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MHS Chronicle 2015 Flipbook PDF
MHS Chronicle 2015
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The Chronicle
2015
1502435
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Contents
Michaelhouse, the Anglican Diocesan College of Natal, was founded in 1896 and is a South African boarding school for senior boys, with an international reputation. Situated on a secure estate in the beautiful Midlands of KwaZuluNatal, the school has a fully residential staff which facilitates a high level of pastoral care and interaction with the pupils. The distinctive architecture of inter-linked quadrangles inspires a sense of belonging amongst the 550 boys.
Values To live our lives according to the Christian values of integrity, humility, compassion and courage in service to our community and country.
Mission To provide a dynamic and progressive education for boys that respects individual needs and embraces diversity and change in pursuit of academic, sporting and cultural excellence, while providing social and leadership skills and nurturing spiritual growth.
MESSAGE FROM THE RECTOR
2
LEADERSHIP & STAFF
4
ANNUAL REPORTS The Michaelhouse Trust Buildings & Grounds
14 17
EVENTS Prize Giving Speech Day
20 26
ACADEMIC 40 SPIRITUAL 84 CULTURAL 92 ENVIRONMENT & COMMUNITY
106
SPORT 112 MICHAELHOUSE LIFE
162
HOUSE REPORTS
172
OLD BOYS
194
CLASS OF 2015
220
Vision “Our aim is to make, not accountants, not clerks, not doctors, not clergymen, but men; men of understanding, thought and culture.” Founder Canon James Cameron Todd (Speech Day 1897)
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Message from the Rector
C E FR RE OM THE
T
MESSAGE FROM THE RECTOR
It is an interesting exercise writing this preface at the
start of the 2016 year and looking back on 2015. Last night, we had the opening service of the year with 570 boys crammed into the Chapel. I challenged them to raise their voices when singing Stars of the Morning and they responded magnificently, as you can imagine. In fact, they threatened to lift the roof! There are 127 new boys at Michaelhouse this year, with 120 in the E Block – the most ever in a group – and they can now be in no doubt as to the character and commitment of those who have come before them.
Incidentally, this is the first group of that size in the E Block and will eventually lead to a school of 600, resident in ten Houses. This is a model that was announced in 2015 at the release of the new strategic plan called 2MHS@125, and it will guide our path for the next few years. Again we expect three good applications for every bed for the intake of 2017, and there are already 30 applications for 2025. Speaking to teachers and sport coaches, the Class of 2020 appear to be a fine group of boys with great ability, who are tremendously grateful to be starting their high school years at Michaelhouse this year; and we are indeed fortunate to have them.
“Our Chronicle appears, not as a milestone only, but a signpost pointing us on to all that the future holds in store.” The Chronicle, 1935
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We believe that there are a number of causes for the demand for spaces at Michaelhouse. Most importantly, we are clear on our mission and how this affects the dayto-day operations of the place. We are unashamedly a full boys, full boarding school in the great Christian liberal tradition. As an Anglican Church School, furthermore, we view each boy here as a child of God, made in His image and from whom we expect aspiration and the development of his inimitable talents. Clearly, that leads to respect and a brotherhood that is increasingly unique in the world and which is cherished by nearly 9 000 Old Michaelhousians worldwide. Walking around the quads of Michaelhouse, the feeling of togetherness is palpable and we pray that it continues for a long time to come. Following on from this, and because we expect the Men of Michaelhouse to be goal directed and driven, they achieve spectacular results, a number of which are reported on here in this Chronicle. Guiding all of this, of course, is our strategy, a nine-point plan which defines the broad boundaries for the way forward. It includes a significant capital development project that is as exciting as it is inspiring, and we look forward to kicking this off soon, and to the further development of a school that unashamedly already takes its place on the list of the great schools of the world. I lauded the academic results of the Class of 2015 in the opening assembly this morning and thanked them for these, as well as the fine state that they have left the School in. They were a wonderful group and we look forward to hearing of their continued exploits as they embark on the next phase of their lives. Importantly, they have issued a challenge to those that stay behind
Message from the Rector
to confront, and we look forward to another fine year in 2016 as a result. It is from St Michael, however, that the biggest challenge comes. This, at the end of days when he has defeated Satan at the battle of Armageddon. And of course, the Latin version has become our motto. By asking who is
Editor: Mr Murray Witherspoon Editorial Committee: Mr Murray Witherspoon and Mr Dermott White Advertising: Mr Murray Witherspoon Formal Photograph Administrator: Mr Greame Calway Informal Photographs: Mr Murray Witherspoon, Mrs Cathy Casalis, Mr Xillen van Rooyen, Mr Elmar de Klerk and Mr Ian Crawford
as God, and having no one answer, we understand his challenge to us all. We strive towards becoming more like God, and surely this is the most compelling cause of all that happens at Michaelhouse. We are thankful for this reminder and look forward to meeting it all again in 2016.
Design & Layout: TerraNova Strategic Marketing Printers: Interpak Books (PTY) LTD Contact: Private Bag X1, Balgowan, KwaZulu-Natal, 3275, South Africa. Tel: +27 33 234 1000 | Fax: +27 33 234 4611 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.michaelhouse.org
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Leadership & Staff
LEADERSHIP & STAFF
Michaelhouse, the Anglican Diocesan College of Natal, was founded in 1896 and is a South African boarding school for senior boys with an international reputation. The School is governed by a Board made up of significant South Africans who give freely of their time and expertise in steering policy and macro-management. Michaelhouse is a school of established heritage with an innate respect for the individual. At the heart of this endeavour is a fully resident staff complement whose daily role it is to nurture, guide and encourage our boys.
BOARD OF GOVERNORS: Back Row: Mrs Kathy Butcher (Board Secretary), Mr Nick Grice (School Architect), Rev Jacques Pretorius, Mr Charles Nupen, Mr Gordon Bruins, Mr Mark Lynn, Mr Nick Jonsson, Mr Allan Laing (Deputy Rector), Mr Chris Lister-James, Mr Nkululeko Sowazi, Mr Alan Adlington-Corfield (Deputy Rector), Mr Thabo Dloti, Mr Paul Fleischack (Deputy Rector), Mr Ross Armstrong Front Row: Mr Peter Harris, Mr Simon Weaver, Mr Nigel Tatham, Mr Bruce Dunlop, Mrs Yvonne Magashula, Mr Anthony Hewat, Mr Gary Ralfe, Rector Greg Theron, Mrs Zola Songca, Mr Pat Goss, Mr Nigel Porter, Mr Damien Rautenbach
“When I was at Hilton, it was always a pleasure to travel to and play sport at Michaelhouse. The friends I made there have stayed with me for life.” Hilton College Old Boy, Greg Caro, Facebook
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Leadership & Staff
BOARD OF GOVERNORS 2015 SCHOOL VISITOR
Bishop Rubin Phillip, Bishop of Natal
GOVERNORS
Mr R Armstrong (President Elect: Old Boys’ Club) Mr G Bruins Mr T Dloti Mr P Harris Mr A Hewat (Deputy Chairman) Mr N Jonsson Mr C Lister-James Mr M Lynn (President: Old Boys’ Club) Mrs Y Magashula Mr C Nupen Mr N Porter Revd. J Pretorius Mr G Ralfe (Chairman) Dr Z Songca Mr N Sowazi Dr N Tutu Mr S Weaver
MICHAELHOUSE STAFF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Greg Theron, BA (Hons) MSc HDE (PG), Rector Damien Rautenbach, BCompt, Bursar Revd Canon Alan Smedley, BCom Dip Theol, Chaplain Alan Adlington-Corfield, BSc PGCE BEd (Hons), Deputy Rector Academics Paul Fleischack, MSc HDE, Deputy Rector Co-Curricular Allan Laing, HED FDE MEd, Deputy Rector Pupils PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Tim Jarvis, BA (Hons) (Ed) & (Psych), Senior Master Pastoral John Crawford, BA BEd, Senior Master Sport Michael Schwartz, MSc HDE, Senior Master Academic William Silk, MMus, Senior Master Cultural Peter Huntley, BA (Hons) HDE, Senior Housemaster Murray Witherspoon, MA, Director of Marketing Nancy Rouillard, BA (Hons), Human Resources Manager Miles Alexander, Operations Manager
HOUSEMASTERS
Michael Bownes, BA, HED, M.U.R.P, Founders André van Wyk, MEd, East George Ferreira, BA (Hons), HDE, West Elmar de Klerk, HED, Farfield
Mr G Theron (Rector) Mr D Rautenbach (Bursar)
ASSOCIATE GOVERNORS
Mr L Dippenaar Mr P Goss Mr J Inglis Mrs D Mokgatle Mrs L Phalatse Mr D Sacco Mr N Tatham
TRUSTEES
Mr P Armitage Mr S Crutchley Mr B Dunlop Mr R Gush Mr A Hewat Mr J Inglis Mr N Jonsson Mr C Lister-James Mr N Porter Mr G Ralfe Mr Z Kubukeli
Nic Cahill, HED, Tatham Peter Huntley, BA (Hons), HDE, Pascoe Richard McMichael, BCom, HDE, Baines Iain Guthrie, MSc, HED, Mackenzie
ACADEMIC STAFF HEADS OF DEPARTMENT
Richard McMichael, BCom, HDE, Accounting, EMS Chris van der Berg, MA, HED, Afrikaans, Tutor – Baines Julie Flanegan, BSc, (Info Proc), HDE, Computer Applications Technology, ICT, IT, Tutor – West Tim Jarvis, BA (Hons) (Ed) & (Psych), Counsellor, Life Orientation Revd Canon Alan Smedley, BCom, Dip Theol, Chaplain, Divinity Asha Royappen, BA, PGCE, Dramatic Arts, E Block Tutor – East Win de Wet, BA, HDE, Economics, EMS, Tutor – Farfield, Intern Admin Elmar de Klerk, HED, Engineering Graphics & Design Mary McMichael, BA, HDE, English, E Block Tutor – Baines Martine Planteau de Maroussem, BA, PGD, HDE, French John Alexander, BA (Hons), HDE, Geography, HSS, Tutor – Founders (left 31/03/2015) Sibusiso Ncamani, BEd, Geography, HSS, Asst. Housemaster – Baines (wef 20/04/2015) Mike Thomson, BA, HDE, History, HSS, Tutor – East Righardt Kotze, BSc (Hons), PGCE, HK, Life
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Leadership & Staff
Orientation, Asst. Housemaster – Pascoe Sizo Chalufu, BEd (Hons), IsiZulu, Tutor – Tatham Lynn van der Vegte, MSc, Media Centre, Media Studies, Tutor – Media Centre (left 30/06/2015) Leigh Kotze, MPhil, Media Centre (wef 20/07/2015) George Ferreira, BA (Hons), HDE, Life Orientation Paul Snyman, BSc, HED, Life Sciences, Natural Science, Asst. Housemaster – Mackenzie Bailey Coxon, BSc (Hons), HDE, Mathematics, Tutor – Baines Abri Venter, BMus Ed, Music, Tutor – East, Tutor – Music Matthew Higginson, BSc (Hons), HDE, Physical Science, Natural Science, Asst. Housemaster – West Joy Preiss, HDE (Art), Visual Arts, E Block Tutor – Founders, Tutor - Media (31/03/2015) Jenni Maurice-Green, BA (Hons), Visual Arts (wef 01/04/2015)
TEACHING STAFF
Dean Forword, BCom, PGCE, Accounting / EMS, Asst. Housemaster – Farfield Ryno Combrinck, HED, Afrikaans, Director of Rugby, Asst. Housemaster – Founders Heléne du Toit, BA HED, Afrikaans, E Block Tutor – Tatham, IT Tutor Johan van Rooyen, BA (Hons), HDE, Afrikaans, Tutor – Mackenzie Herman Visagie, BA (Hons), PGCE, Afrikaans, Tutor – Founders William le Cordeur, MA, Drama, Theatre Director Candice Smith, BTh (Hons), PGCE, Divinity, Visual Arts, History, E Block Tutor – Founders Andrew Brown, BCom (Hons), HDE, Economics, EMS, Tutor – Pascoe Ernest Rindfleisch, BCom (Gen), H.Dip.Ed (PG), Economics, EMS, Tutor – Mackenzie Msizi Mchunu, BEd, Economics, EMS, Tutor – Farfield Katherine Cass, MA, English Remedial Peter Dennyson, MA Dip Ed, English (Advanced Programme) Peter Huntley, BA (Hons), HDE, English Tanith von Mayer, BA, PGCE, English, E Block Tutor – Mackenzie Richard Snowden, BCom, PGCE, English, Tutor – Farfield Jonathan Smith, BA, BTh (Hons), MTH, PGCE, English, Tutor – Baines Christopher Waldburger, MA, PGCE, English, Tutor – Founders Michael G Bownes, BA, HED, M.U.R.P, Geography, HSS John Crawford, BA, BEd, Geography, HSS, Tutor – Tatham Sibusiso Ncamani, BEd, Geography, HSS, Asst. Housemaster – Baines Bernard Whitaker, BEd, Geography, HSS, Asst. Housemaster – Tatham
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Bridget Kee, Geography, B.Soc Sci, PGCE (wef 04/08/2015) Ian Crawford, BEd, ICT, CAT, Geography, E Block Tutor – Farfield Dominic Gruijters, BSc (Hons), Information Technology. ICT, Mathematics, Tutor – Pascoe Nic Cahill, HED, Life Sciences, Natural Science Paul Fleischack, MSc, HDE, Life Sciences, Natural Science Iain Guthrie, MSc, HED, Life Sciences, Natural Science Alan Adlington-Corfield, BSc, PGCE BEd (Hons), Mathematics, APM Nico Boshoff, BEcon (Hons), PGCE, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Tutor – East James Bullough, BEd, HDE, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Asst. Housemaster – East Lisa Hardie, HDE, Mathematics, E Block Tutor – Pascoe Allan Laing, HED, FDE MEd, Mathematics Peter Stevens, BA, HDE, Mathematics, Tutor – West André van Wyk, HED, MEd, Mathematics Hannes Ebersohn, MMus, UVLM & UOLM, PGCE, Music, E Block Tutor – West, Tutor – Music William Silk, MMus, Music, Choral Director, Tutor – Mackenzie, Tutor – Music Nkanyiso Ngcobo, BSc, PGCE, BEd (Hons), Physical Science, Natural Science, Tutor – Pascoe Jaap van der Vegte, BSc (Hons), Bed, Physical Science, Natural Science, Tutor – West Michael Schwartz, MSc, HDE, Physical Science, Natural Science, Tutor – Founders Janet Emanuel, NTSD DSE (Rem), Academic Support Sandile Sibiya, Visual Arts
STUDENT & INTERN STAFF
Richard de Beyer, Tutor – Mackenzie Allen Dlamini, Tutor – East André (AJ) Human, Tutor – Farfield Andrew Laing, Tutor – Pascoe Daniel Maremane, Tutor – Mackenzie Dennis Mdunge, Tutor – Tatham Bongani Ndimande, Tutor – Founders, Support – Life Sciences Lab Mikey O’Connor, Tutor – Pascoe Craig Pieterse, Tutor – Baines Jacques Richter, Tutor – Founders Graydon Theron, Tutor – East Michael Simpson, Tutor – West Shaun Thompson, Tutor – Tatham Gary van Breda, Tutor – Tatham Halalisani Xulu, Tutor – West Rodney Zondi, Tutor – Pascoe Sanele Zikhali, Tutor – Baines
SUPPORT STAFF
Zanele Ndlovu, Life Sciences Lab Remove Sipho Zikhali, Life Sciences lab Raymond Duma, Science Lab Fish Ndlovu, Theatre
Leadership & Staff
ACADEMIC STAFF Back Row: Mr Sibs Ncamani, Mr Richard de Beyer, Mr Chris Waldburger, Mr Shaun Thompson, Mr Hala Xulu, Mr Graydon Theron, Mr Righardt Kotze, Mr Bernie Whitaker, Mr Dean Forword, Mr Nico Boshoff Fourth Row: Mr Craig Pieterse, Mr Dennis Mdunge, Mr Matthew Higginson, Mr Mikey O’Connor, Mr Graeme Calway, Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo, Mr James Bullough, Mr Richard Snowden, Mr Hannes Ebersohn, Mr Jacques Richter, Mr Dominic Gruijters, Mr Paul Snyman, Mr Abri Venter, Mr Gary van Breda Third Row: Mr Jaap van der vegte, Mr Daniel Maremane, Mr Sizo Chalufu, Mr Peter Stevens, Mr AJ Human, Mr Sanele Zikhali, Mr Andrew Brown, Mrs Mary McMichael, Mr Jonathan Smith, Mrs Tanith von Mayer, Mr Allen Dlamini, Mr Bongani Ndimande, Mr John Alexander, Mrs Lynn van der Vegte, Mr Rodney Zondi, Mr Ian Crawford Second Row: Ms Joy Preiss, Ms Martine de Maroussem, Mrs Win de Wet, Mrs Julie Flanegan, Mr Johann van Rooyen, Mr Herman Visagie, Mr Mike Thomson, Mr Ernest Rindfleisch, Mr Bailey Coxon, Mrs Candice Smith, Mr Msizi Mchunu, Mr Chris van der Berg, Mrs Helene du Toit, Ms Lisa Hardie, Mrs Asha Royappen Front Row: Mr Mike Schwartz, Mr George Ferreira, Mr Richard McMichael, Mr André van Wyk, Mr John Crawford, Mr Nic Cahill, Mr Alan Adlington-Corfield, Mr Paul Fleischack, Mr Greg Theron, Mr Allan Laing, Rev Alan Smedley, Mr Tim Jarvis, Mr Peter Huntley, Mr William Silk, Mr Iain Guthrie, Mr Michael Bownes, Mr Elmar de Klerk
IT SUPPORT Brad Flanegan, BSc (Hons), Network Manager Simon Dottridge, BCom, Network Senior Technician Sbusiso Dlamini, Network Technician Gwynaeth van Aardt, IT Technical and Administration Officer
Cross-Country, Iain Guthrie Swimming, John Alexander Golf, Brad Flanegan Tennis, Win de Wet Gym, Righardt Kotze Water Polo, Matthew Higginson
SPORT
SERVICE
Master in Charge, A W Smedley Senior Master, Sport, John Crawford Sports Co-Ordinator, Graeme Calway ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Athletics, George Ferreira ARCHIVES Hockey, Mike Thomson Robyn Gruijters, Archivist Basketball, Msizi Mchunu Rugby, Ryno Combrinck BOOKROOM & TRANSPORT Canoeing, Richard Snowden Shy Bhugwandeen, Bookroom Manageress / Transport Soccer, Chris van der Berg Clerk Cricket, James Bullough Squash, Peter Huntley 7
Leadership & Staff
SCHOOL PREFECTS Back Row: Blake Springate, Wesley Biggs, Johann Winkelmann, Thandokuhle Mnguni, Charles Houston, Nicholas Harrison, Shingi Vambe Front Row: Rev Alan Smedley, Ryan Anderson, Mr Greg Theron, Ngcebo Maseko, Mr Allan Laing
BURSARY
Damien Rautenbach, BAcco BCompt, CIMA, Bursar Susan Dawson, Assistant Bursar (Admin) Pushpa Ramharack, Bursar’s Personal Assistant / Debtors Controller Rita Bhugwandeen, Cashier / Accounts Clerk Sheena White, Debtors Clerk Paula Greyling, Accounts Clerk (wef 12/10/2015) Pushpa Govender, Photocopier / Clerk Sue Walker, Accounts Clerk Joanne Naidoo, Creditors Controller Rose Mlotshwa, Clerk
DATA ADMINISTRATOR
Dorathea van Rooyen, Data Administrator
HUMAN RESOURCES
Nancy Rouillard, Human Resources Manager Leigh Ekstrand, HR Clerk (wef 15/03/2015)
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KITCHEN Carol Holyoak, Catering Manager Jonathan Kalika, Catering Manager Simon Xulu, Kitchen Supervisor MANAGEMENT SECRETARIES
Sally Berriman, Personal Assistant to the Rector Kathy Butcher, Secretary to the Rector & Board of Governors Joanna Hume, Pastoral Secretary Joanne Morrison, Co-Curricular Secretary Cillia van Wyk, Academic Secretary
MARKETING
Murray Witherspoon, MA, Director of Marketing Sian McDowell, Admissions Officer Catherine Maitin-Casalis, Marketer Xillen van Rooyen, Marketer
Leadership & Staff
MEDIA CENTRE
Lynn van der Vegte, MSc, Media Centre Co-ordinator Leigh Kotze, MPhil, Assistant to the Media Coordinator Zanele Mchunu, Library Assistant Simon Zondi, Media Centre
MEDICAL OFFICERS AND SANATORIUM
Dr Jonathan Cook, MA. (FA) HDE, MB, BCH Dip.for Med (SA), School Doctor Sr Lauren Richmond, SRN (Dip), RM (Dip), Pharm (Cert), Occupational Health (Cert), Snr Sanatorium Sister Sr Leisa Albertyn, SRN (Dip), RM (Dip), Community Health, Psychiatry and Midwifery Sanatorium Sister Sr Avis Coxon, SRN (Dip), RM (Dip), Massage Therapist (Dip), Sanatorium Sister Mae Villar-Stickley, Sanatorium Accounts Clerk
MUSIC SCHOOL
Angela Jonsson, Cultural Secretary
OLD BOYS’ CLUB & COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Canon Fred Pitout, Old Boys’ Club: Secretary, Community Partnership: Manager Michelle Huntley, Personal Assistant Nkosi Mahlaba, Community Partnerships
SECURITY
Caroline Higginson, Analyst
TELEPHONISTS
Shakila Moola, Senior Telephonist
TRADE-INN
Trish Akal, Manageress Ronel van der Berg, Assistant Roxanne Frost, Assistant
TUCKSHOP
Champie Narassa, Tuckshop Manageress Varsha Pillay, Assistant Manageress
ESTATE / MAINTENANCE
Miles Alexander, Operations Manager Danie Griessel, Workshop and Maintenance Manager Gunther Heynecke, Estate Manager Russell Stickley, Maintenance Assistant Manager Amanda Jarvis, Gardens Manager
CONFERENCE AND FACILITIES CO-ORDINATOR
Mandy Rouillard, Conference & Facilities CoOrdinator
HOUSEKEEPING
Kelly Royden-Turner, Housekeeping Manageress & Safety Officer
LAUNDRY
Neil Akal, Laundry Manager
TRANSPORT
Denver Kalika, Transport Controller Robert Duma, Driver Eric Ngcobo, Driver Jack Ndlela, Driver Thula Sikakane, Driver Cornelius Sithole, Driver Victor Thwala, Driver Steven Zuma, Driver
STAFF LEAVING At the end of 2015, we bade farewell to the following members of staff: After five years of astute management of the laundry facility, Mr Neil Akal leaves us to take up the position of Estate Manager at Cowan House prep in Hilton. Seven intern staff members also left Michaelhouse at the end of the year. They are: Richard de Beyer, AJ Human, Rodney Zondi, Hala Xulu, Michael Simpson, Gary van Breda and Graydon Theron. After a short stint of vital assistance in the Sanatorium, Morag Atherstone left the medical staff. Sister Leisa Albertyn had left the San earlier in the year. Susan Walker (Bursar’s Office) hangs up her gloves and we wish her well in her retirement. Mrs Cindy Freese left the HR Department. Earlier in the year, Mr Gordon Rubidge left the Transport Department to take up a post in West Africa; and Mr John Alexander, HOD Geography, took up the headship of Theodor Herzl in Port Elizabeth.
“A superb school where we spent some of our happiest moments during our two sons’ attendance.” Past parent, Sandra Hardie, Facebook
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Leadership & Staff
TRIBUTES TO STAFF LEAVING AFTER MORE THAN TEN YEARS OF SERVICE
Mrs Gertrude Mnikathi Written by Ms Kelly Royden-Turner
Ms Joy Preiss Written by Mr Hannes Ebersohn
This year we say goodbye to Gertrude, one of my longest serving staff members in the Housekeeping Department. Gertrude has been at Michaelhouse for 32 years, during which time she served under no fewer than five rectors.
Joy Preiss became a member of staff in 2004 as the new HOD of Art. She qualified at the Durban Technikon and has taught at various schools including Glenwood, Alex, Victoria Park (PE) and the Wykeham Collegiate. She has also travelled overseas and worked for the Southern Sun for 18 months.
Gertrude started at Michaelhouse in early 1984 and worked in various venues and areas – including Pascoe, the Music School and the Tuck Shop – with great dedication. There isn’t an area of Michaelhouse that she isn’t totally familiar with. Gertrude has been a valued member of my team, one of the matriarchs in my department. She never hesitated to assert her motherly nature with the younger staff members, teaching them how things were done. She has a dry sense of humour and a laugh that can brighten up any day. Gertrude’s enthusiasm and dedication to her job have been an absolute testament to the person that she is. Our team are going to miss her and her personality incredibly. Gertrude leaves us to retire and be with her family. On behalf of the whole Housekeeping staff, we wish Gertrude all the best in her retirement.
Since 2004 she has curated several joint exhibitions with Hilton and the Wykeham Collegiate, opened by wellknown artists like Robert Hodgins, Tim Quirk, Johann Slee and Kim Goodwin. Numerous of her art students’ works have been exhibited at the Tatham Art Gallery and the Royal Show. Not only was she in charge of the Art Society, with annual outings to Art in the Park, but she was also the driving force behind two cultural tours to Europe in 2008 and 2012. While baking weekly batches of brownies for her Mackenzie and East home room groups, she organised the annual Matric Ball, D-Block outings to the Caversham Press and Ardmore Ceramics; art subject excursions to Durban Art galleries and the Nina Cambell-Quine Art Project. She oversaw the Art School being upgraded in December 2007. Joy leaves Michaelhouse to take up the position of HOD of Art at St Anne’s. She will be missed. She is a rock solid pillar of the Preiss family. She is head strong underneath a shock of pink hair; has an enormous heart; is a talented artist; besotted with Scottish Terriers; loves life. Ein Mensch.
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Leadership & Staff
brain teasers, reading competitions for boys, a new array of reading material and the vibrant, ever-changing displays in the Media Centre foyer and in the library itself. Lynn generally held her opinion till last during Academic Committee meetings, and then cut straight to the quick of issues by offering clear wisdom, having considered all facets of the situation. Her insight into learning, Information Technology, Computer Programming, Maths and Stats, sprinkled with a healthy dose of practicality and common sense made Lynn a most valued member of the team. We wish Lynn well as she settles in Franschhoek to pioneer a future retirement life for herself and Jaap. Bridgehouse’s gain is certainly our loss.
Mrs Lynn van der Vegte Written by Mr Paul Fleischack The van der Vegtes arrived, with two little children in tow in 1994, Lynn as a mum while Jaap was ensconced in the Science Department. In those early years Lynn taught Maths to senior primary children at Nottingham Road Primary School, and what excellent numeracy foundations she laid in those young minds. Shortly thereafter, and without her intent, details of Lynn’s academic experience and qualifications become known, eluding her quiet and understated manner. Before long she had earned the reputation of being the best and most patient tutor of Statistics for the Post Matric boys, all of whom acknowledged that they would not easily have gained this credit at first attempt at university situation. Lynn also taught Maths to many fortunate junior boys for a number of years. When the need for a skilled timetable builder arose, Lynn unselfishly offered her service. Any school timetabler will warn the unwary that this task is not for the faint-hearted. And then we learned that she had previously constructed the timetables for FOUR university campuses! Lynn is the expert here, calmly working through and meeting the challenges of staff and School demands, doubles here, early lessons or no first periods there. She managed this mammoth task with complete professional expertise. But it was her love of books, her wide reading and her deep understanding of teenage boys’ minds along with her serene nature which drew Lynn to the Media Centre. She, with Penny Purchase, breathed new life into this space and soon we were blessed with weekly newsletters,
Mrs Champie Narassa Written by Mrs Shakila Moola Champie, who is formerly from Durban, married Ronnie Narassa on 31 December 1978 and came and settled at Michaelhouse with her husband and in-laws. Champie was later employed at the Tuckshop, where she became a well-known institution for 26 years. She started working at the Tuckshop as an assistant from January 1989 and was then promoted to manageress, the position she held until the Tuckshop closed in July 2015. During her time at Michaelhouse she was well liked by boys and staff. Her husband Ronnie worked at the workshop as an artisan welder for 37 years until his 11
Leadership & Staff
retirement in 2010. Her late father-in-law Nathan was also a Science lab assistant for 62 years. She lived on the Michaelhouse estate for 37 years until she moved to Pietermaritzburg in 2010. She currently resides in Johannesburg with her family. Champie and Ronnie have two children, a daughter by the name of Varsha, who was also a Tuckshop assistant manageress, and a son by the name of Tariq, who studied at Michaelhouse between 1995 and 2000 and who is now married and works for Standard Bank in Sydney, Australia.
Mr Eric Cele Written by Mr Denver Kalika I joined Michaelhouse in 2011 as a 25-year-old driver, although I was new and much younger than the other drivers, Eric was very welcoming and helpful. I found him to be a diligent worker who never complained about the work load. He was very devoted to his job at Michaelhouse and always went the extra mile.
Mrs Nester Magwaza Written by Mr Neil Akal Having spent more than a quarter of a century in service of the School, Michaelhouse and the laundry department bade Mrs Nester Magwaza farewell at the end of June. Nester arrived at Michaelhouse in early 1989 and will be remembered by generations of boys and also by her colleagues for her in-depth working knowledge of the laundry facility. Her inside-out knowledge of her role and obvious pride in a job well done was reflected in her punctuality and by her always being impeccably turned out. Nester retired at 63 and looks forward to spending quality time with her daughter and grandchildren.
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Eric is a mild mannered and humble man, and at his core, a very private person who has dedicated 32 years of his life to service of Michaelhouse. Since 1983 when Eric began as a maintenance driver, he has seen many changes to the School, including the major shift of the Maintenance Department from where it was once located next to the new San to where it is today. It was following the move from the current Visual Arts buildings that Eric became an official Michaelhouse driver and his role included dropping off and collecting Nottingham Road Primary children. At that time, Michaelhouse employed only three drivers, and Eric became the fourth. During Eric’s time at the wheel he has survived a number of ordeals and has kept his charges safe and on time. Eric is the survivor of two hijacking nightmares: in the first he was able to frighten his assailants off whilst parked at a school; but in the second he was taken by his attackers to Camperdown where thankfully he was dropped off safely.
Leadership & Staff
Teacher Interns Mr Allen Dlamini Mr Daniel Maremane Mr Dennis Mdunge Mr Jacques Richter Mr Sibusiso Nhleko Mr Sphe Bhengu Ms Joanne Naidoo (Creditors Controller) Mrs Paula Greyling (Accounts Clerk) Ms Leigh Ekstrand (HR Assistant)
INTERNS PROGRAMME Master in Charge: Mr Michael Schwartz ‘To grow the next generation of great teachers for our school and our country.’ The programme continues to go from strength to strength. Our second intern since last year has been appointed to a post, which is great news for the programme. Mrs Varsha Pillay Written by Mrs Shakila Moola Varsha was employed at Michaelhouse for 14 years. She started at the beginning of 2001 as a Tuckshop assistant and worked her way up through the ranks to become the assistant manageress, a position she held until the Tuckshop as it was known was closed in July 2015. Varsha was a happy, familiar face and was well liked by boys and staff. During her years at Michaelhouse she was married to Kuben Pillay and together they have two daughters, Kreevania (five) and Dhisana (four).
NEW STAFF We welcomed the following new staff members to Michaelhouse during the course of 2015: Mrs Katherine Cass (Learning support and English Department) Miss Bridget Kee (Geography Department) Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo (Science Department) Ms Jenni Maurice-Green (HOD, Visual Arts Department) Mr Herman Visagie (Afrikaans Department)
Seven new interns joined us in 2015: Mr Daniel Maremane (Maths and Science), Mr Sibusiso Nhleko (Maths), Mr Siphesihle Bhengu (Economics), Mr Mikey O’Connor (Geography), Mr Allen Dlamini (Maths), Mr Dennis Mdunge (English and Afrikaans) and Mr Jacques Richter (Accounting). Each intern is assigned a mentor teacher in a subjectspecific department. The role of the mentor is to help the intern in any way on his or her quest to become a highquality qualified teacher. Apart from their studies and academic lessons, each intern is assigned to a House and will also coach sport throughout the year. A number of interns completed or almost completed the programme in 2015. Mr Michael Simpson has joined Kearsney College, where he will finish his studies. Mr Gary van Breda finished his Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and has registered to do his Master’s degree full-time. Mr Graydon Theron finished his PGCE and is on his way to Taiwan to teach English. Mr Hala Xulu is now a member of the Clifton School Intern Programme. Mr Rodney Zondi has been appointed to a teaching post at Creston College from 2016. The group of interns in 2015 was 18-strong. They all made valuable contributions to School life. For 2016 it is envisaged that the group will remain the same size, with a number of more senior students. It is hoped that at the end of 2016, Michaelhouse will again send a number of graduates out into the teaching world.
13
Annual Reports
AN
NU
AL REPOR
TS
An important part of the ongoing development of facilities at Michaelhouse is funds which are provided by the Michaelhouse Trust. The School has been well served by far-sighted Old Boys, interested parents and a host of donors who contribute to the Chairman’s Club Fund, which is administered by an enthusiastic group of Trustees under the Chairmanship of Mr Jamie Inglis.
THE MICHAELHOUSE TRUST Report of the Trustees for the year ended 31 December 2014 Investment Markets World stock markets struggled to produce positive returns in 2014, especially in US dollar terms. The strongest performer was the US, where the economic recovery and unemployment levels showed a dramatic improvement. 2014
2013
2012
3 years (p.a.)
13.7
32.4
13.5
20.4
Market Performance (USD %) MSCI US Index MSCI UK Index
-5.2
20.9
10.9
9.7
MSCI Europe Index
-5.7
26.0
19.9
12.5
MSCI Japan Index
-3.7
27.4
5.6
9.9
5.5
23.4
16.5
16.1
-1.8
-2.3
18.7
4.4
MSCI World Index MSCI Emerging Markets Index
Besides the continued recovery in the US, the notable developments among world economics in 2014 were: • Minuscule growth and persistent deflationary pressures in Europe, compelling the European Central Bank to initiate further stimulatory measures. The uncertain outlook for Europe was exacerbated by Greece’s precarious position within the euro. • A massive stimulatory programme adopted by the Bank of Japan whereby it aims to repurchase 80 trillion yen of government bonds per year. This amount represents about 15% of Japan’s nominal annual GDP and is proportionately about twice the size of the quantitative easing programme adopted by the US. • Steeply declining commodity prices and a precipitous fall in the oil price from above $100/bbl to around $50/bbl level. New economic indicators gave rise to doubts about whether China could sustain its growth trajectory. • Turmoil in the currency markets, with the US dollar strengthening against all major currencies, especially the yen (+14%) and the euro (+14%). In South Africa, the growth rate dropped to a dismal 1.3% in 2014. Economic growth was stunted by a series of strikes (especially in the mining industry) and the inability of Eskom to maintain a continuous supply of power. With the collapse in commodity prices, South Africa’s terms of trade deteriorated and government revenues came under severe pressure. In the circumstances, the local equity market did remarkably well, albeit in Rand terms, although the fortunes of the different sectors varied radically:
14
Annual Reports
Movement in JSE Indices (%):
2014 (%)
2013 (%)
2012 (%)
JSE All Share Index
10.9
21.4
26.7
JSE Financial Index
27.3
19.1
37.8
JSE Industrial Index
16.8
23.2
44.5
JSE Resources Index
(14.7)
1.4
3.1
It is significant to note that the JSE has benefited substantially from the tailwinds caused by the decline in the Rand as a large portion of the companies listed on the JSE have Rand hedge characteristics. Over the past five years, the Rand has declined from R6.83/USD to R11.46/USD, a fall of 40%. Investment Performance The Trust’s investment managers, Melville Douglas Investment Management and 3PM Investments, achieved a return of 15.3% in the year to 31 December 2014. This compares with the return of the benchmark set by the Trustees of 13.9% and the median return of 12.3% recorded in the Alexander Forbes SA Large Fund Manager Watch Survey for 2014. Distributions to Michaelhouse 2014 continued the previous pleasing results achieved in prior years. Due to large capex requirements in the current period, the Trust distributed the full approved Trust’s distribution for 2014. Using the MIT formula, Trustees approved of a distribution to Michaelhouse for 2015 in the amount of R3 001 644, an increase of 9.3% over 2014’s approved distribution of R2 745 173. The full net income approved for 2014 has been distributed during the course of the year to the school.
15
Annual Reports
2014 R
2013 R
2012 R
1 765 230
1 755 930
1 766 975
(2 745 173)
(1 755 930)
(1 766 975)
( 979 943)
-
-
Realised capital surpluses distributed
-
-
-
Retained earnings at beginning of year
-
-
-
( 979 943)
-
-
Net income for the year before distribution Distribution to Michaelhouse (Excess distribution)/retained earnings for the year
Retained earnings at the end of the year
During 2014, gross income for the year increased marginally from R2 571 671 to R2 590 653. Expenditure also increased marginally from R815 741 to R825 413 with the result that net income rose from R1 755 930 in 2013 to R1 765 230 in 2014. Utilisation of distributions received by Michaelhouse Income distributed by the Trust to Michaelhouse has been utilised as follows: 2014 R Unexpended income - beginning of the year Income from The Michaelhouse Trust Capital expenditure and work in progress Unexpended income - end of the year
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2013 R
2012 R
-
-
-
2 745 173
1 755 930
1 766 975
2 745 173
1 755 930
1 766 975
(2 745 173)
(1 755 930)
(1 766 975)
-
-
-
Annual Reports
Trust income distributed to Michaelhouse for capital expenditure has been applied to the following projects:
Ablution upgrades – Houses Accommodation in Houses Staff accommodation
2014 R
2013 R
1 850 000
1 755 930
-
2012 R 1 766 975
895 173
-
-
2 745 173
1 755 930
1 766 975
The “Ablution upgrades – Houses” project has been a long but necessary upgrade project to modernise and improve the ablution facilities within the boarding houses. The final two Houses, Founders and Mackenzie, have now been completed with the same pleasing design and aesthetics as the previous House ablution upgrades. With the completion of these upgrades, the focus was directed to staff housing – in particular, the completion of two new additional staff houses, known as Sarsden Views 3 & 4. Due to changes in staffing over the 2013 year, the need for additional housing became an absolute necessity. The Sarsden Views 3 & 4 units were completed in June 2014, with occupation occurring shortly thereafter. Further funding was also able to be directed into the staff housing kitchen refurbishment programme. As work is progressing through the Houses, improvements are being made, with electrical compliance certificates being obtained upon completion of the work.
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS Written by Mr Damien Rautenbach By all accounts, 2015 has been an exceptionally busy and productive year. As has been the case over the last few years, the ongoing maintenance and development of the facilities at Michaelhouse is a continuous task, and the last 12 months have been no exception. In addition to the full-time maintenance schedule, 2015 will be remembered for four major developments on the Buildings and Grounds front. The most significant project undertaken has no doubt been the construction of the new swimming and lap pools adjacent to the Indoor Centre. I am sure that everyone who has visited Michaelhouse during the course of the year has noticed with keen interest the progress being made on this project. The end result is a magnificent facility that is receiving admiration from boys, staff and visiting schools alike. The pool is already in constant use, with week-round training and hosting of water polo matches. The immediate benefit of the additional pool is the increase in training that is now possible, with boys almost doubling the amount of time they can spend training each week. The second significant project undertaken in 2015 was the installation of the electric perimeter fence. After many years of discussions and with much deliberation, evaluating all the pros and cons, it was decided that a proactive rather than a reactive approach was required with this development. The design and planning phase was a lengthy process with the purpose being to erect the fence as unobtrusively as possible. The third development, being the purchase of 116 hectares of land directly opposite the School, was concluded in early 2015 with transfer taking place in May. The primary objective of this acquisition was to remove the very real risk of this land being sold and developed right on our doorstep. The intention of the School is to allow this property to remain as arable farmland; it will be leased out for agricultural purposes and in so doing, retain the peaceful, rural nature of the School. The fourth significant development again relates to property, and this was the purchase of the building outside the School gates, originally known as Syringa Court. This building has been standing vacant for a number of years and has become an eyesore and a possible security risk. Due to the number of enquiries shown in the sale of the property from third parties, it was decided that the best course of action would be to purchase the property so that we could have control over the use of the building into the future. Preliminary plans are underway to convert the buildings into additional staff accommodation for estate and support staff. 17
Annual Reports
A major Buildings and Grounds initiative in 2015 was the construction of the new swimming pool complex
In addition to these four developments, the cricket facilities have enjoyed extensive upgrades during the year, the catalyst for these improvements being the involvement of Old Boy Dale Benkenstein and the Hampshire Cricket Academy. The input from Dale and the Academy, together with the upgrade of the facilities, should ensure continued growth and improvement in cricket at Michaelhouse. A final project worth mentioning is the installation of two generators. This now ensures that every building on the School grounds can be powered by generators when required. Previously, the art and music centres, sanatorium, Centenary Centre, Indoor Centre and a number of staff houses were not linked to generators, causing disruptions to School lessons and events. With 2015 behind us, we look firmly towards 2016 and beyond. The 2016 Capex budget, together with the strategic plan entitled 2Michaelhouse@125, have ensured many exciting projects have been earmarked for the near future. The next five years at Michaelhouse will see many interesting developments and improvements to the School as a whole – a very interesting time indeed. Thanks must again go to the entire operations staff, headed by Miles Alexander, for their tireless efforts in continuing to maintain the School grounds in such immaculate condition. Huge thanks, of course, must also go to the Chairman of the Buildings and Grounds Committee, Gordon Bruins, who brings with him considerable knowledge and expertise for the benefit of the School, especially during these times of large infrastructural development.
18
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Events
EVENTS During the course of each year, two events are traditionally held to recognise academic endeavour and to celebrate excellence. Prize Giving, which takes place in the first quarter, acknowledges academic performances by boys during the latter half of the preceding year; while Speech Day, now held annually in the Indoor Centre during the third quarter, acknowledges academic, cultural and sporting contributions by boys at Michaelhouse.
PRIZE-GIVING Address by the Rector, Mr Greg Theron For the last three years, the outgoing A Block have produced the kind of results that make us all very proud indeed. They have propelled Michaelhouse into a position among the top academic schools in the country. I am sure you are all very pleased about this, and it is indeed even more remarkable given the holistic nature of Michaelhouse. You all know that as part of our founding vision, we expect every boy to play sport, be exposed to the outdoors and cultural activities, and live a life in God’s service. But we also believe that this is not at the expense of academics, and every boy is expected to work to the limits of his ability and to produce the kind of results of which he will be proud as a person. Last year’s results are also remarkable given that we are not academically exclusive. We could probably get better academic results quickly by getting everyone to write an admissions test and then taking numbers one to 115 in the order and admitting them. Or would we? Because as you know, we don’t do that as that would mean admitting only one type of boy into Michaelhouse. This, in turn, would lead to only one way of thinking and one way of doing things. So we admit a broad range of boys – some who got 50% in primary school, quite a few 60% as well as those, of course, scoring in the 80s and 90s. We take them because they have a nice smile, or they think in a different way or they have some other talent. Once you get in here, though, we all work together to get you all to attempt to learn what it means to work to your optimum. If you came in at 50%, we ask whether you can reach 60% or 65% or 68%. And each year there are many boys who achieve in this way. There are those, of course, who also work flat out and end up with 50% – who try their best. To them I say, well done and thank you.
20
What do you learn from this? Mostly lessons that will serve you well in life – such as knowing what you would like to achieve, which is called goal setting; such as looking at these goals and reminding yourself of what is important, which is called focus. And if you work towards that, you learn perseverance, and if you take the odd knock and come back from this, you learn resilience. All of this is called self-regulation, and through all this hard work in the face of challenge you learn that you can achieve. Let’s look at the other side, too. And I talk to those who get 80% with little or indeed no work. You may crack the code at school, but I am afraid that life after school may come as a bit of a shock. It will come like a train in a tunnel. You quickly need to learn the ability to work harder, or you stand the very real chance of deep, deep disappointment. School is a preparation for life and not life itself. Let’s return briefly to the results of the last three years. Were they unusual? I remember having dinner with last year’s A Block, which you might know happens at the beginning of the year. They were filled with outrage at the expectation that they had to emulate the feats of those who came before them. Many said it was unfair. And yet in some ways they achieved results at the end of the year that were even better than those that came before. I have asked this year’s A Block whether you think you can emulate the feat. And you are cautiously optimistic, which is a wonderful sign, and we look forward to watching your efforts. It needs all of you to pull your weight as a group. Pull each other along; ensure hard work; ensure rigorous work; form study groups or find another structure that achieves academic achievement. Use your time wisely. Give sport and culture and service a full go, but use the
Events
time that remains after them judiciously. In short, suck the marrow from the bones of life at Michaelhouse and leave here at the end of the year to go on holiday knowing that you gave it your all. I have full faith that the good start to the year will continue. And it starts now. Have a break this half-term but take the opportunity to go over difficult work, complete a project or check on your progress, if needed. Use the time properly.
They learnt how to work here and gave their all. I know this will continue this year, as it always has. And I look forward to all of your efforts.
And what of the rest of you in the B to E Blocks? If I look at last year’s group, when they were juniors they were on almost exactly the same level of achievement as you are. You, too, are on course to achieve something special.
It now gives me great pleasure to announce the John W Hamilton and Sir Henry Strakosch internal scholarships. These are for last year’s endeavours and they reflect the year’s marks.
This morning, we rightly celebrate those who have achieved against their peers. But silently we celebrate also every little triumph in every subject for every boy. The top academics get public recognition, while those who have succeeded privately only get to celebrate privately. No matter, as it does not stop you from patting yourself on the back and saying well done.
The Hamilton scholarships are awarded to the top boy in each Block who does not already have a scholarship. They come with a substantial amount of money and are for one year only. They are awarded this morning to the following boys: D Block – Manqoba Ngcobo C Block – Toivo Khumalo B Block – Mfolozi Dlamini A Block – Nicholas van Niekerk
I keep hearing the kind of drivel that society likes to dish out, such as, “Oh, boys don’t really know how to, or like to, work hard.” Really? I get quite angry when I hear this. I admit we sometimes get distracted, have wide interests and may occasionally go walkabout in our minds to explore different things. But while we are doing that, we can and do work hard. And today we celebrate that. The list of successful, hard-working men who have passed through the hallowed portals of Screens is legend.
To the award winners, I say well done. You reap the rewards of your efforts this morning and we look forward to more of the same in times to come. You are greatly appreciated.
The Strakosch scholarships are awarded to the top two boys in each Block and reflect the top marks in Maths and Science. They are awarded to: D Block – Murray Finlay and Nicholas Rhodes-Jones C Block – Bongi Fleischer, Ant Fleischer and Matthew Gerrish, who we could not separate B Block – Mfolozi Dlamini A Block – Ben Adey and Daryn Flanegan
Pictured in the Pennginton Quad on Prize Giving Day are Deputy Rectors Allan Laing, Alan Adlington-Corfield and Paul Fleischack with Rector Greg Theron. Senior Prefect Ryan Anderson is pictured in front with his Mum and Guest of Honour Mrs Colleen Anderson.
