved Protea colours for angling in 2014 and 2016 and has earned national colours six times.

He is also a devoted husband of 33 years, an avid Bulls supporter, and enjoys spending time with his wife and their cats. Though retirement is still a way off, Scheepers plans to buy property in Mtwalume for his future retirement.