Drowned matric student receives top honour at school’s prizegiving

It was an emotional prizegiving ceremony for Hoër Landbouskool Marlow, who honoured matric learner Jonathan Bradfield, who drowned during the school holidays, with several academic awards.

The 19-year-old’s body was found earlier this week after he was swept out to sea during a rip tide at Mtunzini Main Beach last Thursday.

The teen – whose dream was to become a ool farmer like his father – and his girlfriend had been visiting KwaZulu-Natal when the tragedy struck.

MATRIC LEARNER HONOURED DURING SCHOOL PRIZE-GIVING

On Thursday, 8 October, Hoër Landbouskool Marlow in Cradock hosted its end-of-the-year prizegiving ceremony.

The event took place just two days after the body of matric learner Jonathan Bradfield was discovered, 2km away from Mtunzini Main Beach, where he went missing

The Eastern Cape agricultural school paid tribute to the teen, recognising him for his academic excellence

Jonathan’s aunt, Sharon Bradfield, shared a picture of the school’s tribute and awards, which included a merit certificate in Afrikaans and History, as well as first place in the “Wolklasser” agricultural award, the highest accolade in the wool classing category.

She shared alongside a portrait of the blonde-haired boy: “These are all the prizes Jonathan would’ve received. SO proud of you Jona❤️. The ram’s Head for wool classing. I know your Dad is proud”.

CROSS MEMORIAL

According to Jonathan’s aunt, the late matric student will be remembered with a cross memorial erected on his father Ken’s farm in Dordrecht. 

The cross – which represents Jonathan’s strong Christian faith and his shining character –  will be visible on the R56 and N6 and will be illuminated at night

Jonathan’s dream was to become a wool farmer like his father and grandfather.