21
Events
Head of Tatham Dalingcebo Maseko with the Fleischer Shield
Head of East Johann Winkelmann with the Ralfe Cup for academic effort is pictured with assistant Housemaster Mr James Bullough (left) and Housemaster Mr André van Wyk (right)
SUBJECT PRIZES E BLOCK GABRIELLE MASSEY PRIZES James Courtney, Michael Herbert, Christian Opperman, Thomas Usher, Bernard van der Berg AFRIKAANS First in Subject: Bernard van der Berg Diligence: Andrew Britton, Andrew Cameron, Daniel Dillon, Reece McLuckie, Bernard van der Berg ECONOMICS AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES First in Subject: Luke Taylor, Murray Finlay Diligence: David Blore, Alan Buttle, Ben Chance, Dominic Leslie, Mpho Mthethwa ENGLISH First in Subject: Raymond Liversage Diligence: Callum Houston, James Kiln, Thomas Quin Thomas Usher, Bernard van der Berg FRENCH First in Subject: Levin Kamau Diligence: Paul McLellan HUMAN AND SOCIAL SCIENCES First in Subject: Luke Taylor Diligence: Michael Herbert, Callum Houston, Dominic Leslie, Levin Kamau, QaQambile Mehlwana ISIZULU First in Subject: Manqoba Ngcobo, Mpho Mthethwa Diligence: Luke Taylor, Manqoba Ngcobo
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MATHEMATICS First in Subject: Murray Finlay Diligence: Samuel Kasher, Christian le Roux, Sebastian Maitre, William Marshall, Matthew McCarthy, Owethu Phekani NATURAL SCIENCE First in Subject: Murray Finlay, Raymond Liversage Diligence: Michael Herbert, Callum Houston, James Kiln, William Norton, Thomas Usher MERIT CERTIFICATES (Aggregate over 80%) David Blore, Murray Finlay, Bailey Green, Callum Houston, Levin Kamau, Samuel Kasher, James Kiln, Dominic Leslie, Lesedi Letebele, Raymond Liversage, Mubeezi Lubinga, Ntsako Maluleka, William Marshall, Matthew McNally, QaQambile Mehlwana, Manqoba Ngcobo, William Norton, Christian Opperman, Jack Parsons, Michael Rautenbach, Nicolas Rhodes-Jones, Luke Taylor, Thomas Usher, Bernard van der Berg Third in Block: Nicolas Rhodes-Jones Second in Block: Luke Taylor First in Block: Murray Finlay
D BLOCK GABRIELLE MASSEY PRIZES Cameron Clark, Michael Jay, Benjamin Jonsson, Troy Nijland and Bruere Venter AFRIKAANS First in Subject: Bruere Venter Most Improved Mark: Stephen Brown, Michael Menear Diligence: Robert Ellison, Nicholas Forster, Dimitri Loupis, Thomas Witherspoon
Events
ECONOMICS AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES First in Subject: Bongi Fleischer Most Improved Mark: Dimitri Loupis Diligence: Stephen Brown, Cameron Clark, Keynan Knox, Odirile Losaba, Troy Nijland
C BLOCK
ENGLISH First in Subject: Nicholas Forster Most Improved Mark: Luke Volker Diligence: Stephen Brown, Bongi Fleischer, Keynan Knox, Ian le Roux, Troy Nijland
ACCOUNTANCY First in Subject: Nicholas Forshaw Diligence: Thomas Erskine, Matthew Kiln
FRENCH First in Subject: Adekoyejo Adeleke Most Improved Mark: Joshua Maher Diligence: Brandon Orleans HUMAN AND SOCIAL SCIENCES First in Subject: Jason Song Most Improved Mark: Khanya Tutu Diligence: Cameron Clark, Cameron Fellner, Bongi Fleischer, Michael Menear, Troy Nijland ISIZULU First in Subject: Toivo Khumalo Most Improved Mark: Kuhle Khumalo Diligence: Bongi Fleischer MATHEMATICS First in Subject: Bongi Fleischer Most Improved Mark: Mikhail Khan, Julian Smart Diligence: Oliver Calvert-Evers, Sean Gilson, Michael Menear, Julian Smart, Luke Volker NATURAL SCIENCE First in Subject: Bongi Fleischer Most Improved Mark: Stephen Brown Diligence: Stephen Brown, Oliver Calvert-Evers, Ethan Hamilton-Potts, Odirile Losaba, Christopher Ringwood MERIT CERTIFICATES (Aggregate over 80%) Adekoyejo Adeleke, Stephen Brown, Oliver CalvertEvers, Cameron Clark, Antony Fleischer, Bongi Fleischer, Nicholas Forster, Matthew Gerrish, Daniel Hughes, Michael Jay, Richard Johnston, Toivo Khumalo, Odirile Losaba, Shane Maartens, Tlou Maenetje, Katlego Mhlongo, Nicholas Mundell, Kirin Ramthol, Julian Smart, Jason Song, Bruere Venter, Emanuel Zaloumis, Mphathi Zungu Most Improved Aggregate: Third in Block: Second in Block: First in Block:
Luke Volker Toivo Khumalo Jason Song Bongi Fleischer
GABRIELLE MASSEY PRIZES Mfolozi Dlamini, Christopher Dowsley, Nicholas Llewellyn Palmer, Rowan Mockler, Sean Young
AFRIKAANS First in Subject: Armin Prinsloo Most Improved Mark: Thomas Scott-Berning Diligence: Declan Clackworthy, Callum Deeble, Patrick Garz, Tyron Kassner, Rowan Mockler COMPUTER APPLICATIONS TECHNOLOGY First in Subject: Craig Heenan Diligence: Craig Heenan DRAMATIC ARTS First in Subject: Luke Versfeld Diligence: Callum Deeble ECONOMICS First in Subject: Ross Nalson Diligence: Declan Clackworthy, Mkuzo Kuwani, Ross Nalson, Richard Perkin ENGINEERING GRAPHICS AND DESIGN First in Subject: Justin Seymour Diligence: Warwick Albertyn ENGLISH First in Subject: Gerhard Serton Most Improved Mark: Mpumelelo Buthelezi Diligence: Warwick Albertyn, Mfolozi Dlamini, Gerhard Serton, Jake Zilesnick FRENCH First in Subject: Mkuzo Kuwani Most Improved Mark: Samuel Danton Diligence: Jay Naik GEOGRAPHY First in Subject: Thomas Erskine, Rowan Mockler, Ross Nalson, Armin Prinsloo Diligence: Christopher Dowsley, Thomas Erskine, Luvuyo Magwaza, Jake Zilesnick HISTORY First in Subject: Nicholas Forshaw Diligence: Luke Versfeld INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY First in Subject: Mfolozi Dlamini Diligence: Gerhard Serton
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Events
ISIZULU First in Subject: Mfolozi Dlamini Most Improved Mark: Mpumelelo Buthelezi Diligence: Samkelo Mvune LIFE SCIENCES First in Subject: Mfolozi Dlamini Diligence: Grant Haines, David Pachonick LIFE ORIENTATION First in Subject: Mfolozi Dlamini ADVANCED PROGRAMME MATHEMATICS First in Subject: Mfolozi Dlamini Diligence: Thomas Erskine MATHEMATICS First in Subject: Christopher Broadley Most Improved Mark: Jason Boulle Diligence: Warwick Albertyn, Jason Boulle, Declan Clackworthy, Tristan Herwood, Jaryd Kleynhans MATHEMATICAL LITERACY First in Subject: Arturo Cuturi, Samuel Danton Diligence: Likhona Camane MUSIC First in Subject: Vincent van der Westhuizen Diligence: Likhona Camane PHYSICAL SCIENCE First in Subject: Mfolozi Dlamini Diligence: Keagan Chasenski, Luvuyo Magwaza, Jay Naik, Justin Seymour VISUAL ARTS First in Subject: Rowan Mockler Diligence: Matthew Baynes MERIT CERTIFICATES (Aggregate over 80%) Matthew Armstrong, Christopher Broadley, Freddie Conradie, Callum Deeble, Mfolozi Dlamini, Thomas Edley, Thomas Erskine, Nicholas Forshaw, Dante Gutu, Fergus Hathorn, Tristan Herwood, Matthew Kiln, Mkuzo Kuwani, Angelo Lissoni, Rowan Mockler, Ross Nalson, Scott Norris-Jones, James Overmars, Armin Prinsloo, Gerhard Serton, Marcel van Niekerk-Edwards Most Improved Aggregate: Third in Block: Second in Block: First in Block:
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Patrick Bechard Armin Prinsloo Rowan Mockler Mfolozi Dlamini
B BLOCK GABRIELLE MASSEY PRIZES Stewart Grant, Dalingcebo Maseko, Bruce Rouillard, Matthew Whelan, Nicholas van Niekerk ACCOUNTANCY First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark: Duncan Boyes Diligence: Richard Beckett ADVANCED PROGRAMME ENGLISH First in Subject: Christian Botha AFRIKAANS First in Subject: Zander Prinsloo Most Improved Mark: Thomas Greig Diligence: Thomas Greig, Mark Hadley-Grave, Samuel Jarvis, Ryan Price, Tyrone Thompson COMPUTER APPLICATIONS TECHNOLOGY First in Subject: Richard Beckett Most Improved Mark: Michael Riddell Diligence: Devon Cowley DRAMATIC ARTS First in Subject: Liam Furniss, Van Wyk Venter Most Improved Mark: Van Wyk Venter Diligence: Liam Furniss ECONOMICS First in Subject: Nicholas Harrison Most Improved Mark: Todd Dinkelmann Diligence: Christian Botha, Thomas Greig, Mark Hadley-Grave, Ryan Price ENGINEERING GRAPHICS AND DESIGN First in Subject: David Geard Most Improved Mark: Philip Melouney Diligence: Justin Miller ENGLISH First in Subject: Christian Botha Most Improved Mark: Brandon Mottram Diligence: Ryan Anderson, Geoffrey Brink, Robert Dean, Samuel Jarvis, Jeremy Tratschler FRENCH First in Subject: Ibukunoluwa Shonibare Diligence: Devon Cowley GEOGRAPHY First in Subject: Blake Springate Most Improved Mark: Luc Maitre Diligence: Gillespie Dougall, Alan Houston, Samuel Jarvis, Matt Saulez
Events
HISTORY First in Subject: Nicholas van Niekerk Most Improved Mark: David Karam Diligence: Thomas Greig INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark: Thomas Brink Diligence: Thomas Brink ISIZULU First in Subject: Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Thando Mnguni Most Improved Mark: Mogale Makgekgenene Diligence: Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Thando Mnguni LIFE ORIENTATION First in Subject: Thando Mnguni Most Improved Mark: James Newton LIFE SCIENCES First in Subject: Blake Springate Most Improved Mark: Mpumelelo Shezi Diligence: Joshua Adlington-Corfield, John Robins, Blake Springate ADVANCED PROGRAMME MATHEMATICS First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark: Ben Adey Diligence: Nicholas van Niekerk MATHEMATICS First in Subject: Ben Adey, Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark: Brandon Mottram Diligence: Joshua Adlington-Corfield, Jonathan Henderson, Brandon Macleod, Brandon Mottram, Daniel Roberts MATHEMATICAL LITERACY First in Subject: James Newton Most Improved Mark: Richard Johnsen Diligence: Stuart Beach MUSIC First in Subject: Jonathan Henderson Most Improved Mark: Van Wyk Venter Diligence: Richard Johnsen PHYSICAL SCIENCE First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark: Brandon Mottram Diligence: Ryan Anderson, Charles Houston, Khwezi Kgalema, Jack Walters VISUAL ARTS First in Subject: Christian Botha Most Improved Mark: Kurt Martin Diligence: David Armstrong
Prize Giving certificate winners James Newton and Pule Ngwenya
MERIT CERTIFICATES (Aggregate over 80%) Ben Adey, Nicholas Anderson, Ryan Anderson, Richard Beckett, Wesley Biggs, Geoffrey Blore, Christian Botha, Duncan Boyes, Dante Ceronio, Daryn Flanegan, Thomas Greig, John Haines, Nicholas Harrison, Charles Houston, Dalingcebo Maseko, Michael McCarthy, Justin Miller, Thando Mnguni, Pule Ngwenya, Ryan Price, Zander Prinsloo, Bruce Rouillard, Blake Springate, Nicholas van Niekerk, Van Wyk Venter Most Improved Aggregate: Todd Dinkelmann Third in Block: Nicholas van Niekerk Second in Block: Charles Houston First in Block: Daryn Flanegan HOUSE ACADEMIC AWARDS Academic Achievement (Fleischer Shield): Tatham Academic Effort (Ralfe Cup): East
25
Speech Day
Mr Ant Hewat, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Governors, with Rector Greg Theron, Guest of Honour Dr Ian McCallum and Senior Prefect Ryan Anderson in the Rector’s reception area on Speech Day
SPEECH DAY – 16 OCTOBER 2015 Address by the Deputy Chairman of the Board of Governors, Mr Anthony Hewat Dr Ian McCallum, Rector, staff, parents and families, Men of Michaelhouse My name is Anthony Hewat. I stand here as something of an imposter, a bit like the sign-language interpreter at Madiba’s funeral. Rightfully, this slot belongs to Gary Ralfe, Chairman of the Board of Governors. He is, sadly, required to be in London tomorrow – not, he assures me, to watch one of our Old Boys warming the bench on Heyneke Meyer’s magical mystery tour, but to be host and master of ceremonies at a wedding – and he has asked me to deputise. Last weekend, I received two words of advice here at Michaelhouse when I expressed some stage-fright fear. One was from a wise A Blocker, who reassured me that no one is expecting a Trevor Noah speech. Thanks, now I am relaxed. The other was from the mother of our Head Boy, who asked me not to make her cry. No, Colleen, I will not, but I suspect there will be a speech later that may. Gary said that the topic of his speech today would have centred on the strategic process for Michaelhouse, which he leads with Greg Theron, for the design of the process to the plan we call To Michaelhouse@125.
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Far more than half of you in this hall today participated actively in this process. For that, we, as a Board, want to say “thank you” for your time and careful consideration for Michaelhouse. We had over 1 700 responses within ten days to our online survey. We had more than 40 detailed focus groups involving every House and every Block, every region of Old Boys and of parents, every staff member. Every living Rector had personal input, particularly our current one. We opened many cans looking for worms. We asked what we thought were the trickiest questions – about vision and mission; about academic, cultural and sporting performance; about coaching and support; about staff and their development; about issues of race, religion and transformation; about systems of leadership, mentoring, governance, finance. Each of these are topics you would hesitate to raise at a dinner party for ten people, and we were putting them out to thousands of members of the Michaelhouse family. We tested for complacency, to set new goals for ourselves, and to check our relevance. Did the lofty ideals of a 19th-century James Cameron Todd for his School still ring true for the 21st century? So together we now have a shared view of the future, one that strives to be the same fundamentally as before, only better. Remarkably little divergence came back from our research and discussions, so we actually know that we agree. We together have plans and a mandate to shape the way forward on every facet of Michaelhouse life.
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Now we are down to micro issues only – what would be the colours of the new Houses? The boys’ biggest fear: are there any colours left? Big issues like: what is the name of the new pool; and could there be an eel in the pool when we pump the water from New Dam? I think we can solve those. There is no eel. But back to Gary Ralfe. The only way to outmanoeuvre a man of his modesty is to do so in his absence. Gary retires at the end of next year after his third three-year term as Chairman. He has attended dozens of School, social, Board and Old Boys’ functions; made a hundred eloquent speeches (almost all without notes); made weekly calls for eight years to steer two outstanding Rectors; been a benefactor to the School both here and as a founder of the Michaelhouse UK Trust; and overseen this year the key strategy work-stream to consult the stewards of the School, past and present. When considering this outstanding contribution, and in thinking about what to name the ninth House that our plan has called for, there was only one logical name for it: Ralfe House. Then, to complete our awe, in September he announced to his Board that he and his family trusts would personally contribute the cost of a new House in honour of his father. Next year, he can respond at his last Speech Day as Chairman. Even though I know he will forever have West in his heart, thank you, Gary, for your extraordinary service and generosity to your School. A huge ovation is the least that you deserve. A Board report-back must always involve money, but I will be brief: the Michaelhouse trusts have again more than matched public market benchmarks this year, and are near record levels. Jamie Inglis as their chairman has performed miracles for 16 years and he continues to. Future generations of support to underprivileged and outstanding boys, and finance for ongoing infrastructure and capital spending are in good hands. But for the next five years we are stepping forward – the best school in the country should also have the best facilities. We open the waterpolo pool next month. We start soon with the new sciences block. Then, over the next few years, extra space and money will be needed for a tenth House, and before that extensions to the Chapel, dining area and theatre. The strategy requires all Housemasters living alongside their charges, and fewer boys per House, meaning improved living space. Some day soon, a dedicated soccer pitch and a second hockey astroturf. We have, then, a lot of exciting plans for the five years until we are 125 years old. Every plan needs huge energy and vision to implement, and realistically, it also needs money. Please join the fundraising effort through the Chairman’s Club if and when you can. We can even accept your money when you are no longer here.
Two more Board members deserve special thanks today beyond Gary Ralfe. Gordon Bruins leads the Building, Grounds and Environment sub-committee of the Board as its chairman. With School architect Nick Grice, he has overseen the process of a campus master plan, this year building this magnificent pool and working out how to fill it with water. He is probably the quietest man in the boardroom but by far the most productive. You can find him here most Mondays and we plan to keep him busy with important projects to oversee for years to come. The next extraordinary contribution comes from our Board member and parent, Nkululeko Sowazi. His Tiso Foundation has supported the education of a new generation of underprivileged black students, 42 000 of them in the last decade. Now Tiso has extended this programme to include Michaelhouse boys. Our first four Tiso Foundation bursars start in 2016. We hope there will be many more over the years. The School and the nation thank Nkunku and Tiso for their remarkable ongoing contributions. The last time I stood on a stage at Speech Day was to receive a prize from one Piet Koornhof, Minister of Constitutional Development for the apartheid government. Mr Koornhof told us that day: the problem in speech making as a minister was that if he made a joke, people thought it was the law; but what was worse was if he made a law, people thought it was a joke. It was a sad and very serious joke. From that day, it took a massive 17 years to usher in a new, fair and democratic constitutional dispensation. I know our guest speaker, Dr Ian McCallum, can help us move ahead faster, more effectively and with sounder values than Oom Piet did on the Constitution, in integrating our values and behaviour with our environment. Now, most importantly, turning to the class of 2015: When you hear Stars of the Morning, you see the tie or you hear a war cry in your subconscious, spurring you on to success – remember what this School means to you. Give to your colleagues and family this spirit, but also one day give back to your School, so that for generations to come it is the greatest boys boarding school on the continent – if not the universe. You have given of yourselves while you are here. Thank you for that. You have done us proud. If anyone thought this was not an academic school, our Matriculants of 2013 and 2014 have delivered our best results in history and are up there with the best boys results in the country. I am sure our class of 2015 will be worthy followers. Everywhere I go, people tell me what I have seen for myself: this Matric class is a great bunch of guys – well done to you all. And for the Blocks to follow, quit ye too like these men; be just as strong.
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In closing, on behalf of the Board I express our thanks to you all for your buy-in to our shared strategy. Particular thanks and our congratulations go to the Rector, management and staff – you are running with the strategy ball with a passion, energy and insight beyond anything your Board could have expected. In your hands the School is in awesome shape.
Thank you to our generous benefactors, thank you to every Man of Michaelhouse who made this year a momentous one. Thank you to Gary Ralfe. This has indeed been a great year for Michaelhouse. May there be at least 120 more.
In turn, I too have enjoyed visiting the speech days of other schools as they all evidence holistic excellence and a local educational community that exudes an all-round pull that far exceeds the sum of its parts. Thank you for your efforts and, in particular, for sharing our special day with us. The last special welcome is, of course, reserved for ex-Rector Rex Pennington and his wife, Sarah. As always, it is wonderful having you with us, sir. We live in negative and cynical times. Perhaps this is the nature of the human condition, but I happen to think that it is particularly noticeable in the latter stages of 2015. And not just in South Africa but around the globe. Everywhere there are predictions of gloom and catastrophe. Talk of a new global monetary system and the collapse of the old. Recession. The collapse of national borders. All fanned by the flames of jihad and the threat of nihilism as value systems collapse. In this country, we add the drought and the global malaise in resources, given the collapse in demand from China. In South Africa, we have the continuing and rightful demands for restitution and equality that continue to be such an awful hangover from an exclusionary and, indeed, evil past. Everyone watches everyone else anxiously. Fretting.
Rector Greg Theron on Speech Day
Address by the Rector, Mr Greg Theron Mr Ian McCallum, members of the Board and Trust, staff, ladies and gentlemen and boys. Good afternoon. I doff a cap particularly to the heads of brother and sister schools that have been able to come this afternoon – in particular, Pete Ducasse from Hilton, Viktor Kurz from Clifton Nottingham Road, Simon Weaver from Cordwalles, Selwyn Marx from Pridwin, Rob Odell from Cowan House and Riaan Bisschoff, who represents Merchiston. Having been part of similar educational set-ups in other provinces, I find it a source of great support that the heads of schools in KwaZulu-Natal visit each other’s speech days on such a regular basis.
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Which begs a question. And it is this: is it, in fact, the same everywhere? My contention is that it is not, though some elements are more common than others. I had a quick look through the recent growth of national economies earlier this week. South Africa was ranked 150th on the list with a growth of 1.4%. The figures which interested me were Nigeria at 7% and Indonesia at 5.2%. Both have economies that are bigger than ours and would therefore be more complex. Then I looked up ethnic groupings in these countries. Indonesia is listed as having 300 and Nigeria between 250 and 400. South African figures tend to concentrate unsurprisingly on that aspect which we all cling so despairingly to – that of race. A little more digging identified about 15 different language groups here. I also wondered whether there was ongoing conflict in these two societies. Well, yes there is. A great deal in Nigeria, as we are able to see frequently on global news networks. As for Indonesia, I challenge you to Google “conflict in Indonesia” and try and make sense of the sectarian, religious and other conflicts that occur there, with thousands of deaths and millions of people displaced. So in amongst these conflicts and
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difficulties, these two countries are able to do enough to grow their economies. I acknowledge that both have oil reserves, but oil, as we know, is struggling at the moment. I look forward to seeing this year’s figures for these two countries, and indeed ours, and I suspect they will be relatively similar. I acknowledge that I am not an economist and, at best, my thesis is a little wobbly. There it is. I also acknowledge that we have an overlay of institutionalised racism in this country that doesn’t exist elsewhere and which we have not yet begun to work through comprehensively. To a large extent, we have ignored this challenge in the hope that it will go away. Well, it hasn’t – and, in fact, there is a strong case for saying that as a nation we are in a worse position now, after 20-odd years of democracy, than we were at the beginning. The honeymoon is now well and truly over and the marriage begins. For me, one of the worst things is that everyone is a critic with a (usually) ill-formed opinion. It’s fascinating that News24 has closed the commentary section of the website given the vitriolic hate speech that was such a common feature there. The sad thing, though, is that while people are keener than ever to judge, they are also keener than ever not to listen to the opinions of others. I have a new favourite word – misology. It means a hatred of reasoning, the distrust of logical debate or argument. Precisely at the time when we need people to sit and listen to each other, we have this enormous growth in misology, and we all suffer as a result of it. What’s my point? It is this – number one: I don’t think we are so special any more as a nation. Indeed, were we ever? We are no longer the Rainbow People of God penned by the venerable Archbishop of Cape Town all those years ago. It was an alluring dream but one that required a mindset, I am afraid, that did not exist then and certainly does not exist now. I don’t have an alternative for this phrase but invite you to come up with one. One that describes a people with a common humanity that has lost its way. One that is not romantic but which is a clarion call to action – that demands that we get off our backsides, that we stop moaning about a remembered (rather than actual) glorious past, and that pushes us to a future where we forget power balances and wealth and look to helping each other. The danger of not doing this is clear to all involved in this. Very clear. What is my point? It is this – number two. Is there a way out of this? Of course there is, but it is not easy. I want you to imagine an organising body that has to send a sports team to the home of the most fanatical fans on Earth. A nation that is almost mystical in its approach to this sport, and the owner of the world’s biggest sponsorships and influence. And in this team you choose the following (and I include their schools for obvious reasons):
• • • • • • •
A black man from CBC Pretoria A coloured man from Plumstead High in the Cape A white man from Merensky High in Phalaborwa A black man from St Stithian’s College A white man from Vereeniging Gimnasium A practising Muslim from DHS Another Muslim from Pakistan whose school is not listed on the web • An Afrikaner from Affies • A white man from KES There are others in this team but let’s stick with this motley crew. I have included a picture of these men in the programme. They are, of course, about 80% of the Proteas team that is competing so well in India at the moment. They failed on Wednesday, as you know, but in a tight game. The names of the above are Phangiso, Duminy, Steyn, Rabada, Morkel, Amla, Tahir, de Villiers and de Kock. What would you have said 20 years ago if I had given you a description of this team? I am not sure if there would have been a great deal of comprehension. Did I mention that they are coached by a coloured man who doesn’t even have a Wikipedia page? I love this photo for a number of reasons. It is quite clear to me that this is a team. They are without the legends of Kirsten, Kallis, Boucher and Smith. But they are competing, and competing well – without expectation. They can teach us something. In fact, they can teach us a great deal, and it is incumbent on us to learn from them. To look at the dynamics of the team and how they work, and to start applying them to everything else. They are equals. In the photo the old pro is obviously as delighted as anyone that the new young player has done so well. It almost doesn’t matter that the one is white and the other black. The single fact that appears to be so important in the team is relationship and connection. Without bias and patronisation. Men looking to each other as part of a team and striving towards making each other look better. Pure and simple. I am quite taken by them. I didn’t expect to be but I have become a big fan. I love the way they interact, feel things together, celebrate and commiserate. I ask the boys whether this all sounds familiar and you will have heard these words a few times before. I, in turn, had heard before I arrived at Michaelhouse that there were many different types of boys here – rich and poor, small and big, black and white, sporty or not, and academic or not – but that this did not matter as we were all part of St Michael’s red-brick fortress and had to pull together because we were a small school. And we do. Very well indeed. I thank you for that, gentlemen, and I look forward to that continuing into the future.
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What is my point? It is this – number three. That I can only humbly ask of everyone here this morning that we do not listen to the drivel that is spoken so often in this country and indeed everywhere else on a daily basis. That, instead, we look to the positive side of the force and look to make the world better. To make it a more meaningful place and to give it a more human face. To look at our surroundings and our people as others elsewhere do and say that the difficulties don’t matter. To strive instead to supersede the nonsense and bias and bigotry that are everywhere. I would love to put this picture up everywhere and say: “Please, let’s strive towards this, as difficult as it is.” There is a huge responsibility for us as a school to look at the Men of Michaelhouse and to ask ourselves whether we are giving them the opportunity to develop themselves in terms of debate, argument and thought. As you know, this is a large part of ToMHS@125 and we dare not fail in this. There is another slant to this all, an environmental one, but one which Dr McCallum will speak to far more eloquently and persuasively than I can, and I leave this to him. To end this part, another quote, I am afraid, from Vince Lombardi (although others have claimed it too): “We are not born winners or losers but choosers.” And once we have made our choices, they then define us. Let us choose to look at the world and see possibility rather than failure. Let us choose to make the most of what we have – the blessings that the Lord showers on us, and the love and strength that He gives us – and give thanks, every day and all the time. Gratitude is a waning quality and it is time we brought it back in bucket loads. In that vein, and to end, I would like to give thanks for a fine year. To the Men of Michaelhouse, thank you for your vast potential for good, for your obvious enjoyment of each other and of our School, for your efforts and enthusiasm and charm. Thank you for the music of your laughter on campus and the joyful bellowing of your souls. I truly enjoy your company. To the class of 2015, as I said to you yesterday, your efforts have enhanced the reputation of Michaelhouse. Your efforts, be they on the sports field, in the theatre or studio, in the classroom or in the Houses, in the public domain or in the quiet spaces of your homes, have been commented on and appreciated. We truly will be sorry to see the back of you as a group, and will miss you when you are gone. To the parents, thank you for your support of your boys. For your enjoyment of their efforts and personalities, and for your thoughts for the School. Your support is something which we really appreciate. To all Old Michaelhousians. Before I arrived, I was asked whether I was ready for the onslaught from the Old Boys and their interference in the School. Well, that has turned 30
out to be stuff and nonsense. The odd one occasionally has a query but I have found these to be thoughtful and always directed at the greater good. Your devotion to, and enjoyment of, your alma mater and your peers is such a fine advert for the School. To the Board and Trust, what is left to say? To Jamie Inglis for his vision and energy and effort, we give thanks for endowments and developments and the capacity to dream. What a joy. To the other Trustees, thank you for your wisdom and knowledge. What a pleasure it is to be part of that team. To the Board, again I have been overwhelmed with the support and guidance given by each and every one of you. Thank you also for the space to do my job and your enjoyment of the old place. I would also like, in particular, to thank Gary Ralfe for our relationship. When I became a head those long years ago now, I was told by the old-timers that the most important relationship in a school is between the chairman of the board and the head of the school. Where this was dysfunctional, the school would suffer. I have always had the great fortune of working with wonderful chairmen, and Gary is certainly one of them. Wise, polite, firm, hugely capable and just so supportive, it is a great comfort to know that Gary is in the position. Furthermore, I look forward to working with you soon, Ant, and know that our good relationship will continue then for the good of the School. I am often asked whether we are still able to attract good staff to the School, which I must say always causes a little smile. “Of course we are,” is my answer – just look at them and what we achieve. Always professional, caring and enthusiastic, it has been one of the great joys of my life to work with the staff here. Guy Pearson said before I arrived that this would be the case and I have found it to be exactly that. At Assembly a few weeks ago, I went through the staff who were involved in the journeys, hikes and outings of the Outdoor Week – activities that are designed to take boys out of their comfort zones, and by association, staff as well. It is a mind-blowing exercise to do this and we gave grateful thanks on that day. Let’s give them all a hand, be they academic, administrative, ground, cleaning or support. Michaelhouse is a magnificent place because of your efforts and you are greatly appreciated. Then, to my family and in particular to Angela. Thank you for your support; for your forgiveness of, and patience with, grumpiness and mumbling; and for the odd attitude-adjustment klap. Thank you for your laughter and togetherness and love. I am not sure that I could even think of doing the job without the solid base at home. You all are the best. Lastly, ladies and gentlemen, for your attendance and patience with my sometimes windy speech, for your enjoyment of the School and what we do, I can only say thank you.
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teachers, we learnt how to stay upright. Finally, we were showered by the rain of responsibility, but together we tried our best to empty the boat of all of the water that threatened to sink it, so that when we returned to land, the ship would be in the same or in an even better condition than when we first set sail. The question that you have to ask is: was our voyage successful? If so, how can this success be measured? Is it quantifiable? Is it seen through our academic, sporting or cultural achievements? In my opinion, no. Our success is something that can’t be measured but can be seen. It can be seen through the passion and enthusiasm of the boys as they unite in singing Stars of the Morning in the Chapel, through the way that boys from different Blocks interact and then, in the next few years, through the incredible young men who will be leading our great School. The environment that we are leaving behind at the School is the greatest indication of our success – it is our legacy. Just as we seek to measure our own achievements, we also assess the success of the School during our watch. Our gauge is, of course, the School’s Vision. Is Michaelhouse producing “men of understanding, thought and culture”? Senior Prefect Ryan Anderson
Address by the Senior Prefect, Ryan Anderson Good afternoon, Rector, members of the Board, our guest of honour Dr Ian McCallum, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, and fellow young Men of Michaelhouse. “It’s not the going out of port but the coming in that determines the success of a voyage.” – Henry Ward Beecher Four years ago, the current Matrics and I embarked on a voyage. We left the luxuries of port and ventured into the unknown waters of Michaelhouse. We were on a cargo ship filled to the brim with nervousness and excitement, but the weightiest of all our baggage was our egos. But that is all just a memory. It’s not about who we were before the voyage, nor is it about the voyage itself. It is all about how our four-year voyage has moulded us into the people we are today. Along the way we did encounter some rough seas. In the early days, we were continuously bombarded by the wind of punishments, but with the aid of our prefects, we learnt to draw back our ego-filled sails and tack our way forward. The relentless onslaught of the waves of schoolwork soon took over, but with the aid of our
During the Youth Voices conference held at Michaelhouse this year, organised by Michaelhouse boys, a few of the boys were assigned the task of giving presentations on some of their own views of society. One of the boys was received so well that for the first time, a Michaelhouse boy was chosen to be an enrichment speaker at both St Anne’s and The Wykeham Collegiate – sharing his own formulated views on politics and the youth of South Africa. Clearly a young man of understanding, thought and culture. Among us there are currently archers, sailors, boxers, birders, mountain bikers, rock climbers, white-water rafters, clay-pigeon shooters, polo players, pilots, fishermen, a go-cart racer, two boys who are on the brink of qualifying for their gold President’s Award and the second-best public speaker in the world for his age. In the more conventional spheres, there are two South African schools hockey players, a South African schools golfer and a South African schools rugby player. On top of this, if you have been to a musical or theatrical event, you will have seen the wealth of exceptional talent that is on display. Is this not an indication of the diversity of culture among us? The ability of the boys to fulfil our Vision is astounding. And boys aren’t merely participating but rather excelling. In saying this, some of the boys here, particularly in Matric, might be feeling that they haven’t excelled at or
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achieved anything during their time here and that they have no legacy to leave behind, probably because they have no badges on their blazers or special ties to show for their success. This certainly is not the case. It was William Bruce Cameron who once said this powerful quote: “Not everything that can be counted counts and not everything that counts can be counted.” I would like to alter this slightly. At Michaelhouse, “not everything that can be counted counts, but each individual does count yet might not be counted”. Yes, it does appear that there is a close relationship between the state of the School and the School’s academic and sporting excellence, but I truly believe that it is more than that. It is my strong belief that the boys themselves – not their achievements, not their successes, but their influence – determine the current and future state of the School. This embraces all of the boys in the School, from E Block to A Block and from national sportsmen to boys with a blank blazer. Just because you haven’t been recognised for it does not mean that you haven’t excelled at it. If you venture back in time to when you were new boys, then I’m sure that you will agree. For me, I can clearly remember some situations which have helped to mould who I am today. For example, one day in E Block I was strolling across Main Quad to the dining hall – my lanyard swinging beside me, my oversized clothes flapping in the wind – when I walked past a Matric at the time. I greeted him, as is expected, but then what happened next really touched me: he greeted me back. A simple but sincere “sup G”, with a smile, aroused such exponential amounts of pride and joy inside of me that that moment is etched into my memory. Without even realising it, that Matric affected my life with a simple act of acknowledgement. I’m certain that every boy here, regardless of Block, has a similar story to relate to. The words of the Dalai Lama accounted for my next course of action: “Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into water, the actions of individuals can have far-reaching effects.” After that encounter with the Matric boy, I decided that when I was old enough to have people greeting me, I would strive to attempt to reciprocate those emotions in the people I interact with on a daily basis. Some of those boys might decide to do the same, passing on their joy to the next boy and then to the next boy, and so on. In theory, the ripple caused by this tiny pebble of acknowledgement, dropped unknowingly into the Michaelhouse pond, had the potential to flow through the School and contribute towards the general happiness and betterment of our great institution. The pond of
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Michaelhouse includes all of us seated here today. Now I’d like to ask the people who regard themselves as insignificant and unsuccessful a question: do you still believe that you’ve had no impact on this School? You might have positively affected the life of some of the boys and thus, contributed to the present and future success of Michaelhouse, yet remain oblivious to this fact. Everyone who enters and exits this School is significant. I can’t emphasise this fact more. I would be arrogant and ignorant to even consider that the reason I am standing here today was by my own doing. Thus, I am extremely grateful to the following people: To the Rector, management, numerous members of staff and especially Mr Bownes: thank you for the guidance that you afforded me to help me get through the year. To the teachers: I have huge admiration for you guys and for what you do for the boys. The role that you play in this School is far greater than just teaching the boys – you are also mentors. As a result, by the time the boys get to Matric, the relationship between the boys and the teachers is so strong that a bond forms which will last for many years to come. To Dalingcebo Maseko, my Second Prefect: my gratitude is immeasurable. I can honestly say that I would not have made it through this year without you. Whenever I was in need of assistance, you were always there. Although not many people have seen it, you have done so much for the School this year. From talking to the ground staff members to finding loopholes in the hair regulations, you were always proactive. You certainly are years ahead of your time. To my parents: my mom once told me about my dad’s horrified reaction when he found out that my mom was pregnant with twins – mainly due to the economic implications. I’m sure a similar feeling occurred when you realised that you would then be sending those twins plus an older brother through Michaelhouse. Therefore, I’d like to express my gratitude to you guys for the sacrifices that you’ve had to make to afford us the unique opportunity of attending this School. Over the last five years, this has been my motivation. I’ve tried my best to make you guys proud. I can only hope that one day I will be able to return the favour. To my brothers Nicky and Robbie (in his absence): thank you for always being there to support me. I’ve learnt a lot from you guys over the years – especially how to control my temper, how to punch and how to cope with severe teasing, and I clearly still have a lot to learn from you, considering that I’m the only brother left without a girlfriend. Seriously, thank you for being such selfless, kind and caring brothers.
Speech Day
Now our voyage is drawing to a close. In just a few weeks, we will drop anchor in the next port of our journey. The sun will rise on our clear, indelible memories. Memories that will have the potential to clear
away the darkness in the gloomiest of days. Memories of passion, pride and devotion. Memories crowned as immortal. Memories of Michaelhouse.
Ladies and gentlemen, teachers and boys, it is a huge privilege for me to be standing here today and to be addressing Michaelhouse. I want to say thank you to Sally Berriman for her arrangements and for getting me safely to Michaelhouse. When your headmaster, Greg Theron, invited me to speak at this event, he sent me an email. “Ian” he said, “ I would love you to leave the boys with a message that they would think about … something to fight for.” This is the third time that I have been to Michaelhouse. I addressed the School about five or six years ago and before that I was asked to come and do some coaching for the Michaelhouse rugby team on the eve of their game against Hilton. It was in the year, 1974. If I remember correctly, I don’t think my suggestions helped very much. Now, I don’t have to remind you young men that this is an extraordinary school. To be shown around the grounds today, to go up onto the high points of the hills and to look down onto the architecture and surroundings – I wonder how many of you realise how incredibly privileged you are. If you do not know that now, I have no doubt, in time to come, you will.
Guest of Honour Dr Ian McCallum
Address by the Guest of Honour, Dr Ian McCallum It has been a privilege to be a party to some remarkable presentations from this platform today, and to be witness to some amazing awards. Well done, young men. Today is your day. You are being honored for your hard work. I’m so pleased to see that one or two of you will be finishing school this year because, if you weren’t you would be needing replacement blazers for the ones that have not kept up with your growth spurts. For those of you in this audience who didn’t get prizes, I would like to assure you of something important: your turn will come. I promise you, it might not be an academic prize but there will be time when you will be acknowledged for something you have achieved in your own way - an act, a qualification or even a dream. Be ready for your talent.
In his generous introduction this morning, your head boy, Ryan outlined my various qualifications and escapades over the years. I have to confess that I still feel like a young boy who is not quite sure what he wants to be when he grows up. I sometimes feel that I could give rugby a go … and then I think about Patrick Lambie. I want to tell you in Patrick Lambie, you have a very cool ambassador for Michaelhouse playing in the present Springbok team. Watching him play and listening to him speak is to hear the makings of a future Springbok captain. As you know, today is the last day of formal school for the matriculants. I realised this fact this morning when I found myself in the middle of a storm of water bombs, foam and water pistols. Anarchy had been let loose. People were being “shot” at, running in all directions, and I was told very quickly to get out of the way. I realised that this was not a typical day at Michaelhouse. However, something did strike me as hugely important. I was told that there was only one condition for this “anarchy”: do no harm. Don’t break anything. Don’t hurt anybody. I think that is a wonderful and precious admonition. In other words, have your fun, your excesses, let your hair down, but do no harm. It is a lesson in life.
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Speech Day
This morning, I sat in on a special assembly. Your headmaster was addressing you all on a rather serious issue. It involved a particular event that happened not too far from here. As you know, it occurred at your neighbouring school. It was a boyhood prank that went “viral” on social media. Your headmaster was asking you to refrain from getting involved in any kind of media commentary regarding that event. Stay out of it. In effect, he was saying “Don’t get involved in a situation where everyone gets hurt”. This is a law of the wild which I will come to during the course of my presentation. Meanwhile, what I most appreciated about Greg Theron’s appeal to you was that he was drawing attention to the fact that the identity of that school is intimately linked to that of Michaelhouse. The two schools, he said, are like two sides of the same coin. This is another way of saying that your and my identity as individuals is impossible to define outside of our relationships, not only to other people but, as I will outline today, your relationships to landscapes and to the animals. We shape them as much as they shape us. In other words, what happened “across the road” earlier this week could easily have happened to us. It affects us. It was a prank, a prank that caused harm. Albeit unintentional, it was a prank that lacked dignity. When this happens, the dignity of the offended is demeaned and harmed. It does not matter that it was a symbolic act. Yes, it was a prank. Sadly, this is what we do as young men, these are the kind of silly things we do. Should they be forgiven? Of course! Why? Because we all have it in us do the same. It could easily have been us. The lesson: be careful and, above all, do no harm. Bringing the morning assembly to a close, the headmaster finished off with a very special instruction. Can you remember it? He said “I want you guys to polish your shoes.” Why would he say that? I will suggest that he did so not simply to draw your attention to looking smart on Speech Day but to show respect for shoes. That’s why. Your shoes get you around you know and to treat them and your clothing with respect, believe me, goes a hell of a long way into demonstrating the respect you will show for your fellow beings. Right now I would like to address your parents. I would like to say well done to you. You must be feeling incredibly proud that you are here to witness your sons on the receiving end of these prizes. We all, in our own way pray for our sons (and daughters) but as we all know, deep down, every father and every mother praying for his or her son is also praying for themselves. We do so because we know that when they leave this school they are going to make mistakes, as we did. I would hope that these prayers are not for a guardian angel to somehow protect them from exposure to the same mistakes you and I made. Rather, they are prayers that our sons will grow from their mistakes, that they will learn from them. As it is with your parents, many of your teachers will be
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asking the same question: what will become of you when you leave this school? What happened to your talent? I would like to think this poem by Rumi: Has Anyone Seen the Boy? is about you: Has anyone seen the boy who used to come here?/ Round-faced trouble maker, quick to find a joke, slow/ to be serious. Red shirt,/ perfect coordination, sly,/ strong muscles, with things always in his pocket:/ Reed flute, ivory pick, polished and ready for his talent./ You know that one./ Have you heard stories about him?/ Pharaoh and the whole Egyptian world/ collapsed for such a Joseph. I’d gladly spend years getting word / of him, even third- or fourth-hand. Boys, I want to ask you to look around at the people – teachers, friends and family – who have shaped your lives while you have been at this school. I will then ask you to look inside of you and to remember the growing adolescent boy you are right now, because as you get older I can promise you that young boy will not go away – that boy who was on the brim of his talent, each of you expressing it in his own way. And, yes, you will change as you get older. About two years ago at a reunion of Springbok rugby players somebody came up to me and looked at me and then asked: “Didn’t you used to be Ian McCallum?” How do you answer a question like that? I wanted to tell him that I am still here, that I’m still Ian McCallum. And then it occurred to me that I am not the same person I was 40 years ago. Yes, I have changed as I believe we all should and will, but there is something that remains. It is indelible. It is that young boy, the adolescent, waiting for his talent. I sometimes ask myself: what happened to that boy? Did I become an old fart? I hope not. An old fart is somebody who announces himself by telling others how much experience he’s got compared with them. His hidden message is very clear: he knows better. He knows more than you. Be careful of that as you get older. I want you to know that I feel good about the young people in our country today. I feel good about the intellect and intelligence in this hall. I feel good about your teachers. I feel inspired when I hear young boys combining so beautifully on their marimbas, as they did this morning. It was fantastic. For what it is worth, I have come here today to say to you that I would like to help you in whichever way I can to take up the challenge which Greg Theron has given you in his address this morning. Yes, we certainly do have a long way to go in this country and it is up to us – the older generation – to help you to deal with our country’s issues (social and ecological) in your way, not simply in our way.
Speech Day
I want to share with you a couple of great learning experiences in my life. One of them relates to Greg Theron’s instruction this morning – not to get involved in the recent social media frenzy. It is a law of the wild. In 1981 I did my very first Wilderness Leadership School trail in the Umfolozi. It changed my life. Prior to that the only contact I had ever had with wild animals was from behind the comfort and safety of the windscreen of a vehicle. This was different. Once you’re out there walking in the wild, everything changes. You hear differently, you smell differently, you see differently. I knew in that wilderness area that I had come home, that I had found my spiritual home. I could not articulate this at that time. All I knew was that I had been humbled. I was humbled at the feeling of what it means to be a guest in the wilderness – that I was not superior to the animals, who have been around a lot longer than me. On the third night of our four-night trail, Makhuba Ntombela, the great mentor and friend of Ian Player, came to me and said to me: “Doctor Ian, I have a gift for you.” He brought me the branch of a tree. It was a branch of a Ziziphus mucronata. Its Zulu name is mpafa. In English it is the buffalo thorn, and in Afrikaans the blinkblaar-wag-’n-bietjie. It is one of the typical haak en steek thorns. The thorns say: “Wag ’n bietjie.” (Wait a while, slow down.) He said it was a gift to me because it will tell me how to live my life. He pointed out that on every branch there are two rows of thorns, one row pointing robustly outwards and forwards and another row which hooks backwards. He told me that the thorns which point forwards and outwards will tell me to follow my dreams and to think of the future generations. The ones that hook backwards say: never forget where you have come from. It is in this light that I will ask you never to forget you are Michaelhouse boys. May the wind be in your face. May you think of future generations, but may you never forget where you have come from, how you were shaped by this school, its teachers and your colleagues, and how, in your way, you have shaped them. Don’t forget that. Through Makhuba, I was able to see wild things a little differently, and you know what you learn from the wild? You learn from wild animals the very lessons that your grandmother taught you. I will give you the rules of the wild as I know them. One: listen before you are heard; see before you are seen. Have you heard that before? Watch an impala when it comes down to the water hole. It looks around. It listens. The next law relates specifically to the assembly which I was speaking about this morning: never get involved in an unnecessary conflict. If you do and if it’s unnecessary, the chances are you’re going to get hurt. What’s the point of showing your dominance, of showing off, of getting involved in a fight in which you’re going to be the one spending weeks licking wounds? Don’t get involved in unnecessary conflict means: think of the bigger picture before you’re going to get involved.
However, linked to this is another law: if you are going to get involved in a conflict, make sure you know exactly what it is that you are protecting. Think about the wild and what the animals protect. They protect their young and they will protect their territory. I expect everyone of us here will do the same. Apart from our young, I would like to suggest that you protect your values and more – that you protect those that cannot speak for themselves. It is in this light that I will ask, in the form of a challenge, that you will fight for and protect the integrity of the natural environment. It is the overriding message of what I wish to leave for you today. On 24 December 1968, circling the moon just six months prior to the very first human landing, three American astronauts witnessed the iconic image of the Earth rising above the lunar horizon. On board that Apollo 8 mission were Commander Frank Borman, William Anders and James Lovell. William Anders was the first person to see it. Looking out of his tiny window he saw something blue rising above the curving landscape of the moon. “Oh my god,” he said. “Just look at that. Isn’t that pretty. It’s the Earth rising.” James Lovell, when he saw it, did something extraordinary. He held out his arm, extended his thumb, blocking out the Earth. He then said: “Behind my thumb is all the known life in the known universe.” To know what has happened in the nearly 50 years since that image was captured is to show you what we all need to be fighting for. In the last 50 years the human population worldwide has doubled. Fifty percent of the world’s forests, wetlands and peat beds have vanished; 400 000 km² of permanent Arctic ice has disappeared. 2015 is destined to become the hottest year on human record. And as for our wild animals, I’m afraid the story is no different. In the last 50 years the total population of the world’s wild animals has halved. Africa’s iconic elephants are dying at the rate of one animal every five hours for their ivory. Rhinos are dying at the rate of one animal every eight hours for their horn. What kind of madness is this? It was Einstein who said there are only two certainties. One is the infinity of the universe and the other is the infinity of human stupidity. He then added: “Sometimes I am not sure of the universe.” So, what is this about? I’m issuing a challenge. When we no longer shudder at the warning calls of science and biological science, there is only one other voice that is left that can possibly awaken us. And that is the voice of the poets. And when I say the poets I am not talking about those individuals who are talented in the writing of rhyme and verse. I am talking of those individuals who have discovered within themselves a voice that can speak with outrage, anger, beauty, care and compassion, all in the same breath. Only poetry can do that. It is, after all, a language of protest, but it is also a language of hope. It was Wordsworth who said: “Upon all poets is laid the
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Speech Day
duty of hope.” Listen. There is a poet in every single one of us. I really mean that. There is a poet in each of you. It is that voice in you that, once awakened, rhymes naturally with the wind, with the rain, with the oceans, with the sun. It’s that voice in you that knows, without having been taught or advised, that you and I are living museums of the entire history of life on our planet. It is the voice in you that knows that every living thing is connected. I don’t have to give you the breakdown of the DNA ratios, but we are bound by a common DNA language to every living thing. We come from the wilderness. What a responsibility. What a privilege. In 2012, together with a great friend, Ian Michler, I undertook a 5 000km journey through six southern African countries on foot, bicycle and kayak. We called our expedition Tracks of Giants, where the giants are elephants. The reason we chose the elephants was because we asked this question: if we cannot protect something this big, how on earth are we going to protect the little things? When the journey was over I understood more fully the concept of keystone species – species whose removal from the ecological equation spells collapse for the ecosystems in which they exist. The word “keystone” describes the wedge-shaped stone at the top of an arch. If it is removed, the arch collapses. It is a powerful metaphor. Bees are keystone species. So are beetles. Elephants are a keystone species. Take them out of the equation and the negative effect on many other creatures will be profound. Take elephant dung, for example. In the dry season, elephant dung provides moisture for countless species of moths, insects and butterflies. The undigested food and seeds in the dung is a food source for hornbills, francolins, guinea foul, baboons. And, lest we forget, because of those same, undigested seeds, elephants are technically speaking among Africa’s biggest tree planters. Where an elephant walks becomes a fire break. Here is the question of human beings: are we a keystone species? No. The answer is a categorical no. If you and I were to disappear today, nothing on this planet would miss us. Nothing. Your dog might miss you for a while before going feral. Don’t even worry about your cat. Yes, there are various creatures that might have to make one or two adjustments, like shrimp. Shrimp live in high concentrations off the coast of India, where they feed expectantly on human faeces washed down in the rivers, to the sea. I don’t know about you but I feel rather sad about that diagnosis or, if you prefer, prognosis. Why? Because there is something in me that says “No!” And herein is the challenge to all of us in the audience. If we are not a keystone species, how about being keystone individuals?
