"This Is the Worst News": Laerskool Kathu Mourns Death of Beloved Teacher
- Laerskool Kathu Primary shared the devastating news that teacher Martin van Schalkwyk passed away in hospital in Kimberley on 12 August 2026
- Van Schalkwyk, who was born on 24 May 1967, is survived by his wife, Sarah and three children
- The school community, parents and former learners described him as a rock and a hero to countless children
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Source: Facebook
Laerskool Kathu Primary Amptelik broke the news to its community on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, that beloved teacher Mr Martin van Schalkwyk had passed away. He died shortly after 06:00 in a hospital in Kimberley. He was 59 years old.
The school posted the announcement on Facebook that morning, describing the moment staff received the news as a shock. “This morning, we received the sad and shocking news that Mr Martin van Schalkwyk passed away shortly after 06:00 in hospital in Kimberley,” the post read.
Born on 24 May 1967, Van Schalkwyk spent many years as part of the Laerskool Kathu family in the Northern Cape. He is survived by his wife, Mrs Sarah van Schalkwyk, and their three children, Adri, Martin Jnr, and Melissa.
A teacher who left lasting impressions
The school extended its condolences to the family and asked its community to keep them, his colleagues, learners, and the broader school family in their prayers.
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For many parents and former pupils, the news cut deep. Van Schalkwyk was remembered not just as a teacher, but as a constant and comforting presence in the lives of children who passed through his classroom.
See the Facebook post below:
Kathu community responds with heartbreak
The outpouring of grief from parents and community members on the school’s Facebook post made clear just how wide his impact reached:
@Henriette Du Plessis wrote:
“Mr was my child’s hero and many others. Our hearts are broken with your loved ones and numerous others. Thank you for the deep, precious tracks. Rest in peace with Papa God. We will miss you very much. 🙏”
@Ariette Cornelissen shared:
“Our hearts are broken. Mr. has been a rock and a security for our children at Kathu Primary School for so many years. 🤍”
@Rolene Oosthuizen said:
“Sincere condolences to his wife, family, the school and friends. May you find comfort in all the beautiful memories.”
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Source: Briefly News
