Paul Roos Gymnasium’s 17th rector, Jannie de Villiers, recently sat down with Beyond the Roos for a wide-ranging conversation. In this final episode hosted by Nicholas Nieman and Adam Meintjes, viewers get a glimpse of the man behind the title—his journey from a farm near Ermelo to leading one of South Africa’s most storied schools.
De Villiers shares light-hearted insights in the quick-fire section: his favourite holiday spot is the Kruger National Park, his last impulsive buy was a pair of running shoes, and if a movie were made about his life, he’d want Robin Williams to play him. He also opens up about his love of music, theatre, and sport, and the importance of balance in life. He met his wife while studying at university, and regards them as a team; together they have two children who grew up mainly in Cape Town, which is why he wanted to return to the area where his support base of family and friends is strongest.
The interview traces his career path from Swellendam Hoërskool to Bishops, Oakhill in Knysna, and the Diocesan School for Girls, before arriving at PRG. He reflects on the demanding selection process, the high expectations of the PRG community, and his vision for education—especially the responsibility of schools to give boys both adventure and the heart to make a difference in society.
What stands out most is his humility: he tells learners he has come to serve, to learn, and to understand. With patience for his early blind spots, he promises to be fully present—body and mind. For anyone curious about the future of PRG and the man guiding it, this episode offers an engaging and inspiring introduction.
Watch the full interview here: Beyond the Roos – Jannie de Villiers