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How about being individuals who will be missed when they are gone? How about being individuals who make a difference to the lives of others, to the lives of animals, to the well-being of our oceans and landscapes? Do you have it in you to dream big? Do you have it in you to be a keystone individual? I believe there are some in this audience today. And I know there are those who will become keystone individuals. I think you know who I am talking to. Please know, however, that there are many keystone individuals out there in the world already, doing the work – individuals who know that behind their thumb is all the known life in the known universe; individuals who know that our tiny blue oasis in a tiny corner of the Milky Way galaxy is a garden, a gift and a miracle. They are individuals who are willing to be disturbed – to stand firm in the knowledge that there are some things that are simply not for sale. Do you have that in you? To the young men of Michaelhouse, if there is anything that I would ask of you it is this: that you be a voice for the voiceless, for the silenced and for that which has been silenced in yourself. May the wind be in your faces, and may you be ever mindful of where you have come from and of what you are leaving for future generations. But above all, do no harm. I wrote this poem. It is called The Rising. It is for you. One day your soul will call to you with a holy rage. “Rise up!” it will say … “Stand up inside your own skin.” Unmask your unlived life … Feast on your animal heart. Unfasten your fist … Let loose the medicines in your own hand. Show me the lines … I will show you the spoor of the ancestors. Show me the creases … I will show you the way to water. Show me the folds … I will show you the furrows for your healing. “Look!” it will say … The line of life has four paths – one with a mirror one with a mask, one with a fist, one with a heart. One day, your soul will call to you
Speech Day
SUBJECT PRIZES A BLOCK ACCOUNTING First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Robert Wood Diligence: Dasyan Nair AFRIKAANS First in Subject: Zander Prinsloo Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Michael Riddell Diligence: Thomas Greig, Charles Houston, Michael Riddell, Matt Saulez, Johann Winkelmann COMPUTER APPLICATIONS TECHNOLOGY First in Subject: Robert Wood Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Michael Riddell Diligence: Devan Cowley DRAMATIC ARTS First in Subject: Zander Prinsloo Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Nick Elliot Diligence: Sduduzo Buthelezi ECONOMICS First in Subject: Charles Houston Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Lesedi Mokoena Diligence: Ryan Anderson, Christian Botha, Thomas Greig, Charles Houston ENGINEERING AND GRAPHICS DESIGN First in Subject: David Geard Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Fergus Johnson, Qhayiya Lujiva Diligence: Justin Miller ENGLISH First in Subject: Christian Botha Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Duncan Boyes Diligence: Ryan Anderson, Geoffrey Brink, Mark Hadley-Grave, Jeremy Tratschler, Robert Wood FRENCH First in Subject: Ibukunoluwa Shonibare Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Ibukunoluwa Shomibare Diligence: Devan Cowley
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GEOGRAPHY First in Subject: Thomas Greig Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Luke Judge, Michael Riddell, James Smith Diligence: Gillespie Dougall, Thomas Greig, Justin Miller, Daniel Roberts HISTORY First in Subject: Charles Houston, Nicholas van Niekerk Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Kurt Martin Diligence: Thomas Greig INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Ross Laing Diligence: Wesley Biggs ISIZULU First in Subject: Thandokuhle Mnguni Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Thebeetsile Magashula Diligence: Thandokuhle Mnguni LIFE ORIENTATION First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Matthew Whelan LIFE SCIENCES First in Subject: Ryan Anderson Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Ryan Anderson, Dante Ceronio, Jeremy Tratschler Diligence: Mark Hadley-Grave, Samuel Jarvis, Bradley Young ADVANCED PROGRAMME MATHEMATICS First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Charles Houston Diligence: Jordan Van Rees MATHEMATICS First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan, Blake Springate Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Lesedi Mokoena Diligence: Rory Allan, Wesley Biggs, Brandon Mottram, Daniel Roberts, Blake Springate MATHEMATICAL LITERACY First in Subject: Bradley Young Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Michael Riddell Diligence: Luke Crouch, Stewart Grant MUSIC First in Subject: Van Wyk Venter
Speech Day
Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): James Newton Diligence: Ben Adey, Stefano Raciti PHYSICAL SCIENCE First in Subject: Daryn Flanegan Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Jonathan Henderson Diligence: Richard Beckett, Jonathan Henderson, Brandon Mottram, Daniel Roberts VISUAL ARTS First in Subject: Christian Botha Most Improved Mark (November 14 – Trials 15): Frank Goble, Matthew Lewis, Murray Williamson Diligence: Christian Botha
AGGREGATE PRIZES MERIT CERTIFICATES: (80% and over) Ben Adey, Nicholas Anderson, Ryan Anderson, Richard Beckett, Wesley Biggs, Christian Botha, Dante Ceronio, Daryn Flanegan, Thomas Greig, Nicholas Harrison, Charles Houston, Dalingcebo Maseko, Michael McCarthy, Zander Prinsloo, Blake Springate, Nicholas van Niekerk, Van Wyk Venter, Johann Winkelmann Most Improved Aggregate: Michael Riddell TOP ACHIEVERS IN THE A BLOCK Third in Block: Christian Botha Second in Block: Charles Houston First in Block: Daryn Flanegan GABRIELLE MASSEY PRIZES (Awarded for Oral Work in English) Ben Adey, Jack Hird, Stewart Grant, Dalingcebo Maseko and Matthew Whelan
SPECIAL PRIZES Rector’s English Verse Prize: Christian Botha Old Boys’ Essay Prize (English): Christian Botha J L Sisson Memorial Prize (English): Nicholas Forster Stubbings-Dyson Prize (Mathematics): Bongi Fleischer Bishop Baines Memorial Essay (For Service in the Chapel): Mfolozi Dlamini Michael Barry English Prize: Christian Botha Proctor Science Award (Physical and Life Sciences): Ryan Anderson isiZulu Progress Prize (Senior): Kagiso Motau (Junior): Lesedi Letebele Hindson History Essay: Charles Houston Peter Bell Memorial Prize (English Literature): Nicholas van Niekerk
W R Hindson Prize (English Literature): Christian Botha Nedbank Life Sciences Prize (Top Biologist in 2015): Joshua Cullinan Rector’s Afrikaans Essay: Zander Prinsloo P D Barnard Memorial Afrikaans Prize (Senior): Zander Prinsloo, (Junior): Nkandu Chibwe Tatham Memorial Essay (Best Life Sciences essay): Dante Ceronio John Allen Memorial Art Prize (Drawing): Frank Goble Godfrey Immelman Mathematics Prize: Christopher Broadley Hutchinson Memorial Mathematics Prize (Senior): Daryn Flanegan, (Junior): Murray Finlay Music Prize (Senior): Jonathan Henderson, (Junior): James Harrison Collins Prize for Music (All-round musicianship): Van Wyk Venter Marie-France Ralfe Music Trophy (Classical Music): Van Wyk Venter Peter Beard Memorial Music Prize (Excellence in music performance): Richard Johnsen Smithies’ Shield for Vocal Arts: Richard Johnsen J L Robinson Award (Physical Science): Ben Adey Kevin King Memorial Award (Science Project): Nicholas Harrison Biffs-Smith Family Award (Sodalis Digmus) For a non-School Prefect who best demonstrates qualities of care, compassion, concern and communication: Nicholas Anderson Des Sacco Award (For best all-round A Block sportsman as voted by his peers): Matt Saulez Andrew Henderson Prize (For Agriculture): Wesley Biggs Andrew Crutchley Memorial Award (Leadership on the C Block Journey 2015): Keynan Knox Michaelhouse IT Award: Robert Wood Natural History Society Prize: Tristan Herwood Richard Hedden Memorial Prize (Service): Thomas Greig Tim Patrick Memorial Prize (Contribution to societies): Thomas Greig Peter Brown Service Award: Thomas Witherspoon Chick Henderson Award: Thomas Price Rex and Sarah Pennington Award: Matthew Watson Rob Matthews Award (Courage in the face of personal adversity): Jonathan Henderson Herbert Fisher Award (Best aggregate in the June examinations): Daryn Flanegan Chree Bright Award: Mkuzo Kuwani Anthony Evans Trophy (Dux 2014): Robert Perrott
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Academic Reports
Michaelhouse writes the examinations of the Independent Examination Board (IEB). The standards of the IEB are held in high regard by international and South African tertiary institutions. In their first two years at Michaelhouse, boys participate in a non-specialist academic programme where some of the subjects that are regarded as core disciplines are combined into broader learning areas. This exposure to broader areas of learning enables boys to make an informed decision about the subject package chosen for their matriculation course. A package of seven subjects is then selected for a three-year course, from C Block through to A Block (Grade 10 to Grade 12). A large number of subject package options offer the opportunity to gain a National Senior Certificate with university entrance dispensation. Our 570ha classroom allows for a myriad of opportunities to develop academic discipline in an educational environment specifically geared towards the ways in which boys learn.
ACADEMIC REPORT The Matric class of 2015 achieved an excellent set of results. When considering the majority of popular measures of academic excellence, these results can be viewed as the most successful in IEB boys’ schools nationwide. The number of distinctions achieved per boy over the last four years has been consistently above two per boy and 85% of all subject results have been A, B or C symbols. This consistent excellence is a very welcome and exceptionally encouraging trend and reflects the endeavour and focus of the boys and staff. Of the 115 boys who wrote the exam: 112 achieved degree entry certificates (97% university entrance passes - 95% in 2014). Three boys achieved diploma entry certificates. 100% of the boys passed. Twenty six boys achieved an aggregate of 80% or above (27 in 2014). Forty two achieved an aggregate of between 70% and 80% (43 in 2014). The average aggregate mark was 72% (72 % in 2014). Daryn Flanegan is the Dux with eight distinctions and an aggregate of 91%, his results: 97% for Maths 96% for Physical Science 94% for Information Technology
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93% for Accounting 92% for Life Orientation 84% for Advanced Programme Maths 82% for English 82% for Afrikaans Christian Botha is the Proxime Accessit with seven distinctions and an aggregate of 90%, his results: 97% for Visual Arts 94% for Economics 91% for English 89% for Mathematics 87% for Life Orientation 86% for Afrikaans 82% for Physical Science 76% for Advanced Programme English Charles Houston achieved a place on the “IEB Commendable List” for placing in the top 5% nationally in five subjects. Candidates placed in the top 1% nationally in the IEB examinations as follows: Zander Prinsloo – Afrikaans Christian Botha – Economics Nicholas van Niekerk – English Christian Botha – English Ngcebo Maseko – English Blake Springate – Geography Nicholas Anderson – Geography Daryn Flanegan – LO
Academic Reports
2015 Dux, Daryn Flanegan
2015 Proxime Accessit, Christian Botha
Thando Mnguni – LO Blake Springate – LO Daryn Flanegan – Mathematics (97%) Blake Springate – Mathematics (97%) Daryn Flanegan – Physical Science (96%) Christian Botha – Visual Arts (97%)
Drama 56 % (9 of 16) History 50% (8 of 16) isiZulu 47% (8 of 17) EGD 47% (7 of 15) Computer Applications Technology 40% (4 of 10) Life Orientation 39% (45 of 115) Accounting 37% (7 of 19) Advanced Programme Mathematics 33% (6 of 18) Mathematics 33% (28 of 86) Visual Arts 33% (3 of 9)
Another very noteworthy result was Johann Winkelmann’s 97% for German. Subject Symbol Scores: A
B
C
D
E
F
G
276
241
199
90
24
18
1
Subject A symbols per boy: 2,4 (2,3 in 2014) 33% of all subject symbols were A (31% in 2014) 61% of all subject symbols were A or B (61% in 2014) 84% of all subject symbols were A, B or C (85% in 2014) There were 58 subject results of 90% or over (48 in 2014). There were 27 subject results of 79%. Subjects with one third or more candidates obtaining a distinction: German 100% (1 of 1) Information Technology 80% (12 of 15) Mathematical Literacy 75% (30 of 40) Music 57% (4 of 7)
Top Achievers – Number of Distinctions earned by the following boys: 8 Subjects Daryn Flanegan Ben Adey 7 Subjects Nicholas Anderson Ryan Anderson Richard Beckett Wesley Biggs Christian Botha Charles Houston Zander Prinsloo Nicholas van Niekerk 6 Subjects Geoffrey Blore Dante Ceronio
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Academic Reports
MICHAELHOUSE SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
Thomas Greig Nicholas Harrison Ngcebo Maseko Blake Springate 5 Subjects John Haines Jack Hird Richard Johnsen Thando Mnguni Bruce Rouillard Van Wyk Venter Johann Winkelmann 4 Subjects Thomas Brink Joshua Cullinan Robert Dean Thomas Fenn Jonathan Henderson Justin Miller Pule Ngwenya Ryan Price Daniel Roberts Robert Wood
Michaelhouse provides a range of merit-based scholarships for students of outstanding academic, musical, sporting and all-round ability. Awards are made to boys entering Michaelhouse in Grade 8 and are valid for the five-year duration of their career at Michaelhouse, subject to an acceptable level of performance. The Academic Scholarship examination is written by invitation, at Michaelhouse, and awards are based upon the candidate’s performance in the Scholarship examination. Sports Scholarship awards are based upon the submission of a curriculum vitae and personal sport assessment conducted at the School. The Music Scholarship awards are based upon the submission of a satisfactory curriculum vitae and an audition with an external adjudicator. Candidates for scholarships in 2015 were of an extremely high calibre and Michaelhouse takes great pleasure in announcing the following scholarship awards:
MICHAELHOUSE SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS Scholarship
Awarded to
Prep School
Major Open
Hamish Henderson
Cordwalles Prep
Minor Open
Richard Taylor
Clifton Prep (Durban)
Major Trust
Ruben Mitchell
Hillcrest Primary School
Minor Trust
James Moodie
Merchiston Prep
Open Exhibition
Luke van Rooyen
Clifton Prep (NR)
The Ridge Closed
James Gush
The Ridge Prep
Clifton Closed (Durban)
Ben Rebeck
Clifton Prep (Durban)
Pridwin Closed
Greg Jacobs
Pridwin Prep
Music
James Harrison
Drakensberg Boys’ Choir
Sports Exhibition
Thamsanqa Zakwe
Merchiston Prep
Sports Exhibition
Kethelihle Khoza
Merchiston Prep
Sports Exhibition
Luc Pousson
Merchiston Prep
Sports Exhibition
Siyanda Mkhize
Merchiston Prep
Sports Exhibition
Guy Daugherty
Cordwalles Prep
Sports Exhibition
Tobin Versfeld
The Ridge Prep
Major All Rounder
Liam Fourie
Merchiston Prep
Minor All Rounder
Tyler Grant
DPHS
“Professor Durrant first addressed the school and then gave us an entertaining talk, explaining that he had become a University lecturer because he was too scared to become a schoolmaster.” The Chronicle, 1957
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Academic Reports
VISUAL ARTS Head of Department: Ms Jenni Maurice-Green Staff: Mrs Candice Roodt-Smith, Mr Sandile Sibiya Support Staff: Ms Mbali Nxumalo Awards Honours: Christian Botha Colours: David Armstrong, Frank Goble, Samuel Jarvis, Matthew Lewis, Murray Williamson, Kurt Martin Half Colours: Rowan Mockler The year can be characterised as one of flux. Ms Joy Preiss sadly left Michaelhouse after 12 years to take up the post of head of department of Visual Arts at St Anne’s Diocesan College. Ms Jenni Maurice-Green moved up from Bergvliet High School in Cape Town to fill the position at the beginning of the Lent quarter in April. With the changing of teachers, the maintenance department agreed to give the Art School a longneeded paint, which turned into a mammoth interior facelift. The Matrics left behind the lime green and purple colour scheme of their studio and returned a month later from their trial exams to a monochromatic stone and charcoal studio shell ripe for showing off their soon-to-be-created exam practicals. The downstairs studio was eventually completed by half-term of the Christmas quarter. Mr Sibiya was invaluable in his readying of the ceramics and metalwork studios for our new crop of C Block boys; Ms Nxumalo worked tirelessly clearing out storerooms and mopping up never-ending dust piles; and Mrs RoodtSmith helped to redecorate the Art Lecture Theatre and create a gallery of Old Boys’ work.
Rowan Mockler at work on a series of portraits in charcoal and white conté
Unfortunately, with the Tatham Art Gallery undergoing its own renovations at the beginning of the year, the annual KwaZulu-Natal Matric exhibition did not take place this year. However, the schools of the Midlands Art Cluster created their own Matric exhibition, held at Hilton College in March and April. Our boys were well represented, with Kyle Baird, Jonty Doyle, Damon Hinchley and Ruger Lin of the 2014 Matrics and David Armstrong, Christian Botha, Frank Goble, Samuel Jarvis and Murray Williamson of the 2015 Matrics showcasing
David Armstrong's Michaelhouse pedigree in pencil and aquarelle
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Academic Reports
and their creative odyssey. Joy reminded the gathering of a speech made in 2011 by John Hunt, a past parent who started the international brand communications company, Hunt Lascaris. She mentioned three points in particular that he had made about the value of art-making: that it teaches us about ourselves; that it gives us the precious gift of time with ourselves; and that it demands that we think differently because it forces us to connect with our inner selves – something that we are distracted from by today’s busy world. Many of the exhibition viewers commented on the honesty, depth and courage displayed in the art and that the walls of the gallery revealed many of the boys’ deepest and most sensitive areas. During the time that followed the speeches, a crowd of boys from all Blocks gathered around Joy, soaking up her joyfulness. This was indeed a highlight in our year. Another exhibition and competition at which our students exhibited their work was the IEB Matric exhibition at the ArtSpace Gallery in Durban in August. Christian Botha, A Block, was approached by the gallery to sell some of his work – a phenomenal achievement. Christian went on alongside Rowan Mockler, B Block, to enter the Cape Town Creative Academy’s Young Creatives Competition – a first for Michaelhouse – through the personal invitation of the academy’s director, Mr Gustav Vermeulen. It was wonderful to see our boys pitting themselves against the best young artists in the province and country.
Top: The senior art studio, a creatively vibrant space Bottom: Frank Goble's Surplus and Scarcity
their work. The C, B and A Blocks attended the opening of the exhibition in March. The Schlesinger Gallery held a number of exhibitions during the year, including the 2014 C Block portraits, the D Block soft-pastel still-life drawings and the A Block portfolio pieces. The second annual B Block Michaelhouse-Treverton College exhibition was held in September and this year, included the C Block from both schools. It was a great success and was opened by Winterton artist Corina Lemmer, who shared her thoughts on the benefits and self-growth opportunities offered by creativity. The exhibition’s opening was well attended by the staff, pupils and parents of both schools. These exhibitions have proved valuable in exposing our boys to the process of exhibiting their own art as well as in showcasing the work of the Art School to the Michaelhouse community and visitors to the School. Our final Matric exhibition was opened on 15 October by Joy Preiss, who had been such a vital part of the 2015 class
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We have continued to diversify the activities that our boys are doing in Art as well as expose them to the work of local and international artists through the visiting of art galleries and artists’ studios. We have also held a number of workshops during the year. The A Block attended a weekend drawing workshop in January with Jeanette Gilks at Jane Renton’s farm, Rietvlei, in Estcourt, and the B and C Blocks both attended one-day, in-house workshops on expressive drawing. The C Block visited Groundcover to learn about the making of shoes in preparation for a project in which they made their own shoes out of recycled material. The D Block finished the year off with an inter-class recycled sculpture competition, which yielded some very exciting creations. We are happy to say that the number of boys taking Art this year grew significantly, resulting in the introduction of two streams of Visual Art in C Block. Mrs Roodt-Smith took on a larger teaching load because she teaches one of the C Block classes and B Block Art History. Mr Sibiya assisted in teaching the practical component of the B Block with Ms Maurice-Green, bringing with him his expertise in Photoshop and drawing. It was quite exciting to realise that we would need to be very creative in the design of both upstairs and downstairs studio space to accommodate each senior with his own work area. In future, this may be a distinct luxury.
Academic Reports
DRAMATIC ARTS
still able to depict his humour.
Head of Department: Mrs Asha Royappen Staff: Mr William le Cordeur
The performance by Zander Prinsloo was the showstopper: he executed each intricate movement and gesture of his character clearly, sharply and sincerely. He played the role of an ape who is taught to be human-like but then reverts to his feral ways when his boundaries are pushed. It is the best monologue I have ever seen performed by a boy. There was definitely some sorcery that night as Zander cast his spell on the audience, bewitching us with his phenomenal performance.
Once again, last year’s A Block set the bar very high with an incredible 75% average in the final IEB examinations. With the 2015 A Block having observed the exemplary standard of work, they knew they had to follow suit. Not only did they meet the challenge, but the standard was surpassed in certain areas. The boys’ creative freedom and expression of thought are greatly encouraged in the Drama space. This allows them to be in awe of what they are able to produce and leads to the development of new and interesting pieces each year. The passion and eagerness of the boys is infectious and gratifying, since it is the boys’ creative spirits that lead to superb and novel portrayals. The A Block boys’ year ended with dynamic performances in their practical examination. On 17 October, they performed the examination for an external examiner, Mrs Meg Logan. She was very impressed with the standard and commended the department for the variety of genres explored.
The boys attended several productions during the year. They are fortunate that we have our own theatre, which means they do not have to travel to watch brilliant dramatic arts. B Block also attended Jongosi Day, which is part of the Hilton Arts Festival. The boys were occupied for that day attending workshops and seeing the best contemporary productions, including the acclaimed postmodern Animal Farm. They then departed with their thirst for all things theatre being temporarily quenched. The boys also travelled to the Hexagon Theatre to watch Antigone and Athol Fugard’s popular The Island. The latter production was so sincere and professional that it earned a standing ovation from the boys.
The examination was also a highlight for the boys, and their proud parents will not soon forget that spectacular evening in the theatre. The boys worked faithfully throughout the year on their performances, and kept the audience captivated by their brilliant work.
The highlight for most boys was the cultural tour to Johannesburg to watch one of the world’s leading dance theatre companies, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater from New York. This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and has been ticked off my bucket list.
The evening began with Tom Fenn’s convincing portrayal of a soldier in a war-torn battlefield. Tom’s display of tension and empathy towards his character won the hearts of the audience; the silence in the theatre was deafening during his compelling presentation. Liam Furniss’s unforgiving yet intriguing monologue explored the complexity of human relations. This schoolboy found no difficulty in capturing the character of an almost 80-yearold, and there was no doubt in the minds of the audience that they were indeed watching an aged man recall a fond memory. Jordan Sesink Clee earned the full confidence and enthusiasm of the audience as a smooth stockbroker. This was contrasted against his light-hearted scene, in which he played a number of roles with great ease.
The inclusion of the passionate and incredibly talented director Mr William le Cordeur in the department has meant the forging of an even closer relationship between
Matthew Whelan was astounding in his drunken stupor as Mr Doolittle from My Fair Lady and had the audience laughing uproariously. James Smith was frighteningly convincing as The Joker – his ability to capture the dark menace of this well-known character was commendable. His portrait hung hauntingly over the dark, barren stage as we sat absolutely captivated. Van Wyk Venter’s animated facial expressions and versatility as a performer conveyed his character, Gadiep, effectively. He handled the character with much sensitivity, yet was
B Block dramatist Callum Deeble
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Academic Reports
the Schlesinger Theatre and the Drama department. Together the two departments are a formidable force, which has benefited the boys hugely by encouraging experiences that move from the classroom into the theatre. This year we had Mr Tristan Jacobs, a reputable and professional performer and lecturer, do workshops with the boys. Thereafter they watched his production in the theatre, which allowed them to see the skills taught to them used professionally. This added a new dimension to learning and creativity in the department.
PERFORMING ARTS Head of Department: Mr Abri Venter Staff: Mr William Silk, Mr Hannes Ebersohn Secretary: Mrs Angela Jonsson Part-time Staff: Mr Bernard Kisbey-Green (saxophone,
clarinet, drum kit), Mr Leandros Stavrou (guitar), Dr Zillah Holcroft (violin) Awards Honours: Vuyo Mkize, Ben Adey, John Robins Colours – appointed as leader/deputy leader of an official music group: Van Wyk Venter (Chapel Choir Head Chorister), Luke Crouch (Deputy Head Chorister), John Robins (Jazz Band Leader), Kurt Martin (Deputy Leader) Colours: Bongi Fleischer, Bruere Venter, Toivo Khumalo, Likhona Camane, Callum Deeble, James Harrison, Brandon Jones, Tshiamo Seokane, Daniel Smart, John Robins, Greg Reynolds, Jake Zilesnick, Jordan Sacks, Kurt Martin, Mark Hadley-Grave, Nicholas Anderson, Ryan Anderson, Tshiamo Mogopudi, Aphiwe Mthalane, Busisa Mtimkulu, Daluxolo Ngcebetsha
CHAPEL CHOIR Back Row: Gerhard Serton, Barry Bierman, Kwanza Kukubo, Jonathan Maitre, Carlisle Hartman, Toivo Khumalo, Daniel Smart Fourth Row: Bruere Venter, Tristan Vermeulen, Richard Bam, Greg Reynolds, Cyle Wilson, Vuyo Mkhize, Mfolozi Dlamini Third Row: Sebastian Maitre, James Harrison, Kieran Ramsay, Takudzwa Madombwe, Brandon Jones, Daniel Kariithi, Menzi Mbuyazi, Tom Harper, Andrew Britton Second Row: Ntsako Maluleka, Likhona Camane, Lesedi Letebele, Cade Barnes, Luke Thomson, Kombo Magara, Khetha Khoza, Leruri Sealetsa Front Row: Callum Deeble, James Smith, Luke Crouch, Mr Abri Venter, Van Wyk Venter, Mr William Silk, Ngcebo Maseko, Jonathan Henderson, Zander Prinsloo
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Academic Reports
JAZZ BAND Back Row: James Harrison, Lance Tratschler, Michael Herbert, Andrew Holt Front Row: Nicholas van Niekerk, John Robins, Mr Hannes Ebersohn, Kurt Martin, Van Wyk Venter
Half Colours: Siyabonga Khoza, Rogan Muirhead, Lesedi Letebele, William Marshall, Takudzwa Madombwe, Takalani Tshivhase, Samuel Lombaard, Carl Lubbe, Lehlogonolo Mabaso, Sebastian Maitre, Matthew McCarthy, Reese McLukie, Andrew Britton, Richard Bam, Daniel Kariithi, Kwanza Kukubo, Ntsako Maluleka, Menziwokuhle Mbuyazi, Michael Herbert, Andrew Holt
as auditions for the Jazz Band, Chapel Choir and marimba bands. This year saw the addition of a Competition Marimba Band, which participated at the International Marimba and Steelpan Festival in Johannesburg. We were privileged to have some extremely talented boys taking Music as a subject this year.
OVERVIEW OF ACTIVITIES
KZN Midlands Youth Choir: Richard Bam, Likhona Camane, Callum Deeble, James Harrison, Brandon Jones, Daniel Kariithi, Kwanza Kukubo, Lesedi Letebele, Takudzwa Madombwe, Ntsako Maluleka, Menziwokuhle Mbuyazi, Vuyo Mkhize, Tshiamo Seokane, Daniel Smart, Bruere Venter, Van Wyk Venter
@Bandroom.Live: 6 March The theme for the first @Bandroom of 2015 was Around the World. Some 120 people attended and were treated to a wonderful repertoire of songs featuring the name of a country or city in their title. The evening saw performances that varied from solos and ensembles to marimbas and the Jazz Band. A wonderful evening of great entertainment was enjoyed by all.
Introduction The Music School started off the year with a busy music registration session over three days, with more than 100 enthusiastic boys signing up for practical lessons as well
St Mary’s DSG, Kloof: 6 May The A Block music pupils were invited to attend a concert at St Mary’s, where the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra performed much of the Matric setwork repertoire. Fiona
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COMPETITION MARIMBA BAND Back Row: Jordan Sacks, Toivo Khumalo, Luke Crouch, Bongi Fleischer Middle Row: Menzi Mbuyazi, Jake Zilesnick, Bruere Venter, Busisa Mtimkulu, Aphiwe Mthalane Front Row: Ryan Anderson, Nicholas Anderson, Van Wyk Venter, Mr Abri Venter, John Robins, Mark Hadley-Grave, Daluxolo Ngcebetsha
Grayer, a cellist in the orchestra, presented an interactive narrative between the items. It was a worthwhile event that made the Matric set works come alive. Luna Paige Workshop: 12 May Our Music pupils were invited to attend a workshop hosted by South African singer-songwriter Luna Paige at Epworth High School. The focus was on the writing of lyrics and music, and there was also a short, informative presentation on the South African music industry. Two Schools in Concert: 28 May The inaugural collaboration concert between Michaelhouse and Hilton College was held at Hilton where the audience enjoyed a wonderful evening of entertainment with performances by the Michaelhouse and Hilton music departments. The Michaelhouse Sax Quartet, Jazz Band, marimba bands and choirs, as well as collaborations and ensemble items, provided top entertainment. We are looking forward to hosting Hilton at Michaelhouse in 2016. 48
Tea@Michaelhouse: 7 June Mr Hannes Ebersohn, the Michaelhouse organist, performed works by JS Bach, F Mendelssohn and E Gigout in the Chapel. Guests enjoyed tea outside on the terraces on a beautiful, crisp winter morning. Marimba Workshop: 22 July Justice Hakata, an expert on marimbas, djembes and African cultural music, hosted a marathon marimba workshop in the Band Room for all three of our marimba bands, honing their skills and styles of play. Recording Studio Workshop: 23 July Our Music pupils enjoyed a comprehensive one-on-one recording studio workshop with Andrew Roos, where they were taught the fundamentals of audio recording skills. @Bandroom.Live: 24 July Although the weather was cold and wet for the second @ Bandroom of the year, it didn’t dampen the spirits of the
Academic Reports
112 people who turned up to be entertained by members of the Michaelhouse music staff as well as the boys from the Music Department, who showcased their amazing talents. International Marimba and Steelpan Festival: 1-2 August The International Marimba and Steelpan Festival took place at St Benedict’s College, Bedfordview, with 250 bands entered from all over Africa with categories for primary school, high school and open bands. The Michaelhouse Competition Band entered four categories in the high school section. In the Battle of the Bands category, there were 23 bands entered and Michaelhouse came second. In the Strictly Classical, Proudly South African and In the Mix categories, there were 16 bands entered and Michaelhouse came first in all three categories. Michaelhouse also did exceptionally well by being awarded the Crowd Pleaser Prize for most entertaining band for their In the Mix performance. Jordan Sacks and Bruere Venter were awarded special individual prizes, and Van Wyk Venter received two special individual prizes. We are exceptionally proud of all the members of the Competition Band. Marimbas to the Max: 14 August All three of our marimba bands performed at the annual Marimbas to the Max event at Epworth alongside bands from Hilton, Epworth and Alexandra High School.
Hilton, on Speech Day and at a Trio of Concerts. Marimba Band Report Owing to the popularity of marimbas at Michaelhouse, we were once again fortunate to have three marimba bands this year. These were the Junior Marimba Band (E and D Block), the Senior Marimba Band (A and B Block) and the Competition Band (A, B, C and D Block). At the Two Schools in Concert music evening at Hilton, the bands brought the house down with their vibrant energy and enthusiasm. All three bands were in action again at our two @Bandroom.Live concerts. The Competition Band took part in the National Marimba Competition that took place at St Benedict’s and were in scintillating form. Chapel Choir Report The Chapel Choir enjoyed another busy year, performing at Michaelhouse and in the greater Pietermaritzburg area. They had the honour of performing with the KZNPO, conducted by Richard Cock, at the inaugural Michaelhouse Music Festival. They joined forces to perform with Hilton at the Two Schools in Concert evening, and joined Epworth in performing Let the People Sing at the Pietermaritzburg City Hall. The choir also participated in the Trio of Concerts at Michaelhouse.
Nottingham Road Woman’s Institute: 13 October The ladies from the NRWI enjoyed a short concert in the Band Room of the Music School as a prelude to their last meeting of the year. They were entertained by a variety of items performed by the boys, from ensembles to solos and marimbas. Trio of Concerts: 18 October This was the third of the concept concerts presented by the Music School and Michaelhouse, with the event being held in different venues all over campus. Guests were treated to a day full of wonderful classical music. The Chapel bells heralded the start of the event with Strictly Classical in the Chapel, which was followed by starters being served in the Main Quad. Guests then made their way to the Memorial Hall to enjoy Sunday lunch while being entertained by Strictly Choirs. After lunch everyone meandered to the Schlesinger Theatre to listen to Strictly Ensembles. The day ended with the serving of gourmet cupcakes and coffee in the theatre foyer. It marked another glorious day of culture at Michaelhouse. Jazz Band Report The Jazz Band consisted of 13 very enthusiastic and energetic musicians in 2015. They practised on Mondays between 7.30pm and 8.15pm, and again on Thursdays during the choir period. Their first performance of 2015 was on 6 March during @Bandroom.Live. They also performed at the Two Schools in Concert evening at
Top: Marimba Grand Masters Van Wyk Venter, Bongi Fleischer and Bruere Venter performing at the International Marimba and Steelpan Festival Bottom: Garin Phillips
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TRINITY COLLEGE LONDON
External Music Examinations The following results were obtained this year:
THE ASSOCIATED BOARD OF THE ROYAL SCHOOLS OF MUSIC Practical Results Name
Instrument
Grade
Pass
Likhona Camane
Guitar
Grade 5
Pass
Luke Thomson
Voice
Grade 5
Pass
Lesedi Letebele
Violin
Grade 6
Merit
James Harrison
Voice
Grade 6
Merit
Bruere Venter
Voice
Grade 6
Merit
Richard Johnsen Voice
Grade 8
Distinction
Richard Johnsen Piano
Grade 8
Pass
Jonathan Henderson
Grade 8
Distinction
Voice
Trinity Guildhall Grade
Pass
Joshua Sharrock Tenor Saxophone
Name
Instrument
Grade 1
Pass
Barend Bierman
Piano
Grade 2
Merit
Simukai Madiro
Alto Saxophone
Grade 3
Merit
Cade Barnes
Voice
Grade 4
Merit
Charles Houston Tenor Saxophone
Grade 4
Merit
Andrew Holt
Alto Saxophone
Grade 6
Pass
James Harrison
Alto Saxophone
Grade 6
Merit
Kurt Martin
Tenor Saxophone
Grade 6
Pass
William Lyle
Alto Saxophone
Grade 7
Merit
Trinity Rock & Pop Name
Instrument
Grade
Pass
Joseph Bracken
Guitar
Grade 1
Merit
Bruere Venter
Guitar
Grade 3
Merit
Tinashe Gasa
Drums
Grade 3
Pass
Simon Browse
Drums
Grade 3
Pass
Takalani Tshivhase
Voice
Grade 4
Pass
Thomas Usher
Voice
Grade 4
Merit
Michael Lavagna Slater
Guitar
Grade 5
Pass
Vincent van der Westhuizen
Guitar
Grade 5
Pass
Takudzwa Madombwe
Drums
Grade 5
Pass
Vuyo Mkhize
Voice
Grade 5
Pass
Carlisle Hartman
Voice
Grade 7
Pass
Richard Johnsen
Guitar
Grade 8
Pass
Name
Instrument
Grade
Pass
Brandon Jones
Vocals
Grade 6
Distinction
Rock School
Top: Liam Friend Bottom: Kurt Martin
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Academic Reports
ACCOUNTING Head of Department: Mr Richard McMichael Staff: Mr Dean Forword From the beginning of 2016, Mr Forword will be taking over as head of department and we wish him well for the future. Once again, the Matric candidates for Accounting achieved excellent results. Of the 43 candidates, 17 (40%) achieved an A symbol, 12 (28%) a B and nine (21%) a C. There were no failures. Michael Schram was placed in the top 1% of IEB Accounting candidates. The Accounting tour to Johannesburg took place at the end of August.
REPORT ON THE B BLOCK ACCOUNTING TOUR
Written by Mkuzo Kuwani, Baines
The time finally came for the moment that several boys had based their 2014 subject choices on – the B Block Accounting tour. We had also heard about the esteemed tour from our current A Blockers, and it lived up to its reputation, leaving us more than enriched after outings to different businesses, where we learned how each business works in its respective sector. Upon arriving late in Johannesburg after half-term, I met the rest of the class at the Standard Bank head office in Rosebank. This immense building houses about 5 000 employees, all “moving forward”. Eight escalators later, I found myself in the same boardroom that both Ben Kruger and Sim Tshabalala often use. Courtesy of Andrew Broadley, we had presentations by representatives of Standard Bank’s private wealth management sector, the Melville and Douglas Trust Fund, the securities trading sector and the auditing practice. On the whole, we delved deeper into the banking lifestyle than deposits and loans; we learned about what it will be like in the future and how banks actually make their money, we visited the trading floor with the ear-numbing buzz and learned about how securities are traded. We also learned about how Michaelhouse and other private schools invest their money through the trust fund, and finally, and most importantly, we learned about doing our articles at a better-paying bank as opposed to a standard auditing firm. However, thoughts on banking were soon replaced by ideas on transfer negotiations as we went to work on selecting soccer teams for our mini tournament at Discovery Park, where our day concluded. Day two saw us head to Experian Credit Bureau and the Bevcan section of Nampak. I believe that this day was the most enriching. Going to Experian was a good way
to start the morning. Not one of us knew properly what a credit bureau was before getting to Experian, and that encouraged us to bombard every presenter with questions. Unfortunately for the sales manager, he was the first to experience our question fury – he did not manage to finish his presentation. All our questions led to responses that improved our understanding of how we allow credit bureaus like Experian to know about our lives, especially how we use credit. Being in the midst of studying production cost statements, visiting Nampak had to be the highlight of the tour in terms of education. We were taken through the production line of the factory and experienced first-hand how Bevcan produces 3 000 cans per minute, from shaping to packaging. We were totally absorbed by the efficiency of the factory, with all the advanced machinery working as if under communist rule. Our third and final day was passed at KPMG, on the accounting side. Much like at Experian, the presentations were very interactive and beneficial because all our questions about pursuing a career in accounting after school were answered. Glenn and Ferdie (two Old Boys) gave us a breakdown of their journeys from university to finishing their articles at KPMG. From them we learned that it is important to remember that finishing articles does not confine one to audit practice for the rest of one’s life, but is rather a solid foundation for opening doors into the corporate world. On the more relaxed side, we spent the afternoon at Gold Reef City Theme Park – a fun way to end a very inspiring tour. A special thanks to Mr McMichael and Mr Forword for their hard work in setting up the tour and looking after us. I am more than positive that all of us have a better understanding of the business world and its accounting side, thanks to the tour. It was a good way to get outside of the school syllabus and experience what the School cannot offer. Rowan Mockler, Mackenzie The tour was most definitely worthwhile. Each boy learned a number of new things about different spectrums of the business world that they would not have learned through the regular school syllabus. Not only was the tour a learning experience, it also brought us closer as an accounting group and left us positively geared for our remaining time at Michaelhouse and for future prospects. Matthew Watson, West I am very grateful for the opportunity given to us to go and see these firms. It opened my eyes as well as closed a few doors. It was great to see what it is like working in many different areas of each industry. It has benefited me and has given me an idea of what I want to do after my schooling career comes to a close.
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Nick McMichael, Tatham The most valuable gain from the tour was the experience we got of the real world of big finance and just how intricate and complex it is. We are so caught up in our little bubble of IEB-set accounting that we don’t realise just how much there is to it and how hard accountants work for their salary. Granted, it’s a pretty nice salary, but nonetheless, their jobs are incredibly difficult and it was intriguing to hear just how small and simple what we do at school is compared to the actual thing.
COMPUTER STUDIES Head of Department: Mrs Julie Flanegan Staff: Mr Dominic Gruijters, Mr Ian Crawford Our A Block Information Technology (IT) and Computer Applications Technology (CAT) boys did us proud in the November 2014 IEB exams. The 17 IT boys achieved nine A symbols and 94% of them achieved an A, B or C symbol. Five of our 11 CAT boys achieved an A and 100% achieved an A, B or C symbol. Khulekani Zungu was placed in the top 1% in the country for CAT, which was a great achievement.
trywide. Michaelhouse boys achieved excellent results, with the top boys finishing in the top 1% of all candidates.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING OLYMPIAD Certificates: Overall Name
Block
Rank
Robert Wood
A
1st at Michaelhouse
Graham Davies
B
2nd at Michaelhouse
Murray Finlay
D
2nd at Michaelhouse
Levin Kamau
D
2nd at Michaelhouse
Certificates: 1st in Grade Name
Block
Rank
Robert Wood
A
1st in A Block
Graham Davies
B
1st in B Block
Ant Fleischer
C
1st in C Block
Murray Finlay
D
1st in D Block
Levin Kamau
D
1st in D Block
Staff development is an integral part of the department. Members continue to be involved in all aspects of the IEB examining and marking process. Mr Gruijters and I attended the IEB’s IT and CAT conferences in Johannesburg, where Mr Gruijters, in his role as IT Practical Examiner at the IEB, presented at the IT conference. He also fulfils a role as one of the IEB’s KwaZulu-Natal Regional Moderators for IT. I had the privilege of attending the Digital Education Show in Johannesburg in October where a range of speakers, international and local, presented a number of topics, including: Raising levels of creativity in children, How apps are mapping the future of education, Shaking up the world of scientific teaching using robotics, Conquering the digital divide and How gamification is adding the fun factor to learning. Also in October, Michaelhouse hosted ThinkAhead Education Solutions, which gave a presentation titled 21st Century Teaching and Learning to several schools’ information and communications technology (ICT) and teaching staff. Mr Crawford and I attended this presentation. The Computer Programming Olympiad is one of the oldest and largest events of its kind in the world. The Talent Search is an online challenge designed to develop computational thinking and to help schools and candidates decide on subjects and career choices. On 16 March, 86 Michaelhouse boys from Grades 9 to 12 participated in the Talent Search. They were part of 8 217 entries coun-
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IT whizz Robert Wood
Academic Reports
We had 20 boys participating in the Computer Applications Olympiad on 8 May. This competition requires entrants to use application packages to solve problems, and is open mainly to pupils who study CAT and are ICDL candidates. We were delighted that Robert Wood was selected as one of the 15 finalists to participate in the final round in Cape Town from 30 June to 2 July. This was quite an achievement considering that there were 13 193 entrants. Robert, who had been awarded a bronze medal in the final round in 2014, told the Daily News in an interview that this year’s test was trickier. “I made the finals last year and got a bronze medal. Am I aiming for better? Not necessarily, I just want to do the best I can,” he said. Robert was awarded first position in KZN for his participation in the first round. He went on to outdo himself in the final round, winning the gold medal, R3 000 for himself, R3 000 for Michaelhouse and the CoZa Cares Trophy. In an article titled Provincial finalist wins Computer Olympiad in The Mercury, Robert said: “I didn’t expect to win.” He added that he planned to use his prize money to upgrade his computer. What a superb performance, Rob. Well done!
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS OLYMPIAD Certificates: Overall Name
Block
Rank
Robert Wood
A
1st at Michaelhouse
Richard Beckett
A
2nd at Michaelhouse
Mfolozi Dlamini
B
3rd at Michaelhouse
Certificates: 1st in Grade Name
Block
Rank
Robert Wood
A
1st in A Block
Mfolozi Dlamini
B
1st in B Block
Bongi Fleischer
C
1st in C Block
We had 14 Grade 11 and 12 boys participating in the Programming Olympiad on 14 August. This round is a challenge for IT pupils to solve a number of problems in one of the required programming languages. This was the first year that the Programming Olympiad had been run online and required the candidates to complete six programming exercises in a two-hour period. We were delighted that Richard Beckett achieved second place in KZN.
PROGRAMMING OLYMPIAD Certificates: Overall Name
Block
Rank
Richard Beckett
A
1st at Michaelhouse/1st in A Block/2nd in KZN
Robert Wood
A
2nd at Michaelhouse
Ben Adey
A
3rd at Michaelhouse
Mr Gruijters and a number of interested boys started an afternoon session using a Raspberry Pi computer to explore computing, to learn to program and to understand how computers work. This group was funded by the winnings of Gianluca Truda and Robert Wood in the Computer Applications Olympiad finals. Our ICT vision at Michaelhouse is to develop responsible 21st-century digital citizens who have the necessary technological skills to ensure success in any chosen field in a global, connected world. After introducing the bringyour-own-device (BYOD) policy in 2014, we continued to encourage boys to bring their devices to School to supplement their learning. As part of the ICT staff integration, Lunch and Learn continued this year to encourage staff to engage with technology in their classrooms and offices. A number of topics were covered, including: online quiz setting, iPad and tablet training, Google Apps for Education, Google Calendar and the use of Britannica and Referencing. Our BYOD vision will continue into 2016, with our main focus being on the integration of technology into the curriculum to work towards a paper-light Michaelhouse. In keeping with our vision to develop responsible digital citizens, we will continue with our mission, which is to provide dynamic and progressive IT education by engaging and inspiring the boys, integrating the latest technologies and encouraging teamwork and collaboration, thus ensuring that the boys acquire the necessary skills for the 21st century.
COUNSELLING AND PASTORAL CARE Head of Department: Mr Tim Jarvis Pizza, Popcorn and Pastoral Care As I stood waiting for the number 10 bus to take me back to Edinburgh town centre, it struck me how similar the school I had just visited was to my own place of work on the far side of two continents away. If there is one thing that seems to be ubiquitous to boarding schools worldwide, it is the smell of microwave popcorn emanating from house common rooms. During my time in the United Kingdom, I was able to visit four different secondary boarding schools, namely Winchester College, Harrow School and Wellington College in England, and Merchiston Castle School in Scotland, hence my standing in the cold with a fresh wind coming off the snow-tipped hills and blowing the remaining scent of popcorn rapidly away. The aim of my visit was to look at the provision of pastoral care in UK boarding schools. All the institutions I had selected to
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visit were well known for their standards of pastoral care and their tradition of boarding provision. That these schools have excellent boarding facilities and are well resourced is a given. While we South Africans enjoy the sunshine compared to our northern European counterparts, in this aspect they put us firmly in the shade. The key element is space. Generally speaking, each individual boarder has more space, in that their room, or their share of it, is bigger, and each boarding house has more common areas than we would typically find in a South African school. These areas include a day room, a separate kitchen area, a games room and often a quiet study area. There was even a gym in one boarding house. The most impressive accommodation I saw was at Merchiston Castle, where their new three-storey Sixth Form boarding house boasted lounges, coffee bars, numerous spaces for activities such as table tennis and pool, kitchens on each floor and individual en-suite rooms for each pupil. The ground floor also included a reception area, clearly designed to make the building attractive as a conference centre in the holidays to help defray what can only have been quite considerable costs. One other school had private Skype lounges in each house so that learners could make contact with home comfortably and privately. While these facilities are impressive, it almost goes without saying that good pastoral care is so much more than simply bricks and mortar, however elaborately and expensively arranged. Although each school that I visited is unique and has its own way of managing the provision of pastoral care, by the time I visited the fourth school, I was able to predict the essential structure and support that would be provided. This is because care in UK boarding schools is underpinned by a strong legal framework that gives definition and shape to what is offered. Schools in the UK are inspected regularly, and in terms of pastoral care, boarding schools are measured against criteria set out in a document known as Boarding Schools – National Minimum Standards (DfE, 2015). This is no small thing. Many schools have a designated compliance officer whose job it is to ensure that the school comes out well when measured against these criteria. To get an inspection rating of “outstanding” is the goal, and a more than useful marketing tool. Conversely, for top schools any other rating would be seen as a disaster.
his Monday guests, we were ushered into the house’s dining hall, where each guest was seated at the head of a table. Latin grace was said and then we served the boys from the head of the table. After about 30 minutes of good conversation and homely food, we returned to the housemaster’s lounge for coffee and biscuits. The Monday guests, I discovered, are all staff members who visit the house for lunch each Monday, having received an invitation on the first Monday of the school year. This invitation is then a standing invitation for every remaining Monday of the year during the school term. The same goes for every other day, meaning that on each day of the week, a different group of staff dine with the boys in the house. In turn, this is true for each of the 11 houses at Winchester. I really enjoyed this tradition. It helps build relationships and exposes the boys to different staff members in a more informal setting each day. Each house at Winchester has its own dining room and kitchen, so the food served has a home-cooked meal feel to it. The drinks and coffee also create time and space for staff to mix in small and varied groups each day, something that is often sorely lacking in our fast-paced world. It is very expensive to run 11 different dining halls, but every time Winchester has been tempted to look at alternatives, it has always rejected these cheaper options. I can see why. Harrow has got round this by having a central dining hall but creating separate zones for each house, where staff and boys eat together. This has the advantage that a housemaster can locate any boys he may need to, and vice versa. Although it perhaps lacked the charm of Winchester’s system, it was an effective compromise between cost considerations and the benefits of eating together as a house. Along with my sausage and mash I managed to learn a little about the rules of Harrow football (you can tackle anyone in the vicinity of the ball) and in turn, tell the boys a little about rugby in South Africa.
