Kingswood mourns the passing of former Headmaster, Mr John Gardener, who sadly passed away recently at the age of 94.

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of former Kingswood Head, John Gardener. John’s tenure at Kingswood from 1971 to 1975, although short, was marked with several notable achievements. As Headmaster, he first put the idea of a Pre-Primary to Council, which would later become a pivotal part of the College. It was also under his leadership that the City Lords facility was purchased. Perhaps most notably, it was under his guide that Kingswood took the monumental step of moving towards co-education in 1973. John was integral in driving this concept and as we reflect on Kingswood’s success we need to be thankful to this great man for his amazing vision. It is safe to say that John added greatly to the Kingswood we know today.

In his 1972 Prize-Giving address he said:

“The College Council decision was unanimous and enthusiastic. It was felt that the system of co-education, widely endorsed by most forward-thinking educationists here and overseas, was one with immense advantages both socially and educationally. The naturalness of day-by-day contact; enrichment of insights, knowledge and competition; and the civilising effect of combining tenderness and toughness are among the reasons that swayed the Council. This implies no criticism of the past but the seizing of an idea whose time has now come. “

John was also well known for his hymn writing and wrote Kingswood’s Centenary Hymn, which is still sung today. In 2024 John was admitted to the Order of Simon Cyrene (OSC) on the 13th of June. With less than 60 recipients, the OSC is the highest award that can be given to an Anglican layperson. John was presented with this award during the opening Eucharist of the Diocese of Cape Town. In a citation, Bishop Joshua said, “John’s lifelong service to culture and society, and in particular for his service to education and for enriching our worship through his God-given gift of hymn writing”.

Of his philosophy of education, John once said: “To do worthwhile things properly, excellently and perseveringly well is our calling, our raison d’etre and a fulfilling of both our duty and our delight.”

Our condolences go to his wife, Sue, and his sons James and Andrew and their families.