“Boarding accommodation” is one of the 20 minimum standards, which also include “health and wellbeing”, “induction and support” and “staffing and supervision”.
With the school spread out over the town of Harrow on the Hill, I was struck by the way each house is a place to come home to. Each house is well staffed, with around three staff living in, and there was talk of increasing this to four in the years to come. The housemaster’s home is integrated into the fabric of the house, making him very present in the lives of his charges. It was clear how much Harrow valued the role of its housemasters and tutors in the care of the boys. I left a little bit fitter from all the walking around, especially the route up to the school from the tube station. It’s not called Harrow on the Hill for nothing.
A few days after my Scottish sojourn, I was dining in the south of England as a guest of Bramston’s House at Winchester. After drinks with the housemaster and
Wellington is famous for placing a premium on happiness. I found that its approach to its learners’ welfare was extremely comprehensive and thorough. An online
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wellness action plan is created for any learner at risk and key staff members are given responsibility to ensure that this happens, with a committee to oversee this process. At Merchiston they called this GIRFEC (getting it right for every child). In all the schools, house staff are supported in their pastoral-care efforts by a team of counsellors (an average of two per school), chaplains and nurses, as well as designated Child Protection Officers. Clear thought had gone into the provision of pastoral care, significant resources had been allocated towards it and structures to ensure accountability were firmly in place. I think the weakness in the system is that with such strong legislation the temptation may be to confuse the provision of good care with keeping up with paperwork. At one school the notice boards in each house displayed identical documents to all the other houses. This is simply because certain information must legally be displayed and therefore cannot be left to chance or the vagaries of individual housemasters. There is little doubt that articulating standards to be met in what are important areas has gone a long way towards lifting standards of pastoral care across the UK, but of course, legislation cannot capture on paper the essence of care and support, which is at its heart an intangible concept. Although legislation can perhaps help reduce poor pastoral care, it cannot ensure excellent care; only people can do that. Good pastoral care simply can’t be legislated for. I loved seeing what schools in the UK were doing in terms of boarding provision. I was blown away by some of the facilities and centuries-old traditions that enhance pastoral care. However, what impressed me most, as it does here in South Africa too, were the people. People who are passionate, dedicated and highly capable. Professional staff who go way beyond anything that legislation can impose. For me excellent care must have a relational, as opposed to legal, basis. In all of our boarding schools, both in South Africa and the UK, it is the housemaster or housemistress who personifies the house system, which is in turn part of the DNA of boarding schools worldwide. These people, along with the tutors, counsellors and chaplains who support them, are where the real heart of pastoral care lies. Back at my own school, at a recent book study, where some of the staff meet to discuss how best to care for the boys, there was common ground among the group as to their best moments with boys. These were invariably informal moments, often out of the class environment, such as a school trip or around takeaway pizza at a tutor’s home. It is often in all the gaps between, and the cracks running through, the curriculum, sports and activities that good pastoral care happens. Any structures and
support must be engineered and designed to provide time and space for such relationships to form. In summary, good pastoral care really does come down to good relationships. While reading Bear Grylls’s autobiography Mud, Sweat and Tears, I was struck by what he says about the role of the housemaster at one of Britain’s top boarding schools: “So much of people’s experience at Eton rests on whether they had a housemaster who rocked or bombed. I got lucky.” Bear goes on to explain how his housemaster, Mr Quibell, hated pizza with a passion, so as a joke Bear and his peers would call the local pizza store and arrange an order of 30 or more pizzas to be delivered to their housemaster’s door. The boys would then hide in order to witness the resulting reaction of their teacher and the consequent exchange with the delivery man. Despite the practical jokes, Mr Quibell was clearly loved and respected. Bear writes, “He was fair and he cared; and as a teenager those two qualities really matter to one’s self-esteem.” Conversely, another notable celebrity, John Cleese, who attended a boarding school in the west of England, describes his housemaster as one of only two staff members whom he really didn’t like. In his book So Anyway, he calls him a “joyless dwarf ”. No amount of legislation can take care of a problem like that. Travel This year, I had the opportunity to visit the UK not only to look at pastoral care in high schools, but also to examine tertiary education options in the UK. In this regard I visited two universities, Edinburgh and St Andrew’s, for their guidance-counsellor tours. This year, seven of our boys were admitted to the University of Edinburgh, so it was good to see first-hand what they will experience. I have written more about this on my blog, There’s a Hadeda in my Garden, in an article titled Royal and Ancient. Presentations I was also privileged to travel to Cape Town to attend the international version of the International Boys’ School Coalition Conference. At this event I presented a workshop called Blurred Lines with Michaelhouse English teacher Jonathan Smith. The workshop was an examination of male teenage sexuality, and I hope to write more fully about this on another occasion. We also presented this talk at the Youth Voices Conference and to the Michaelhouse staff. Book Studies Bearing in mind that it is relational excellence that best characterises good pastoral care, we have continued this year with evening book studies for staff to discuss best practice when it comes to the care of boys. Following up on last year’s book, Raising Cain – Protecting the
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Emotional Life of Boys, this year we focused on Rosalind Wiseman’s book Masterminds and Wingmen. Here is what one of our staff members had to say about it: “I like reading the operating manual of a new appliance. I find it interesting. I know it’s weird, but what do you do if the washing machine is refusing to spin drenched clothes? What do you do if all the lights on the right of the detergent icon are flashing in sync with the cotton cycle and it’s a Sunday morning? To avoid panic and anxiety attacks, read the manual. “I like reading self-help books. I like discussing them with friends and exchanging ideas. Needless to say, I enjoyed reading Rosalind Wiseman’s book, Masterminds and Wingmen. I’m not going to tell you what masterminds and wingmen are, or even what act-like-a-man-box means. But if you are curious, refuse to become complacent and care about the teenagers you teach, read the book. As adults and teachers, we don’t have all the answers. Teenagers are human beings and they don’t come with operating manuals. Times have changed. Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram are here to stay. There are new rules for the locker room, the playground and cyberspace. So get with the programme.” – Mr Hannes Ebersohn Each evening event provided the adult participants with a better insight and understanding of teenage boys and their emotional side. Pastoral Care Newsletter We continued with this initiative this year in order to keep raising awareness of pastoral issues and highlight good practice. The newsletter comes out quarterly using contributions from both staff and professionals outside of the School. This year, we have had articles on computer gaming and teenagers, how outdoor education can build relationships, and staff reflections on their tutor groups, among other topics. Ongoing Programmes We continued this year with our D Block camp to assist our Grade 9s in settling into life back at Michaelhouse and guiding them in their new role in the School. This was followed up with evenings spent in the Mvuleni lapa on the Nature Reserve for both E and D Block boys in House groups. These evenings are designed to help boys get to know each other better and earlier in the year. Later in the year Sister Ruth, a qualified sex educator, spent a full day with each D Block class to look at sex and sexuality. This is part of the School’s integrated study programme, which also covers guidance around subject choice and includes the IDEAS interest inventory to help boys with this decision.
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Parent Courses For the dads, we continued running our fathers-and-sons weekend in recognition of the key role that fathers play in their children’s lives, and particularly in the lives of their teenage boys. We call this weekend Courage to Connect – A Father and Sons Experience. This year’s weekend was run for the eleventh time. Over the two days, fathers and sons from Michaelhouse shared a time of interaction, discussion, information, debate, activities and ultimately, of affirmation of each other and their relationship. Part of the weekend involved the Drakensberg Canopy Tour, which allowed participants to enjoy time together doing an activity and also provided appropriate levels of adrenalin and excitement. We were once again able to run our Strong MothersStrong Sons course, facilitated by Cape Town psychologist Megan de Beyer. We have run this course with great success for several years. Megan continually updates her course, ensuring that it remains relevant for all mothers of teenage boys. Careers Programmes For the B and A Blocks, there were a host of presentations given by tertiary-education institutions and gap-year organisations. As part of the career-development programme, there was a work-exposure programme and career counselling for those who required it. Support was also given to those applying to university and included workshops for those applying both locally and overseas. As usual, we had a wide range of South African and international universities, colleges and organisations visit the School to raise awareness among the boys of the options available to them once they leave Michaelhouse. Thanks With the demands of high school education there are many boys who need additional academic support. Our gratitude, as always, goes to Mrs Janet Emanuel, our Academic Support teacher. Continued thanks also to Mrs Joanna Hume, the secretary to all things pastoral. Without these two women, it would be impossible to do what we do in terms of support, counselling and pastoral care.
“Fantastic School. How good? My sons are going there.” Old Boy Adrian Lloyd Francis (1986), Facebook
Academic Reports
LIFE ORIENTATION Head of Department: Mr George Ferreira Staff: Mr Righardt Kotze, Mr Tim Jarvis Intern: Mr Gary van Breda Life Orientation as a subject provides a formal opportunity to teach life skills to the boys and to assess their mastering of the various learning outcomes. In our department we employ team teaching: the boys are exposed to all three teachers, who each focus on their respective areas of expertise. Mr Jarvis, the School counsellor, prepares the boys for future studies and careers, and deals with aspects of personal development. Our sports scientist, Mr Kotze, focuses on physical wellbeing and recreation. The learning areas of responsible citizenship and social development are covered by myself, with Mr van Breda providing welcome assistance. We strive to apply all the subject material to practical situations which the boys will encounter during their time at Michaelhouse or when they enter the adult world. No examination takes place since all assessment is based on tasks which are done throughout the year.
As in 2012, Michaelhouse was one of the pilot schools which introduced a research task into the Grade 12 syllabus. Twenty-six boys did their research task in Life Orientation in 2015 under the guidance of Mr Kotze. Several enrichment speakers addressed the boys during the year. Elsje Neethling Elsje has been described by her brother, swimmer Ryk Neethling, as the person who has had the biggest impact on his life because of the way she has tackled the adversities that she has had to deal with. He says: “I am the one who won an Olympic gold medal but she’s the real inspiration.” Elsje was diagnosed with a brain tumour, choroid plexus carcinoma, at the age of 12. Despite being given only three months to live, she decided that nothing in life would get her down. Today, aged 33, she is an inspiration to many people through her book, her talks about her journey with cancer, her jewellery and her I-Bead-Cancer project. Three brain operations, hours of radiation and doctors telling her time and again to expect death, paralysis and blindness are what Elsje had to go through while other
Thomas Greig and Ngcebo Maseko with enrichment speaker Zelda la Grange
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children her age were worried about pimples or who would be asking them out on a date. For 11 years Elsje was in remission. In 2003 she started experiencing back pain, and two months before her wedding in 2007, tests revealed that cancer, unrelated to the tumour that had been removed from her brain, had started growing in her coccyx. Her world was turned upside down – while other brides were busy with wedding plans and worrying about which flowers and décor they wanted, Elsje was fighting for her life.
Elsje’s creativity and way with words were the recipe for the success of her book Ek droom van ‘n droom, which was released in 2012, selling more than 15 000 copies during its first week of availability. She is currently busy with the English version of the book.
Hospital rooms became home to Elsje in 2008 as she underwent months of scans and assessments. However, 2008 was also the year that her successful beads and jewellery business, Hip*E Beads, was founded.
Zelda la Grange Zelda was born in apartheid South Africa. She started her career in 1992 at the Department of State Expenditure and in 1994, applied for a job in the Office of the Presidency. In 1997, she was promoted to become one of the three private secretaries in President Nelson Mandela’s personal staff. In 1999, he asked her to remain in his service beyond retirement. Zelda served Mr Mandela for 19 years in different capacities until his death on 5 December 2013.
Beading was also to play a role in helping her fellow cancer patients. Elsje had to receive radiation regularly at the provincial hospital in Bloemfontein, where she had to sit and wait for hours, together with many others. One Friday she decided to take a bag of beads, which she opened on one of the tables in the waiting area. She started teaching the other women how to use these beads and the I-Bead-Cancer project was born.
Elsje’s story is not just about her journey with cancer and how she managed to overcome it. It is an inspirational story of hope that encourages every person to search for the silver lining in any situation.
She currently serves as the patron for the First for Women Foundation and for Beeld Kinderfonds, acts as a coordinator of the annual Bikers for Mandela Day and is a part-time employee of the Foundation for Professional Development. She continues to inspire people through motivational speaking by sharing her life experiences. Her relaxed personality was very appealing to the boys, who were fascinated by her opportunity to share much of her working life with such an influential person. After her visit to Balgowan, she had this to say of our Second Prefect, Ngcebo Maseko, on her Facebook page: “Watch this young man. Deputy Head Boy of Michaelhouse. Exceptional speaker. You’ll hear of him again.” Matthew Willman Through his work in the field of documentary and commercial photography, Matthew Willman serves as a photographer to some of the world’s foremost charitable organisations and leaders in their respective fields. Since 2001, he has used the power of the visual medium to promote awareness of human rights and the creative arts, and to advocate for the preservation of South Africa’s national heritage sites. Matthew has committed his focus as a photographer to creating a voice for those affected and infected with HIV and Aids through notable global NGOs active in southern Africa, Europe and Australia.
Geoff Blore and Tristan Hughes with Sibusiso Vilane
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He has had the privilege of working with the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory since 2004. In his address to the boys he told them about his dealings as a photographer with Mr Mandela.
Academic Reports
Sibusiso Vilane Sibusiso is a motivational and inspirational speaker, mountaineer and expedition guide and leader. He was born to a South African father and Swazi mother at Shongwe Mission in Mpumalanga. His family later moved to Swaziland. After a stint as a labourer, and drawing on his experiences as a goatherd, he began his working career as a game ranger in Swaziland in 1993. In 1996 he met John Doble, who became a great friend and benefactor, and who was instrumental in finding the sponsorship for his first Everest expedition. Sibusiso is one of only a handful of South Africans, and the first black African, to have become a member of the Seven Summits Club. The seven summits are the seven highest peaks on each of the seven continents. Sibusiso climbed these mountains between 1999 and 2008. • Kilimanjaro (Africa) 1999 • Everest (Asia) 2003 and 2005 • Aconcagua (South America) 2006 • Elbrus (Europe) 2006 • Carstensz Pyramid (Oceania) 2006 • Vinson (Antarctica) 2006 • Denali/McKinley (North America) 2008
globally and has become an ambassador of expert knowledge for South Africa. Clem gripped his audience in the Schlesinger Theatre while he shared content from his books, including his latest work, Flagwatching.
HUMAN KINETICS Master in Charge: Mr Righardt Kotze The Michaelhouse Human Kinetics programme is unique and unmatched by any other school in South Africa. It is sometimes mistakenly referred to as Physical Education, but the programme is far removed from the days of playing rounders or doing laps of the track or pool. The programme encourages healthy physical training and activity in the modern gym set-up. Boys require information about fitness – they need to develop an understanding of health-related fitness concepts, functional movement training, supplements and safety when training.
On 17 January 2008, Sibusiso and his Team Extreme partner, Alex Harris, became the first South Africans to walk to the South Pole completely unassisted. In early 2012, Sibusiso completed the Three Poles Challenge when he trekked to the North Pole. (The Three Poles are the North Pole, the South Pole and Everest.)
The Michaelhouse years offer a vital opportunity to shape the attitudes and behaviours of our young men, so they do not become sedentary adults. Human Kinetics is an essential school subject that helps our boys become successfully involved with physical activity and value health-enhancing attitudes.
Sibusiso’s irrepressible spirit and infectious enthusiasm for life inspire and uplift people of all backgrounds and circumstances, especially children. His message is simple: every person has their own Everest to climb. Whether you’re prepared for it or not, it’s there, challenging you to reach the top. And if he can do that in the most dangerous and inhospitable of conditions and against all the odds, so, he suggests, can anyone.
Fitness, pupil participation and movement performance are assessed during each lesson. Our boys are encouraged to set goals based on interests and fitness needs. Each boy is provided time during the lessons to work towards his goals through callisthenics and appropriate weighttraining circuit sessions. It is important to remember that the one lesson allocated per teaching cycle for E and D Block boys is not enough time to make significant fitness improvements. Our boys need to be regularly active in their own time, too.
After his talk, many boys were keen to speak with him about his adventures. Clem Sunter Clem, South Africa’s most highly regarded scenario planner and strategist, is an icon and model of mental litheness who has been adeptly styled as the Foxy Futurist. At Anglo American he was the executive responsible for setting up the company’s scenario planning unit in the 1980s, and was until recently the chairman of the Anglo American Chairman’s Fund. He has found a calling in developing unique and creative solutions to fit unusual situations. He is known for his book, The Mind of a Fox, which warned of a major terrorist attack on a western city before the attacks on the US in September 2001. He has given presentations
“The speakers were not very convincing, there being a lot of talk about professionalism and the evil effect of betting on sportsmen.” Debating Society report, The Chronicle, 1936
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D Block: Murray Finlay, Luke Taylor, Nick Rhodes-Jones, Jack Parsons, Manqoba Ngcobo
SEPTEMBER TO DECEMBER 2015
B Block: Mfolozi Dlamini, Mkuzo Kuwani, Rowan Mockler, Armin Prinsloo, Nicholas Forshaw C Block: Bongi Fleischer, Jason Song, Toivo Khumalo, Mphathi Zungu, Ant Fleischer, Nicholas Forster D Block: Murray Finlay, Luke Taylor, Bailey Green, Samuel Kasher, Nick Rhodes-Jones E Block: Cyle Wilson, Luke van Rooyen, Richard Taylor, Michael Buxton-Tetteh, Sebastian Langebrink, Harry Nel The programme is divided into two sections during the year, with the first section being longer than the second. To be part of the programme, which focuses on rewarding academic endeavour, a boy must finish in the top five of his Block, taking into account quarter and examination averages. The major highlight for 2015 was the trip to China for boys who were part of TARPs previously. The EAPs boys from B Block in 2014 were also invited and two boys joined the trip. On Sunday 15 February, 22 boys and I flew from OR Tambo International Airport to Beijing, via Hong Kong. We were going to China over their new year. Space would be limited, with lots of people on holiday. We sailed through customs and when we entered the arrivals area, we saw a sign which read “MHS China Tour”. Good start. Well, nearly. We only lost three bags on the flight out, although they did arrive at our hotel the next morning.
Members of 2015's TARPs group below the giant statue of Buddha in Hong Kong
TARPs: TOP-FIVE ACADEMIC REWARDS PROGRAMME Teacher in Charge: Mr Mike Schwartz
JANUARY TO AUGUST 2015
A Block: Daryn Flanegan, Charles Houston, Ben Adey, Zander Prinsloo, Nicholas van Niekerk B Block: Mfolozi Dlamini, Mkuzo Kuwani, Rowan Mockler, Dante Gutu, Nicholas Forshaw, Armin Prinsloo C Block: Bongi Fleischer, Toivo Khumalo, Jason Song, Nicholas Forster, Ant Fleischer
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Our first stop was the Bird's Nest, the Beijing National Stadium which was used for the 2008 Olympic Games. Wow! To balance the energised boys, we had an extraenergised guide in Peter, who ensured that the tour got off to a good start. Later, to sort out any stiff muscles from the flight, we went for a reflexology massage. It was just what the doctor ordered – some pain, but mostly getting our bodies feeling good again. For supper we went to a food market and tasted plenty of local food. Scorpion, snake, pigeon, frog… the menu goes on. One of the sites we visited was the Great Wall, built to keep China safe from attacking enemies. Each part of the country along the wall built its own protection. It was only much later that one emperor decided to link all the pieces together to make one big wall, over 6 000km of it. We were taken to what seemed like the steepest section for our walk. How impressive the structure is. There was also time for shopping. The boys learnt quickly about bargaining. I gave them some tips, and most were very good at it. Negotiating became an art. There were a
Academic Reports
few shouts and exclamations along the way, but back in the bus the boys loved comparing their war stories and how they got the best bargain. We visited Beijing, Xian for the Terracotta Warriors, Yangshuo for the rural experience, and Hong Kong, with highlights including a cable car trip to the giant Buddha, an afternoon at the Ocean Park, the Science Museum and the sleep we all had in the 3D movie theatre. Our best meal was the dim sum lunch on the giant floating restaurant. There was great shopping in the Stanley and night markets, and there was a light show in the harbour. Some interesting facts about China: shopping is cheap, property is very expensive – R1.2 million for 30 square metres on average – and men cannot marry unless they own property. The bride-to-be’s father requires a down payment of around R180 000 for his daughter. Educated Chinese are not only marrying within their nation but are looking for companions outside their country. Christianity is now recognised as one of China’s four religions.
Back in South Africa, several activities took place during the year. We had a dinner for the boys and their parents, which included a prize-giving for those who had missed out earlier in the year. Food is a major part of rewarding boys, so one evening we went out for pizza at a local restaurant, which went down well. To give back to our community, one of the outings was to teach Maths and Science at one of the local schools. Each Block taught one grade. The boys’ eyes were opened as to just how good they have it at Michaelhouse. The E Blockers taught 56 in a class, which made explaining very difficult. However, they managed very well. On another occasion, we visited an Old Boy, Gareth Jenkinson, who showed us around East Coast Radio. It was a very busy year for the TARPs boys.
Armin Prinsloo imparting Maths and Science know-how
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ECONOMICS Head of Department: Mrs Win de Wet Staff: Mr Andrew Brown, Mr Msizi Mchunu, Mr Ernest Rindfleisch Interns: Mr Hala Xulu, Mr Siphesihle Bhengu I was very pleased with the Economics results achieved by the class of 2014. Twenty-six boys out of 75 (35%) achieved an A and 79% achieved an A, B or C. Although not quite as good as the previous year, they are certainly impressive results. A big thank you to the members of the Economics Department, who put in a huge amount of work to ensure that the boys reached their potential. Once again, Economics drew a large number of boys in C Block for 2015. The subject is relevant and interesting, and certainly enhances the boys’ general knowledge. All the C Block pupils participated in the JSE/Liberty Investment Challenge. The competition started in March and ran until September. We believe that investing on the stock exchange, tracking shares and researching how various businesses are doing are life skills. Not only are we encouraging the boys to track their shares on a daily basis, but many of our assessment tasks are also based on the JSE and what the boys are learning through buying and selling shares. Staff development is an important aspect of the department. Members of the department continue to be involved in the Grade 12 IEB Economics examining and marking process. Two members of the department attended the annual national IEB User Group Conference in Johannesburg. This is an excellent opportunity to network and share ideas with teachers from other schools. There were many interesting and inspiring presentations. One of the highlights was a presentation by Professor Arnold Wentzel, a lecturer at the University of Johannesburg. He gave a fascinating and stimulating talk about complex economic concepts and how to make them a lot simpler to understand. Various in-house courses were also attended during the year, including how to enhance one’s teaching with the use of tablet computers. The South African economy is still facing many challenges: an extremely weak rand, the threat of increased interest rates – as a result of an inflation rate that economists fear will exceed the Reserve Bank’s 6% ceiling, mainly because of the weak rand – labour strikes and unrest, extremely low growth rates, a deficit on the current account, the threat of decreased foreign investment and a continued high unemployment rate. All these issues certainly make for very interesting, relevant and dynamic Economics lessons.
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Top: D Block Economics boys focused on business simulation tasks Bottom: Mr Msizi Mchunu takes his budding E Block economists outdoors
Academic Reports
ENGINEERING GRAPHICS AND DESIGN Head of Department: Mr Elmar de Klerk Staff: Mr Graeme Calway Intern: Mr Craig Pieterse It was pleasing to see a significant increase in the number of boys who have selected Engineering Graphics and Design as a subject in C Block, with 19 boys choosing it as one of their subjects. I was very pleased with the results of the 2014 A Block group and to see that no one achieved a result lower than 60%. Fourteen boys opted to enter the AutoCAD IEB examination and all of them passed with distinctions. The certificate which they gained will stand them in good stead when they embark on an engineering course. The IEB portfolio requirements for 2015 asked candidates to design a new boarding establishment for their school. It was quite applicable given all the new developments and design processes taking place at Michaelhouse at the moment. I was very pleased with their portfolios, which will count 25% towards their final result. The C Block boys were involved with the micro steam car project, and the B Block boys assembled 3D architectural buildings and structures from around the world. They have certainly had great fun with all the projects, which are on display in the departmental classroom. I would like to thank Mr Calway and Mr Pieterse for their input in teaching Engineering Graphics and Design to the younger boys. We will be attending an updated AutoCAD course at the beginning of next year. We are looking forward to another exciting and challenging year in the department.
GEOGRAPHY Head of Department: Mr Sibusiso Ncamani Staff: Mr Mike Bownes, Ms Bridget Kee, Mr Bernard Whitaker, Mr John Crawford, Mr Ian Crawford Interns: Mr Mikey O’Connor At the beginning of the year, we learnt that Mr John Alexander, then the head of department, had resigned to take a school principal position in the Eastern Cape. As a department, we are hugely indebted to him for his commitment and for the various practices he introduced during his time. Following in his footsteps was never going to be an easy task. One of the motivating factors for me to assume the role of head of department was the level of professionalism, dedication and commitment that exists in the members of the department. We were very pleased that Ms Kee joined our department. She brings with her energy and dynamic experience. I believe that she will add tremendous value to our department and the School. We started the year with excitement after yet another set of excellent results, this time from the 2014 Matrics. In 2015, we as a department continued with our commitment to maintaining excellent professional standards in order to get the best out of the boys. We engaged them in three ways: through practical experiences via excursions and fieldwork to test what they have learnt in class; through innovative teaching methods using the technology at our disposal and remaining relevant to the boys; and through ethical debates on topical issues in South Africa and abroad.
Mr Bernie Whitaker with young E Block Geographers at the Bog Stream
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One of the highlights of the A Block year was the road trip to Giant’s Castle to enjoy a practical experience on the fluvial section of the syllabus. The boys thoroughly enjoyed themselves as they measured various sections of the river, ranging from the speed of the water and water clarity to slope elevation. Before the trial exams, we took all the A Block boys to do a city study of Pietermaritzburg. In this excursion they were exposed to a number of issues in the syllabus, such as microclimates, city model structure, informal and formal economies and urban renewal. This certainly gave them insight and an advantage in the period leading up to the trial exam. The A Block boys once again produced a number of worthy ORT research projects. These formed part of their Matric portfolios. The major B Block project this year was the study of Michaelhouse’s microclimate. The boys had to formulate a hypothesis and test it by collecting data on various aspects of the microclimate. For example, they could compare the air and surface temperatures, wind speeds and soil moisture content of different parts of the School. After collecting their data, they had to analyse it and test their hypotheses. This proved to be a fun-filled learning experience. The C Block highlight this year was the mini project on eastern European countries where the boys had to choose and study a country. It proved worthwhile because they learnt about places such as Croatia, Bosnia and Ukraine while also gaining an insight into the migrations of desperate people sweeping the area. In the junior classes (D and E Block) we focused on theme-based topics such as sustainability, prejudice and human rights, an introduction to climatology, the unique features of South Africa, fluvial studies, social injustice and the history of rock and roll. These topics and others gave the boys a good foundation for their work in C Block. Geography continues to be one of the most popular subjects. Our intake for C Block in 2016 is 82 boys. This is not only satisfying but also suggests that the boys enjoy our subject and the manner in which the staff present their lessons to them. This is a huge compliment for the department.
“A place I’d still call home!” Old Boy Thando Ally (2009), Facebook
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HISTORY Head of Department: Mr Mike Thomson Staff: Mrs Candice Smith After a set of competent, but unfortunately not outstanding, Matric results from the small class of 2014, the department started 2015 with renewed enthusiasm because, for the first time in many years, there were to be two C Block classes. Mr Thomson was joined in the department by Mrs Smith, who had an early baptism attending the IEN User Group Conference in Johannesburg in February. Her trip was most useful because she returned to School with all the latest IEB examination information. The A Block commenced the year working at their research projects and tackling the remaining three-and-ahalf themes in the syllabus that needed to be completed. At the start of the second quarter, the class were addressed by Mrs Lynette Dunlop, the IEB senior sub-examiner in charge of marking the source-based essay. She gave an entertaining and informative talk on this section of the exam and left the pupils in no doubt about how they should approach this type of question in the future. After a number of unsuccessful attempts to organise accommodation for the whole class in Johannesburg, the 2015 A Block history tour to visit various apartheid museums had to be cancelled. The syllabus was completed in early September and the class then proceeded to write trial examinations. The papers this year were set in collaboration with Mr Craig Legge from Treverton College and proved to be a good and searching test for the class. The B Block class contained 24 boys who had achieved a variable set of results at the end of their C Block year. The boys started their syllabus by studying the USA from 1910-1940 and then Russia over approximately the same period. The June results that the class achieved based on this work were not that pleasing, so I began the Matric syllabus in July with some trepidation. However, the wake-up call that they received in June seemed to do the trick because the class fared much better in their November exams in a paper that contained a number of questions taken from IEB final Matric papers, so I am hopeful that this class will produce a pleasing set of results at the end of 2016. The boys in the C Block class have progressed more slowly than last year as the department has worked to sort out problems of co-ordinating both timing and content. There has also been the disruption of a number of History boys going on exchange. However, it was pleasing to see the original number of 28 boys grow to 35 by the end of the year, with no fewer than three boys taking History as a seventh subject. This has meant them being taught outside
Academic Reports
of regular school time, which is not easy. They have, however, responded well to the challenge. After a good set of results in June, the department looks forward to more of the same at the end of the year. With two classes in B Block and another two classes in C Block, the department continues to grow again and is looking forward to 2016.
building vocabulary. We will be looking at using film more prominently in future. This seems to be the best way of letting boys hear the language as it is used in ordinary life. I also think the syllabus needs a tweak or two. Sections like the summary should not, in my opinion, be part of the syllabus for an additional language. This is a battle I need to fight for the sake of the boys. The A Block results of 2014 were satisfactory. Six boys achieved distinctions and we had 22 B symbols and 24 C symbols. This means that we came very close to our goal of 8% achieving an A and 66% achieving above 60%. We hope to have built on this in 2015. In January, three of us attended the IEB national conference in Johannesburg in order to keep abreast of the IEB’s requirements. We had Pitt Productions coming to Michaelhouse in May to perform extracts from Willem Poprok, the matric set book, and the prescribed poems. It was a delightful event and the boys thoroughly enjoyed the talented actors making these prescribed works come to life on stage.
Mr Mike Thomson taking his E Block class beyond the four walls of a classroom
AFRIKAANS Head of Department: Mr Chris van der Berg Staff: Mr Johan van Rooyen, Mrs Helene du Toit, Mr Herman Visagie, Mr Ryno Combrinck Intern: Mr Shaun Thompson My first year as head of Afrikaans has been relatively quiet. The focus has been on continuing the good work done by Mrs Louise Erwee in recent years, while making minor adjustments to help things run more smoothly. In the long term, I have some major changes in mind. I want the focus to shift to a more communicative approach. If we can teach the boys to speak and use the language – give them a tool that they can use in real life after school – they will no doubt be much more positive about the subject. Once you have established a proper vocabulary which will enable boys to understand the language, everything else should fall into place more readily. The junior phase should therefore focus primarily on
Overall, the year has been a good one. The whole attitude towards Afrikaans is changing and it has a lot to do with getting the right staff appointed. Mr Visagie joined us from Wynberg Boys’ High School in Cape Town at the beginning of the year and has been an absolute star. Mr Thompson took charge of a B Block class midway through the year and also did a fantastic job. At the end of the year, Mr Combrinck will leave us to take office as Senior Master: Sport. I want to thank him for everything he has done in the department and wish him well for all the challenges he will face in his new position. Mrs Ilne Visagie will join the department next year. She is a qualified and experienced Afrikaans teacher and we look forward to her adding value to the department. Mr van Rooyen and I have been appointed as markers for the final IEB examinations for 2015. This is an invaluable source of experience for a teacher. We look forward to an exciting 2016 and will keep pushing boundaries. Utopia Armin Prinsloo (B Block) Warm kole… Smaaklike aromas van saggebraaide vleis… Pelle om die vuur… Ja dis reg. Braai. Utopia, die eksieperfeksie land waar niks verkeerd kan loop nie en die wêreld waar almal gelukkig is. Meeste mense glo nie dat daar so ‘n ding bestaan nie. Meeste mense is verkeerd. Niemand durf ontken dat daar niks so lekker as die reuk van ‘n tjoppie op die braai is nie.
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Die warm plesier vul jou neus en stuur jou terug na jou kinderjare. Dit is genoeg om enige mens opgewonde te maak! In ‘n Utopia, nes by ‘n braai, baklei niemand nie. Daar is slegs vrede. ‘n Braai-omgewing is ‘n plek van uiterste vreugde. Agter die braai staan die ou omies met die pense en die yskoue bierbottels in die hande. Hul koppe is so kaal soos hul gewete. Aan die ander kant speel die kindertjies rondom die swembad. Hul laggende stemmetjies so onskuldig soos lammetjies. En op die gras lê die ma’s en sonbrand terwyl hulle met geweldige trots aanskou hoe vinnig hulle kinders grootword. Ja dis ‘n lekker lewe om die braai. ‘n Perfekte lewe. Dis lekker om ‘n Afrikaner te wees. Dis lekker om ‘n heerlike bord vleis in die teenwoordigheid van goeie geselskap op te vreet. Dit is my smaaklike vleishemel… My Utopia… Utopia James du Toit (B Block) “Utopia” was nog altyd vir my ‘n woord met ‘n baie vae betekenis. Ek kon nooit werklik verstaan wat dit beteken nie. Dit was amper asof die woord ‘n filosofiese, teoretiese konsep is – iets wat dalk nie werlik bestaan nie. Ek het “Utopia” altyd geassosiëer met daggarokery. Daardie staat van “nirvana” waarvan ‘n mens net in koerantberigte lees… Dit was toe ek jonger was. Nou begin ek besef dat daar dalk werklik iets soos ‘n Utopia bestaan. Indien dit bestaan, sou dit die wonderlikste, vreedsaamste plek wees wat ‘n mens ooit aan kan dink. Ek is doodseker dat dit verskil van persoon tot persoon. Vandag is my Utopia ‘n wêreld waarin daar vrede is. Waar mense mekaar verdra en aanvaar sonder om oor alles oorlog te maak. Dit is waar my familie naby is, waar ek baie vriende het en waar daar baie gekuier, gelag en gesels word. Vandag, in my Utopia, moet daar ook perde naby wees. Ek moet hulle kan ry, met hulle kan praat en met hulle kan werk. Net die reuk van perde maak my bly, al sê my ma my kamer ruik soms na perd. Môre of volgende jaar of oor twéé jaar sal my Utopia dalk nie meer dieselfde ding wees nie. Wie weet, dalk hou ek dan meer van meisies en katte of iets dergeliks. Soos hulle sê: “Soveel dae, soveel dinge.” Wat ek wel nou weet, is dat ‘n Utopia bestaan. Dit bestaan hier diep binne-in ‘n mens se siel waar geen oog kan sien nie. Dis ‘n plek van vrede wat “alle verstand te bowe gaan”.
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E-pos Bernard van der Berg, (D Block) Aan: [email protected] Van: [email protected] Onderwerp: My nuwe musiekgroep Beste Tiaan Die lewe maak snaakse besluite vir ons. Ek het besluit om my eie musiekgroep te begin. Dit is niks groots nie en ons probeer nog vastrapplek in die wêreld kry. Ons het egter iets wat ons laat uitstaan…Voor ek die groep begin het, was daar ‘n “inspirasie” in my lewe. Sy (want dit is maar waar alle mans inspirasie vind) was die mooi in die wêreld van pyn en swaarkry. Die donker plek waar ek myself verloor het, is dieselfde plek waar ek haar gevind het. Meeste van die tyd wat ons twee saam spandeer het, het ek gedink dat sy my lig in die donkerte was. Dit was egter nie die geval nie. Sy het anders gelyk omdat sy nòg donkerder was – sy was die duisternis wat die res voor bang is! Die dag toe ek haar verloor het, het sy dit gesteel wat my myself gemaak het…en in die verlore goed se plek het sy woorde agtergelaat: Die begin van ‘n vergete lied! Groete Bernard Tennis Andrew Daly, (E Block) Gaan haal jou tennisskoene, jou tennisraket en jou hoed, want vandag praat ons oor tennis. Tennis is ‘n baie opwindende sport. Enige persoon kan tennis speel. Jy kan al sestig jaar oud wees of net agt – dit maak nie saak nie! As jy tennis speel, moet jy ten minste ‘n bietjie fiks wees, want partykeer is daar lang houeverwisselings. Jy kry verskillende houe in tennis. Ek kan dink aan die voorhand, die rughand, die snyhou en die lughou. Tennis is ‘n baie bekende sportsoort. Dit beteken dat byna alle lande tennis speel. Daar is baie verskillende tennistoernooie, soos onder andere die Franse Ope, die Amerikaanse Ope en Wimbledon – die grootste toernooi van almal. Novak Djokovic en Serena Williams is tans nommer 1 op die wêreldranglyste. Hierdie twee spelers het fantastiese handoogkoördinasie! Ek speel self tennis en hou baie daarvan. Tennis is beslis my gunsteling sportsoort!
Academic Reports
ENGLISH Head of Department: Mrs Mary McMichael Staff: Mrs Katherine Cass, Mr Peter Huntley, Mr Jonathan Smith, Mr Richard Snowdon, Mrs Tanith Von Mayer, Mr Chris Waldburger Interns: Mr Dennis Mdunge, Mr Michael Simpson, Mr Graydon Theron We were most fortunate this year to secure the services of Katherine Cass as a special-needs teacher in E and D Block. She took a small group of boys from both grades and we are delighted that she will be with us in 2016 in a fuller capacity. New to the department as an intern was Dennis Mdunge, who fitted in easily and will continue with us into 2016. Another intern, Michael Simpson, left at the end of the year. We thank him for his efforts and wish him well in his future. Graydon Theron, who took two E Block classes again this year, is now qualified and also left us at the end of the year. He has taken a post at a school in Tainan, Taiwan. We trust that his journey to the East and his experiences will bring him insight and ultimately, happiness. Peter Dennyson continued to pop in to my classroom twice a week to take the Advanced Programme English boys through their texts. This year, he had A and B Block boys, and it looks like at least 20 boys from the C Block are keen to enrol for the course in 2016. We are still frustrated, though, that the universities do not acknowledge this subject as part of their points system. It really does allow the top English pupils to extend their literary knowledge and to push them to maturity in their critical essay writing. The department’s academic life this year very much followed the pattern of last year. On 3 March, 19 entrants from Grades 10 to 12 wrote the three-hour English Olympiad examination. The theme was Stories and Language of Mzansi and the mixed-media anthology, compiled by the South African Council of English Education, was titled Revelations and Transformations. Zander Prinsloo obtained a gold certificate, and there were four silver and seven bronze certificates. I was a little disappointed in the amount of effort our boys put into preparation for this exam. Much is self-study but I did offer evening classes, which were poorly attended. It seems that Michaelhouse boys still need to learn academic rigour and self-discipline.
“Don't count the days, make the days count” Inscribed on a rock in the Nature reserve, Anonymous
James Harrison engaging in rhetoric during an English lesson
ENGLISH OLYMPIAD
Gold: Zander Prinsloo Silver: Christian Botha, Freddie Conradie, Dalingcebo Maseko, Nicholas van Niekerk Bronze: Wesley Biggs, Ant Fleischer, Brandon Macleod, Tlou Maenetje, Ryan Price, Bruere Venter, Emanuel Zaloumis On a positive note, we send congratulations to Gianluca Truda, who received a R40 000 Vice-Chancellor’s scholarship from UCT in recognition of his excellent performance in last year’s Olympiad. This is in addition to the scholarship he was offered by the Grahamstown Foundation to attend Rhodes. Other heart-warming results include a first place in the Whispers from the Heart competition being awarded to Ryan Price for his poem, Reflections. Poems from Christian Botha and Likhona Camane were published in English Alive, a southern African schools competition, in KwaZulu-Natal’s Douglas Livingstone anthology and placed in the top four of the Whispers From the Heart competition. This is the third year in a row that Christian has had his work published. Both boys kept my hopes for
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creative writing alive by sharing their work with me and I am most grateful to them for these moments of joy.
Bad Handshake Likhona Camane (B Block)
Our teachers, too, have been creative – Peter Dennyson and I had poems published, and at the Hilton College English teachers’ conference both Chris Waldburger and Jonathan Smith presented papers which were well received. Jonathan gave two lectures: one on the use of the iPad in the English classroom and the other, in keeping with the IEB-set CAT task, on gender roles and stereotyping in literature. Chris spoke on Building a Classical Curriculum.
I’ve been told that I give really bad handshakes. it’s like I’ve lost the life in my little hands and the only things left are my brittle bones and the thin lines that run across my wrists like tiny train tracks trying to find their way back home.
Tanith Von Mayer and I attended a worthwhile IEB regional conference at St Mary’s DSG, Kloof, where we were introduced to the new Shakespeare set work for 2017, Coriolanus. Thanks must go to all the members of the department, who work hard, are enthusiastic about the subject and, despite their political, religious and philosophical differences, all work together in good humour – the one element that we all have in common and which keeps us sane. Reflections Ryan Price (A Block) A thin silver hair floated softly through the air, Coming to rest in my outstretched palm. This hair laid there insignificantly and yet so significantly. How could something so simple pose a question so intellectual? The sign of time ticking over slowly, gradually ageing. Many winters had passed without so much as uttering a sound, The passing of half a century of summers Announced the promise of fewer to come. And through the eye of the silver hair I did see, Flickering memories that were diminishing into forgotten ashes, Memories full of sunshine and glee, Memories full of sorrow and sadness. And although time rapidly increases its curfew, It is not too late. I still have life and breath, sufficient enough to make an impact. Enough to surpass death’s cold claws and destroy This dysfunctional and immoral society That we have descended into.
it took the 5 AM train out of my body to another, more deserving one that would actually use it properly and treat itself more like a temple and less like a boat in a tempest. Mama Zander Prinsloo, A Block The dominee says that my mama is my pillar of strength, my rock of stability. When I feel sad she is always there to give me a hug or make me a cup of sweet tea. Her touch makes me feel safer than when I think of heaven. She teaches me a lot of things, like to look people in the eye when I talk to them, to wipe the milk from the counter if I spill otherwise it’ll stain, and to pray every night before I go to sleep, because if I do all these things then God will see that I am a good boy and he will keep my mama with me for a long time. I have done all of this. I will always listen to Mama because she is old and she knows more than me. She says her wrinkles tell her things and the more wrinkles a person has the more they have been told. This means that I must listen to them when they speak to me because they know a lot and I don’t because I don’t have any wrinkles. My ouma knows everything, so when she speaks I always listen. I go stay with Ouma sometimes and I always listen to her tell me stories about my mama and the things she did when she was my age. Ouma says that Mama made all of her biggest mistakes when she didn’t listen to Ouma. I think this means that I must listen to Mama whenever she speaks to me and tells me to do things like wipe the counter after I spill milk on it. Ouma says that if I do that then Mama might not lose her hair when she has as many wrinkles as Ouma. I don’t know why this is bad because Papa doesn’t have any hair either. Mama and Ouma tell me that I must always listen to ladies and that I must respect them. I wonder if this
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means that I must not respect Papa and Oupa or if it means that I must always add a few wrinkles when I speak to ladies. I have also heard that ladies don’t like wrinkles. Does this mean that they don’t want me to listen to them? If that is true, why did Mama and Ouma tell me to listen to them more than men? I don’t always understand ladies and what they think. I think this is because I am not a lady. I don’t understand the young ladies either, like Sarah in my class - I don’t understand her at all. Mama said I must always listen to ladies, so even though I don’t like or understand Sarah, I still listen to her even though she is younger than me. I must also respect ladies so I don’t throw rocks at her like I do to the boys. Mama teaches me a lot of things. I try my best to always do what she tells me to, but sometimes it is hard. She tells me that I mustn’t cry because it shows that I am weak and men must always be strong and also Papa doesn’t cry and neither does Mama and she’s a lady. I always try my best not to cry but it doesn’t always work. When I cry, I try my best to hide it from Mama. I don’t cry in front of her because a mama should never see her son cry, so I cry into my pillow to hide my face and stop her from hearing. I don’t cry much but that is what I do when I do cry. Standing here and looking into Mama’s room, I am wondering why Mama is crying. She isn’t crying into her pillow and I don’t think the telephone will stop people hearing her cry. I hear her speaking to Oupa. She says that she can’t believe it. She says it has been coming but she cannot believe that it has actually happened. She says she will miss Ouma very much and that she loves Oupa. I can’t hear the rest because Mama is crying too much and because she closed the door because a son should also never see his mama cry. I think that Ouma lost all of her hair and that means that she had to leave and this makes Mama sad. If Ouma can leave without saying goodbye to Mama and me, does that mean that Mama can do it too? She said that if I do what she says then she won’t leave, but Mama has done what Ouma said and she is still crying into the telephone. I don’t want Mama to leave. I didn’t want Ouma to leave but she still did. Now I am crying into my pillow because I miss Ouma and I want her to tell me stories about Mama. But I am also crying because I think Mama is going to leave me. She will get more wrinkles and she will lose her hair and then she will also go. I don’t think that looking people in the eye when I talk to them, cleaning the spilt milk on the counter before it stains or praying every night will bring Ouma back and I don’t think it will stop Mama from leaving, even though she told me it would. Maybe what Mama meant is that every time I look someone in the eye when I talk to them, I will see the softness that she had in her eyes, every time I clean the milk from the counter before it stains, I will remember
that Mama used to hold my hand while I wiped, and every time I pray before I go to sleep I will ask God to let me dream of Mama. And in that way she will never leave me. I now know that I don’t have to fear Mama leaving. I will miss her when she leaves, just like she misses Ouma, but by the time she leaves she would have told me enough so that she won’t have to tell me what to do the whole time. I now know that by the time Mama leaves she would have given me enough wrinkles that my son will listen to me even though I’m not a lady. I now know that the next time Mama sees me crying, I will be crying into the phone while she is sitting with God, planning my dream for that night. I don’t mind because I know that Mama will be with me everyday, whether I clean the counter or not, because I will remember her and in my memory she will be my rock and my pillar till the day I leave.
FRENCH Head of Department: Ms Martine De Maroussem DELF Exams The DELF Junior sessions were held at Hilton College in October and the following boys took part in the examinations. I would like to convey my congratulations to them for their outstanding achievements. A2 level: Luke McDonald B1 level: Samuel Danton, Dante Gutu, Mkuzo Kuwani, Mikaël Maingard Outings Earlier in the year, the A and B Block boys sharpened their skills in the kitchen in the company of some fine chefs from St Anne’s Diocesan College, performing the art of flipping pancakes. The evening was a relaxed
Bruce Pritchard and the gentle art of pancake flipping
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and fun one, and it has certainly awakened an interest in spending more time behind the stove for some of our young men. The B Block pupils enjoyed an indoor soccer game in a Franco-Zulu friendly match in the third quarter, and I am very proud to shout “Vive la France!” for our win. The C Block pupils enjoyed a more refined outing at Piggly Wiggly, also in the company of St Anne’s French students, for some tea and cake on a grey and breezy winter afternoon. The D Block class attended an afternoon of fun and games at St Anne’s at the beginning of the third quarter. They enjoyed a variety of activities ranging from bingo to pétanque and a general knowledge quiz on France. The E Blockers enjoyed a quiet lunch at Piggly Wiggly in the fourth quarter.
Vive l'amitié en moment de rivalité
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ISIZULU Head of Department: Mr Sizo Chalufu Part-time Staff: Mr Rodney Zondi Intern: Mr Sanele Zikhali There has been an increase in the number of boys who take isiZulu in E Block over the past two years. However, we have not been able to keep all of them because so often subject difficulty and the demands of the syllabus are beyond their abilities. This is a pity because acquiring an Nguni language like isiZulu can only benefit the boys and our country. We remain hopeful that one day we will have a minimum of two Zulu classes from E to A Block at Michaelhouse. Nevertheless, our endeavour to equip our learners with the necessary skills to sustain them beyond the classroom remains our primary objective as a department.
Academic Reports
As envisaged, having two sets of classes in E and D Block is proving to be a great success. The more able learners are extended, while the less able are given the attention they need and deserve. Achievements The 2014 Matric results were excellent and in line with our predictions. Once again, there was a lot of improvement at the bottom end and this can be attributed to the good work ethic of both staff and boys. A number of E, D, C and B Block boys entered the national isiZulu Olympiad. The boys performed very well, with eight of them making it to the finals. In the end two of our boys received merit certificates and two came third nationally and were awarded bronze medals. One boy in B Block came out tops and was awarded a gold medal and a trophy. This is an outstanding achievement because at this level the candidates are expected to demonstrate an advanced ability to comprehend, interpret and analyse information in isiZulu. They are to be commended for flying the School’s flag high with their excellent performances and results. In 2015 we hosted a Zulu play based on the IEB Matric set work, and a number of Matric pupils from surrounding independent schools were in attendance. Cultural C Block boys travelled to Shakaland in Eshowe for the overnight Zulu trip. This outing plays an important role in our curriculum because the boys get to experience the language in context and gain insight into the richness of Zulu culture. They get to go inside a fully thatched hut, eat traditional food, learn about courtship, watch and participate in different dances for different ceremonies, have a lesson in spear making and take part in stick fighting, among other activities. The E Block group visited Ecabazini near Albert Falls Dam, where they were introduced to the ways of the Zulu people, particularly their farming system, diet and spiritual rituals. These are also necessary foundations for learning the language. We are looking forward to an even more productive 2016.
LIFE SCIENCES Head of Department: Mr Paul Snyman Staff: Mr Iain Guthrie, Mr Paul Fleischack, Mr Nic Cahill, Mr Righardt Kotze Laboratory Staff: Mr Sipho Zikhali (Laboratory Manager), Mr Bongani Ndimande (Laboratory Manager), Ms Zanele Ndlovu (Laboratory Assistant)
The department is fortunate to have knowledgeable, passionate and highly experienced teachers. Most members occupy senior positions in the School and therefore have limited teaching loads. Having only one full-time Life Sciences teacher has posed some challenges on the one hand, but on the other, has meant that boys have been able to engage with a diverse range of experienced teachers. Iain Guthrie continues to inspire young men; his vast knowledge of the natural world has made for interesting lessons. He has been instrumental in initiating our indigenous forest rehabilitation programme, which the E Block boys have been involved in. This project will continue in years to come. Paul Fleischack has again extended the top Grade 12 set and we eagerly await their final results. He is a senior Paper III (practical paper) marker, which has enabled him to provide our Grade 12s with the insight required to succeed in this examination. Nic Cahill, in his penultimate year of teaching, has maintained high standards and learners continue to enjoy his clever wit and honest approach. In a subject which is practical by nature, it is vital to have a dedicated and skilled laboratory manager, and Bongani Ndimande has continued to grow in his managerial role while balancing his own studies and extramural commitments effectively. He has been ably assisted by Zanele Ndlovu, who stepped into a managerial role while Bongani was away completing a module of his studies. The Life Sciences laboratories were renovated in January to create slightly larger teaching spaces. This has had a positive effect on learning by increasing the opportunity to conduct practical and group work. Laboratory benches were upgraded and chairs re-covered, making for a more effective learning environment. The new sciences block, which has been under discussion for the past three years, has been given the go-ahead. This state-of-the-art facility will house Physical Science, Life Sciences and Engineering & Graphic Drawing. It will be built where the current science building is situated. Most laboratories will have a linked lecture venue, allowing for smooth transition from theory to practical. A large lecture theatre, green house and communal staff workroom have all been included in the plans. The final results achieved by the 2014 Life Sciences Grade 12 group were very pleasing indeed. Almost all the candidates (95%) achieved an A, B or C symbol – 7% up on the previous year’s results. Thirty-eight percent of the candidates achieved an A symbol (equivalent to 2013), which remains significantly higher than the IEB average. More importantly, 100% of the results achieved were above 50%. 71
Academic Reports
Mr Paul Snyman and his A Block Life Science class enjoying a recently renovated classroom
Our 2015 Grade 12s’ school-based assessments were moderated regionally and the moderator commented favourably on the standard of work. It was felt that our boys were well prepared for their final exams. We eagerly await their results and wish them well as they leave our department and School. The 2016 A Block Life Sciences group will be smaller than in 2015 (26 candidates), but the B Block group will be slightly larger. Pleasingly, the number of D Block boys who have elected to take Life Sciences in C Block in 2016 has not dropped. We continue to aim to attract those boys who not only need the subject as a university entrance requirement, but more importantly, stand to gain from it as an educational experience. We have supported the IEB initiative to develop primary research skills and report-writing skills. Twenty-two A Block boys elected to do a Life Sciences research project. The boys conducted an investigation which considered the effect that large dams have on their river systems. Midmar Dam (the Umgeni River system) and the newly built Spring-grove Dam (Mooi River system) were the sites investigated. The D Block boys, in particular, have enjoyed a number of dissections as part of their anatomy lessons. Foetal pigs, donated from a local piggery, were dissected to show the main body systems. Hearts, lungs and kidneys have also appeared on the dissection boards this year. Our C Block biologists had the opportunity to visit the
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Oceanographic Research Institute (ORI) along with a back-of-house visit to Ushaka Marine World in Durban. Despite the obvious curriculum links, a second motive for the excursion was to expose the boys to the diverse range of career opportunities that places like the ORI and Ushaka offer, from researchers, animal trainers and veterinary scientists to electrical, chemical and structural engineers. The boys interacted with many professionals and found the experience worthwhile. Apart from academic achievement for the boys we teach, one of the main objectives of this department is to foster an interest in and appreciation for the natural environment. We are fortunate to have staff members who are passionate about this cause and we believe we are moving in the right direction in this regard.
MATHEMATICS Head of Department: Mr Bailey Coxon Staff: Mr Alan Adlington-Corfield, Mr Nico Boshoff, Mr James Bullough, Mr Dominic Gruijters, Miss Lisa Hardie, Mr Allan Laing, Mr Peter Stevens, Mr Andre van Wyk Interns: Mr Allen Dlamini, Mr Sibusiso Nkleko, Mr Craig Pieterse Mr Allen Dlamini joined the department at the beginning of the year and Mr Sibusiso Nkleko, in June. Epoch and Optima need to be thanked for their ongoing generous support and financial assistance to the intern programme.
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D Blockers: enthusiastic about Pi
It is pleasing to note the diligent manner in which all the interns approached their responsibilities, and their willingness to help in the classroom when needed. These two interns have helped the weaker classes to build their basic skills and have taken boys for extra lessons when necessary. We have been fortunate to have Mr Pieterse in the department, who has taught two full classes this year. His professional manner and experience are appreciated. 2014 NSC Examination Results Core Mathematics: 77% average, 45% distinctions Mathematical Literacy: 81% average, 69% distinctions APM: 77% average, 55% distinctions The staff are to be congratulated for their energy and drive in getting the boys to reach such high levels. Their dedication to the task, especially in maintaining high standards and giving an enormous amount of extra time to the boys, has certainly contributed to this fine set of results.
on a smooth transition for the boys from prep to high school with regard to their basic skill set in Mathematics. IEB Conferences and Sub-Examiners This year, the Core Mathematics User Group Conference was held in Johannesburg, and the Mathematical Literacy Conference in Durban. There was also an APM Conference held the day before the Core Conference. • • •
Attendance for Core Mathematics: Mr Alan Adlington-Corfield, Mr Bailey Coxon, Miss Lisa Hardie and Mr Andre van Wyk. Attendance for Mathematical Literacy: Mr Nico Boshoff, Mr Craig Pieterse, Mr Peter Stevens and Mr Andre van Wyk. Attendance for APM: Mr Alan Adlington-Corfield and Mr Bailey Coxon.
From all accounts, the conferences proved to be most informative and enjoyable. Invaluable information was gained from the reports given by the various examiners and from conversations held with other delegates.
We are constantly looking for new and innovative ways of teaching this subject and making it relevant and exciting. In-house staff development remains a focal point, as does sharing ideas with each other and with staff from other schools.
Mr John Luis, the IEB internal moderator, held workshops on trigonometry and marking. The workshops explored trends in both teaching and assessing trigonometry and geometry, and looked at marking Mathematics papers in line with Grade 12 NSC guidelines.
It was rewarding to have spent time with Louise Rautenbach, the Grade 7 Maths teacher from Clifton Nottingham Road. One of the areas of discussion centred
The following staff were sub-examiners for the 2014 IEB examinations: Mr Bailey Coxon (senior sub-examiner Mathematics Paper 1), Miss Lisa Hardie (Mathematics
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Paper 2), Mr James Bullough (Mathematics Paper 2) and Mr Andre van Wyk (senior sub-examiner Mathematical Literacy Paper 2). South African Mathematics Olympiad Round 1: 100 juniors, 138 seniors Round 2: 41 juniors, 60 seniors Murray Finlay, D Block, made it through to the third round, for which he is to be congratulated. He was placed in the best 100 junior participants in the country. Competitions and Events Most B Blockers are encouraged to write the IeBT. It is a non-calculator, multiple-choice test similar in style to the NBT, which pupils write in their Grade 12 year to gain acceptance into universities. The NBT focuses on academic readiness for university study. Each test requires you to apply prior learning – what you know and are able to do – to materials that reflect expectations for first-year students in university programmes. Daryn Flanegan is to be congratulated for being placed in the top 1% of candidates who were registered to write the IeBT in 2014. The Department of Mathematics and Applied Mathematics at Pretoria University held a nationwide Mathematics competition for Grades 8/9 and 10/11. This was the first year that Michaelhouse participated in this event, with 68 boys writing the test. Although the results were not exceptional, a number of boys acquitted themselves well.
Once again, the E Blockers attended The Wykeham Collegiate Maths Festival and around 50 boys attended the annual Hilton College Mathematical Experience. This year, the boys were entertained by Dave Ryan, an IEB examiner and moderator. Pi Day unfortunately fell on a Saturday this year, so it was not celebrated to the same extent as in previous years. The juniors had some fun exploring the number Pi and its oddities, and there was a chance to throw a pie at Mr Coxon as a reward for reciting the most digits of Pi. The winner for 2015 was James Dawson, who recited 66 digits. The 2014 winner was Lance Warburton, who recited 79 digits, and the 2013 winner was Toivo Kumalo, who recited 213 digits.
MEDIA CENTRE Staff: Mrs Leigh Kotze, Ms Zanele Mchunu, Mr Simon Zondi The importance of reading can often be overlooked in our increasingly technology-driven society. It is often too easy to waste hours on social media or gaming on one’s latest smartphone or tablet. It is an easy way of keeping children occupied and, unfortunately, is leading to a culture of non-thinkers. Multiple studies have shown atrophy in grey-matter areas (where processing occurs) in children who spend many hours on the internet or on gaming apps. It is also linked to both a decreased capacity to develop empathy and compassion for others and a decreased ability to integrate physical signals with emotion. In short, excessive screen time appears to impair brain structure and function, especially during the time when the brain undergoes massive changes from puberty until the mid-20s. Interestingly, the chief technology officer of eBay and employees of Silicon Valley giants like Google, Apple, Yahoo and Hewlett-Packard send their children to a school where not a computer is to be found. No screens at all. They are not allowed in the classroom, and the school even frowns on their use at home. They are taught through creative, hands-on tasks. Those who endorse this approach say computers inhibit creative thinking, movement, human interaction and attention spans.
Pi Challenge winner James Dawson shortly after throwing a pie at the HOD for Maths, Mr Bailey Coxon
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This is a bit extreme and I believe a balance must be found. Technology is not bad, it’s what one does with it that can have either positive or negative effects. The act of reading has positive influences, whether it is done with a book or on a device. The challenge is to get boys reading. There is a lot to be said for mobile reading, particularly in Third World countries which give people access to ebooks on their mobile devices, thereby helping them develop, sustain and enhance their literacy skills.
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Interestingly, the Association of American Publishers, using data collected from about 1 200 publishers, found that ebook sales in the US had dropped 10 percent during the first five months of 2015 but that sales of young adult fiction had risen 12%. Even though teenagers are tech savvy, only 20% of them bought ebooks, with most expressing a strong preference for print. It was humorous and ironic to note that internet sensation, YouTube star and vlogger SuzelleDIY has produced a 240-page book, proving that there is money in print. However, we must keep in mind that it doesn’t matter through which vehicle your child reads but that he is, in fact, reading. Reading has a massive positive influence that can counterbalance the negative effects that hours of screen time may be having on your child’s brain. Researchers have found evidence that fiction improves a reader’s capacity to understand what others are thinking and feeling. Furthermore, children who read for pleasure are likely to do significantly better at school than their peers, according to new research from the Institute of Education UK. Reading for pleasure was found to be more important for children’s cognitive development between ages 10 and 16 than their parents’ level of education. The combined effect on children’s progress of reading books often, going to the library regularly and reading newspapers at 16 was four times greater than the advantage that children gained from having a parent with a degree. It was noted that reading for pleasure had the strongest effect on children’s vocabulary development, but the impact on spelling and, surprisingly, maths was still significant. It may seem astonishing that reading for pleasure would help to improve children’s maths marks, but the study indicated that a strong reading ability will enable children to absorb and understand new information and affect their accomplishment in all subjects. A look at the year We kicked off the E Block year with a reading challenge, Bookopoly. This challenge encouraged reading across genres and made choosing different books fun. It inspired the boys to read books they might not normally choose and thereby expand their book literacy. Each boy received a Bookopoly sheet and, much like Monopoly, every square represented a different aspect to choose a book by, such as: "A book that became a movie" and "A book that was published the year you were born". This game helped boys choose their next books because sometimes that can be a daunting task. We also played Bookbingo, which helped boys orientate themselves with the different sections of the library. This was a fun and raucous activity during which they had to fill out the titles of books in the library on a bingo sheet under numerous headings, such as "Dystopian fiction", "A biography" and "A book that won an award". There were
25 headings in total and, of course, only one winner. The competition was fierce, but in the end this activity helped the boys learn the different spaces of the library and where to find particular books in a fun and energetic way. Displays In the Media Centre we create educational and thoughtprovoking displays that tie in or parallel with the syllabus. We provide academic support to pertinent topics and extend the boys’ horizons. These are some examples of the displays put together in 2015: Lights from Space Less than 100 years ago, everyone could look up and see a spectacular starry night sky. Now, millions of children across the globe will never experience the Milky Way from where they live. The increased and widespread use of artificial light at night is not only impairing our view of the universe, it is adversely affecting our environment, our safety, our energy consumption and our health. This display enabled the boys to learn about an environmental issue that affects us greatly, even here at Michaelhouse. It raised awareness and got the boys thinking critically about their own lifestyle choices and responsibility towards the planet. We illustrated light pollution on Earth using the magnificent images from Nasa’s Visible Earth catalogue. Rugby World Cup World events played into our hands with regard to promoting reading. The Rugby World Cup provided a great opportunity to create attractive displays about countries, cultures and rugby icons and to promote books about rugby. Rugby autobiographies from top-notch players, like Ritchie McCaw, created an opening for encouraging boys to read about their sporting heroes. Shipwrecks and Survivors With the boys all heading out on hikes and journeys, we looked at South Africa’s stormy nautical history, which resulted in many shipwrecks and survivors. In particular, we focused on the Grosvenor and her marooned castaways, and their amazing 700km journey of survival. We compared the castaways’ burdens and challenges in 1782 with what the boys could expect to encounter on their own walks, and concluded that Future Life, a sleeping bag and a tent aren't that bad. Michaelhouse Inter-Schools General Knowledge Quiz On 6 August we again hosted the inter-schools general knowledge quiz in the Indoor Centre. A total of 164 pupils in 41 teams (four students per team) from 11 schools took part, with the results as follows: First – Michaelhouse (Ant Fleischer, Toivo Khumalo, Cameron Clark, Mphathi Zungu) Second – Hilton College Third – Michaelhouse (Jason Song, Bongi Fleischer, Matthew Gerrish, Nicholas Forster) Fourth – Michaelhouse (Jack Parsons, Murray Finlay,
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Bernard van der Berg, Samuel Kasher) Champion Readers Programme This programme encourages younger boys to develop a love of reading early on which, we hope, will stay with them throughout their years at Michaelhouse. We are fortunate that our E Block group this year were already avid readers, so we were able to assist them with developing an understanding and appreciation of quality literature. The Champion Readers record for the most books read by one boy in a single year was smashed by E Blocker Thomas van der Hoven. The record had been set by Angelos Geranmayeh in 2010 with 144 books. Thomas now holds the record with 156 books. Thomas enjoyed reading the classics and literary fiction, with some books being well over 500 pages long. Audio/Visual Department The department once again experienced a relatively quiet year. The need to provide the boys with entertainment on rainy afternoons using DVDs has dwindled since the introduction of the BYOD policy at the School. The number of websites offering educational video clips for teaching purposes is also growing year by year and has become the first port of call for teachers rather than the DVDs on our shelves. Nevertheless, we have added some popular movie titles to our collection and will ensure that it continues to grow. The department was run efficiently by Mr Zondi and my sincere thanks go to him for his commitment to offering a professional audio/visual service to both the staff and the boys. The year ahead We were sad to say goodbye to Mrs Lynn van der Vegte in May, but we wish her all the best in her new job as head librarian at Bridge House in Franschhoek. We lost her to the Cape but we look forward to seeing her at the annual Franschhoek Literary Festival. We welcome Mr Jed Coventry in 2016 and trust that he will find his position here at Michaelhouse rewarding. We look forward to all the new and exciting innovations he will bring to the Media Centre.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION Richard Louv, in his book Last Child in the Woods, describes the human cost of alienation from the natural world as “Nature Deficit Disorder”. This, he says, is caused by the increase in screen time and the consequent reduction in time outdoors. The effects of this condition include children having limited respect for their immediate natural surroundings. This, in turn, has been linked to a range of behavioural disorders, a lower concentration span and a reduced ability to cope with stress and adversity.
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Michaelhouse boys are not exempt from the increased desire for screen time and engagement with technology. In fact, the demise of the Venture Club and the Natural History Society coincided quite closely with the arrival of computers in the life of the School. As the interest in these voluntary activities has waned, so we have introduced Outdoor Education into the co-curricular programme to ensure that every boy does experience the outdoors, its pleasures and challenges. This year, for the first time, boys on the C Block Journey commented on the quality and taste of the water in streams in the Drakensberg. I wonder if the taste of town water is changing so much that spring water is so noticeably different. We are so fortunate to have the Nature Reserve, the Midlands and the Drakensberg wilderness on our doorstep. I hope that the experiences gained in these places will develop in each boy a sensitivity for the natural environment and a sense of urgency about preserving these areas for their ecological, health and aesthetic benefits. This year saw improvements to the E Block camp facilities and programme. A new route was explored, mapped and secured for the D Block Hike, which proved very successful. We are most grateful to our neighbours and local Old Boys for their hospitality in allowing the boys to traverse and camp on their property. Parts of the C Block Journey were also re-worked as we sought the most appealing places and routes for this expedition.
E BLOCK SURVIVAL CAMP
Master in Charge: Mr James Bullough “Challenges are what make life interesting. Overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.” – Joshua J Marine The 2015 survival challenge, in which the boys spent three nights in the Nature Reserve, was a great success. Creating House flags, building shelters and formulating mottoes and songs – initial team-building exercises – got the challenge off to a good start. These activities encouraged communication and negotiation skills that would be called on later in the week. Raft building and rope tying, identifying indigenous vegetation and reserve orientation are a few of the tests which enabled the boys from each House to work together in tough conditions, challenging team dynamics. These tests stand each group in good stead for the challenges that lie ahead, whether in the near or the distant future. The evenings required the boys to cook their own food, and the highlight was definitely the chicken potjie competition. The judges’ decision was unanimous –
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The Mackenzie E Blockers preparing their shelter for the night
Mackenzie’s potjie was the best in years. All Houses were awarded points throughout the course of the camp, and the victorious team was presented with the E Block Survival Camp trophy. Mackenzie ended up on top, thanks to their discipline and teamwork. They were followed closely by Tatham and Baines. On the whole, a successful survival challenge. The survival camp, through the eyes of Cyle Wilson, was “a mixture of memories, both good and bad – but mostly good”. Cyle Wilson, Mackenzie Hiking there: not so good. Screaming war cries: good. Making our own shelters: good. Hoisting our homemade Mackenzie flag: a lot of trouble, but in the end, good. East’s tent falling over during the first night: bad for them, great for everyone else. Waking up at 4.15am because the wind was rushing through our shelter: no comment. Designing and constructing our own raft: good for others,
terrible for us (the only raft to fail). Killing a chicken: the best part for some, awful for others. Although it sounds a little clichéd, the most important part of the camp was the team building. This was prominent in all the activities, especially those that were more challenging. When, halfway across New Dam, our raft completely and utterly failed, we all pitched in and swam that raft – piece by piece – to the other side. Even though we were all tired, sore and dirty, by the time we had finished, not one of us was unhappy; none of us was regretting what we had done and the camp had achieved its goal. We had worked as a team throughout an activity that could have left us as broken as our raft. We felt more together and, certainly, more part of the Michaelhouse group. Ultimately, the 2015 E Block Survival Camp was a success, especially for Mackenzie. Mackenzie winning the competition: great for us; not so good for the others.
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D BLOCK HIKE
Master in Charge: Mr Righardt Kotze The main aim of the hike is to promote outdoor education and learning that will stand the boys in good stead for their C Block Journey. On the hike the boys become familiar with a heavy rucksack, learn to pitch a tent and gain a feel for different terrains and distances. Fitness, health, leisure, recreation, personal development and the encouragement of outdoor pursuits are fundamental in providing high-quality leadership training. The hike is a four-day trek back to Michaelhouse from Castle Howard in the Kamberg. The first day started with the lightning siren sounding because of an early thunderstorm. Unfortunately, the boys could not complete the orienteering exercise in the Nature Reserve, but Plan B had them gather in the Main Quad to do a lengthy brain teaser in their House groups. After that exercise, the boys collected their tea snacks and lunch rations. A quick bag inspection, followed by a final pep talk, ensured that the boys gathered neatly in their groups on the terrace in front of School after the “all clear” siren had sounded. With the whole fleet of Michaelhouse transport at the ready at Screens, the groups were quickly dispersed to their respective buses. Departure for the hike commenced at 10am. Reality sank in as the boys realised that the 50-minute drive from School was taking them further and further away from the familiar red-brick fortress where they had become accustomed to every want and need in their daily lives being catered for. The following perspectives are provided by some of the boys. They are accounts of the boys’ and their House groups’ daily triumphs, trials and tribulations. James Kiln, Farfield Day One On the first day of the hike, all the Houses met in the Main Quad to be briefed about the hike ahead of us. It was cold and raining and after the lightning siren went off, we were given a problem-solving worksheet to do, which would decide in what order we would leave and who would get their rations first. The task was to get as many questions right in the quickest time possible. After the problem solving, we packed our heavy bags into the buses and set off to the place from where we would be walking back to School. The bus ride there felt long and this definitely made a few people nervous in our group as we knew the distance we had travelled away from Michaelhouse was the distance that we would have to walk back. We arrived at the place where we were walking from and started walking in groups of two Houses at a time, leaving in ten-minute intervals. Luckily for us, we left second
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with Baines, so the wait to leave was not long. We started hiking eagerly to get to our first campsite quickly so we could rest, and already after the first few minutes, we could see that some people were going to struggle more than others. We quickly learnt that you have to help the people struggling because you are only as strong as your weakest member. At about halfway into the day’s hike we were given a chance to rest for a bit, fill up our water bottles and eat some of our lunch, which we had been given at School to carry with us. After a good break, we left refreshed and excited to get to camp in good time so we could rest. It was not long before we reached camp and set up our tents, trying to find the softest ground possible to sleep on. We rested well in the afternoon and for supper we made tuna and noodles, which we had carried with us as part of our rations. After a restless night, with a big storm that woke us up at about midnight, we packed our tents and ate a good helping of Future Life for breakfast. We set off stiff and sore, with our rucksacks feeling heavier than the day before. Matthew Hubbard, Mackenzie Day Two After a bowl of Future Life, we made our sandwiches and were the second group, along with Pascoe, to leave the camp on the second leg of the hike. After a few kilometres of roads scattered with cow dung, we emerged atop a hill to discover a view of a road that stretched to the edge of our vision. This was when we started to worry as to what was to become of us all and why we were on this long trek through the vast, empty countryside. Not long after that, we established that the seemingly endless road was not the road we would walk. Instead we made a left and continued in what seemed to be a more correct direction towards Michaelhouse, which boosted our spirits enormously. We stumbled on what had the potential to be a ten-minute shortcut. We were pondering the risks of this supposed shortcut when a man wearing a ski mask galloped up to us on horseback. We stood silent in both fear and confusion. Nicholas Stainbank, Pascoe, eventually broke the silence with a sentence in isiZulu. The man responded and Nic thanked him and took the lead on the shortcut. I asked what had been said. Nic said he had asked where the path went and the man on horseback had pointed in the general direction of School and knowledgeably stated, “That way.” This, obviously, was confirmation enough for Nic. Eventually we did rejoin the road on which we were meant to hike. This road meandered a lot, which meant shortcuts through the marshlands. We thought we were closing in on camp quickly, but to our dismay, ahead of
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us was what can only be described as the “Devil’s Hill”. The climb tormented us because each time we reached what seemed to be the top, we were greeted by another climb, each one seemingly vertical. We did manage to evade death and reach the top of “Everest Jr” but we then discovered that we were to walk across the “plains of broken ankles”. We eventually found out that we were lost only 500m from camp, so charged on to our destination. Camp was made and some ventured into the cold but refreshing waters of Lake Lyndhurst. That evening, we enjoyed a School-cooked spicy chicken dish that had some of us worried about what tomorrow might hold. As absolute darkness fell, a thick and eerie mist settled, engulfing the camp, which caused everyone to settle down very quickly and to get a good night’s rest. Day Three Mackenzie and Pascoe were released first upon the day’s 20km walk. We started by descending what seemed to be another Devil’s Hill, which was very nearly as shattering as the up climb. An age later we reached the bottom, where we were met by a stream of ice-cold drinkable water and we eagerly filled our water bottles. An unfortunate Mr Maremane slipped into the river, letting out a bloodcurdling scream followed by a chuckle. We noticed the mountain Inhlosane, which we had summited the previous year, not too far away as we walked. We then entered “Infinity Avenue”, which was basically a dirt road lined with ancient pine trees. It had no pity for the drained Michaelhouse boys and seemingly no end. Eventually, the boys won the fight and emerged at a T-junction which told us that Fort Nottingham was 4km away. We rested alongside a river, where Mr Kotze met us with a recharge of boiled eggs and a smile as he told us that we “only” had about 10km left. We did eventually arrive at the dairy farm where we were to camp. Tents were pitched only moments before, according to Mr Crawford, the storm of the century. Everyone enjoyed a braai and settled down for an early night after a long day, eager to be done with the hike. Nick Rhodes-Jones, Tatham Day Four Even though we didn’t exactly follow the route on our final stretch, it did not take away any of the triumph and happiness of walking across Baileys. After the group photos, most admitted that it hadn’t actually been that bad, but when Mr Kotze asked us if we’d do it again, we quickly ran up to the House, cleaned off in the showers and proceeded to sleep. I would like to thank Mr Kotze and the staff for organising, helping and guiding us and giving us so many memories. I can say that our group left the D Block Hike feeling much more united and grateful for the luxuries provided by Michaelhouse and at home.
C BLOCK JOURNEY
Master in Charge: Mr Paul Fleischack Team leaders: Mr Jonathan Smith, Mr Peter Stevens, Mrs Candice Smith, Rev Alan Smedley Cycle team: Mr Mike Bownes, Mrs Helen Bownes, Mr Mike Thomson, Mr William Silk, Mr Elton Mlotshwa, Sr Lauren Richmond, Sr Morag Atherstone Paddling team: Mr Paul Snyman, Mr Richard Snowden, Mr Sanele Zikhali Staff: Mr Bongani Ndimande, Mr Craig Pieterse, Mr Alan Adlington Corfield, Mr Tim Jarvis, Mr Herman Visagie, Mr Mikey O’Connor, Mr Damien Rautenbach, Mr Dennis Mdunge, Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo, Mr Jacques Richter, Mr Graydon Theron, Mr Alan Dlamini, Mr Hala Xulu, Mr Rodney Zondi Rations: Mrs Jacqui Snyman Base co-ordinator: Ms Joanne Morrison This year saw the undertaking of the fifth C Block Journey. The 13-day, 280km expedition saw the best and worst weather, from icy cold rain and thunderstorms to the most beautiful warm, dry days. Poor visibility and weather in the Drakensberg prevented some groups from summiting, but those that did reach the top of Langalibalele Pass were treated to the most wonderful views of KwaZulu-Natal. This year saw three days’ paddling on the Tugela River. Day three included negotiating Mamba Gorge, which was the nemesis of many boats. Mathew Gerrish’s thoughts on Solitude Solitude has given me a time to think and to enjoy nature without the weight of a heavy pack on my back. Forty hours by yourself is a long time, but the first 25 have gone past incredibly quickly. I have been able to think about the more important things in life, the challenges ahead and those I have overcome. I have been able to enjoy the quiet side of life away from the hustle and bustle of School. I have enjoyed being able to sit and listen to nature – without other people around, making a noise – and watching the river flow slowly past. The sounds of nature have also dulled the sounds of my grumbling stomach as I survive on a few dog biscuits and apples. Emanuel Zaloumis offered these thoughts on paddling down the Tugela River There is a quiet hum of excitement as we unload the kayaks from the truck to begin our Journey. The first challenge – swimming across the river and back, wearing life jackets – came as a very cold surprise before we headed downstream on the first 18km leg of the expedition. This gentle stretch was marked only by one boat jamming sideways across a channel, but that did cause a complete logjam of kayaks behind it. Sunrise on day two saw many stiff bodies, unaccustomed to a night on a thin camping mattress after a strenuous day’s exercise. However, once on the water, muscles
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C Block Journey
eased and we soon gained our rhythm and momentum. Again the rapids were small and offered more fun than challenge. By mid-afternoon, after lunch on the river, we had made camp on Mr McKay’s farm, where talk turned to the rapids in the gorge which we were to face the next day. We met our river guide a few kilometres downstream of campsite. After a safety briefing, we stopped to inspect the river and select the most suitable line down the extended rapids and rockslides. These were soon to upend the crews of every boat save one.
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Mr Tim Jarvis wrote this humorous perspective of his experience in the gorge The following morning, we headed down the river picking up our white-water guides (one of whom bore an uncanny resemblance to a character from The Hangover) before stopping on the final bend to listen to a technical briefing about which route to take down the approaching rapid. I say "listen", but because of a combination of nerves and the roaring noise from around the corner, no one really heard anything. This was evidenced by the glimpses of legs, paddles and safety rope that went flying into the air as the first few boats headed into the gorge. Somewhat
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mercifully for those of us waiting to go, we could not see much more than that because of the drop at the entrance to the white water. Finally, my nautically deficient crew mate and I launched into the current, to our surprise picking an almost perfect line into the drop. That was about as good as it got. I’m not sure what happened next, just that there were a lot of rocks, a lot more water and even more adrenalin. I managed to ride the entire rapid, some 300m, the only problem being that I was no longer in the boat. I have to stress that this was not recommended in the safety briefing. I learnt the hard way that rocks in a river are much harder than a 40-something-year-old body.
B BLOCK LEADERSHIP CAMP
Written by Mr Allan Laing
The camp was held from 22 to 24 September at Em’seni and was run by Mr Allan Laing along with the eight Housemasters. We arrived at Em’seni all satisfied with the idea of a camp that didn’t involve hiking, although we didn’t really know what to expect.
each group worked together to complete each task. An obstacle course was also thrown into the mix, with each House having to complete it as a whole, leaving no one behind. It was interesting to see how individuals behaved when a member of the House was battling on the course. On the third day, we had an Inter-House sports day. The Houses competed with one another in games such as soccer, volleyball and tug of war. Although these games seemed like just games, they were really building up each House as a unit and strengthening the relationship between the boys, which will be vital for 2016. The camp had a pleasant balance of theoretical and practical situations, and also gave us free time to relax or play a game, such as touch rugby. It provided a good foundation for each House to build on before next year. The leadership lessons we learnt were priceless and will be vital for the success of our A Block year in 2016.
On our first morning, four Houses had the opportunity to sleep in while the rest had the morning to complete a four-hour solitude experience. This experience allowed us to reflect on the past year because we each received a letter that we had written to ourselves during the C Block Journey in 2014. Reading these letters was an interesting affair as we had the chance to analyse the progress we had made on our goals. During this time the other four Houses, after their slow start, took part in an engaging sentencing exercise. Each House was given multiple examples of people who had committed crimes and asked to sentence each person to a certain number of years in jail. The exercise taught us considerable lessons on how to deal with different situations and provided us with experience for next year, when we might have to decide on punishments. Lectures during the camp included topics such as Leading up, Leading down and Leading among your peers. All of these talks were interesting and very educational, teaching us key aspects of what it takes to lead well. During the evenings, the whole Block would meet in the hall to watch a movie that had links to leadership. The two movies that we watched were Apollo 13 and A Few Good Men. Both films were powerful as they displayed leadership in real-life situations. In Apollo 13 there was a key situation where the spaceship was in a dilemma and great examples of leadership were shown in order to save the mission. Apart from the theoretical side of leadership, there was also a form of practical leadership, with each House given puzzles and riddles to solve. These exercises brought out the best in the Houses and it was interesting to see how
Matt Ramsden: a practical demonstration of 360 degree leadership
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SCIENCE Head of Department: Mr Matthew Higginson Staff: Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo, Mr Jaap van der Vegte, Mr Michael Schwartz Intern: Mr Daniel Maremane Lab Assistance: Mr Raymond Duma, Miss Zanele Ndlovu There was much excitement at the start of the year from the boys and the staff as the department welcomed two new staff members: Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo as a full-time Science teacher and Mr Daniel Maremane as a Science intern. The A Block class of 2014 had their hands full trying to tackle the new syllabus. There are always a few nerves flying around at exam time in the year when the syllabus changes. I believe that the boys did exceptionally well and should be congratulated. There were 46 boys who wrote Physical Science in 2014, with 18 boys (39%) achieving a distinction. There were no failures. Once again, the boys were able to focus when it counted and they performed brilliantly. The highlight of 2015 was the realisation that there is going to be an upgrade to the department. Plans have been drawn up and it looks like the Life Science, Physical Science and Engineering Graphics and Design
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departments might be under a new roof as early as the beginning of 2017. It is very exciting because the sciences are changing subjects and it is great to see that Michaelhouse is willing to change with the times. There is provision for photovoltaic cells to be put on the roof, and the architect is doing everything in his power to make the building as green as possible. As a department, we have been proud of the fact that so many boys are choosing Physical Science as a subject. We have as many as 63 boys who have decided to take it to Matric. We believe we are achieving one of our core goals of making Science real and relevant to everyday life. This year, our top-set C Block boys entered the FFS Expo for Young Scientists. They did extremely well, with a number of them receiving prizes. The standout achievements were: Matthew Gerrish and Julian Smart placing first in the category Physics and Astronomy, for which they were awarded a bronze medal; Bongi Fleischer and Jason Song placing second in the category Conservation and Environmental Studies; Toivo Khumalo and Ant Fleischer placing second in the category Earth Sciences, Mining and Metallurgy; Kirin Ramthol and Nic Forster placing second in the category Design, Engineering and Technology; and Michael Menear and Oliver Calvert-Evers placing third in the category Human Biology and Medicine.
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RITUAL
Michaelhouse is an Anglican foundation school in the Diocese of Natal, and the Bishop of Natal, the Rt Revd Dino Gabriel, is the school Visitor. The resident Chaplain, Canon Alan Smedley, together with the Rector, assumes responsibility for the spiritual welfare of the boys. The Chapel and the spiritual life of the School are seen to be central to the education Michaelhouse seeks to provide. We believe is it fundamental that each boy who passes through this School should have had the opportunity to be exposed to Christian worship and values. For some this will occur during their time here, whilst for others we trust that the seeds which are planted in their lives will germinate in later life. However this occurs, it is our hope that young men of Michaelhouse will acquire a spiritual foundation which will not only equip them to live whole and fulfilled lives, but which will also enable them to practise a life of Christian service in the world. Whilst being a Christian foundation school, the necessity for religious tolerance is recognised and our boys are taught to respect the beliefs of other world religions and philosophies.
SPIRITUAL Written by the Rev Canon Alan Smedley In February this year, I was walking up to School at about 6.30am from our home down across the Bogstream. It was a stunningly beautiful morning with crystal clear air and deep blue sky, and the lush green grass was glistening from the dew. As I usually do, instead of walking up the hill past the Music School, I took the long route round and walked up through the avenue of pin oaks along Warriors’ Walk. Looking across Meadows and up to the Nature Reserve, I found myself recalling the words of Psalm 121:1 and 2: “I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” And as I did so, I was moved by the realisation, once again, that here at Michaelhouse we are given the enormous privilege and responsibility of helping the boys, as they pass through the School, to acquire a strong Christian spiritual foundation for life. One which will enable them to echo the words of the psalm with a profound sense of its eternal comfort and truth; which will equip them to live whole and fulfilled lives; and which will also inspire them to practise a life of Christian service in the world. How do we do this? I believe it comes primarily from helping them to enter into a knowledge of God the Father through a personal faith in Jesus Christ (a living, vibrant and meaningful personal faith), made real by God the Holy Spirit. This, I believe, is the most valuable discovery that any human being can make. Consequently, the spiritual programme at Michaelhouse, as part of the
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holistic education which we seek to provide, should give every boy the opportunity to make this discovery of spiritual truth for himself. For some, this will occur during their time here, while for others, my prayer is that the seeds that are sown will germinate in later life. To this end there are, of course, a number of specific activities which take place each week. There are the Chapel services, where the boys are exposed to Christian worship, discipleship and values; the Christian Fellowship group, which meets on a Wednesday evening in the Crypt; and House cell groups and Divinity classes. Then there are the numerous informal conversations that take place between staff and boys. At Michaelhouse we are extremely blessed to have many staff who willingly share their own personal faith with the boys. Currently, we have 11 licensed Lay Ministers who assist in services, and this year 23 members of the academic staff gave talks in Chapel. In addition to these activities, there are the less frequent opportunities, the most significant being the annual Confirmation Camp and Service, which I will report on in the next section. As I continued to walk up to School on that beautiful summer morning a few weeks ago, I was both deeply grateful and excited that God had afforded us these varied opportunities to try to help the boys acquire a strong Christian spiritual foundation for their lives. It is indeed a privilege. The Westminster Catechism states: “The chief end of mankind is to glorify God and enjoy him for ever.” May we always be faithful in helping the boys to discover that it is here that human life finds true meaning, purpose and direction.
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Thomas Greig, Stewart Grant and Dasyan Nair with the School Visitor, Bishop Rubin Phillip
Christian Fellowship The committee for 2015, who were elected by the outgoing group of 2014, consisted of the following: Thando Mnguni (Chairman and Head of Farfield), Josh Cullinan (Deputy Chair), Nick Harrison (Head of Baines), Liam Furniss, Mylo Sadiki, Justin Miller, David Armstrong, Nick Anderson, Ben Adey, Stewart Grant, Matthew Kiln, Callum Deeble, Matthew Watson and Lethu Mthembu. They were an extremely capable and strong group of boys who were respected throughout the School. Under Thando’s leadership the meetings thrived and continued to attract, on average, more than 80 boys each week. The Christian Fellowship Band Once again, we had an exceptional band led by Josh Cullinan. The other members were Liam Furniss, Mylo Sadiki, Ben Adey and Callum Deeble. All of them were in A Block, except Callum, who was in B Block. They are very gifted musicians who led the worship at CF meetings extremely well and also at the informal evening Chapel services, which take place twice a term. Christian Representative Council The CRC for 2015 consisted of Stewart Grant (Chairman), Thando Mnguni, Josh Cullinan, Liam Furniss, Nick Anderson, Ryan Anderson (Senior Prefect), Nick Harrison, Nick van Niekerk, Jordan van Rees, Dasyan Nair, Shingi Vambe (Head of Founders), Ncebo Maseko (Second Prefect) and Tom Greig. Stewart gave
outstanding leadership and ensured that the council took its responsibilities seriously and that they made a meaningful contribution to the spiritual life of the School. Confirmation Camp and Service The Confirmation Camp once again took place at Em’seni, the Scripture Union Independent Schools campsite at the base of the Spioenkop mountain near Winterton. It was held from 14-18 February, just prior to the half-term weekend. We left on Saturday after sport and returned on Wednesday afternoon. In previous years, the Confirmation programme was held for boys in C Block. However, after much careful thought and prayer we decided to move it to the start of B Block. The primary reason for this was that the boys would be that much older and so better equipped to think more deeply about the implications of making a Christian commitment and following Christ. Prior to the camp I explain to the boys that its objective is to give them the opportunity to really think through the Christian faith – to wrestle with the issues of what it means to be a Christian and to then decide whether or not they want to be confirmed. Virtually the whole of B Block chose to attend, plus a few A Blockers. There was much lively discussion and debate, and the boys had the opportunity to ask their questions and express their views. All of this happened at a deeper level and with greater conviction than in previous years, vindicating our decision to move the camp from C to B
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Science and Faith Conference Early on Monday 27 May, I flew to Johannesburg and then proceeded to a bush lodge in the Waterberg area to attend a leadership summit on Science and Faith. I returned home on Wednesday 29 May. I had been invited by OM Michael Cassidy. It was an extraordinarily helpful experience and stretched my thinking in many ways. Essentially, six committed Christian men who are also top scientists, both in South Africa and abroad, gave lectures and led discussion on the whole subject of the apparent conflict between biblical faith and science. Their thesis, which they encouraged delegates to consider, is that there is no conflict and that the two can live very happily together. Staff course Each Tuesday evening during the second quarter, we held a follow-up meeting to the Alpha course which was held last year. We used material produced by Nicky Gumbel from Holy Trinity Brompton in London titled The Jesus Lifestyle.
The incoming Head of Pascoe, Callum Deeble, lights a candle on Remembrance Sunday
Block. It was a wonderful few days and a large proportion of the group publicly made the decision to make a commitment to Christ, to invite Him to come into their lives and to receive the Holy Spirit. What a privilege it was to pray with them to do this. Consequently, 92 boys chose to go ahead and be confirmed at the Confirmation Service, which took place on Friday 20 March at 5.30pm. Bishop Rubin Phillip presided. Twenty-five boys were also baptised during the service. What is interesting is that when the Confirmation process involved C Blockers, after having attended the Confirmation Camp only two or three would decide not to go ahead and be Confirmed. This year, with B Blockers involved, there were 22 boys who decided not to go ahead and be Confirmed. In my mind this indicated that, being a little older and more mature, the boys were able to think through the implications of Confirmation more carefully and, consequently, many more made a responsible decision not to be Confirmed.
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Five-way Sunday service option An initiative which we started last year, in an attempt to make Chapel services more meaningful, is to have a number of different services taking place simultaneously on one Sunday a term. The intention is to recognise and try to cater for the fact that different people have different preferences and needs when it comes to worship. Consequently, the boys and academic staff are given the choice of attending one of five options. They can attend either the morning Eucharist or one of four options in the evening. These are: a Roman Catholic Mass; a typical evening worship service in the Chapel; an informal service in the Schlesinger Theatre, where the Christian Fellowship Band leads the worship; or a discussion on some appropriate topic in the Media Lecture Theatre. These services took place this year on 15 March, 7 May, 30 August and 18 October. At the discussion meetings the topics covered were: What do Christians believe?; What is a Christian school?; How can there be a God of love when there is so much suffering in the world?; What does it mean to be a Christian and a sportsman?; and human sexuality. On Sunday 18 October at the informal service in the theatre, which most of the School chose to attend, our Second Prefect, Dalingcebo Maseko, was the preacher. He gave an excellent talk during which he used various examples relevant to the boys. Once again, the variety of options was incredibly well received by the boys and proved to be a very good and helpful strategy in making the spiritual life more meaningful to them. Ascension Day Full School Eucharist On Thursday 14 May, the whole School and staff attended our Ascension Day Full School Eucharist. This year Chris Waldburger, a teacher in the English Department, was the preacher.
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Music Festival Service On the evening of Sunday 26 April, the Chanticleer Singers, conducted by Richard Cock, performed in place of our normal service. It was titled WAR and PEACE. The write-up was as follows: “A hundred years ago, Britain declared war on Germany. The programme will be a dramatic mix of music and will feature some of the great First World War poetry. It will conclude with the sounding of the last post, a moving tribute to those who made the supreme sacrifice during the war.” Old Boys’ Day Chapel Service We were very privileged to have Michael Cassidy as our preacher this year. Michael must number as one of our most famous OMs on the international stage. In 2012, he was named the honorary chairman of the global Lausanne Movement for world evangelisation, succeeding the late Rev Dr John RW Stott. He gave a most thoughtprovoking and challenging talk, interspersed with lots of humour. I include it in this report because I believe it speaks so eloquently to us all. Talk by Dr Michael Cassidy It is indeed a real privilege to be here at Michaelhouse and I thank Chaplain Alan Smedley and Rector Greg Theron for their gracious invitation. It’s also great because this presents a splendid opportunity for me to meet up with many friends from bygone times, and be able to check one another over for storm damage. And to see how we have all weathered the ravages of time. I remember being at a conference in Amsterdam a number of years ago, and a seminary colleague of mine from yesteryear came up to me and said: “Mike, you look terrible! You remind me of that old hymn which says: ‘Change and decay in all around I see’!” Anyway, that wasn’t too encouraging. But I do take comfort in my own division of the human race into three categories: “Youth”, “Middle Age” and “You Look Good!”. So if anyone comes up to you and says you are looking good, you know exactly where you fit. Maybe there is a fourth category worth mentioning: “Are you sure you’re okay, or shall I call the doctor?” Actually, when I last spoke to the boys a couple of years ago, Alan Smedley asked me to reflect and reminisce on my School days and remember the old times of long ago, assuming that I could remember. I told the lads the story of an 85-year-old golfer who was about to give up on his golf.
“Best time of my life... miss it all the time” Past San Sister and parent Alice McGhee, Facebook
He said to his wife, “My dear, I don’t think I should go on with my golf. The problem is I just can’t see where I hit the ball.” She then suggested to him that he go out on the golf course with her brother, who although 93, nevertheless had very good sight. So off he went shortly thereafter with his 93-year-old brother-in-law. He hit the ball beautifully and away it went. He then said to his 93-year-old brother-in-law: “Did you see where it went?” “Yes,” was the reply. “Where did it go?” the golfer asked. “I can’t remember,” said the rather unhelpful brother-in-law. Anyway, whether you can remember well or not, I want to take you to a great Old Testament text which involves some remembering. And some challenging to us to make an effort to remember. This is the text: “Remember the rock from which you were hewn, and look to the quarry from which you were dug.” (Isaiah 51:1.) This was the Lord’s word to Judah at that time to look back to their ancestors, especially to Abraham and Sarah and the early history of the Israelite nation. They needed to look back to where they came from. And so my word to you, dear one and all, is that this is a great and an incredibly important exhortation, namely for us as a school community, and then as individuals, to think back to our own roots, and where we came from, and what we imbibed here at Michaelhouse as schoolboys, and what we inherited, and what were the foundational values of the School when it was founded, and the spiritual foundation our elders sought to provide for us here when we were schoolboys. In terms of moving forward in our lives, we need to know where we came from, and what were and are our roots. So my first exhortation is to Michaelhouse as an institution. I say to you: “Remember the rock from whence you were hewn, and look to the quarry from which you were dug.” And I say to Michaelhouse, remember and never forget that you and all of us were founded as a distinctly and definitely and self-confessedly Christian school. Our School was founded in 1896 and based on biblical principles of the Christian faith. Indeed, we came from a founder in the person of James Cameron Todd, who hailed from Christ’s College, Cambridge, where he won the Greek New Testament prize with first-class honours. An Anglican Canon, he was a man of deep Christian piety and missionary spirit which drew him overseas for Christian service. His heart, however, was profoundly in Christian education. Thus he could write: “A man’s tone, moral and spiritual, as well as intellectual, is largely determined for life by his school.” And it is so. So I urge this School never to leave or forsake this founding Christian rock from whence we were hewn some 120 years ago. In this age of religious pluralism, postmodernism, ethical relativism and neopagan secularism, and with tolerance of any and all religious
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postures made the supreme virtue, it is not surprising that many once-Christian institutions are tempted to forsake their Christian moorings, abandon uniqueness and slide into the secularistic spirit of the age. So I urge Michaelhouse, its Board of Governors, its staff and boys and Old Boys never to do this. I thankfully see no trend in this direction, but I issue the warning nevertheless. Remember, I beg you, dear Michaelhouse, the rock from which you were hewn, and look to the quarry from which you were dug. This is a great school with a huge inheritance and legacy, and massive ongoing potential. I pray for the School and its Rector and Chaplain and some other personnel on a faithful basis every single week by name. Secondly, I then want to say to all of you and to all of us as individuals, let’s remember personally the rock of personal Christian commitment from which you and I were hewn. Although we didn’t always get the message or understand it fully or receive it wholeheartedly at School, nevertheless we were urged to commit our lives to Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour and Friend, and follow Him as Christian disciples. Some responded there and then at School. Others, on the other hand, like me, were too naughty and only got around to it later at university, or when we were even older. I remember that after I preached at Michaelhouse for the very first time in 1962, after we had done our first African Enterprise mission to Pietermaritzburg, the Chronicle said: “If it can happen to Cassidy, it can happen to anyone.” In fact, Don Guthrie, just before today’s service, said to me: “Mike, you were the naughtiest boy in Michaelhouse.” I was horrified at
his capacities for hyperbole, especially when I’d told him a billion times not to exaggerate. Anyway, when I was led into Christian commitment at Cambridge University after my first two weeks there, it was on the Michaelhouse spiritual foundation that it all happened. As usual, I had gone to communion service, as we were trained to do at Michaelhouse, but I wasn’t ready for the two questions which my college friend, who had taken me to the service, put to me right afterwards. He asked, number one, “Michael, do you know Christ?” I was horrified and appalled at the question and felt some consequent antagonism towards him. But his question was so earnest and sincere and full of love that I was quite disarmed. I replied that we had just been to church, hadn’t we, so surely that was enough. But he replied that there was a big difference between knowing Christ and knowing about Christ, even as there is a big difference between knowing about the Queen of England and knowing the Queen of England. All of that really startled me. Later, I saw that this was exactly what Jesus was talking about when He prayed the great High Priestly Prayer in John 17:3 and said: “Father, this is eternal life that they know thee, the one true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” Anyway, while I was trying to recover from the first question, my friend put a second question to me: “Michael, have you ever surrendered your life to Christ?” Now that was one thing I knew I had never done. I remembered that at Michaelhouse we’d had a little precommunion set of prayers that were set out for us in the
Mr Gary Ralfe, Mr Donald Guthrie, Rector Greg Theron, Rev Alan Smedley, Mr Grant Murray, Mr Ian Guthrie and Mr Mark Lynn on the Chapel steps during the annual Remembrance Sunday service
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chapel pews, and in one of them was a prayer which said: “Take me, make me, and use me for your honour and glory.” And I remember saying that there was no way I was willing to do that. I was willing to go to church, etc, but not to surrender my life into that kind of full commitment. Anyway, that day, 23 October 1955, at Cambridge, I committed my life to Jesus Christ as fully and completely as I possibly could. Understanding was born in a new way about knowing Him, about the importance of surrender and full commitment to Him. And how wonderful it was to hear Him knocking on the door of my soul like a thunderclap, saying: “I stand at the door and knock, if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in.” (Revelation 3:23.) This coming October, that will be 60 years ago. And Jesus has certainly been a mighty friend of mine over those 60 years. That day, and in subsequent weeks, I discovered the wonderful New Testament truth articulated by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:17, which says: “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creation, old things are passed away, behold all things have become new.” I found an immediate newness of life. I very quickly had a new attitude to God, to church, to life as a whole, to my parents, family, friends, to South Africa and its problems, and to my whole future and what I would do with my life. How I thank God that I did not miss that opportunity. And I saw very clearly all of a sudden that nominal faith was not enough. Religiosity by itself was quite inadequate. I remember many years ago, when I was doing some campaigns in South America and we were in a very poor city called Limón in Costa Rica. While there, I was taken up onto a hill by a missionary from where we could overlook this very poor city. I commented that I saw on the roof of almost every house a television aerial. And I asked him how come people who were almost too poor to clothe or feed themselves could all have television. He then told me that it was a status symbol in Costa Rica for people to have television, so folk would go out and get the television aerial and put it on top of the house to give the impression that they had television and had really gone up in the world. But if you went inside the house, there was no television set. The reality of television was missing. That was when I came to see also that it was quite possible to have the television aerial of nominal Christian faith and nominal religiosity hoisted up over our lives, but in truth, the reality of what one might call the “television” of Christ was not in one’s house or life. That was something I came to see. Maybe some of you have come to something similar, but have perhaps slipped from it, in which case I beg you to get back there and not to forsake your first love for Christ. Still others here may never have made that response to Christ. You may never have made the discovery of all discoveries of coming to know Him. Perhaps your heart is seeking and restless. The great St Augustine said: “Thou
hast made us for Thyself and our hearts are restless till they find their rest in Thee.” Maybe there are some here today and you have that same restlessness. If so, I remind you that you were made for a living relationship with God and that restlessness will remain until you enter that relationship. So once again, I would beg you not to delay. Don’t postpone. You don’t want to be waiting till the eleventh hour to repent and then find yourself dying at 10:30. In fact, some of you look like you could pop off at almost any moment, so I think you should hurry up and take this step. Why not let today, even, be the day when you say your yes to Christ, as I did in October 1955, when I received Him as Saviour, surrendered to Him as Lord, and opened the door of my heart and asked Him to come in. It’s a huge thing to do, but it is quite a simple thing to do. The thief on the cross cried out: “Lord Jesus, remember me.” A simple prayer like that coming from your heart to Him can make all the difference in time and eternity. Won’t you pray a prayer like that? Finally, let’s remember the rock of Christian discipleship and the call to Christian character from which we were hewn. The call to us in our school days was not just to become committed to Christ, but to become real Christian disciples and to develop and manifest real Christian character. We wouldn’t just come to Christ; we would resolve to follow Him all our days. We would become men of integrity, honesty, purity, goodness, family and parental responsibility, and marital faithfulness. As Thomas Paine, the 18th-century American political activist once said: “Reputation is what men and women think of us. Character is what God and the angels know of us.” Ouch. That certainly hits me, and maybe it hits you. Yes, it’s no use coming to Christ singing “Just as I am”, if ever after we remain just as we were. Michaelhouse has produced men of awesome character and is still doing so today. That must remain the aim of the School. It must remain our responsibility, dream and goal to be men like that, men who are godly and godlike. After all, our School motto is Quis ut Deus. This, of course, means “Who like God?” Even our School motto says we are meant to be like God. What a challenge. Well, guys and gals, Michaelhouse Old Boys and families, Michaelhouse School, staff and board, them’s my sentiments for today. We need to remember as a school community, both past and present, the Christian rock from whence we were hewn and not forsake it. We must live godly, truly Christian lives till the End of the Day, after which comes the staggering adventure of Heaven as articulated by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 2:9: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither has there entered the heart of man, the things God has prepared for them that love Him.” This is where we are headed. That is the Real Deal. Everything here and now is preparatory and preliminary. The Real Deal is coming. So then, till we meet again, whether Here or There, may the Lord bless you all.
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New Visitor for Michaelhouse On Thursday 16 July, at the Elective Assembly held at the Cathedral of the Holy Nativity in Pietermaritzburg, Bishop Dino Gabriel was elected to become the next Bishop of Natal. He succeeds Bishop Rubin Phillip, who retired at the end of October. Bishop Dino was formerly the Bishop of Zululand. He was installed on 21 November 2015 at a moving service held here at Michaelhouse in the Indoor Centre. It was a wonderful celebration and fitting that Michaelhouse, as the Diocesan College of Natal, could be used to host the event. Chaplains Conference From Monday 27 July to Friday 31 July, I attended the annual Independent Schools’ Chaplains Conference. This year, it was hosted by the Grahamstown chaplains. As is our practice, there was a good balance between opportunities for corporate worship, informal interaction and fun, and for formal lectures and discussion. As has been my experience in the past, it was a most worthwhile conference. I returned to Michaelhouse enriched and better equipped to minister to the boys in our care. Full School Eucharist preacher At the service on Wednesday 24 June, the preacher was a B Block pupil, Mfolozi Dlamini. This was a significant event for a number of reasons. It was the first time, probably in our history but certainly during my 23 years here, that a schoolboy has preached at a Full School Eucharist. He was also a B Blocker, so not from the top ranks in the School. His native tongue is isiZulu. He only arrived at Michaelhouse last year, coming into C Block. He spoke with eloquence, authority and confidence, while being humble and self-effacing. His theology was sound and his subject clear and direct. It was essentially about making the most of one’s opportunities at Michaelhouse and appreciating being able to attend this incredible school. Visit of Debbie Kirsten Over the weekend of 25 July, Debbie, the wife of Proteas cricketer Gary Kirsten and daughter of Michael Cassidy, spoke on two occasions. The first was at a Christian Fellowship rally, which was held in the theatre on the Saturday evening, and the second was the following morning at our Full School Eucharist, where she was the guest preacher. Her talk was crafted around the writing of her book, Chai tea & Ginger beer. She spoke about the story of her life and how her choices along the way had influenced each chapter. The challenge she presented to her audiences was that we need to realise that as we make choices in life, so our personal story develops, for good or for bad. But also, we need to understand that the choices we make today, in this chapter, will influence what the content of the next chapter will be. So, choose wisely.
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Visit of the Rev Dr Susan van Niekerk and three girls from St Anne’s Diocesan College At our service on the evening of Sunday 9 August, the head girl, deputy head girl and head of chapel at St Anne’s came to Michaelhouse and took the service. Susan has a PhD in biochemistry and consequently, because she is a scientist, I had asked her to come and speak to the School on the subject of Science and Faith. Her talk was to show the boys that there doesn’t need to be any conflict between having a Biblical faith while also being a serious scientist. The girls did the readings and led us in prayer. That day was, of course, National Women’s Day, so it was highly appropriate to have four ladies conduct our service. In fact, this was also probably a first, in that we had an all-female-led evening Chapel service. Unity Camp Over the half-term weekend of the fourth quarter, from Friday 30 October to Sunday 1 November, the newly appointed Christian Fellowship Committee for 2016, as well as the members of the Worship Band, went to Em’seni to attend the annual leadership training camp for boys and girls from the traditional independent high schools in the province. It was run by the staff of Scripture Union Independent Schools under the leadership of an OM, the Rev Greg Wynn. The boys reported that it was a most worthwhile and helpful weekend. Remembrance Day On Sunday 8 November, we held our annual Remembrance Day Service. This year, wreaths were laid by the Rector and Mkuzo Kuwani, the Senior Prefect for 2016, on behalf of the School; Mr Donald Guthrie, Honorary Colonel of the Natal Field Artillery, on behalf of the Army; Mr Iain Guthrie on behalf of the Navy; Mr Grant Murray, Honorary Colonel of 15 Squadron SAAF, on behalf of the Air Force; and Mr Mark Lynn and Mr Gary Ralfe on behalf of Prisoners of War. As we have done in recent years, in place of a sermon the eight School Prefects each read the story of an OM who died in one of the two world wars, and then lit a candle and placed it among the flowers on the altar. Michael Herbert, who is in D Block, sounded the last post and reveille. Once again, it was a meaningful and fitting tribute to those OMs who have given their lives in war. Conclusion As I have done in the past, I would like to conclude this report by thanking all those who gave so much to the spiritual life of the School during 2015. Each person contributed in a particular way and played a valuable role in our lives.
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Mrs Candice Smith, who taught Divinity to all the boys in E and D Blocks. The Lay Ministers: Messrs Greg Theron, Paul Fleischack, John Crawford, Allan Laing, Tim Jarvis, Alan AdlingtonCorfield, Iain Guthrie, Michael Schwartz, Sizo Chalufu and Jonathan Smith, and Mrs Candice Smith. Mr William Silk and Mr Abri Venter as the Choir Master and Chapel Organist, respectively. The Chapel servers, the School Prefects and the bell ringers. Chapel preachers The following people were our preachers this year. I am most grateful to all of them for being willing to be involved in the spiritual life of the School in this way. Except for Fred Pitout, Reggie Purbrick and Debbie Kirsten, they are all members of the Michaelhouse academic staff. Greg Theron Michael Schwartz Tim Jarvis Joy Preiss Michael Bownes Dominic Gruijters Paul Snyman William Silk Alan Adlington-Corfield Chris Waldburger Allan Laing Jonathan Smith Candice Smith John Alexander Paul Fleischack John Crawford Iain Guthrie George Ferreira Sizo Chalufu Dean Forword James Bullough Herman Visagie Nico Boshoff Debbie Kirsten Fred Pitout Nkanyiso Ngcobo Reggie Purbrick
Rector Greg Theron welcomes Thomas Ringwood to Michaelhouse at the ever meaningful New Boys’ Induction ceremony held in the Chapel
WEDDINGS OF MICHAELHOUSE STAFF AND OLD BOYS Date Groom Bride Details 14 March 2015
Greg Binnie
Janine Guest
Old Boy 2005
11 April 2015
Themba Mtombeni
Reabetfwe Tshwagong
Old Boy 1995
11 July 2015
Stuart Rowan
Sarah Lichkus
Old Boy 2004
22 August 2015
Carlo Nusca
Charlotte Marriner
Old Boy 2003
24 October 2015
Nick Tingle
Bianca Capriati
Old Boy 2008
03 October 2015
Selby Sibiya
Nompumelelo Ndawo
Staff
07 November 2015
Chris Hall
Carolyn McNeil
Old Boy 2001
21 November 2015
Mzwandile Khumalo
Gugu Ndlela
Staff
05 December 2015
Wian Potgieter
Bridget Worrall
Old Boy 2004
12 December 2015
Bradley Ball
Claire Lahana
Old Boy 2003
“I was #MadeInMichaelhouse #MadeInMackenzie and will always be #RedWhiteDynamite.” Old Boy Nii Amar Laryea (2006), Facebook
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The clubs and societies of Michaelhouse provide wonderful opportunities for self-development as well as excellent vehicles for getting to know boys in quite dfferent environments. Opportunities for leadership experience also exist, since most clubs have a committee responsible for organisation, motivation and administration. With the exception of certain senior societies, membership extends to boys of all ages and from all Houses. This enables boys to enjoy time spent in the pursuit of shared passions and interests. Perhaps most of all, it is within this framework that lifelong friendships are forged.
AFRICAN AFFAIRS
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
Master in Charge: Mr Msizi Mchunu Chairman: Thomas Greig Deputy Chairman: Nicholas van Niekerk Secretary: Thandokuhle Mnguni
Master in Charge: Mr George Ferreira Chairman: Wesley Biggs
The African Affairs society grew rapidly in numbers this year, with 17 boys attending the meetings regularly. I remember when getting six members to attend was a struggle. The society is a closed senior society that carefully selects its members, and I was very pleased with the choices that the chairman and I made. Each member engaged robustly during meetings and a lot of different viewpoints were presented on topics covering mainly African and South African politics, the economy and many topical issues.
At the beginning of the year, 15 boys joined the society. Although the boys were very keen to go on outings, unfortunately not many of them were available to attend the meetings where we were supposed to plan our activities. The highlight of the year was the annual visit to the Royal Show in Pietermaritzburg. Some boys were also involved with the handling of the local cattle herd.
I look forward to seeing the boys engage beyond the school level because they have a different take on life, based more on class than race. The questions that were posed showed intellectual maturity and growth, reflecting the changing environment in which we live. I was challenged too – because I have my own preconceived ideas and judgements – especially when a young lad came out in support of something like the quota system in sport, which is something that has possibly affected him personally. Such unselfish thoughts point to a bright, selfless and intelligent future for our country. I would like to thank Tom, the chairman; Nicholas, his deputy; and Thando, the secretary for all their hard work and the way they always worked for the common cause. Judging by the high moral standard of these young men of Michaelhouse, South Africa has a sparkling future. 92
Garin Phillips and Guy Daugherty at work with the Nguni herd
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ASTRONOMY SOCIETY
BIRD CLUB
Master in Charge: Mr Peter Stevens Chairman: Ross Laing
Master in Charge: Mr Iain Guthrie Chairman: Tristan Herwood
The Astronomy Society’s membership increased substantially during 2015. This was probably because of the success of the Sunday afternoon/evening meetings, which were held in the Nature Reserve. Unfortunately, the inclement weather experienced throughout the winter months prevented the society from participating in a weekend trip away. However, the boys’ enthusiasm and interest resulted in a variety of talks taking place during the course of the year.
The club serves to develop an interest among boys in birds and birding. We try to get boys out to see birds in their natural habitats, which we hope will improve the boys’ skill at identifying them. To this end we organised a number of trips in Balgowan, Nottingham Road and Karkloof to foster a knowledge of the local birds.
Presentations by Ross Laing and Mark Hadley-Grave (Introduction to Astronomy) and Duncan Boyes (The Expansion of the Universe and ETs) were warmly received by the members, with more presentations planned for the early part of 2016. The club will study the book Venus Rising: South African Astronomical Beliefs, Customs and Observations, by Peter Alcock, PhD, in 2016. We thank Mr Alcock for his interest in advising us of this publication. Thanks must also go to Ross Laing and Sean Li for their involvement in the Clubs and Societies Evening, and to Mr Allan Laing for his support and organisation during 2015.
Our first outing took us along the Loteni Road from Nottingham Road, where a number of dams offer good viewings of waterfowl and waders; more than 50 species were listed in two hours. There was also the opportunity to get to know some of the grassland birds and familiarise ourselves with their calls. A number of the species encountered, such as the ant-eating chat and the yellowcrowned bishop, do not usually occur at Michaelhouse. Our second outing took the club to the Karkloof Conservation Centre, where a great variety of species may be seen. We had a blowout on the way, but vehicle problems did not dampen the boys’ enthusiasm and they walked the last few kilometres to get to the centre. Again, more than 50 species were seen in the time we spent there. A few other highlights included seeing a lesser jacana at Rawdons and African rails at Beacon Vlei. The lesser jacana, which has not been recorded in the area before, was photographed by Tristan Herwood and the record was accepted by the KwaZulu-Natal Regional Atlas Committee of the Second Southern African Bird Atlas Project (SABAP2). We hope that interest in the club will continue to grow, with more outings being offered next year.
“In our next issue, we shall, as it were, blow the froth from our Michaelhouse tankard and present the staple brew to our thirsty readers. It may even be that we shall present the “Chronicle” to you in a new experimental cover.” The Chronicle, 1959
Tristan Herwood and Matthew Gerrish on the lookout for local bird species
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BOXING CLUB Staff Members in Charge: Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo, Mr Halalisani Xulu Chairman: James Smith Deputy Chairman: Vincent van der Westhuizen During the year, the club’s main focus was to secure a permanent gym area with all the basic equipment. This process is ongoing. The boys continued to train twice a week, with attention on core skills and fitness. With the boys committing fully to mainstream sports, attendance did wane slightly. In 2016, we hope to increase the number of boxers through more structured training sessions and occasional sparring sessions. The School maintains a stance of boxing being non-competitive as a safety precaution. Boys who wish to become competitive boxers are encouraged to pursue this end, however, provided it is with parental consent and with the aid of a professional coach.
DEBATING SOCIETY Staff Member in Charge: Ms Candice-Ann Roodt-Smith Staff: Mr Jonathan Smith, Ms Tanith von Mayer Chairman: Dalingcebo Maseko Deputy Chairmen: Christian Botha, Nicholas van Niekerk Awards Honours: Dalingcebo Maseko, Nicholas van Niekerk Colours: Rowan Mockler, Christopher Dowsley, Nicholas Forshaw, Vincent van der Westhuizen Half Colours: Nicholas Forster Debating Society prize for dedication and commitment: Dalingcebo Maseko Coyle Prize for outstanding dedication and commitment: Dalingcebo Maseko Truda Trophy for outstanding dedication and commitment over time: Dalingcebo Maseko Debating Society Prize: Toivo Khumalo, Rowan Mockler, Vincent van der Westhuizen Under the chairmanship of Dalingcebo Maseko, and the able assistance of his deputies, Nicholas van Niekerk and Christian Botha, the society continued to flourish in 2015. The first term was very busy with the start of the Midlands League inter-school rounds and the Inter-House tournament, which culminated in the final during Cultural Week.
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In the Midlands League the results were largely positive. In the first round, both the junior and senior team won their debates. Toivo Khumalo was named the best junior speaker and Rowan Mockler the best senior speaker. The junior team won the second and third rounds, and Kuhle Khumalo was awarded best speaker for both events. The seniors had a slip-up, losing both rounds. However, Chris Dowsley was awarded best speaker for round two. The junior team reached the final, but because of scheduling clashes, this debate never happened. Two boys were selected for provincial trials, but only Vincent van der Westhuizen was able to attend. The Inter-House debating competition produced some of the best debates seen in years and managed to keep the entire School engaged. In the junior final East beat Tatham, and the best speaker was Matthew Gerrish. The senior debate saw Nicholas van Niekerk and Dalingcebo Maseko sharing the honours for best speaker, with Baines just out-debating Tatham at the end. In the third term, six boys attended the National Individual Debating and Public Speaking Competition over the last weekend of the holidays at Parklands College in Cape Town. The Michaelhouse boys – all first-time contenders – not only held their own but were often standout performers against some of South Africa’s leading high-school speakers. The individualistic nature of this competition encourages personal growth and helps the boys develop their true potential in a less political environment. There were more than 80 participants who each competed in four categories, all being judged on the same level regardless of year at school. Our top results were as follows: NAME
OVERALL PLACING
Chris Dowsley 21st (12th in the persuasive speech category) Rowan Mockler 23rd (11th in the impromptu category) Nic Forster 25th (13th in the impromptu category) The tournament showcased a wide range of skills, and Dalingcebo Maseko was involved in training the boys. Earlier in the year, Dalingcebo had attended the World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships in Hong Kong, where he excelled. There were 109 participants at that event. Dalingcebo placed 14th overall and reached the final of the after-dinner category. His individual ratings were: after dinner 4th, debating 17th and interpretive reading 20th. Well done, Ngcebo! Moving into 2016, I am sure there will be much more to celebrate, especially under our new and keen leadership. Chairman: Rowan Mockler Vice-Chairman and senior team coach: Christopher Dowsley
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Vice-Chairman and junior team coach: Vincent van der Westhuizen Secretary: Nicholas Forshaw
FIRST AID SOCIETY Master in Charge: Mr Bailey Coxon Interns: Mr Allen Dlamini, Mr Daniel Maremane, Mr Shaun Thompson, Mr Craig Pieterse Chairman: Stewart Grant Deputy Chairman: Ross Laing Secretary: Van Wyk Venter Members: 42 active members – 22 with a Level 2 first aid qualification, eight with a Level 1 qualification and 12 who assist on match days. The First Aid Society aims to do the following: • encourage and instil a sense of service before self; • instil confidence, pride and personal growth; and • have its members be good ambassadors for Michaelhouse and a tangible support for the boys playing sport, the staff and the Sanatorium sisters. A very successful Clubs and Societies Fair was held on the first Friday of the School year and many boys showed an interest in joining the society. The first official meeting was held on Thursday 29 January, at which the aims and objectives of the club were mentioned and those without a formal qualification were encouraged to do the Level 2 first aid course. The course was run by Emergency Care Education on 15 February and 1 March. Eleven boys and four interns qualified this year. It is my vision to see more boys qualify next year and to get at least two staff members per sports code to complete the qualification, so that there will be a greater adult presence for the general wellbeing of the boys on the sports field and during the many outdoor activities that the School is involved in. It must be noted that boys who are unable to attend the training courses because of other commitments are not excluded from joining the society and can assist qualified first aiders, the San sisters and staff as runners. A number of boys were invited to attend a preventative strapping demonstration, which was held in March. Mr Thompson showed the group the various strapping techniques he uses for the First XV. Boys were able to practise these techniques on each other.
graphic stories, which intrigued the boys. During the winter sports season, weekly meetings were held on Thursday evenings to plan and discuss the coming weekend’s fixtures. I would like to thank all the boys for their commitment and service to first aid. During the 2015 hockey and rugby season, a total of 590 cumulative hours were spent on the side of the field. Cyle Wilson, E Block, accumulated the most hours of service - 66.
FILM APPRECIATION SOCIETY Staff Member in Charge: Mr Chris van der Berg Chairman: Gerhard Serton Deputy Chairman: Carlisle Hartman Secretary: Bernard van der Berg This was my third year running the society and I continued to focus on making it a place for an elite group of boys who really appreciate the art of film. We enjoyed eight meetings this year and watched the following films: Amélie, The Untouchables, Il Postino, The Giver, Whiplash, Cinema Paradiso, The Band’s Visit and Inside Llewyn Davis. I started each evening by providing some background on the film, the director and the cast, and then made the boys aware of certain things to look out for. After watching each film, we would discuss it and evaluate it, and decide whether we liked it or not and why. I am constantly amazed by the boys’ insights and their ability to critically review a film. I want to thank my small band of brothers (in love with the art of film) for so diligently attending and participating in discussions at our meetings. You guys make me realise why I love being a teacher.
“Snow appeared on the estate for the first time in 23 years. The Rector, true to tradition, declared a holiday and we ventured forth. I did not, however, venture far because I soon appreciated the accuracy of Cacks with snowballs.” Head Boy HW Fraser’s address, Speech Day, 1959
A very interesting talk was given to the society by a paramedic from Nsele Ambulance Services. She spoke passionately about her involvement in first aid and the steps needed to become a paramedic. This involved some
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Mr Kotze, with 13 boys in attendance. The boys listened attentively and by the end of the evening, numerous Woolly Buggers in various colours had been made for the next day’s fishing. Mr Jan Korrubel, of WildFly Fishing in Nottingham Road, generously offered his time to host a few fly-tying evenings, during which the boys learned to tie the very successful Hybrid Dragon. The club concluded the year with a fun-filled evening of fly tying and a family dinner at Loxley House hosted by Mr Korrubel and Mrs Angie Hunter. I hope that this great evening will be repeated because many good memories of the year were shared and whole families got to take part in the enjoyment of this wonderful pastime. In 2016, the club will be affiliated with the KwaZuluNatal Fly Fishing Association (KZNFFA), which did a presentation on competitive fly fishing during the year. The presentation grabbed the interest of the boys and subsequently, the club was invited to the last fishing trial of the 2015 season. Three Michaelhouse boys were then invited to fish at the South African Youth Fly Fishing Nationals. Richard Bechard did extremely well, finishing fourth overall. He was invited to compete for his national fly-fishing colours. Warwick Albertyn and Robert Melouney also did well, catching the only fish or biggest fish for their beat of the day.
Robert Officer perfecting his fly tying technique
FLY-FISHING CLUB Master in Charge: Mr Righardt Kotze Chairman: Warwick Albertyn Vice-Chairman: Richard Bechard The Fly-Fishing Club enjoyed another successful year. At the clubs and societies fair at the beginning of the year, the junior boys showed great interest in fly fishing and enthusiasm in joining the club. The first meeting of 2015 was very well supported, with more than 40 boys attending. We undertook a minimum of two outings per quarter. This year, a few of our outings were joined by the dads, which definitely bolstered the camaraderie. Although the fishing this year was difficult, some good fish were caught. Fly tying has become another fun hobby for club members, and this year, the beginner class was hosted by
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Next year, members of the Fly-Fishing Club will be able to register with the KZNFFA through Michaelhouse at a reduced membership fee of R300. This includes the competitive fishing of the various trials, and attendance at off-water clinics that will give in-depth understanding of lines, sink rates, tippets and leader preps, reading water and river skills. We remain indebted to the many friends of Michaelhouse who so kindly allow us access to their lovely waters. Without their generosity, there would be no club.
FLYING CLUB Master in Charge: Mr William Silk Chairman: Stuart Beach The club took to the skies several times this year, with a number of boys going solo. Trips to local plane enthusiast, builder and pilot Mr Jan Jefferis were a treat, with boys getting the opportunity to fly in an aerobaticcertified aircraft as well as seeing the start of a Sky Bolt biplane being built, a project that will take approximately three years to complete. Although flights this year were few and far between because of inclement weather, the enthusiastic future pilots indulged in other aspects of the flying world and immersed themselves in the important theoretical aspects of flying, with a number of boys starting the flying exams.
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A great vote of thanks goes to the outgoing chairman of the society, Stuart Beach, for all his hard work and organisation over the past two years. We wish the incoming chairman, Fergus Hathorn, best of luck for 2016.
INVESTMENT CLUB Master in Charge: Mr Andrew Brown Chairman: Geoff Blore Deputy Chairman: Tom Brink The club, which was established at the start of 2014, has grown to a membership base of just over 50 boys, with an average attendance at meetings of 20 to 25 boys. The club is open to senior boys who are in C, B or A Block. The idea is that knowledge and insight are freely shared within the group, and also introduced and stimulated by invited guest speakers. This year, we were privileged to host Michael Porter and Peter Smith from Harvard House. As anticipated, they were both very well received by the boys and were insightful and inspirational. Michael provided a market update and a future investment view, and Peter focused on values and ethics in business. One of the club’s aims has always been that the boys take their knowledge and intuition and convert it into action, ideally by opening online share trading accounts facilitated by their parents.
From the start of 2016, although I will remain involved, there will be new leadership in the form of Mr Ernest Rindfleisch and Rowan Mockler, Ross Nalson and Matthew Watson. My grateful thanks go to the 2015 committee, who have been supportive and, more importantly, have taken initiative. In closing, we aim to establish patterns and habits that lead to that rare combination of capital and time, because in the end, as one of my friends often reminds me: “Even if you do win the rat race, you are still a rat.”
MOUNTAIN BIKING Staff in Charge: Mr Elmar de Klerk, Ms Lisa Hardie, Mr Ernest Rindfleisch During the 2015 season, we had six active cyclists who were keen to participate in races. These events took place on Sundays. This year, the boys were given the opportunity to cycle in seven different races, but unfortunately, they did not show much interest in cycling on Sundays, when they have the option of enjoying free bounds or taking a day’s leave at home. Three boys, Torin Mecklenborg, James Lycett and Kelvin Green, participated in some of the races on the calendar but opted to enter privately. Kelvin has
Richard Bam
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done exceptionally well and most of his accolades and achievements have been mentioned in the Rector’s weekly e-news. We are looking forward to seeing Kelvin on the podium in the near future in one of the big Classic races. I will be encouraging more boys to participate in more races during 2016 because I know that many have mountain bikes at School. There are also fantastic routes and single-track training routes in the area surrounding Michaelhouse for the boys to train in a safe environment.
PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY Master in Charge: Mr Graeme Calway Chairman: Wesley Biggs The society had some renewed interest from some of the younger boys, so I hope this augurs positively for its future. The usual sporting photos were taken during the year, especially during rugby season, but the younger boys also started taking photos of the School for the Michaelhouse Facebook page, with some very good pictures being taken. We also had a night shoot during which the boys took photos on the N3 freeway of the cars travelling to and from Johannesburg. They used slow shutter speeds to leave trailing car lights and star trails.
Our final activity of the year was to photograph the front of the School with the star trails in the sky in the background. Unfortunately, moon phases and cloudy nights prevented us from being able to take these photos, so this activity is top of the list for 2016.
PRESIDENT’S AWARD Master in Charge: Mr Paul Fleischack Chairman: Jonathan Henderson Bronze medals: Tim Coxon, Robert Dean, Mark Hadley-Grave, John Robins, Luke Taylor Silver medals: Wesley Biggs, Jonathan Henderson, Joshua Buys The President’s Award Society offers its members the opportunity of using all the activities available at the School to qualify for the three levels of award: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Each level requires greater commitment and participation. Each level requires that boys take part in a sport and a skill (usually a School club or society or an advanced academic course), complete an expedition and engage in community service. The Outdoor Education programmes in D and C Blocks meet the expedition requirements for the three levels. Other expeditions are also organised during the year. In 2015, 53 boys were registered for one of the award
The sun rises over the Pongola River President’s Award Expedition Team
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levels. Matthew Whelan, Jonathan Henderson, Joshua Buys and Thomas Erskine were registered for their Gold awards and I hope to see them achieve these in the near future.
greatest achievement of the society is that the dialog does not remain inside the classroom but is carried on through to the dormitories and corridors, and to the disgust of many a mathematics teacher, into lessons.
Recently, universities have included evidence of participation in the President’s Award programme in their application forms. Wits seems to be leading the way here. The awards record achievements, planning, service and a range of activities, and are internationally recognised, so universities and employers can easily relate to the standard of each level. It really is in the interests of the boys to have these awards on their CVs.
Every voice is heard no matter how ridiculous the point may seem. The guidance of Mrs Royappen allowed talks to flow without sidetrack, most of the time. However it must be said that sidetrack tends to bring the most fascinating arguments to light. The ability to connect the knowledge gained to the world around us means that the Philosophy Society is one of the most useful clubs at Michaelhouse.
This year, the April expedition saw a group of staff and boys paddle down the Pongola River from Jozini Dam to Skimelela Bridge, just short of Ndumo Game Reserve in Zululand – a distance of about 90km in four days. Each night we camped on the banks of the river, sleeping under the stars, serenaded by nightjars and owls. This river, with clear water overhung by massive fig trees, is unique. Tristan Herwood recorded in excess of 125 bird species, one of the rarest being the Pel’s fishing owl.
Boys or “Gentlemen” as Mrs R so rightly refers to the members, use their newfound ideals and education in application during essays and orals in their chosen subjects, or to argue to a prefect that they were not in fact out of bed during lights out as in at that moment in time they did not really exist, they mere merely a perception of said prefect, sadly Michaelhouse has its own views on reality and early rising is one of them.
The Pongola River Expedition team: Mr Paul Fleischack, Mr Jonathan Smith, Mrs Candice Smith, Jonathan Henderson, Nicholas Stainbank, Christian le Roux, Simon Browse, Lesedi Lethebele, Jabu Price-Moor, Luke Taylor, Liam Laidlaw, Jack Perkin and Michael Rautenbach.
PHILOSOPHY SOCIETY Staff Member in Charge: Mrs Asha Royappen Chairman: James Smith Written by James Smith A successful society at Michaelhouse requires two things: A group of pupils that are willing to engage, and a dedicated teacher—The Philosophy Society is lucky enough to have ticked both those boxes. In its founding year Mrs Royappen has managed to bring together a society that educates the boys through captivating discussion concerning ethics, morals, existence and whether the world as we know it only began last Thursday. The students are forced to constantly think during meetings, therefore we are. The interest of many boys has allowed the society to grow into a fantastic forum where all opinions are welcome and considered in great depth. From lighthearted talk on Camus and Sartre to heated debates on the ethics of lying and the views of Kant, the Philosophy Society, if nothing else, is an experience that leaves no stone unturned. We are yet to finish a meeting on time, once going over by two and a half hours. The
From the writings of Nietzsche to Noirism (The Philosophy of Mr Waldburger), from Christianity to Extremism the Philosophy Society it yet to experience a dull moment. I trust Mrs Royappen will ensure a dull moment is never found. I would encourage all students and staff to join a meeting, equipped with an open mind and a strong cup of coffee, for there is no restriction to who can gain nor what can be gained on one of those three hour nights. It cannot be a waste of time for time does not exist. Or does it? Anyway it does not matter. Or does it?
REFEREES SOCIETY Staff Member in Charge: Mr Chris van der Berg Chairman: John Haines The main goal of the society is to assist and train boys who are interested in taking up the whistle on the rugby and soccer field. They are expected to attend an official referees’ course and pass an exam after they have completed the course. As soon as a boy gains his levelone qualification, we start using him to referee matches against our opposition schools. Our boys are also actively involved when it comes to KwaZulu-Natal Midlands Trials. All of this enables them to gain service points. Twelve boys are active members of the society, and I was impressed with the calm and confident manner in which boys like John Haines and James Strachan officiated matches. I hope to see one or more of our boys feature on the world stage in the not-too-distant future.
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ROCK CLIMBING Staff in Charge: Mr Nico Boshoff, Mr Jaap van der Vegte Chairman: Robert Woods A great tribute goes to Mr John Alexander. He was the driving force behind the club and his passion and knowledge were a great example to the boys. By contrast, Mr Boshoff and I have the enthusiasm but lack the knowledge and skill to contribute to the club. In addition, we both suffer from a fear of heights, which confined our involvement this year to monitoring safety precautions and taking care of club administration. Robert Woods was largely involved in organising the challenges that the members took on during meetings. We had three meetings after the departure of Mr Alexander, and only three members took part in the climbing challenges. With Robert in Matric, we felt that it was time for fresh ideas from the boys about ways to direct the club’s activities. Sadly, it would appear that in many ways Robert, too, was a great driver of the club, and in his absence numbers waned significantly. The organisation will need to re-establish itself when boys are able to take a greater interest in this pastime.
SAILING SOCIETY Master in Charge: Mr Herman Visagie Chairman: Nicholas Forshaw Deputy Chairman: Samuel Lombaard Sailing was off to a wonderful start at the beginning of the year, with ten boys joining us on our first outing to Midmar Dam, where the new E Blockers were shown a thing or two by our more experienced sailors. We also managed to bring two boats back to the School for the beginners to start working on their basic sailing skills on the dam here at Michaelhouse. As winter started, however, our numbers also started fading, except for our more experienced sailors in Nicholas Forshaw, Samuel Lombaard and James Dawson. All three of them took part in the Interschool Regatta, and Michaelhouse managed to win the laser fleet and the senior division, which has not happened for many years.
The indoor rock climbing wall remains a legacy of Mr John Alexander’s enthusiasm for the club. Here, Gerhard Serton negotiates his way up the wall
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In May, Nicholas and Samuel took part in the Laser Nationals in Durban, with both finishing in the top ten of their respective classes. Samuel placed fourth overall in the radial fleet.
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Samuel Lombaard setting the pace on the water
After that, Samuel and Nicholas decided to sail together on a 420 (a two-man boat), and in early October they were invited to the selection competition at Midmar for the Youth Sailing World Championship, which was to be held in Malaysia in December 2015. Being invited to the selection competition was an achievement in itself and the boys did very well to end up placing third against some very tough rivals.
SCUBA DIVING CLUB Master in Charge: Mr Michael Schwartz The club continued to feel the economic pinch, which affected the number of boys participating in the sport. Thirty-six boys registered for the club this year, but many withdrew because of the financial implications that go along with diving. The club was fortunate to register seven open-water divers, all of whom had qualified by the end of the second quarter. Four of these divers then registered for the advanced course, which started at the beginning of the
third quarter. The boys have done their theory and will complete the dive training in January 2016. When registering for the open-water course, one can expect to complete seven lectures, a theory exam, an eight-minute swimming test, a five-hour pool session, a two-dive quarry session and three sea dives. These dives are usually challenging, with the sea conditions at Aliwal Shoal testing even the best divers. Once you are qualified on the Shoal, you are equipped to dive anywhere in the world with ease. The aim of this course is to make you comfortable with being under water, and most dives are at an average depth of 12 metres. At advanced diver stage, the average depth is 30 metres on the first of two dives on a day. This allows for divers to visit the wrecks off the Durban coast. The marine life at these depths is very different from the life found at 12 metres. Goals going forward are to increase the number of divers doing social dives and, perhaps, to arrange a trip to Mozambique or the Red Sea. This would be a great opportunity for boys to dive with family members.
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SPORTS ARCHIVES SOCIETY
THEATRE TECH SOCIETY
Staff Members in Charge: Mr Ian Crawford, Mr Dean Forword Chairman: Thomas Greig Deputy Chairman: John Haines Secretary: Rory Allan
Master in Charge: Mr William le Cordeur Chairman: Jaryd Kleynhans
Membership of the society grew for the fourth consecutive year to more than 30 enthusiastic members. The society had a very busy and interesting year, and a number of activities took place, mainly in the form of guest speakers. We were privileged to have an educator, Mr John Crawford, speak to the society about how sport has changed over the past 15 years at Michaelhouse. The boys thoroughly enjoyed his talk and learnt some interesting facts about the past. The society was also fortunate to have Mr Xillen van Rooyen and Mr Murray Witherspoon as guest speakers, both of whom work in the Marketing Department. They spoke about their time at Michaelhouse and both talks were thoroughly enjoyed by the boys. A general discussion on the traditions of Michaelhouse, old and new, was enthusiastically debated. The cack system, once again, was vigorously supported.
This was yet another gruelling year for the Theatre Tech Society, with over ten professional productions, three main School productions, Cultural Week, the Michaelhouse Music Festival and the variety concert all adding to a busy programme. Under the leadership of Jaryd Kleynhans, the team of roughly ten consistent theatre tech crew provided an invisible and indispensable service to the Schlesinger Theatre. Jaryd showed once again why he is the technicians’ chairperson, leading by example even in between first fifteen rugby commitments. Jaryd will only be able to help us during the first part of next year as we will have to wish him well once he starts his first set of Matric exams in June. Jaryd won the The Farrow Cup for Theatre Tech in 2015, and achieved his colours for his tremendous service to the theatre. Odirile Losaba was also a stand out member of the team this year, as he lead the team of backstage crew through the enormous musical My Fair Lady. Odi was an inspiration to the tired lads who toiled for weeks to make the final performance seamless, demonstrating professionalism, courage and stamina. Odi received colours for his effort. Kanelo Malekela has also stepped up to show leadership and creativity, mastering the light console for a number of shows. Zixiao Li, who is always around when we need the extra support, has shown a great aptitude for stage management. The exciting young talents of Benjamin Connolly, Bailey Green, Richard Bam and Garin Phillips mean that we go into next year with a very strong Theatre Tech Society. All have given a tremendous amount of their time and expertise to the theatre. Young Elliot Muir is also a bright theatre talent who cares deeply for both sides of the stage, a hugely respected quality. Jack Worthington has been our official photographer this year and has given selflessly to his pursuit of the perfect shot. He picks up raw emotion and has an unbelievable talent for working in low light with quick camera settings. Jack is a star on the rise. With a new digital sound console and a collection of the latest LED lights, the theatre continues to grow and remain one of the finest theatres in the province. A massive difference has been made by the permanent appointment of Mr Fish Ndlovu, our new theatre technician. Mr Ndlovu keeps the theatre in top shape, as well as keeping equipment well maintained. This will not only preserve the longevity of our expensive and modern
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gear, but also enable far better access to the theatre for anyone needing to use it. I look forward to 2016 and another busy year of rigging lights and running sound cables.
TOASTMASTERS Staff Members in Charge: Mr Dominic Gruijters, Mrs Mary McMichael Chairman: Dalingcebo Maseko Deputy Chairman: Kurt Martin Secretary: Stewart Grant Awards Dudley Ford Trophy for promotion of excellence: Stewart Grant
John Pluke Trophy for most improved speaker: Jordan Sesink-Clee Jack Crutchley Trophy for excellence in public speaking: Dalingcebo Maseko The society continued to go from strength to strength in 2015. It held eight meetings over the course of the year, each of which consisted of members delivering prepared and impromptu speeches, as well as new members presenting their icebreakers, which are their required introductory speeches. As usual, places in the society were highly coveted and the existing 16 members from 2014 were joined by 28 others, taking the total for the year to 44. Each of the meetings revolved around a central theme which speakers had to refer to in their speeches. This year’s themes included Freedom, Drink from the Fountain of Goof and The revolution has been cancelled
TOASTMASTERS Back Row: Ben Adey, James Overmars, Charles Houston, Jordan Sesink Clee, Thandokuhle Mnguni, Andrew Edwardes, Carlisle Hartman Fourth Row: Trafford Melville, Ryan Anderson, Nick McMichael, Nicholas Forshaw, Wesley Biggs, Nicholas Anderson, Nicholas Harrison, Tyrone Thompson Third Row: Luke Versfeld, Greg Reynolds, Matthew Whelan, Gerhard Serton, Thomas Brink, Joshua Buys, Richard Johnsen, Daryn Flanegan, Jack Walters Second Row: Mpumelelo Shezi, Zander Prinsloo, Nicholas van Niekerk, Thomas Edley, Rowan Mockler, Thomas Greig, Mike Macleod, James Smith Front Row: Thomas Fenn, Christian Botha, Kurt Martin, Mr Dominic Gruijters, Ngcebo Maseko, Mrs Mary McMichael, Stewart Grant, Liam Furniss, Joshua Cullinan
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due to lack of interest. The members not only presented well-prepared and structured speeches, but also served in the roles of Grammarian, Sergeant at Arms, Topics Master and Toastmaster, with distinction. The roles of Grammarian (whose task it is to choose the word for each meeting) and Sergeant at Arms (the member timing the speeches for the evening) have become sought after, and the use of quick wit and humour in these roles have become a staple at meetings. This year, we placed particular emphasis on impromptu speeches and evaluations. The topics for impromptu speeches are decided on by the Topics Master for each meeting. Speakers are given the topic three minutes before they must speak and are required to deliver a speech of two to three minutes in length. Owing to the daunting nature of this task, many members at first spent half their time with irrelevant and lengthy introductions, often remarking on how nervous they were. The members were encouraged to structure their impromptu speeches and to keep the content focused. To their credit, the quality of the impromptus improved as the year progressed. Every speech at a Toastmasters meeting is evaluated by another member. These peer evaluations tended to be overly critical or overly flattering. The members were taught to be sincere, honest and constructive in their evaluations because a good evaluation is important for the speaker in order to help him improve. The highlight of the year was, once again, the parents’ and sons’ Toastmasters evening. The parents of A Block members were invited to enjoy an evening of speeches in a formal setting. The A Block Toastmasters did not disappoint. The theme of the evening was The hourglass whispers and parents were regaled during a three-course meal with both humorous and serious speeches in which their sons expounded their theories on time and growing old. The parents came away amazed at their sons’ capacities to deliver speeches at such a high level. Credit must be given where credit is due and the committee of 2015 deserve an immense amount of praise for their commitment and hard work. Stewart Grant was a devoted and proactive secretary, often organising topics and speaking roles for meetings single-handedly. In addition, his uniquely awkward and humorous speaking style made his impromptus superbly entertaining and greatly anticipated. Kurt Martin, the deputy chairman, was certainly one of the most accomplished and entertaining speakers in the society this year. His speeches were easily accessible and littered with quotes from Quentin Tarantino movies and 1970s rock bands. He never failed to seamlessly integrate humour with profound insight into life. Our esteemed chairman this year was Dalingcebo
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Maseko, whose accomplishments include representing South Africa at the World Public Speaking and Debating Championships. He not only chaired each meeting professionally and with the utmost decorum, but was also an exemplary speaker. His speaking ability was such that it has not been seen for years at Michaelhouse and will probably not be seen for many years to come. A heartfelt thank you to the 2015 committee. Toastmasters is crucial for developing a boy’s confidence and commitment. This is done through speaking, but these skills are transferable to other facets of life. The society remains committed to engendering a love for speaking in its members, and will continue to do so in 2016.
WHITE-WATER CLUB Master in Charge: Mr Paul Snyman Chairman: Brandon Mcleod Vice Chairman: Jason Boulle The club started three years ago and is open to any boy who expresses an interest and supports the main aim of the club which is to provide opportunities to experience the adventure of negotiating white-water while appreciating the beautiful scenery along the way. Often a first introduction involves paddling a two-man raft, known as a croc, down one of Kwa-Zulu Natal’s rivers. Once the bug bites, boys progress to paddling in kayaks; this requires specific paddling skills and river reading ability. Some of this is taught in-house but we often employ the skills of experienced guides. River paddling is rainfall dependent and is hence restricted to the summer months. During winter the surf provided a good substitute enabling boys to maintain their skills and have fun at the same time. With the Spring-grove/ Midmar water transfer scheme recently activated the volume of water in our local Mpofana and Lions Rivers has increased substantially providing new opportunities for boys to experience this paddling discipline. Much scouting over the months ahead still needs to be done to identify the best stretches of water to paddle. There has been at least one organised trip each quarter with the main ones taking place during the first quarter. In January, the week before School opened, three boys and myself completed a three day river guides course on the Tugela river. This has enabled us to work with commercial operators as trainee guides. The ultimate goal is to build enough hours of experience to take a river guide assessment and qualify as accredited river guides. The second main trip involved small group of kayakers who paddled the first part of the Tugela Gorge below
Cultural
Warren Yoko
Colenso Falls. Despite a few broken paddles, a tricky take-out and long drive back to the vehicle this remote stretch of river was a real treat to paddle. The first multi-day river trip will take place in January 2016; a group of 12 paddlers, including a couple of staff members, will undertake an adventurous three day trip down a scenic, remote section of the Umkomaas River. Camping on the river bank and being self-supported along the way make for an exciting trip. Two of our experienced kayakers recently competed in the South African Freestyle Championships and acquitted themselves very well in the expert men category. This is an example of how boys are able to travel to different places and meet new people having learnt the skills of white-water paddling.
“We are gradually beginning to realise that, in order to achieve the balance and depth of education for which we aim, and by that I do not mean Christian National Education but a Christian Liberal Education, it is no longer sufficient to pass one’s Matriculation or play for the First XV.” Head Boy HW Fraser’s address, Speech Day, 1959
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Environment & Community
A major focus at Michaelhouse is to develop a lifelong service ethos in our boys. Coupled with this, Michaelhouse actively adopts a holistic Environmental Education Programme ensuring that our boys are constantly aware of the social, environmental and economic environments they inhabit. The School’s Community Partnership and Environmental programmes are aimed at educating boys and staff to appreciate and deal with environmental and social issues and to administer and manage the School in appropriately sensitive ways.
NATURE RESERVE Master in Charge: Mr Paul Fleischack Staff: Mr Andrew Laing, Mr Sbu Khumalo The Nature Reserve and Mvuleni lapa have been quite busy this year. Once again, the D and E Block groups camped at the lapa in the first quarter. Other House groups, staff and visitors have used the facility throughout the year and the E Block Survival Camp was successfully held again in the third quarter. At least one Matric class held their final lesson at the lapa, providing a memorable last day. There were a few developments at Mvuleni: camp sites were created – one for each House – for the E Block Camp; a new rustic ablution block with composting
The Tatham E and D Block boys at Mvuleni Lapa
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toilets was erected; a wood-fired donkey boiler now heats water for the lapa; and battery-powered LED lighting was installed. We intend using a solar panel and inverter to charge the lights’ battery. All to ensure that the site remains environmentally friendly, produces no effluent and uses renewable energy. The Nguni cattle and the blesbok overwintered well. We hope to reduce the size of the blesbok herd to 10 and then introduce a small herd of zebra in the near future. The reserve felt the effects of crime this year, with the theft of about 100 fencing standards. Of greater concern, however, is the threat of gas exploration, which has become a reality. We hope the proclamation of the reserve will safeguard this area and be effective in support of our resistance to this menace.
Environment & Community
THE MICHAELHOUSE COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS Written by Canon Fred Pitout Our goal “To ensure that service is an integral component of the experience and education of all at Michaelhouse” (Michaelhouse@125) Our community partnership projects centred on the greater Balgowan Valley, which is home to around 15 000 people. With Fred Pitout on medical leave during the first quarter, Mrs Michelle Huntley, Mr Nkosi Mahlaba and Mrs Robyn Gruijters bore the responsibility for setting up and running the different projects. It is significant that in line with the aims of the School’s new vision, we see this work as community engagement. Hlanganani Primary School Mr Milton Ncolosi continued as the principal but retired mid-year and was replaced by Mrs Thulisile Zuma. We managed a major maintenance upgrade, painting the whole school roof and the inside walls of the quadrangle. A farewell party for Mr Ncolosi was held at the end of the second quarter. Further thanks are due to Eskort Factory for substantial donations of polony. Our thanks go to various donors who have continued to support this programme. This has enabled us to do the building maintenance, including refurbishing the school offices and jungle gym, as well as to upgrade both the computer centre and the library. Michaelhouse boys from Pascoe continued to visit the school weekly, providing support for children doing homework and for computer upgrades. Mobile Library The Mobile Library continued to run throughout the year. We increased the number of different schools that welcomed the library. Lions River Primary School and Shea O’Connor Combined Schools were included this year. Mr Nkosi Mahlaba reports that Lions River Primary, a very small school situated in the Mondi Forest, starts from Grade 1 and goes up to Grade 7, with only 35 learners in total. Shea O’Connor educates children from Grade R up to Grade 12, catering for approximately 800 learners. This means that a total of eight schools are visited every week. Weekly visits include Nkosi reading a storybook to each school, the children choosing books to borrow from the library bus for a week, and the running of a small reading competition in which children read individually to Nkosi. A small token is given to children who try hard and have improved their reading. The Grade 1, 2 and 3 children are
given picture books to look at and he encourages them to talk about the pictures. A larger reading competition is run each year and this year, he challenged the children further by giving them a storybook to read and then getting them to act out the story. A very successful afternoon was held where the winners in each school gathered for the competition. We also did a drive to collect new books for the library. This was co-ordinated by Michaelhouse boys. A good collection was received and was used to replace many books on the bus. Nottingham Road Squatter Camp Michaelhouse boys co-ordinated the collecting of second-hand clothes and blankets. These were collected after the July holidays and distributed by the boys along with Mr Nkosi Mahlaba. Choir and art competitions Ms Jenni Maurice-Green, the head of the Art Department at Michaelhouse, conducted an afternoon seminar for teachers from 15 local schools. The theme I am happy offered an impressive variety of pictures. The winning entries provided an excellent display in the foyer of the Schlesinger Theatre for two weeks. The annual Choir Competition was expanded to include 15 local primary schools and for the first time, three high schools. The competition is possible through the considerate generosity of an Old Boy, Mr Paul Barnett. The set song He’s got the whole world in his hands was the initial challenge, with a traditional isiZulu piece and an own-choice piece providing further competition and much enjoyment for the 350 children and teachers who gathered in the Schlesinger Theatre. The quality of the school choirs in 2015 showed substantial improvement on last year. Local taxi owners were again contracted to supply transport for the children. A total of 450 children were happy to enjoy lunch provided by Capitol Caterers.
“The task of a school such as this is to turn out intelligent and imaginative men, capable of contributing in some measure to the welfare of the society they live in, men with constructive ideas and the initiative to carry them out” The Chronicle, 1957
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E-learner classes Co-ordinator: Mr Ian Crawford Seven learners registered for the course at the beginning of the year. Five of them passed all seven modules of the course and were awarded their certificates. The modules covered IT basics, creating files and folders, inserting drawings, using Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and using email and the internet. These classes offered a thorough course of the basics. SMILE (Structured methods in language education) Mrs Kate Smedley, Mrs Charlie Ross and Mrs Natalie Snowden headed this superb English literacy programme. Seventy-two Grade 4 and 5 children from Crystal Springs Primary School in Lidgetton were transported each Wednesday afternoon for 18 weeks. The children were taught in three classrooms, with 18 B Block boys helping as mentors each week. We finished the year’s programme with a party in the St Michael’s Quad. Adult basic education and training ABET continued to offer a much-needed resource this year. Our learners are hard working and committed to improving their English. The programme is co-ordinated by Mrs Robyn Gruijters, who is supported by a group of eight facilitators – all ex-learners themselves. Our Tuesday class sees learners working on computers via a software programme and aligned workbook, and our Thursday class focuses on conversational English and practical speaking skills. The classes included very few Michaelhouse wage-earning staff and this is something we want to improve upon next year. The classes are greatly used by other members of the community, including the staff of surrounding schools and businesses. As a result of this, we extended our efforts to include a satellite branch of our programme at the Lidgetton Education Centre, where local learners meet four nights a week. Here they are facilitated in learner groups on a face-to-face basis. A two-part facilitator training workshop was introduced by Mrs Gruijters and attended by the eight facilitators. The importance of proper training for adult facilitation is vital, and the way in which we encourage and assist our groups is an important skill for our facilitators to possess. We had six learners write their IEB exams this year, from Level 1 to Level 3, all of whom passed. The examination experience offers a great opportunity for the learners to become familiar with study skills and protocols, something that few of them have experienced in their own schooling. Our ABET awards dinner was held on Monday 23 November, with Mr Sizo Chalufu, the head of the isiZulu Department at Michaelhouse, as our guest speaker. The learners presented a role-play item and were awarded certificates. Mrs Gruijters attended a week of facilitator training in 108
Johannesburg to learn about a variety of short courses relating to work readiness. She will be implementing these in 2016. The course content includes the management of personal finances, preparing for employment and diversity in the workplace – all of which offers learners practical experience and theory relevant to their day-to-day lives. We continue to see the value and importance of adult education in our community. The difference it makes in the lives of those who attend our classes is tangible, exciting and incredibly rewarding. Sizanani Widows Support Group Gogo Olga Mashego and three other gogos continued to provide a hot meal each day for 150 orphaned children from child-headed households in Mpophomeni, Howick. We also collected second-hand clothes through the Michaelhouse boys, which we handed out to the children. We were fortunate to supply the support group with monthly groceries and to pay monthly electricity charges. Lidgetton Education Centre In addition to 14 young people who have music lessons after school hours (saxophone, guitar and keyboard), Pastor Sipho Zuma has expanded and upgraded the facility. A proper corrugated-iron roof has waterproofed the centre building. Founders, East (Tuesday afternoons) and Farfield (Thursday afternoons) boys met pupils from Jabula School for extra English reading and debating. During the evenings, a group of 20 adults go to Matric classes. Academic support Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo, one of the Science teachers at Michaelhouse, provided much-valued Science teaching support for pupils at Shea O’Connor Combined Schools during the first and second quarters. Mr Allen Dlamini, an intern at Michaelhouse, taught Mathematics at Shea O’Connor and also helped with the adult education group at the Lidgetton Education Centre. Two interns, Messrs Rodney Zondi and Allen Dlamini, gave up part of their Michaelmas holiday to assist Mrs Sue Southwood, of the Hilton College Vula Programme, with teacher support and an upgrade at Em’seni Camp. A generous mid-year donation enabled us to employ Mrs Natalie Snowden as an English support teacher at Shea O’Connor, Hlanganani Primary and Lions River Primary. What a challenge to sometimes be faced with classes of up to 80 pupils. This was amazingly well received. St Raphael’s Care Centre Sr Hayley Farrow has done remarkable work in training the caregivers and helping them with their practical primary healthcare. They now also go to Lidgetton Clinic twice a month where they identify and help people who are terminally ill. The caregivers had particular emotional stress in their dealings with, and helping of, two patients on farms near the School. They also recently partnered
Environment & Community
A familiar sight at schools in the greater Balgowan Area, the Michaelhouse Mobile Library, operated by Nkosi Mahlaba, seen here returning to HQ
with the Wildlands Conservation Trust in setting up and expanding recycling points in Zenzane Village and in Asithuthuke School. This is a positive initiative because the local people are paid for glassware, plastic, cardboard and paper that is collected and weighed. Our transport costs rose substantially over the last six months of the year, largely because of the increased number of visits in the area.
St Raphael Report Written by Sr Hayley Farrow Spring has brought with it the mist and drizzle synonymous with the Midlands at this time of year. The hills and fields have made that almost-impossible-to-believe transition from dry brown to vibrant, vivid green. We have cause to give grateful thanks to ongoing support from the greater Michaelhouse community: the St Raphael’s staff proudly sport new uniforms, generously sponsored by Jonsson Clothing. We are very visible working in the community and are a known and happily welcomed presence to those in need.
In early August, we offered a Waste to Toys workshop facilitated by Singakwenza. We had about 20 attendees: mothers, caregivers and those working with children. Our eager participants were instructed in making educational toys from materials commonly thought of as being waste, such as plastic milk bottles, yoghurt containers, orange sacks and plastic packets. The Singakwenza staff gave a worthwhile presentation on early childhood development, the needs of a young child and methods of addressing those needs through the toys created in the workshop. We continue to support the Zenzani Créche and recently donated big plastic balls to the school. In mid-August, Akhona, a 13-year-old girl who resides in the village, came to show us her “straight legs”. Akhona was first brought to St Raphael’s early in 2014. She was in primary school then and could barely walk unassisted. She had Blount’s disease, which had resulted in progressive bowing of her legs to such an extent that she was almost walking on the outside of her feet. After many clinic visits and appointments at Northdale Orthopaedic Clinic, Akhona was finally operated on at Grey’s Hospital. Both legs were worked on simultaneously and she spent over a year with external fixators, which limited her mobility. She was unable to attend school during this time. The St Raphael’s staff attended to her regularly, initially assisting
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with dressings to her legs, then with exercise, schooling at home and regular clinic appointments. Akhona maintained her cheerful disposition throughout this long ordeal. Michaelhouse regularly provided transport, and Mr Nkosi Mahlaba drove her and her father to her appointments and encouraged and assisted throughout. Akhona’s father also works at Michaelhouse.
This has given him a massive amount of hope and happiness. His elderly aunt, who was solely responsible for him, is relieved by this help, too. We are linking with the physiotherapist at the Balgowan clinic in an attempt to enhance his mobility and care. We are also aiding him in applying for a government grant to assist financially with his care and ongoing needs.
I recently watched a video clip of Akhona dancing and singing at an inter-schools choir competition – her beaming smile and joy said it all. Akhona is now in Grade 8 and walks to school unassisted – both feet are flat on the ground and her legs are straight.
In late September, the caregivers went farm to farm and door to door within a 10km radius of Zenzani. They attended to many people, taking care to talk to them and enquiring as to their needs and concerns. Education regarding TB and HIV was given and all were encouraged to have the relevant tests done to ascertain their status – regarding both TB and HIV. We were well received and we felt that this interaction was worthwhile, and that we would repeat it early next year.
We now have two hospital beds and five mattresses, kindly donated by Netcare Hospital, Howick. One of these pressure-relieving mattresses has already been given to a patient in dire need. He is bedridden and subsequently has many serious bedsores. The caregivers now support him on an almost daily basis, visiting him in his home, changing his dressings and feeding him.
In this report I have given some detail on a couple of cases where we have made a difference and continue to do so. But every person we attend to and care for is relevant and important to us, and a difference is made. I am always awed by the commitment that is shown by the caregivers. They are tireless in their efforts to assist and care for their communities. It is not easy work, it is often thankless and the need seems to be never-ending. This can be daunting and sometimes demoralising, but the relief exuded by people who have been helped is tangible, and this is what keeps us motivated. As always, we thank Michaelhouse and our supporters for the opportunity to assist the people living in the area surrounding the School. We are determined to make an ongoing difference in their lives, to make a real change. On that note, arising from our internal review, it was decided to add the word “senz’umehluko” to our logo. We now proudly wear that logo on our new uniforms. This sentiment, “making a difference”, encourages us to continue tirelessly with this life-changing work. I know that I have repeated myself here, but this is our reality. The people assisted are neighbours, colleagues and friends and I don’t know better words to express our sense of gratitude and privilege, enabled by you, to do this work.
The winners of the primary schools’ netball league organised by Nkosi Mahlaba
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Soccer/ Netball League Eight local schools participated in a primary schools soccer and netball league during the first and second quarters of the year. The league was organised and run by Mr Nkosi Mahlaba with assistance from all the schools. They played weekly matches, home and away, at their own schools. All in all, it turned out to be a very successful, well-organised league which was greatly appreciated by all. The league culminated in an all-day tournament held on the outdoor basketball courts and Tarpeys and Holleys, at Michaelhouse.
Environment & Community
Amathole Abomvana (The Red Bulls) – Traditional Dancers Eight Michaelhouse support staff form the Amathole Abomvana group, which performed at a number of weddings and provided community support at other functions. Jungle gyms Ongoing repairs and maintenance to jungle gyms at Crystal Springs Primary, Hlanganani Primary and Curry’s Post Primary were carried out. A further jungle gym was installed at Dargle Primary School in September – a much appreciated facility. Service projects We remain focused on ensuring that every boy becomes involved. B Block boys remain involved in the weekly SMILE programme. Three professional teachers, a good curriculum, great administration and excellent Michaelhouse boys make this work well for 72 Grade 4 and 5 children. C, D and E Block boys are involved on a House basis. Service delivery protests and other disruptions curtailed some of our engagement with children in local schools. Founders: Lidgetton Education Centre East: Lidgetton Education Centre West: English reading project with Nottingham Road Primary School and support-staff children Farfield: Lidgetton Education Centre Pascoe: Hlanganani Primary – general maintenance, English reading, assistance with homework Baines: Weekly visits to Sunfield Home for mentally handicapped adults in Howick Mackenzie: Weekly visits to Khazimula Shelter in Lidgetton Tatham: Weekly visits to Khazimula Shelter in Lidgetton, assistance with homework D Block Integrated Studies Programme During the week after mid-year exams, as part of the programme, each set of D Block boys attended a whole day of school at the high school at Shea O’Connor Combined Schools. Such educational and social experience are unique to Michaelhouse. Peter Brown Award The 2015 Peter Brown Award winner was Thomas Witherspoon (C Block, East). He planned and organised for a basketball court to be built at Jabula Combined School in Lidgetton. A superb and substantial concrete slab was laid to accommodate this – much to the delight of the pupils at Jabula.
A classroom scene with Pascoe boys at Hlanganani Primary
“Those were happy days – those far off days in Maritzburg. Our buildings were bad, almost dilapidated – our classrooms stuffy – our dormitories over crowded – our playing fields far too small, conditions such as would never be tolerated today” The Chronicle, 1946
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Sport
The educational programme of any top school should reflect a balance between academic, cultural, environmental and sporting activities. In this respect Michaelhouse endeavours to remain at the cutting edge of each pursuit. Michaelhouse offers a vibrant sport programme with a choice of 16 sports. We are fortunate to enjoy some of the finest sporting facilities in the country. Our boys’ athletic talents are acknowledged provincially and nationally, wtih interschool fixtures played at first-league level. Michaelhouse has produced more than 120 sportsmen who have played at international level.
AQUATICS - SWIMMING
On 4 February, Michaelhouse entered a team in the annual Dimont Gala in Pietermaritzburg. The Michaelhouse boys swam extremely well individually and as a team, managing to secure fourth place out of 16 schools.
Master in Charge: Mr John Alexander Captain: Charles Janse van Rensburg Awards Honours: Charles Janse van Rensburg Colours: Bongi Fleischer, Ant Fleischer, Angelo Lissoni, Baron Pearce, Keagan Chasenski, Michael Hanbury Swimming during the 2015 season was not as successful as it was in the past. This was not because of the calibre of swimmers. On the contrary, Michaelhouse’s swimming talent in 2015 was superb. The season was very short and few galas were swum. This was because of calendar conflicts with Michaelhouse events, and galas being staged at very late notice.
On Wednesday 11 February, Michaelhouse competed in the Independent Schools Swimming Gala at Hilton College. Michaelhouse managed to achieve third place out of eight extremely competitive teams. This occasion reflected the great team spirit that once again prevailed. There were a number of swimmers who swam qualifying times for awards. It was superb to see the determination, leadership and team spirit on the day. At the Inter-House Gala, the following results were recorded:
INTER-HOUSE GALA Age Group
Gold
Silver
Bronze
U14
Finn Elliot
Luc Pousson
Luke Van Rooyen
U15
Christian Opperman
Chris Hardie
Murray Finlay
U16
Bongi Fleischer
Ant Fleischer
Alex Taylor
U17
Angelo Lissoni
Keagan Chasenski
Callum Deeble
U19
Charles Janse van Rensburg
Brandon Mottram
Baron Pearce
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SWIMMING Back Row: Bongi Fleischer, Callum Deeble Second Row: Angelo Lissoni, Luke Browett, Keagan Chasenski, Alex Taylor Front Row: Michael Hanbury, Baron Pearce, Brandon Mottram, Charles Janse van Rensburg, Mr Bailey Coxon, Jordan van Rees
Inter-House Trophies Junior Individual Medley: Finn Elliot Senior Individual Medley: Charles Janse van Rensburg Junior Victor Ludorum: Finn Elliot U17 Victor Ludorum: Bongi Fleischer Senior Victor Ludorum: Charles Janse van Rensburg 20-man relay: Tatham Open freestyle relay: East Winning House (Relays): East Winning House Overall: East Charles Janse van Rensburg managed to break the InterHouse U19 100m breaststroke record, which had been set in 2007. During the season, there were wonderful swimming times and many boys managed to record their personal bests, and in so doing, received School awards. Thank you once again to Charles Janse van Rensburg, the 2015 swimming captain, who managed the team so well.
U19 gala medallists Charles Janse van Rensburg, Baron Pearce and Brandon Mottram with guest of honour Mrs Madelyn Janse van Rensburg
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1ST TEAM WATER POLO Back Row: Keagan Chasenski, Charles Janse van Rensburg, Matthew Ramsden, James
McCormack Middle Row: Baron Pearce, Michael Hanbury, Richard Beckett, Tyron Kassner, Nic Llewellen Palmer, Callum Deeble Front Row: Jordan van Rees, Brandon Mottram, Mr Bernie Whitaker, Joshua Cullinan, Justin Miller
AQUATICS - WATER POLO Master in Charge: Mr Matthew Higginson Coaches First Team: Mr Bernard Whitaker Second Team: Mr Michael Simpson Third Team: Mr André van Wyk Fourth Team: Mr Gary van Breda (fourth quarter) U16A: Mr Jacques Richter U16B: Mr Gary van Breda (first quarter) U15A: Mr Peter Stevens U15B: Mr Richard de Beyer (first quarter), Miss Bridget Kee (fourth quarter) U14A: Mr Matthew Higginson U14B: Mr Bailey Coxon (first quarter), Mr Ryno Combrinck (fourth quarter) Captain: Brandon Mottram
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Awards Colours: Baron Pearce, Charles Janse van Rensburg, Keagan Chasenski, James McCormack, Tyron Kassner Half Colours: Nicholas Llewellen-Palmer Provincial Representation KZN U19A: Brandon Mottram KZN U19B: Keagan Chasenski, James McCormack, Tyron Kassner Trophy winners: Kyle Pepper Trophy for service to water polo: Jordan van Rees Lyle Trophy for most valuable player: Brandon Mottram Whitaker Trophy for most improved player: Baron Pearce Ken Mullen Trophy, Inter-House water polo: Founders
Sport
This year was undoubtedly one of the best that Michaelhouse water polo has enjoyed. Numbers remained on the rise, all teams had excellent, well-qualified coaches, we enjoyed some of our best results, there was an overseas tour to Croatia, and – the cherry on top – the new swimming pool complex was completed. One of the challenges that schools around the country face is getting their pupils to participate in school sport. We are in a very fortunate position with water polo – boys love both being in the water and the physical aspect of the sport. One of the goals we set this year was that all our boys would have enough game time. This has been a challenge in the past because we have more teams than most other schools. This year, our lower teams played a few new opposition teams, which the boys thoroughly enjoyed. Some of the additional fixtures were against St Anne’s Diocesan College; St Mary’s DSG, Kloof; Kloof High School; Port Shepstone High School; and Hillcrest High School. These games were always on a stagger basis, so the boys found them challenging but enjoyable. All the schools we played showed great sportsmanship and these fixtures will happen in the future. School sport is about building relationships, which happened this year. The completion of the new pool brought new excitement to the Michaelhouse water polo community. The facility is breathtaking and unquestionably one of the best of its kind in the country, if not one of the best school facilities
Frank Goble
in the world. The School and everyone involved cannot be thanked enough. The new pool is 35m x 25m. This allows us more space for practice, which has always been problematic in the past, and enables us to play three games at the same time – two in the new pool and one in the old pool. It also enables our senior boys (mainly in the first team) to play long-course water polo, which is essential if we want to compete with the traditional water polo schools in the future. During the July holiday, 30 boys and four coaches went on a 12-day tour of Croatia. The itinerary was superbly put together and included eight training sessions with top Croatian coaches, seven matches against junior club teams, river rafting, sea kayaking, river canyoning, a zipline tour and a tour of the walls of Dubrovnik. Aspects of the trip which made an impression on us were: the beauty and cleanliness of the rivers; playing water polo in the sea, with some getting sea sick while playing; the 150m-high, 700m-long zip line; the magnificence of the old buildings; watching the Australian men’s water polo team practise; and cliff diving into the Adriatic Sea. It was a genuine sport and culture tour, an experience that everyone will remember. Thoughts from three members of the touring party Written by Blake Springate Seeing that water polo at Michaelhouse has become increasingly popular, and that it had been years since the last water polo tour to a foreign country, it was fitting that the announcement of the tour to Croatia was made.
Jordan van Rees
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Sport
This brought much excitement and energy to the water polo players at Michaelhouse. After more than a year of preparation, it was time to embark on our tour.
river canyoning and zip lining.
After countless, exhausting hours of travel, including a ten-hour stop in Munich Airport, we were welcomed by the warm summer of Split, Croatia, not to mention the bevy of beauties who had arrived at the same time for the Ultra Music Festival. This sparked further excitement and re-energised the drained boys. We took a bus to Omiš, a small central Dalmatian town, where we spent the majority of our time. This unique town is situated where the picturesque Cetina River meets the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea. It was here that we played our first game and received invaluable coaching sessions in an arena set up in the sea.
Written by Luke Jonsson Croatia is heaven on earth, and the girls are most definitely angels. Croatia has probably been the best place I have travelled to and it will always be my most memorable moment.
Thanks to the unique location of Omiš, we were able to participate in various other activities. My favourite was canyoning. Basically, this entails swimming down the river, with cliffs more than 100m high on either side of you, and having to negotiate waterfalls, rapids, natural pools, an underground tunnel and a 9m optional jump. After our stay in Omiš, we travelled to Dubrovnik, “the pearl of the Adriatic”. We arrived at our hotel, which provided us with a little more comfort than our previous stay in a pension. After settling in, we took a bus using our Dubrovnik cards to the Old Town. Its marble streets and baroque buildings, and the presence of so many people of various nationalities really did leave the boys in awe. We walked along the ancient city walls, which protected a civilisation for centuries, and admired the endless shimmer of the Adriatic Sea and the view of Lokrum Island. Fortunately for us, our tour guide and Mr Whitaker, who had been to this city before, were able to share its history with us. Besides the beauty of the Old Town, it was in Dubrovnik where we played one of our strongest opponents, Jug, and were coached by one of the best Olympic coaches in the world, Veselin Duho. Overall, the tour was educational, enriching and hugely enjoyable. A big thank you to all those who made it possible. Written by Christopher Dowsley The water polo was taken to a level none of us had ever experienced. Whether we were treading against the current in the cold sea of Omiš, or playing against the world champions in Dubrovnik, we were taken out of our comfort zones but given the chance to embrace a new and exciting side of the game. The tour, although focused on developing our water polo skills, also incorporated the many beautiful attractions that Croatia has to offer, such as sea kayaking, rafting,
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Croatia was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Life was tough being a goalkeeper on this tour – shots coming from everywhere, being haloed and being ridiculed constantly by the older guys for getting pierced left, right and centre throughout every game. It’s a different world up there. Although the polo was amazing, the experience and just being part of this wonderful trip was absolutely unforgettable. The things I learnt, the friendships that were formed and the memories made will be with me throughout my schooling career and life. Age groups The U14s were rough diamonds this year. Very few of the 18 boys had played water polo before arriving at Michaelhouse. This is a double-edged sword because you have to coach everything from scratch, but the players do not have bad habits from primary school. The boys improved dramatically during the year and were keen to keep learning. The results speak for themselves, and all the scores in the fourth quarter were much better than in the first. The U14A team took part in the Hilton College U14 water polo festival during the October holidays. Tours are a vital part of school sport. The boys played eight games in three days. This is a lot of water polo in a short amount of time. Not only does it give the boys some much-needed game time at the start of the season, it also gives the coach time to talk to his players between games, adjusting plays where necessary. The U15s were the standout age group this year. In 2014, they had some very close games but were usually on the wrong side of the scoreline. They were able to turn most results around in 2015. They played some quite beautiful water polo, moving the ball at will, driving and defending like champions. We hope that they can continue improving at this exponential rate. The U15A side travelled to East London during the October holidays to participate in the annual Sternberg Tournament, hosted by Selborne College. This is easily the most difficult tour on our calendar. The boys played seven games on the first day, followed by play-offs and finals on the second day. The team must be congratulated for their efforts – they finished ninth overall and won the Milton Gates Plate.
Sport
The U16 age group continued to impress with their professional and sportsmanlike approach to water polo. They enjoyed the guidance of the two young coaches and responded perfectly to every instruction that was given. U16 is usually a difficult transition year with a few disciplinary issues, although 2015 was smooth sailing. The U16A team participated in the Durban High School U16 tournament for the first time, during the first weekend of the fourth quarter. The boys did not have much time to prepare because of other school commitments, so they were not quite ready for a gruelling three-day tournament. Nonetheless, their never-say-die attitude shone through and they finished twelfth out of 20 schools. Congratulations to Luke Jonsson, the U16A goalkeeper who clearly learnt many valuable lessons in Croatia, on being selected for the tournament team. The open age group was splitting at the seams with the number of players. For the first time, we had four full teams with a number of reserves. As mentioned earlier, there are very few schools which enjoy the number of water polo players we have at Michaelhouse.
oldest and most prestigious first-team tournaments in the country. This year, Michaelhouse achieved its best result, ending an excellent fourth out of 20 schools. Every year the U14A, U15A and the first team participate in the KwaZulu-Natal Top Ten Water Polo tournament. This year, the tournament was held in the Midlands, with Michaelhouse hosting the U14 tournament at St Anne’s. The juniors usually have a tough time at this tournament, but this year the boys showed their stuff, with the U14s finishing sixth and the U15s seventh. The first team had an outstanding tournament, finishing fourth. The stayers’ team once again travelled up to Johannesburg for the St Stithians College Stayers Tournament. This year was particularly difficult because the entire team were suffering from a stomach bug. The boys were able to play through the pain and had some very close and exciting games. Unfortunately, they lost the vital games and were only able to finish fifteenth, although under some very difficult conditions. The C Block boys who went on tour learnt very quickly what first-team water polo is about.
If you ask any referee in the country which teams they would not like to ref, they will say the thirds and fourths. This is because the lower teams usually do not have the necessary skills to play the game. There is generally a lot of holding and drowning, which makes life difficult for the referee. Luckily, our thirds and fourths were well drilled by Mr van Wyk, who often had 30 players to look after. The boys enjoyed excellent results, but the emphasis was on fun and team spirit. The second team needs special mention because they were unbeaten this year. Mr Simpson focused on the boys’ strengths. This strategy enabled them to play freely and show their natural flair in the pool. They showed great team spirit and unity. With no superstars in the team they all had to give their best all the time, which they were able to do. The first team had an up-and-down season, getting a few great results but losing or drawing a few very tight games. The players were a healthy mix of A and B Block boys, and the foundations were laid to build on in the years to come. The boys know the importance of results at first-team level, and the 2015 A Block boys showed the younger members of the team how to conduct themselves in and around the pool. The first team went on two tours this year: to the Pretoria Boys High School festival in the first quarter and the South African College High School (SACS) tournament during the October holidays. The focus at the Pretoria Boys festival was to develop the players’ skills and fitness, with development usually being emphasised at festivals. The SACS tournament in the Cape is one of the
Eyes on the ball: Brandon Mottram
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Sport
1ST TEAM WATER POLO Date
Opposition
Result
For
Against
2015-02-10
Westville Boys High
W
8
6
2015-02-14
DHS
L
8
15
2015-02-20
King Edward VII School
W
9
6
2015-02-21
St John's
L
7
13
2015-02-21
St Stithian's
L
5
10
2015-02-22
Pretoria Boys' High
L
6
10
2015-02-22
Jeppe High School
D
5
5
2015-02-28
Glenwood Boys' High 1st
L
3
8
2015-03-08
Hilton College
W
9
8
2015-09-19
Westville Boys' High
D
6
6
2015-10-03
DHS
L
0
6
2015-10-03
Paul Roos
W
4
2
2015-10-03
St Stithians
W
3
1
2015-10-03
Selbourne
L
1
7
2015-10-04
Northwood
W
4
2
2015-10-04
Parktown Boys' High
W
4
2
2015-10-04
SACS
L
2
3
2015-10-04
Jeppe
W
5
2
2015-10-05
St Andrew's
W
4
2
2015-10-05
Bishops
W
3
2
2015-10-05
Selbourne
L
2
3
2015-10-05
DHS
L
0
3
2015-10-10
Clifton Durban
L
4
9
2015-10-16
College
W
11
3
2015-10-16
Hilton
L
5
6
2015-10-17
Clifton
L
2
4
2015-10-17
Westville
W
4
2
2015-10-18
Glenwood
L
1
5
2015-10-18
Northwood
L
2
3
2015-10-22
St Andrews Grahamstown
L
6
9
2015-10-22
Pretoria Boys' High School
L
4
9
2015-10-23
St Johns
L
0
6
2015-10-23
St Davids
D
5
5
2015-10-24
Hilton
W
5
4
2015-10-24
Westville
L
2
5
2015-10-25
St Albans
W
8
6
2015-11-07
Maritzburg College
W
14
4
2015-11-14
Hilton College
L
6
8
WATER POLO 2015 P
W
D
L
PF
PA
1st
38
15
3
20
177
210
2nd
11
8
1
2
97
58
3rd
13
8
0
5
87
64
4th
7
3
1
3
52
55
U16A
10
5
0
5
50
59
U16B
3
2
0
1
28
22
U15A
26
11
1
14
117
155
U15B
12
2
1
9
33
88
U14A
27
5
0
22
114
267
U14B
13
6
1
6
53
55
Total
160
65
8
87
808
1033
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Sport
ATHLETICS Back Row: Paul McLellan, Tristan Herwood, Luke Volker, Liam Friend Middle Row: Callum Deeble, Keynan Knox, Rory Ware, Gerhard Serton, Dane Fisher, Reece McLuckie Front Row: Nick Rhodes-Jones, Wesley Biggs, Charles Houston, Mr George Ferreira, Nicholas Harrison, Robert Wood, Aphiwe Mthalane
ATHLETICS Master in Charge: Mr George Ferreira Coaches: Mr Peter Stevens, Mr Elmar de Klerk, Mr Jonathan Smith Captain: Nicholas Harrison Awards Honours: SW Janse van Rensburg Pietermaritzburg and Districts Invitation Team U15: Dane Fisher
2015 INTER-HOUSE ATHLETICS RESULTS Relays Day results Five-Age Relay (Grant Cornish Bowden Floating Trophy) MacKenzie 4x100m relays (David Chance Floating Trophy) Farfield Senior 4 x 800m (The West 1971ers Challenge Trophy) Pascoe Winning House (RH Harris Floating Trophy) Pascoe
Sports Day results Age-group champions U14 gold: Ryan Davies (T); silver: Siyanda Mkhize (T); bronze: Benjamin Rebeck (W) U15 gold: Nicholas Rhodes-Jones (T); silver: William Norton (Fa); bronze: Dane Fisher (M) U16 gold: Rory Ware (Fo); silver: Bruere Venter (B); bronze: Nathan Wesson (M) U17 gold: Callum Deeble (P); silver: Mikael Maingard (W); bronze: SW Janse van Rensburg (W) U19 gold: Victor Foster (T); silver: Alan Houston (T); bronze: David Karam (P) Junior victor ludorum (Paul Nash Trophy): Nicholas Rhodes-Jones, Tatham U17 victor ludorum (Martin Rose Floating Trophy): Callum Deeble, Pascoe Senior victor ludorum (John Odams Trophy): Rory Ware, Founders U19 100m sprint (D Barford Trophy): Victor Foster, Tatham Best single performance in a field event (Mike Gledhill Cup): Jordan Sesink Clee, Mackenzie
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Sport
Best single performance in a track event (Steven Waidelich Floating Trophy): Thomas Gibson, East Best single performance in a javelin event (JR Cairns Trophy): SW Janse van Rensburg, West Best middle-distance athlete (GD Barrie Trophy): Thomas Gibson, East Best single performance in any event (St Evens Trophy): Thomas Gibson, East 20 x 100m combined-age relay (J Cahill Floating Trophy): Not awarded. Race cancelled Service to athletics (M Jeffrey Memorial Tray): Nicholas Harrison, Baines
Finn Elliot: 1st U14 800m; 1st U14 1500m Nick Anderson: 2nd U19 800m Gerhard Serton: 2nd U17 high jump Vincent v d Westhuizen: 2nd U17 400m Ryan Davies: 2nd U14 high jump Paul McLellan: 3rd U15 800m Reece McLuckie: 3rd U15 1500m Mpho Mthetwa: 3rd U15 discus
Winning House (Eric Strapp Memorial Trophy) Final standings: 1. Farfield 2. Tatham 3. West 4. Baines 5. Founders 6. Pascoe 7. Mackenzie
The following boys achieved top-three positions: Luke Browett: 1st U17 800m; 3rd U17 long jump; 3rd U17 high jump Rory Ware: 1st U16 400m Paul McLellan: 1st U15 1500m; 2nd U15 800m Vincent v d Westhuizen: 2nd U17 400m Finn Elliot: 3rd U14 1500m
KZN CHAMPIONSHIPS
Dane Fisher: 1st U15 100m hurdles; 1st U15 300m hurdles
MENLO PARK MEETING
Dane Fisher: 1st U15 100m hurdles; 2nd U15 300m hurdles
MICHAELHOUSE INVITATION MEETING
The following boys achieved top-three positions: Ryan Anderson: 1st U19 400m Callum Deeble: 1stU17 1500m SW Janse van Rensburg: 1st U17 javelin (record) Rory Ware: 1st U16 400m
Sebastian Langebrink and Luc van der Westhuyzen jockeying for position
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Callum Deeble was awarded a medal for the best middle-distance performance of the meeting.
ST CHARLES COLLEGE MEETING
KINGSWAY HIGH SCHOOL MEETING
The following boys achieved top-three positions: Luke Browett: 1st Open 800m; 3rd Open 200m Finn Elliot: 1st U14 800m Nicholas Harrison: 2nd Open 400m SW Janse van Rensburg: 3rd Open javelin Paul McLellan: 3rd U15 1500m; 3rd U15 800m Liam Friend: 3rd U15 shot put
KZN ATHLETICS LEAGUE MEETING, 14 FEBRUARY
The following boys achieved top-two positions: Dane Fisher: 1st U15 100m hurdles; 1st U15 300m hurdles Martin Calaf: 1st U17 110m hurdles; 2nd U17 400m hurdles
Nicholas Anderson, Victor Foster and Ben Strachan in the open relays
Sport
1ST TEAM BASKETBALL Back Row: Luke Crouch, Jordan Sacks, Christopher Broadley, Gillespie Dougall Middle Row: Khwezi Kgalema, James Overmars, Jaryd Kleynhans, Ross Laing, Thebe Magashula Qhayiya Lujiva Front Row: Mpumelelo Shezi, Dasyan Nair, Mr Righardt Kotze, Thandokuhle Mnguni, Daluxolo Ngcebetsha
BASKETBALL Staff Member in Charge: Mr Msizi Mchunu Coaches First Team: Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo, Mr Righardt Kotze Second Team: Mr Msizi Mchunu Third Team: Mr Sizo Chalufu Fourth Team: Mr Sibusiso Ncamani Fifth Team: Mr Halalisani Xulu U16A: Mr Sandile Sibiya U16B: Mr Siphelele Bhengu U15A: Mr Washington Chizwayo U15B: Mr Sizo Chalufu U15C: Mr Msizi Mchunu, Mr Sibusiso Nhleko U14A: Mr Allan Laing U14B: Mr Elmar de Klerk U14C: Mr Johan van Rooyen Captain: Thandokuhle Mnguni
Awards Honours: Thandokuhle Mnguni Half Colours: Dasayan Nair, Mpumelelo Shezi, Jordan Sacks, Dali Ngcebetsha, Christopher Broadley, Qhayiya Lujiva, Khwezi Kgalema, Luke Crouch, James Overmars, Ross Laing, Gillespie Dougall, Jaryd Kleynhans, Thebe Magashula Provincial Representation KwaZulu-Natal U18: Thandokuhle Mnguni Inter-House Champions: Farfield Basketball has more participants than any other summer sport in the School. We continue to accommodate five open teams, two teams in the U16 age group and three teams each in the U15 and U14 age groups. This, despite the sport being short of coaching staff, with some coaches having to manage two teams. Courts are also not
121
Sport
numerous enough for the teams to practise on, an issue that will have to be given serious consideration moving forward. The season was a roller-coaster ride. Most of our senior teams were very competitive and won their games comfortably or lost very closely. It was pleasing to see our first team end the second half of the first term unbeaten after initially struggling. Under Mr Kotze’s guidance they came on nicely after the St John’s College tournament, where they started to work together. Unfortunately, Mr Kotze will leave the basketball coaching staff in 2016, but we welcome Mr Ngcobo in his place. Inter-House basketball was again on the School calendar, with Farfield dethroning last year’s champions, East. The juniors did very well this year. The U15 age group uplifted themselves to achieve superb results. The U14s were a revelation and also achieved outstanding results. The future looks bright, and I am very excited about the years ahead.
Khulu Mjwara
1ST TEAM BASKETBALL Date
Opposition
Result
For
Against
2015-01-24
St Charles
L
31
45
2015-01-31
Maritzburg College
L
15
47
2015-02-07
Westville
L
24
51
2015-02-06
American International School, JHB
L
31
58
2015-02-14
DHS
L
41
89
2015-02-27
Grey High, PE
L
18
22
2015-02-27
St Alban's
L
7
18
2015-02-27
Maritzburg College
L
6
53
2015-02-28
St Stithian's
L
15
38
2015-02-28
St John's, Harare
L
17
38
2015-02-28
Pinelands High
W
34
8
2015-02-28
St Peter's
W
31
14
2015-02-29
St John's College 2nd
W
28
25
2015-02-29
Sacred Heart College
W
32
21
2015-02-29
Grey High, PE
W
32
28
2015-03-04
St Nicholas
W
29
27
2015-03-07
Hilton College
W
55
46
2015-09-19
Westville Boys' High
L
28
37
2015-10-09
St Charles
L
49
56
2015-10-17
Clifton 1st
W
62
35
2015-10-24
Kearsney College
L
42
51
2015-11-07
Maritzburg College
L
41
51
2015-11-14
Hilton College
W
63
46
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Sport
BASKETBALL 2015 P
W
D
L
PF
PA
1st
23
9
0
14
731
904
2nd
12
6
1
5
455
331
3rd
11
5
0
6
258
234
4th
8
4
0
4
168
144
5th
4
3
0
1
68
58
U16A
23
10
0
13
485
586
U16B
11
5
0
6
196
189
U16C
3
1
0
2
53
48
U15A
13
5
0
8
259
305
U15B
12
7
0
6
259
227
U15C
11
7
0
4
272
177
U14A
12
10
0
2
318
162
U14B
12
5
1
6
250
200
U14C
11
2
0
9
124
247
Total
166
79
2
86
3896
3812
CANOEING Masters in Charge: Mr Richard Snowden, Mr Paul Snyman, Mr Iain Guthrie Captain: Brandon Macleod Vice-Captain: Alan Houston Secretary: Charles Houston
Stuart Maclaren Floating Trophy for the Best Senior Canoeist: Alan Houston Michaelhouse Junior Canoeing Champion: Emanuel Zaloumis Inter-House Canoeing First: Tatham Second: Farfield Third: Mackenzie
Awards Honours: Alan Houston, Jean van der Westhuyzen Colours: Brandon Macleod, Craig Heenan, Charles Houston Half Colours: Emanuel Zaloumis
The Michaelhouse Canoe Club can be proud of its achievements in 2015. Around 50 boys had exposure to the sport during the year, with the core comprising 30 members. The club takes pride in facilitating canoeists
Alan Houston, U18 Dusi winner
Canoe polo with Sam Lombaard (back) and Bradley Boulle
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Sport
CANOE CLUB Back Row: Emanuel Zaloumis, Kelvin Green, Michael Herbert, Benjamin Strachan, William Lyle, Daniel Dillon, Craig Pitt, Carlisle Hartman, James Crowe, Kai Honywill Third Row: Jason Boulle, Graham Davies, Jonathan Henderson, Richard Taylor, Jordan Patrick, Michael Steyn, Thomas van der Hoven, Ben Connolly, James Dawson Second Row: Tom Harper, Bradley Boulle, Sebastian Huggins, Luc van der Westhuyzen, Thomas Ringwood, Duncan Cribbins, Nicholas Stainbank, Warren Yoko Front Row: Craig Heenan, Mr Paul Snyman, Brandon Macleod, Mr Richard Snowden, Alan Houston, Mr Iain Guthrie, Charles Houston
at both spectrums of ability – those who compete at a national level as well as those who strive simply to get to the finish line. This year was no different, with the club achieving podium positions at most events and giving several boys their first taste of the rigours of this challenging sport. KZN Inter-Schools League The club participates primarily in the KwaZulu-Natal Inter-Schools League, which consists of 12 events that take place in the first, third and fourth quarters. The league is designed to expose young paddlers to the various disciplines in canoeing, namely: river marathons, K4 marathons, K1 flat-water marathons, sprints, slalom, canoe polo and K2 flat-water marathons. There are three trophies up for grabs at the conclusion
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of the school season. The Pope Ellis Senior Boys’ Team Trophy is awarded on the combined results of the top four paddlers from each school at each event. Teams acquire points after each race and a league system produces the eventual winners at the final event. The Michaelhouse A team won the trophy, beating traditional KZN canoeing powerhouses Maritzburg College, who had been looking to secure the trophy for the tenth consecutive year. Furthermore, Michaelhouse secured the Participation Trophy. This is also based on a points system in which every paddler accrues points for his school, depending on how well he does in each race. The Senior Victor Ludorum Trophy was won by Alan Houston, and Emanuel Zaloumis was named the U16 champion. This accumulation of trophies makes 2015 one of Michaelhouse’s most successful inter-schools seasons on the river.
Sport
KZN INTER-SCHOOLS LEAGUE: TEAM COMPETITION Name
Overall
31/1 Dash & Crash
7/2 Upper Umgeni
14/2 Bushman’s
28/2 KZN River Champs
21/4 KZN Sprints
Michaelhouse A
1
1
1
1
1
8
Maritzburg College A
2
4
2
3
2
1
Kearsney A
3
6
3
4
3
5
Hilton A
4
3
5
5
4
2
Michaelhouse B
5
5
4
2
6
-
Michaelhouse C
8
11
8
8
12
-
Michaelhouse D
11
16
8
13
14
-
Michaelhouse E
12
21
13
14
15
-
Michaelhouse F
13
26
22
22
26
-
24/7 K4 Marathon
15/8 Upper Umgeni
29/8 Canoe Polo
12/9 Upper Umgeni Relay
19/9 Shongweni Marathon
17/10 10-Lap Enduro
Michaelhouse A
2
1
1
1
1
2
Maritzburg College A
1
2
2
2
2
1
Kearsney A
4
3
4
4
3
3
Hilton A
2
4
4
7
14
4
Michaelhouse B
5
5
3
6
4
5
Michaelhouse C
7
7
8
11
10
9
Michaelhouse D
12
10
7
19
15
13
Michaelhouse E
13
14
9
21
18
14
Michaelhouse F
-
-
-
27
23
16
The Canoe Club exposes paddlers to various disciplines. Here, Jean van der Westhuyzen, Craig Heenan, Alan Houston and Brandon Macleod enjoy the unusual experience of paddling in a K4 boat.
125
Sport
KZN INTER-SCHOOLS LEAGUE: INDIVIDUAL COMPETITION Name
Age Group
Overall
31/1 Dash & Crash
7/2 Upper Umgeni
14/2 Bushman’s
Alan Houston
U18
1
2
2
1
Craig Heenan
U18
6
9
6
3
Jean van der Westhuyzen
U18
7
-
1
2
Brandon Macleod
U18
10
14
12
10
Kelvin Green
U18
12
18
17
11
Charles Houston
U18
18
17
5
9
William Lyle
U18
23
24
21
23
Carlisle Hartman
U18
33
49
34
34
Declan Clackworthy
U18
37
40
23
28
Jason Boulle
U18
39
-
-
-
Thomas Erskine
U18
40
48
38
-
Patrick Bechard
U18
41
39
33
38
Stuart Beach
U18
43
-
-
-
James Tucker
U18
48
-
50
41
Shaun Tratschler
U18
49
-
-
42
Cameron Rawlins
U18
50
47
36
37
Ben Strachan
U18
63
46
35
-
Samuel Jarvis
U18
66
-
-
-
Emanuel Zaloumis
U16
1
2
-
2
Daniel Dillon
U16
5
5
4
3
Warren Yoko
U16
12
16
13
22
Kyle Kennaugh
U16
16
25
22
19
Sebastian Huggins
U16
17
27
39
25
James Crowe
U16
22
-
18
15
Kai Honywill
U16
24
24
25
21
Bradley Boulle
U16
25
7
5
20
Craig Pitt
U16
27
18
24
-
Dom Leslie
U16
30
-
-
-
Ben Connolly
U16
35
-
52
47
Nicholas Stainbank
U16
52
-
-
-
Luc van der Westhuyzen
U14
3
2
2
3
Thomas van der Hoven
U14
19
-
16
-
Name
Age Group
28/2 KZN River Champs
21/4 KZN Sprints
15/8 Upper Umgeni
19/9 Shongweni
Alan Houston
U18
1
-
2
3
Craig Heenan
U18
9
-
4
4
Jean van der Westhuyzen
U18
-
-
3
2
Brandon Macleod
U18
17
-
15
14
Kelvin Green
U18
32
-
11
15
Charles Houston
U18
11
-
-
-
William Lyle
U18
34
-
25
-
Carlisle Hartman
U18
44
-
27
17
Declan Clackworthy
U18
31
-
-
-
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Sport
Jason Boulle
U18
43
-
24
7
Thomas Erskine
U18
41
-
-
-
Patrick Bechard
U18
40
-
-
-
Stuart Beach
U18
-
-
26
21
James Tucker
U18
-
-
-
-
Shaun Tratschler
U18
-
-
-
26
Cameron Rawlins
U18
-
-
-
-
Ben Strachan
U18
-
-
-
-
Samuel Jarvis
U18
-
-
-
23
Emanuel Zaloumis
U16
1
4
1
-
Daniel Dillon
U16
2
-
16
7
Warren Yoko
U16
12
-
8
23
Kyle Kennaugh
U16
15
-
22
-
Sebastian Huggins
U16
-
-
14
-
James Crowe
U16
24
-
-
-
Kai Honywill
U16
17
-
-
-
Bradley Boulle
U16
-
-
-
-
Craig Pitt
U16
20
-
-
-
Dom Leslie
U16
-
-
10
12
Ben Connolly
U16
-
-
5
-
Nicholas Stainbank
U16
-
-
-
16
Luc van der Westhuyzen
U14
3
1
-
9
Thomas van der Hoven
U14
-
-
17
Brandon Macleod and Seb Huggins on the Fish River
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Canoeing South Africa Events In addition to the schools league, boys are offered the opportunity to represent Michaelhouse at the many races on the Canoeing South Africa calendar. All in all, boys could have participated in just under 40 canoeing events during the year. It would be impossible to mention them all in this report, so mention must simply be made of the three major river races on the calendar.
24-25 January, Drak Challenge – KZN K1 River Championships The Drak Challenge is held annually on the picturesque Umzimkulu River and this year doubled as the KZN K1 Champs. Jean van der Westhuyzen picked up where he left off in 2014, finishing in an astonishing seventh place overall and comfortably winning the U18 age group. One can only wonder what he would have achieved over the rest of the year had a neck injury not ruled him out of the sprint and marathon season.
THE DRAK CHALLENGE Name
Position (age group)
Overall
Time
Jean van der Westhuyzen
1 (U18)
7
4h 23m 25s
Alan Houston
7 (U18)
42
4:45:34s
Craig Heenan
10 (U18)
59
4:53:21s
Kelvin Green
29 (U18)
276
6:11:12s
Carlisle Hartman & Cameron Rawlins
32 (U18)
354
6:33:03s
William Lyle
34 (U18)
379
6:48:38s
Declan Clackworthy & partner
37 (U18)
420
7:12:58s
Patrick Bechard
38 (U18)
425
7:19:57s
Thomas Erskine
39 (U18)
448
8:15:47s
Emanuel Zaloumis
2 (U16)
112
5:21:12s
Bradley Boulle
3 (U16)
126
5:28:24s
Daniel Dillon
6 (U16)
232
5:57:33s
Warren Yoko
10 (U16)
311
6:20:44s
Kai Honywill
11 (U16)
340
6:27:45s
James Crowe
12 (U16)
378
6:48:30s
Craig Pitt
14 (U16)
433
7:29:40s
Mr RG Snowden & Kyle Kennaugh
57 (SNR)
184
5:47:04s
Mr PG Snyman
12 (SV)
185
5:47:09s
19-21 February, Dusi Canoe Marathon The highlight of the river season is traditionally the Dusi, which 11 boys and four staff completed in 2015. The most notable of these finishers was Alan Houston with his victory in the U18 age group which, to my knowledge, is the first time that a Michaelhouse boy has done this in a K1 year. His time was roughly ten minutes off the U18 K1 Dusi record – considering a costly swim at the first obstacle of the race, the Ernie Pearce Weir, this is a most commendable achievement. Charles Houston and Craig Heenan deserve mention for their top-100 finishes, and up-and-coming youngsters Emanuel Zaloumis and Daniel Dillon made their marks in the U16 category, coming first and second respectively. It would be remiss not to mention Mr Jaap van der Vegte, who, at the age of 60, managed to cross the finish line for his first Dusi medal, showing us all that perhaps you can teach an old dog new tricks. Bradley Boulle and Warren Yoko at the Enduro
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DUSI CANOE MARATHON Name
Position (age group)
Overall
Time
Alan Houston
1 (U18)
16
8:53:29s
Charles Houston
5 (U18)
43
9:24:55s
Craig Heenan
10 (U18)
69
9:51:16s
Brandon Macleod
16 (U18)
114
10:20:20s
Kelvin Green
20 (U18)
133
10:37:05s
Declan Clackworthy
31 (U18)
258
11:33:32s
William Lyle
42 (U18)
435
12:42:15s
Emanuel Zaloumis
1 (U16)
102
10:14:42s
Daniel Dillon
2 (U16)
144
10:43:28s
Mr PG Snyman
21 (SV)
216
11:17:34s
James Crowe & father
111 (SNR)
295
11:51:06s
Mr RG Snowden
28 (SV)
324
12:03:17s
Warwick Albertyn & father
378 (SNR)
804
16:25:31s
Mr IA Guthrie & Mr J vd Vegte
101 (SM)
857
20:05:30s
9-10 October, Fish River Canoe Marathon – SA K2 River Championships The Fish River Canoe Marathon, renowned for its big water, hosted the SA K2 River Champs. This year’s race proved extremely competitive in the junior ranks, with the top three U18 crews finishing in the top 25 overall. Alan Houston partnered his brother, Michaelhouse Old Boy Andrew Houston, to achieve a podium position in the U23 age group and a top ten finish overall.
Mention must be made of Jean van der Westhuyzen, who, with his partner from the Western Cape, had secured a comfortable lead in the U18 age group when disaster struck at Cradock Weir. The pair damaged their boat and limped home for the last 6km, losing roughly 40 places in the process. Emanuel Zaloumis, who partnered a Hilton College boy for the race, followed his Dusi U16 victory to be crowned the U16 SA K2 champion. Daniel Dillon and Dominic Leslie were placed second in the U16 group.
FISH RIVER CANOE MARATHON Name
Position (age group)
Overall
Time
Alan Houston & partner
2 (U23)
7
4:57:53s
Craig Heenan & partner
5 (U18)
32
5:17:53s
Jean van der Westhuyzen & partner
7 (U18)
56
5:31:31s
Kelvin Green & Carlisle Hartman
11 (U18)
161
6:09:47s
Ben Strachan & Thomas Erskine
17 (U18)
354
7:01:32s
Jason Boulle
21 (U18)
481
8:03:04s
Graham Davies
22 (U18)
482
8:03:05s
William Lyle
24 (U18)
503
8:20:21s
Emanuel Zaloumis & partner
1 (U16)
35
5:20:05s
Dominic Leslie & Daniel Dillon
2 (U16)
65
5:37:22s
Warren Yoko
10 (U16)
353
7:01:15s
Sebastian Huggins
11 (U16)
488
8:06:23s
Kai Honywill
12 (U16)
507
8:21:58s
Mr RG Snowden & Mr PG Snyman
11 (SV)
130
6:03:07s
Duncan Cribbins & father
200 (SNR)
489
8:08:08s
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1ST XI CRICKET Back Row: Trafford Melville, Marc Conlon, Devan Cowley, Matthew Armstrong Middle Row: Sean
Gilson, Matt Saulez, Nicholas Anderson, Jordan Sesink Clee, Gareth Macaskill, David Pachonick Front Row: David Geard, Mr James Bullough, Ryan Anderson, Mr Dean Forword, Nick Elliot
CRICKET Written by Mr James Bullough Master in Charge: Mr James Bullough Cricket Professionals: Mr Graeme Calway, Mr Dale Benkenstein Coaches First XI: Mr Dean Forword, Mr James Bullough Second XI: Mr Shaun Thompson, Mr Bongani Ndimande Third XI: Mr Richard McMichael Fourth XI: Mr Christopher Waldburger Fifth XI: Mr Nic Cahill U16A: Mr Jonathan Smith, Mr John Crawford U16B: Mr Herman Visagie U15A: Mr Chris van der Berg, Mr Mikey O’Connor U15B: Mr Ian Crawford, Mr Nico Boshoff U15C: Mr Ernest Rindfleisch U15D: Mr Graydon Theron
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U14A: Mr Andrew Brown, Mr André Human U14B: Mr Craig Pieterse, Mr Dennis Mdunge U14C: Mr Rodney Zondi, Mr Michael Bownes U14D: Mr Sanele Zikali Awards Colours: David Geard, Gareth Macaskill, Matthew Armstrong, Ryan Anderson, Sean Gilson Half Colours: Matt Saulez, Nicholas Anderson, Trafford Melville, David Pachonick Henry Fotheringham batsman of the year award: Matthew Armstrong (983 runs) Ravenor Nicholson bowler of the year award: Trafford Melville (28 wickets) Craig Sugden players’ player of the year award: Ryan Anderson Dale Benkenstein player of the year award: Gareth Macaskill (880 runs, 21 wickets)
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Provincial representation KZN Inland U19: Lethu Mthembu, Kuhle Khumalo (non-travelling reserve) KZN Inland U17: Matthew Armstrong, Sean Gilson, Kuhle Khumalo
KZN Inland U15: Thomas Trotter, Fraser Jones, Mubeezi Lubinga Kingsmead Mynahs: Tom Price, David Pachonick (non-travelling reserve)
SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENTS Date
Name
Opposition
Team
Achievement
4/01/2015
David Geard
St John’s (Harare)
1st
103
14/02/2015
Gareth Macaskill
DHS
1st
144
14/02/2015
Thomas Trotter
DHS
U15A
151
14/02/2015
James Kiln
DHS
U15A
104*
14/02/2015
Reece McLuckie
DHS
U15C
6-9
26/02/2015
Mubeezi Lubinga
St Alban’s
U15C
5-33 (hat-trick)
05/03/2015
Thomas Roberts
Howick
U14B
6-6
07/03/2015
Christian Khors
Hilton
U15B
122
03/10/2015
Sean Gilson
St John’s (JHB)
1st
103*
17/10/2015
Richard Dobeyn
Clifton
U16B
6-7 (hat-trick)
07/11/2015
William Norton
Maritzburg College
U15A
6-15
The year proved to be busy and productive on the cricket fields of Michaelhouse. A lot was achieved and I am incredibly excited about cricket and the future of the sport at the School. There are, however, many challenges that need to be addressed in the province with regard to the format of the matches that we play. Cricket is definitely heading towards shorter formats and we need to adapt without taking away opportunities for our top cricketers to experience the longer formats of the game. This year, cricket at Michaelhouse came up with a vision statement that will guide the sport: “For all boys to understand the values and life lessons that cricket gives – patience, discipline, trust, friendship and determination. For each boy to have fun and to feel like he is contributing to his team’s success. For all boys to have developed a love for the game so that they continue playing the sport after school. To encourage boys to focus on their strengths while working through weaknesses.” A big coup was the arrival of Dale Benkenstein, who has been employed by the School as a coach of the coaches. With his experience and expertise, there is no reason that we will not make serious inroads into achieving our vision for cricket at Michaelhouse. We are very fortunate at Michaelhouse to have the calibre of coaches that we do. The School hosted a Level 1 CSA coaching course, which 11 of our staff attended. We are well placed, with excellent cricket coaches leading into 2016. Congratulations must go to the Third XI and Mr Richard McMichael on their unbeaten season. We worked very hard on our facilities this year, and it is clear from some of the scores chalked up on our fields that we are on the right track. Added to this, we laid a
new eight-wicket turf pitch at the nets. This is a worldclass facility which will give the boys the opportunity to take their cricket to the next level. Many of our fields now have their own boundary ropes and my hope is that by the end of 2016, all will have their own ropes. Meadows, which is used by the U15s, saw the arrival of sight screens, which helped the boys see the ball a bit more clearly against the pin oaks. Next year, my hope is that we will have some installed on Tarpeys for our U14 boys. My thanks must go to the ground staff for all their hard work and dedication. The boys owe a lot of their success to the facilities that our ground staff prepare. The Roy Gathorne Oval saw the renovation of the Old Railway Pavilion, thanks to a donation that we received. This pavilion is now home to the First XI and Second XI cricket teams and the First XI hockey team. The venue has created a real buzz among the boys and has certainly given the younger cricket and hockey players something to look forward to. Next year, 2016, will see the arrival of a handful of young Hampshire cricketers, who are going to aid in our coaching. They will be based at Michaelhouse and will travel down to Durban at weekends to play club cricket to get valuable game time during the British off season. This will add a huge amount of enthusiasm and energy to cricket at the School. I have no doubt that it will be a huge success. Finally, my thanks must go to the School and its management for their support of cricket. Next year will be filled with opportunity for both the cricketing boys and staff to enhance the reputation of cricket at Michaelhouse.
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FIRST XI CRICKET REPORT Written by Mr Dean Forword Coaches: Mr Dean Forword, Mr James Bullough, Mr Graeme Calway Captain: Ryan Anderson First Team: Matthew Armstrong, David Geard, Ryan Anderson, Gareth Macaskill, Marc Conlon, Sean Gilson, David Pachonick, Matt Saulez, Nicholas Anderson, Trafford Melville, Jordan Sesink Clee, Nick Elliot, Lethu Mthembu, Salmon Janse van Rensburg, Devan Cowley, Nicholas Kershaw, Tom Price, Matthew Watson, Luke Versveld Results: Played 32, won 10, lost 15, drawn/no result 7 A jam-packed year of cricket began with the Michaelhouse Cricket Festival on our fields in Balgowan. Beautiful summer weather complemented the noise of the leather ball rebounding off wood and the smell of freshly cut green grass. Highlights were a good victory against Peterhouse Boys’ School of Zimbabwe, and a clean-hitting century from David Geard versus St John’s College, Harare. The first term consisted of Saturday fixtures, Cricket South Africa Twenty20 fixtures, the Sunfoil Night League and the Independent Schools Cricket Festival at St Alban’s College. It was a fun term of cricket and it was wonderful to see the boys dig deep through busy schedules and gel as a team. Consistent batting from Ryan Anderson and Matthew Armstrong was enjoyed throughout the first term, and a magnificent innings of 144 by Gareth Macaskill against Durban High School on the Roy Gathorne Oval was a highlight. Unfortunately, our bowling as a unit failed to put pressure on batsmen consistently, which made it difficult to defend scores. Although rain interrupted both the two-day game against St David’s Marist, Inanda, and the two-and-a-halfday game against Maritzburg College, both matches provided fantastic insight into time cricket for the boys. As bowlers, fielders and tacticians, the boys had to think of ways to get batsmen out, not only restrict runs. As batsmen, we were challenged to bat for longer periods of time and survive difficult periods under pressure. The second and third terms are always a wonderful opportunity to see the boys thrive in other sports and showcase their abilities. A pre-season schedule began in the third term and the season started with the annual match versus the ever-enthusiastic Old Boys. The Michaelmas holiday was full of cricket, with the St John’s T20 tournament in Harare and the Michaelmas
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Cricket Festival at Maritzburg College. It was a great mix of forms of cricket against different opposition in varying conditions, which tested the boys mentally and technically. The team’s batsmen were again consistent over this period, with a highlight being Sean Gilson’s 103* versus St John’s College, Johannesburg, under pressure. There were nail-biting matches throughout the fourth term. It was good to see players improving their games and new faces finding their way into the First XI. Ryan Anderson performed his duties as wicketkeeper, batsman and captain with aplomb. His quiet confidence and deep will for the team to do well were clear and he was a very valuable team member. David Geard is a clean hitter of the ball who struck fear into many opposition opening bowlers. His ability to hit balls off a good length for straight boundaries is quite special and something we hope to track in the future. Gareth Macaskill is a talented batsman who times the ball as sweetly as anyone and is able to hit it to all areas of the field. His attacking bowling claimed key wickets at important times throughout the year. He added immense value to the team. Nick Elliot produced some effective spells with the new ball. He swung the ball consistently and took important wickets. His ability to bowl cutters later in the innings around the wicket showcased his skill. Marc Conlon produced some memorable spells of medium-pace bowling with good variation and control. Often these were at the death and under pressure. He showed promise with the bat, with some clean hitting during the year. Nicholas Anderson performed a finishing role with the bat to perfection. His intensity in running between the wickets and hitting the ball into gaps added value to many partnerships and helped his peers reach milestones. His off-spin bowling from around the wicket proved challenging for many batsmen. Trafford Melville’s left-arm orthodox spin bowling added value this year, with the ball spinning away from the right-handed batsman. It is always a treat for any cricket team to have this in their arsenal. His batting towards the end of the innings in pursuit of quick runs was also effective. Matt Saulez bowled with lovely shape and, in the second half of the year, good aggression. He provided the slip cordon with many catches. His sensible batting proved reliable on a few occasions throughout the year.
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Jordan Sesink Clee’s height proved to be difficult for many opening batsmen. His ability to hit the pitch hard encouraged the ball to misbehave. His positive attitude added value to the team. Devan Cowley excited with some elegant stroke-making in the first term, and he occupied the crease well at times. We are sure that the remaining B and C Block boys in the squad will internalise what they learnt this year and execute these lessons during practices and on the field of play next year. Individual highlights Gareth Macaskill David Geard Sean Gilson Matthew Armstrong David Geard Ryan Anderson Matthew Armstrong Gareth Macaskill
61 v Peterhouse Boys 103 v St John’s, Harare 61 v Clifton College 56*v Hilton College 57* v St Charles College 96 v Maritzburg College 50 v Maritzburg College 144 v DHS
Matthew Armstrong 84 v DHS Sean Gilson 81* v President’s XI David Geard 71 v President’s XI Matthew Armstrong 72 v St David’s Ryan Anderson 87 v St David’s Gareth Macaskill 74 v St David’s Ryan Anderson 82 v St John’s, Harare Trafford Melville 5-31 v St John’s, Harare Matthew Armstrong 81 v St Charles College Gareth Macaskill 65 v Hilton College David Geard 59 v Hilton College David Geard 63 v Old Boys’ XI David Geard 97 v St John’s, Harare Matthew Armstrong 69 v St John’s Harare Ryan Anderson 57 v St John’s, Harare Sean Gilson 103* v St John’s, Johannesburg Matthew Armstrong 52 v Hudson Park Gareth Macaskill 68 v St Andrews College, Grahamstown Sean Gilson 80 v Maritzburg College
2015 Cricketer of the Year, Gareth Macaskill
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Matthew Armstrong delivers with Ryan Anderson behind the stumps
Thomas Trotter scoring runs
CRICKET 2015 P
W
D
L
st
1
33
10
15
8
2nd
11
4
4
3
3
9
8
0
1
th
4
4
1
1
2
5th
5
4
1
0
U16A
9
3
3
3
U16B
9
3
6
0
U16C
1
0
1
0
U15A
13
5
6
2
U15B
10
9
1
0
U15C
9
7
2
0
U14A
14
2
9
3
U14B
10
4
4
2
U14C
11
3
7
1
U14D
1
1
0
0
Total
149
64
60
25
rd
1ST TEAM CRICKET Date
Opposition
Result
2015-01-13
Peterhouse
W 50 runs
2015-01-14
St John's Harare
Drew
2015-01-15
Clifton
L 7 wkts
2015-01-16
Bishops
Abandoned
2015-01-21
Hilton College : Night League
L 5 wkts
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2015-01-24
St Charles
W 8 wkts
2015-01-27
St Charles
Abandoned
2015-01-28
Falcon College
Abandoned
01/02/2015
Maritzburg College
Abandoned
03/02/2015
St Charles T20 Semi-Final
W 7wkts
04/02/2015
Hilton College T20 Final
L 8 wkts
2015-02-14
DHS
Abandoned
2014-02-17
President's XI : Night League
W 233 runs
26-27/02/2015
St David's 1st
Drew
2015-02-28
St John's (JHB)
L 7 wkts
2015-03-01
St John's (Harare)
W 39 runs
04/03/2015
St Charles : Night League
W 67 runs
07/03/2015
Hilton College
Drawn
05/09/2015
Hilton College T20
L 8 wkts
12/09/2015
Old Boys' XI
L 94 runs
2015-09-24
St John's (Harare)
W 8 runs
2015-09-25
Peterhouse
L 14 runs
2015-09-26
Prince Edward
W 31 runs
2015-09-26
St John's (Harare)
L 4 wkts
2015-09-27
Churchill
L 7 wkts
03/10/2015
St John's College
L 1 wkt
04/10/2015
Hudson Park
W 4 wkts
05/10/2015
St Andrews College (Grahamstown)
L 6 wkts
06/10/2015
Afrikaanse Hoer Seunskool (Affies)
L 6 wkts
10/10/2015
St Charles
W 7 wkts
17/10/2015
Clifton
L 11 runs
24/10/2015
Kearsney College
L 4 wkts
07/11/2015
Maritzburg College
L 27 runs
CROSS COUNTRY Masters in Charge: Mr Iain Guthrie, Mr Nic Cahill, Mr Msizi Mchunu Captain: Tim Coxon Awards Colours: Charles Houston This year, we fielded a large number of runners for the inter-schools cross-country season, with 30 senior runners and nine junior runners taking part. Our boys participated in seven events at the following venues: Maritzburg College, The Wykeham Collegiate, Michaelhouse, Treverton College, Grace College, Epworth High School and St Anne’s Diocesan College. The senior team was placed second in the league and the junior team was placed first. In the seniors, Charles Houston was placed second overall, with Alan Houston third, Tim Coxon 16th and
Jason Boulle 26th. In the junior category, Thomas Gibson was placed first overall and Huckleberry Finn Elliot third. These are the best results that we have had for a long time. There were some notable achievements among the seniors: Charles Houston was placed second at the Wykeham Collegiate, Epworth and Grace races and first at the Michaelhouse race; Alan Houston was placed third in each of the Wykeham Collegiate, Epworth, Grace and Michaelhouse races and first in the Treverton race; Timothy Coxon finished 11th in the Treverton race; and Samuel Jarvis finished ninth in both the Michaelhouse and Epworth races. Among the juniors: Thomas Gibson was placed first in the Wykeham Collegiate, Michaelhouse, Grace and Treverton races; and Huckleberry Finn Elliot was placed second in the Michaelhouse and Epworth races, third in the Treverton race and fourth in the Wykeham Collegiate and Grace races. At the final relay race at St Anne’s, we fielded four teams in a highly competitive and enjoyable finale to the season. 135
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CROSS COUNTRY Back Row: Reece McLuckie, Kelvin Green, Tristan Herwood, Callum Deeble Front Row: Nicholas Harrison, Wesley Biggs, Mr Iain Guthrie, Charles Houston, Robert Wood
CROSS COUNTRY Date
Event
10/6
Inter-Schools League Relay Race at St Anne’s Seniors A Team
MHS Runners
Overall Placing
Alan Houston
2nd
Timothy Coxon Charles Houston Samuel Jarvis Seniors B Team
Luke Browett
4th
Nicholas Herbert Graham Davies Callum Deeble Seniors C Team
Richard Beckett
9th
Kelvin Green Jason Boulle Khwezi Kgalema Juniors
Thomas Gibson Finn Elliot Reece McLuckie Thabang Moephuli
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1st
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Alan Houston, Nicholas Harrison, Carlisle Hartman and Kelvin Green running in a pack at the home leg of the Inter-Schools Cross Country Leagure
The Michaelhouse race saw more than 600 runners compete from more than 30 boys’ and girls’ schools. The runners were able to enjoy the views from the Nature Reserve during their races. Senior runners for 2015: Charles Houston, Alan Houston, Timothy Coxon, Jason Boulle, Samuel Jarvis, Kelvin Green, Khwezi Kgalema, Craig Heenan, Tristan Herwood, Stuart Beach, Samuel Danton, Matthew Baynes, James Tucker, Fergus Johnson, Carlisle Hartman, Lethu Mthembu, Luke Browett, Nicholas Herbert, Graham Davies, Callum Deeble, Richard Becket, James du Toit, Jonathan Stephenson, Wenzile Ngcobo, Mikhail Khan, Cameron Clucas, David Long, Graham Davies, Rowan Mockler and Jean van der Westhuizen. Junior runners for 2015: Thomas Gibson, Huckleberry Finn Elliot, Reece McLuckie, William Marshall, Sebastian Maitre, Bradley Boulle, Jack Perkin, Thomas Jacobz, Jack Firth and Thabang Moephuli.
GOLF Master in Charge: Mr Brad Flanegan Coaches: Mr Brad Flanegan (first team), Mr Jaap van der Vegte, Mr Mike Bownes Captain: Matt Saulez Vice-Captain: Thomas Greig First Team: Matt Saulez, Thomas Greig, Rory Allan, Jacques Badenhorst, Rigardt Albertse, Dante Ceronio, Josh Gilson, Sean Gilson, Nick Elliot Awards Honours: Matt Saulez (re-award) Colours: Jacques Badenhorst, Josh Gilson, Rory Allan, Rowan Mockler Half Colours: Thomas Greig, Nick Elliot, Dante Ceronio, Rigardt Albertse, Sean Gilson National representation South African Juniors: Matt Saulez
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1ST TEAM GOLF Back Row: Nick Elliot, Jacques Badenhorst, Sean Gilson, Joshua Gilson, Rigardt Albertse
Front Row: Rory Allan, Matt Saulez, Mr Brad Flanegan, Thomas Greig, Danté Ceronio
Provincial Representation KZN Schools U19B*: Rowan Mockler, Josh Gilson, Rory Allan KZN U19*: Matt Saulez (captain) KZN Senior Men: Matt Saulez KZN Inland U19A: Matt Saulez, Jacques Badenhorst KZN Inland U19B: Rory Allan, Josh Gilson, Rowan Mockler, Rigardt Albertse, Dante Ceronio *There are two bodies governing junior golf in KwaZuluNatal, namely KZN Schools and the KZN Foundation. KZN Schools colours are awarded only to bona fide full-time scholars, based on the results of eight qualifying tournaments. The schools inter-provincial tournament is held in September and not all provinces take part. South African Schools colours are awarded based on the results of that tournament. KwaZulu-Natal Foundation colours are awarded at various age groups and have a different set of qualifying criteria. The U19 inter-provincial
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tournament is held in December each year and all provinces are represented. After the mass exodus of golfers at the end of 2014, we had to embark on a rebuilding phase in golf at Michaelhouse. Fortunately, we retained two first-team stalwarts in Matt Saulez and Rory Allan. Matt, not unexpectedly, but unfortunately for the team, had many commitments outside of the Michaelhouse fixture list, so was only sparingly available. Sean Gilson also had some heavy cricket commitments. But despite these setbacks, we acquitted ourselves admirably and once again beat Maritzburg College and St Charles College twice, but lost our Hilton College fixture, with the other being rained out. Our seconds met with fairly similar results, but encouragingly, we managed to find some more golfers hidden in the ranks. At the end of the first quarter, we sent a somewhat under-
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strength team to Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies) in Pretoria. Most of the top players were either involved in rugby or hockey festivals, or in South African junior golf tournaments. However, the team led by Thomas Greig performed creditably and we ended third overall, repeating our 2014 feat by beating Hoërskool Waterkloof in the play-off for third and fourth place. Unfortunately, we could not repeat our winning of the KZN Nomads Schools trophy, finishing in a rather disappointing fourth place. The highlight of the second quarter, if not the year, was our Zimbabwe tour. I have included a report on the tour by Rowan Mockler at the end of this golf report. In the third quarter, we finished a very creditable third in the KZN Schools Championships, held at an incredibly windy Beachwood Golf Course. In the regional tournaments, our six boys in the two KZN Inland Schools teams played very well in the inter-zone tournament, with KZN Inland A retaining the trophy won in 2014. Three players – Rowan Mockler, Josh Gilson and Rory Allan – made the provincial schools B team. Matt Saulez finished top of the rankings but had to withdraw from the KZN A team because of other sporting commitments. We also ventured with our U16 team to the Grey High School U16 links festival, played at the brutal St Francis links course and the not-quite-as-brutal Humewood links course. The team received some invaluable experience even though we did not show up in the medal placings.
Jacques Badenhorst
The event was once again superbly hosted and run by Grey. The only event left was the tiny matter of the Douglas Cup. After a no-result and a loss in the summer league, and Hilton edging us in both the major KZN tournaments, we were the definite underdogs. However, on the day, and despite being one match down after the morning pairs, the Michaelhouse boys came charging through in the singles, and in the end we won by 14 matches to ten. Our seconds turned in yet another resounding performance to win 12-8. It is with sadness that we come to the end of an era, so it is adieu to Matt Saulez, Rory Allan, Jacques Badenhorst, Dante Ceronio and Nick Elliot. We also say goodbye to second-team stalwarts Tim Coxon and Daryn Flanegan. It would be remiss of me not to mention all the transport, hosting and otherwise superb company that the parents of the team have provided. Lastly, to my colleagues Jaap and Mike, thank you again for a job well done. Summary of results: First-term league A league – Michaelhouse first team: 2nd out of four schools Played 6, won 4, lost 1, halved 1 B league – Michaelhouse second team: 2nd out of five schools Played 5, won 4, lost 1
The victorious 2015 Douglas Cup team
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KZN Schools, Durban Country Club (teams of four) Michaelhouse 4th out of 20 teams AHS Festival Michaelhouse won 3rd/4th place play-off versus Waterkloof Zimbabwe Tour Michaelhouse beat St George’s, St John’s (Harare) and Peterhouse KZN Schools, Beachwood Golf Club (teams of eight) Michaelhouse 3rd out of 12 teams Grey High School U16 Festival Michaelhouse 5th out of eight schools Douglas Cup First team won 14 matches to 10 Second team won 12 matches to 8
Saturday arrived surprisingly quickly and started with us travelling to Marondera Golf Club, where we played Peterhouse Boys’ School in a nine-hole betterball competition. The course, although not in as good condition as the others, had a very exciting layout and was considered the favourite by many of our players. The team continued their winning ways with a 5-0 victory. The coaches also pulled off a win over the Peterhouse masters. After a four-hour drive through the scenic Zimbabwean hills, we arrived at the beautiful Leopard Rock Golf Resort. We all enjoyed a good dinner before heading to bed after a long day. Before we knew it, our last full day of the tour was upon us. The morning was spent playing 18 holes at the resort’s golf course. The Peter Matkovich-designed course made use of a number of blind tee and approach shots, as well as small landing areas, sharp dog-legs and short, tricky holes in general. A bit of tour banter took place, with an individual Stableford competition being held for the day.
Zimbabwe Tour report Written by Rowan Mockler The tour got off to an early start as the ten-man team and two coaches enjoyed a 4am wake-up on the Wednesday before half-term. After landing in Harare and experiencing a rather exciting drive, weaving among the minefield of potholes found on Harare’s roads, we arrived at the McDonalds’ house to many friendly welcomes and a sizzling braai.
This rather eventful but entertaining afternoon marked the end of not just an amazing golf tour but also an amazing experience with great friends in a beautiful country. Many thanks go out to all who made the tour possible, especially our great hosts, the McDonald family, and our coaches, Mr Flanegan and Mr Bownes.
Our first day of golf was played at the very scenic Borrowdale Brooke golf course against St George’s College. The format was individual match play. The course was in great nick, with superb greens that stayed very true, a couple of elevated tee boxes and tough dog-legs. The team put in a good performance to win 7½ points to 2½ points, with the coaches also winning their match against the St George’s masters. An enjoyable trip to the Borrowdale Village cinemas followed the golf.
Written by Mr Mike Thomson
Our second day of golf was played at the prestigious Royal Harare Golf Club against a tougher St John’s College, Harare, team. Competition followed the same format as the previous day. The course brought with it some extremely tough greens, long and tight holes, and what seemed like an endless amount of bunkers, which were regularly visited. The team again put in a good performance to beat St John’s 8-2, although some good cricket scores were carded on this difficult course. Brendon de Jonge, a Zimbabwean golfer competing on the US PGA Tour, had kindly donated prizes for this day’s golf, and the day’s winners greatly appreciated their rewards. After the golf we headed to the lion and cheetah park outside town to enjoy a great, rather informal game drive. A festive evening at the McDonalds’ home provided a good end to a superb day of golf.
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HOCKEY Master in Charge: Mr Mike Thomson Coaches First XI: Mr Richard Snowden, Mr Michael Bownes Second XI: Mr Andrew Brown Third XI: Mr Jonathan Smith Fourth XI: Mrs Candice Smith Fifth XI: Mr Alan Adlington-Corfield U16A: Mr James Bullough, Mr Ian Crawford U16B: Mrs Tanith von Mayer U16C: Mr Bailey Coxon U16D: Ms Lisa Hardie U16E: Mr Sanele Zikhali U14A: Mr Paul Snyman, Mr Bongani Ndimande U14B: Mrs Mary McMichael U14C: Mr Craig Pieterse, Mr Johan van Rooyen, Mrs Jenni Maurice-Green Awards Colours: Joshua Buys, James Redfern Half Colours: David Armstrong, Marc Conlon, Luke McDonald, Matthew Menear, Richard Friend, Shingirai Vambe, James Strachan, Richard Perkin, Graham Davies
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1ST XI HOCKEY Back Row: Shingi Vambe, James Redfern, Graham Davies, Joshua Buys, Matthew Watson Middle Row: Lethu Mthembu, Luke McDonald, James Strachan, Richard Friend, Richard Perkin, Marc Conlon Front Row: David Armstrong, Mr Michael Bownes, Gareth Macaskill, Mr Richard Snowden, Justin Miller
National representation South Africa U18A: Justin Miller South Africa U18B: Gareth Macaskill Provincial representation Inland U18A: Justin Miller, Gareth Macaskill, Matthew Watson, Lethu Mthembu Inland U18B: James Redfern, Josh Buys Inland U16A: Nicholas Forster, Mubeezi Lubinga, Angus Ferguson, Murray Armstrong, Michael Menear Inland U16B: Julian Smart, Stephen Brown Inland U16B Assistant Coach: Mr Ian Crawford Inland U14A: Benjamin Rebeck, Thabo Dlamini Inland U14B: Rorke Mellville, Khanyo Dlamini Note: Matthew McNally was selected for the Inland U16B side but had to withdraw because of illness. Awards made at the annual hockey dinner: Butcher Stick Award for the most improved player in his first full season in the First XI: Matthew Watson
Coaches Cup for determination and team spirit: Joshua Buys Dowie Family Trophy for skill, humility and dedication: Justin Miller Scott Fraser Trophy for the player of the season: Gareth Macaskill, Justin Miller Trophy for the coach and team of the year: Mr Jonathan Smith, Third XI The hockey season was one which started with great promise. The highest number of players for a number of years enrolled to play the sport and there was the European Development Tour for U16 and U18 players to look forward to in the March/April holidays. The season commenced on Saturday 14 March with our traditional opener against Clifton College, and from the start we struggled, losing more matches than we won in this fixture. More woes followed in the Glenwood High School fixture as we again lost more than we won. We
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then set off for the European learning experience, and what an experience it was. After our overnight flight to London, the boys were treated to a whistle-stop sightseeing tour of the city, which culminated in a ride on the London Eye. After another bus trip to Whitgift School in Croydon, both teams were treated to a hockey lesson by the English champions in both age groups. The party then moved on to Seaford College, where we met ex-South African Steve Paxton. The U18 side lost to an excellent Seaford First XI rated in the top five in England, but the U16s managed a creditable win. After that it was on to Bath to take part in the King Edward’s School festival. The standard of hockey was excellent and, in variable weather, our teams managed variable results. The U16 group struggled a little because they played against U18 sides. After Bath we travelled to Holland, where we were to experience excellent coaching and face some superb U16 and U18 sides. The whole programme was put together by former South African women’s hockey captain Marsha Marescia. Hosted by the Pinoké hockey club, we had three sessions of great coaching in the morning and then played matches against Pinoké, Amsterdam Hockey Club and Hurley. All three clubs lie in what is known as Amsterdam se Woud, within a square mile of each other. Each has about 2 000 members and the standard of hockey at all levels is fantastic. Both teams tried hard in all three matches, but struggled against supremely skilled opponents. It was an experience that all will remember – to see the hockey culture that exists in Holland first hand was amazing. We also managed to get tickets to see two of the
Thabang Moephuli
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Graham Davies
European Hockey League quarter-finals. With 10 000 spectators present from around Europe, it was another memorable experience. Then, after ten games and three coaching sessions in 12 days, it was a very weary but much wiser group of players who flew home. Over the rest of the season, although it was clear that much had been learnt on tour by the players in the First XI and U16 sides, School hockey as a whole still struggled. We did manage to match Hilton College, winning and losing the same number of games on both occasions, but we struggled badly against Maritzburg College, not managing to win a fixture. Looking back at the season, one could see that our basics were just not as good as those of our opponents, and our players were not as fit or tactically aware. These are two major issues that will be addressed next season.
Richard Friend
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HOCKEY 2015 P
W
D
L
GF
GA
1st
11
3
3
5
19
26
2nd
10
6
1
3
22
13
3rd
11
8
0
3
36
19
4th
8
3
2
3
13
15
5th
6
1
2
3
8
12
U16A
11
4
2
5
13
15
U16B
11
3
0
8
24
22
U16C
9
3
0
6
11
14
U16D
10
1
5
4
13
28
U16E
8
1
0
7
8
22
U14A
17
7
3
7
47
51
U14B
10
1
1
8
9
34
U14C
7
1
1
5
2
18
Total
129
42
20
67
225
289
FIRST XI HOCKEY REPORT Written by Mr Michael Bownes Coaches: Mr Richard Snowden, Mr Michael Bownes Captain: Gareth Macaskill Vice-Captain: Justin Miller First Team: Justin Miller, Joshua Buys, Marc Conlon, Graham Davies, Richard Friend, Gareth Macaskill, Luke MacDonald, Matthew Menear, Lethu Mthembu, Richard Perkin, James Redfern, Shingirai Vambe, Matthew Watson I would like to thank Mr Mike Thomson and the Rector for affording me and Mr Snowden the privilege of coaching the First XI hockey side in 2015. This was our second foray into coaching the First XI. It was without doubt a memorable season. With only two of the very successful 2014 team remaining, we knew that the 2015 season would present a few challenges as we looked to grow a new team. Although both Gareth Macaskill and Justin Miller were South African Schools representatives, filling the gaps left by the A Block group of 2014 was going to be an exciting challenge. With this in mind, we adopted an approach for the season where the stated goal was “the Journey to Better”. The objective was thus to continue improving throughout the season. We started the season with the fixture against Clifton College. The 1-1 draw was a fair reflection of a game of poor-quality hockey, with both teams showing they would need to work hard to make progress. That result indicated that the First XI were a team who needed to build self-confidence. When confidence was
evident, results would go our way. However, when selfbelief was lacking, we would incur unsatisfactory losses. The win against Glenwood High School the following week was a case in point. A confident first team outplayed Glenwood en route to a 4-2 win. The side then left a hot 32°C Balgowan for our European tour. We landed 24 hours later in a very frosty 5°C London, did a brief tour of the city and then went on to meet the top-ranked school in England for our first fixture. A heavy defeat to Whitgift School was our icy welcome to hockey in Europe. The next day we were better prepared, and although we lost to Seaford College, we felt a bit more confident heading to the King Edward’s School festival in Bath. We started the festival well by beating Wellington College but losing to Churcher’s College. The final day saw us beat Abingdon School convincingly and draw with Solihull School. While we were seeing progress here, the lingering memory of the day was the atrocious conditions in which we played the matches, particularly against Abingdon. We played in nothing short of a blizzard, which makes the 9-2 win all the more impressive. Overall it was a successful festival from the perspective of the team’s improvement. However, we were impressed at how the standard of hockey at the festival had improved since Michaelhouse’s previous visit. We then departed for Amsterdam for three days of coaching and afternoon matches. At this stage of the tour, fatigue and injuries set in. The standard of the opposition was remarkable and we played two of the three top hockey clubs in Holland. Goalkeeper Justin Miller impressed, making many saves, and although we lost heavily to Amsterdam U18, the boys gave a great account
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of themselves in all three fixtures. The Amsterdam team had five national U18 players in their squad. So, with much experience gained, we returned to South Africa to continue the Journey to Better. On our return, we were able to welcome into the first team a few players who had been unable to tour with us in Europe. In our first match back in South Africa, a side showing several changes, and lacking self-confidence, was comprehensively outplayed by Kearsney College. The first of the Hilton College fixtures, away, ended in a loss but there were many positives to draw from that match. We came back strongly towards the end and felt unlucky to lose because a few crucial decisions had not gone our way. We followed up this showing with an unimpressive and lacklustre win against a weak Durban High School side. The following week was a low point for the season, the team being heavily beaten at home by Northwood. We simply did not arrive for this match, which was very disappointing on home turf. After that unimpressive display, the boys did some introspection and reflected on what they wanted to achieve. A turnaround in team spirit and focus was the result. What followed was a highlight of the season, an impressive 4-2 win over St John’s College in Johannesburg. The boys poured their hearts and souls into this match, which, unfortunately, left them below their best for the next day’s match against St
David’s Marist, Inanda. Back in KwaZulu-Natal, the final three fixtures saw the positive pattern and improvement continue. Although the team lost 4-1 to Maritzburg College, the score line does not do them justice for their performance. They were participants in a fabulous game of hockey and were given credit for their contribution. The final fixture against Hilton was also an exciting game and a good exhibition of schoolboy hockey. However, it was slightly disappointing to draw, especially seeing that we gave up the lead on two occasions. The statistics will show that we conceded more goals than we scored and that our win ratio was lower than in previous years. However, mention must be made of one statistic in particular. We let in only 15 goals out of 111 penalty corners conceded. That 86.5% of the penalty corners were successfully defended speaks volumes for the team’s defence. This was thanks largely to the phenomenal goalkeeping of Justin Miller. Regardless of the results and statistics for the season, I am proud of the First XI hockey team of 2015. They were worthy ambassadors for their School and certainly showed they had done well along the path on the Journey to Better. It is encouraging that eight of this team are returning in 2016, which augurs well for the season ahead.
The European hockey tour party in the Rector’s reception area prior to departure
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1ST XI HOCKEY Date
Opposition
Result
For
Against
14/03/2015
Clifton College
Drew
1
1
21/03/2015
Glenwood Boys' High
Won
4
2
26/04/2015
Kearsney College
Lost
0
3
02/05/2015
Hilton College
Lost
2
3
09/05/2015
DHS
Won
3
0
16/05/2015
Northwood
Lost
0
4
30/05/2015
St John's College
Won
4
2
31/05/2015
St David's
Lost
0
3
06/06/2015
St Charles College
Drew
2
2
13/06/2015
Maritzburg College
Lost
1
4
20/06/2015
Hilton College
Drew
2
2
U18 TOUR TO THE UK AND HOLLAND 25/3
Whitgift
Lost
0
6
26/3
Seaford
Lost
0
2
27/3
Wellington
Won
4
1
28/3
Churcher’s
Lost
1
2
28/3
Queen’s
Lost
1
2
29/3
Abingdon
Won
9
2
29/3
Solihull
Drew
2
2
31/3
Pinoké U18
Lost
0
3
1/4
Amsterdam U18
Lost
1
5
2/4
Hurley U18
Lost
2
4
Matthew Watson
Ross Cheshire
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1ST XV RUGBY Back Row: Matt Wiseman, Anele Songca, Ryan Anderson, Victor Foster, Luke Tomlinson, Frank Goble,
Billy Dean Middle Row: Liam Furniss, Mulalo Sadiki, Jordan Sesink Clee, Jaryd Kleynhans, Mikael Maingard, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko Front Row: Mrs Debbie Ludgater, Zander Prinsloo, Mr Mike Schwartz, Bader-Werner Pretorius, Mr Ryno Combrinck, Jack Walters, Mr Shaun Thompson
RUGBY Written by Mr Ryno Combrinck Director of Rugby: Mr Ryno Combrinck Coaches First XV: Mr Michael Schwartz Second XV: Mr Brad Flanegan Third XV: Mr Peter Stevens, Mr Greg Muirhead Fourth XV: Mr Elmar de Klerk Fifth XV: Mr George Ferreira Sixth XV: Mr Richard McMichael, Mr Gary van Breda Seventh XV: Mr Graydon Theron, Mr Ernest Rindfleisch Eighth XV: Mr Hala Xulu U16A: Mr André van Wyk, Mr Michael Simpson U16B: Mr Sibusiso Ncamane U16C: Mr Herman Visagie U15A: Mr Matthew Higginson, Mr Jacques Richter U15B: Mr Jaap van der Vegte 146
U15C: Mr Nico Boshoff U15D: Mr Rodney Zondi U14A: Mr Dean Forword, Mr Shaun Thomson U14B: Mr Chris Waldburger U14C: Mr Graeme Calway U14D: Mr Craig Pieterse, Mr Mikey O’Connor Captain: Bader Pretorius Awards Honours: Victor Foster, Jordan Sesink Clee, Mulalo Sadiki, Matt Wiseman, Anele Songca, Liam Furniss, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Zander Prinsloo, Jack Walters, Frank Goble, Ryan Anderson Colours: Jaryd Kleynhans, Robert Dean, Luke Tomlinson Half Colours: Mikael Maingard National Representation SA Academy: Bader Pretorius Provincial Representation Craven Week: Bader Pretorius, Victor Foster, Jordan
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Sesink Clee, Mulalo Sadiki, Matt Wiseman, Anele Songca KZN Sevens: Sean Joubert (non-travelling reserve) Academy A: Liam Furniss, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko Academy A v Pumas: Liam Furniss, Frank Goble, LeeMarvin Mazibuko Final Trial: Victor Foster, Jordan Sesink Clee, Mulalo Sadiki, Matt Wiseman, Anele Songca, Liam Furniss, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Frank Goble Midlands: Robert Dean, Victor Foster, Jaryd Kleynhans, Jordan Sesink Clee, Mulalo Sadiki, Matt Wiseman, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko Selectors XV: Anele Songca, Frank Goble Provincial representation (coaches) Sharks Sevens: Mr Ryno Combrinck U18 Academy: Mr Michael Schwartz Rugby Dinner awards The Kevin King Trophy for the most valuable U16 player: Tom Price The Cilliers Trophy for the most valuable First XV player: Bader Pretorius The Davidson Trophy for the most improved player: Anele Songca The “Floyd” Patterson Stripes Trophy: Ryan Anderson Awarded by the First XV coach to a player who is not a captain but who, through his selfless example of courage, resilience and spirit, has contributed significantly to the atmosphere of camaraderie and honest endeavour at First XV rugby. This award must be made to a boy who
Mikael Maingard breaking through Kearsney’s defence
will place his fellow players, his School and the game of rugby above his personal pleasure and honour. The Jonathan Shedlock Trophy: Zander Prinsloo and Liam Furniss The winner of this award is seldom seen as the star of the team, yet is always a vital part of the team. He is at all times consistent and his courage, tenacity and enthusiasm never leave him. The link man, the distributor, the solid defender, the forager, he scores tries, certainly, yet he never retains the ball when it appears to him that the other man may have a slightly better chance of scoring. When one reflects on the stars of the side, one wonders: would they have been such stars without having men like him alongside them in the team? This trophy is awarded in memory and honour of Jonathan Shedlock, who was a great rugby player and a much loved team man. The Patrick Lambie Award (the players’ player of the year): Lee-Marvin Mazibuko This award goes to a boy who is a good example on and off the field, a team man who not only gives his all for the School, the team and the jersey, but is also very skilful and a very good rugby player. This award is voted for by the boys. Before I coached my first match at Michaelhouse in 2004, Mrs Gillian Gallo and Mrs Sue Cronje questioned me on a number of issues during the pre-season. Among other things, Mrs Gallo wanted her son and his friends to always believe they had a chance against the opposition, while Mrs Cronje wanted rugby boys to always believe
Luc Pousson getting the U14A backline away
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vision of a balanced education, where boys can fully participate in the sporting opportunities on offer. We will continue to strive to improve, but not at all costs. Coaches When the 2016 season starts, all our coaches will be accredited as Level I or II by World Rugby. Although arduous to complete, this new labour law will ensure that coaching in South Africa is safer and in line with SA Rugby Union (SARU) and government regulations. It is comforting to know that our players will be in even safer hands, and this initiative is more proof that SARU is the leading sports association in South Africa. Our coaches remain the backbone of rugby at Michaelhouse. Our coaching structure is healthy and stable. Five of our traditional rivals will see changes at First XV level in 2016, with almost all of them taking place under a dark cloud. Rugby excellence The Discovery SharkSmart Schools of Excellence programme continues to be the leading programme of its kind in South Africa. It deals with issues of fair play, nutrition, banned substances and medical support, including concussion management. It is an excellent programme and we will continue to actively support it.
Craven Week No8, Mulalo Sadiki
they had a chance to make a team if they really wanted to. It is, therefore, apt that David Karam (U15C flyhalf and 1st XV wing) and Charles Janse van Rensburg (U15D centre and 1st XV No 8) are two of my favourite Michaelhouse rugby success stories. Considering these boys along with the various team performances over the last number of years, I can proudly report that the two ladies’ requests are still being respected. That said, it was another turbulent year for schoolboy rugby as the “soapie” in KwaZulu-Natal continued. Most schools are tending towards the scenario where boys specialise in rugby from a young age. Blame quickly gets shifted, but ultimately it is the adults who will have to look at themselves. Speaking to boys from other schools, they sometimes can’t wait for their last match as rugby fatigue sets in. After amicable discussions with Westville Boys’ High School, we accepted that we could not fit the fixture into our calendars for 2015. Durban High School, on the other hand, returned to our fixture list. It is again most satisfying that the evolving vision for rugby at the School still performs a critical role in the overarching Michaelhouse philosophy of education: the 148
2015 Season When the First XV ran out onto Meadows for their first match of the season, Glenwood High School had already played seven matches. It was therefore a magnificent feat to beat them. The Second XV went down fighting in the final moments of their encounter. The season will be remembered for a very long time, mainly because of the First XV. It must, however, be noted that the entire open division contributed to some fine rugby on Meadows, where the players showed appreciation for the efforts of their coaches. First XV Captain courageous Bader Pretorius led his team to an undefeated season, the first in more than 100 years. We were privileged to see one of the better First XVs of recent years inspire us with attacking flair, support play and resilience on defence. The first scalp was that of the well-oiled Glenwood team (18-13). The side toured to the St Stithians College Rugby Festival, where they continued their scintillating form with victories against Helpmekaar Kollege (52-12), St Stithians (52-3) and Windhoek High School (40-19). Returning after the holiday, they faced a very good Kearsney College team, which they beat (27-24) after having had their backs against the wall early in the first half. Both Hilton College matches ended with respectable scores (24-18 and 38-24), but only after late flurries from our opponents. They probably had their best week of preparation for the season leading up to the St Charles
Sport
College match (94-3). We ended up trying to call the game off with 15 minutes to go, but the St Charles coaches refused and the match ended in a record result. It must be said that rugby suffered on the day because nobody benefited from the demolition. DHS (54-6), St John’s College (37-3) and Northwood School (78-3) all suffered the wrath of a calm and collected but very exciting Michaelhouse First XV. The game our boys had set their sights on was the one on Goldstones against our most respected traditional opponents. This group had never beaten a Maritzburg College team, and this was going to be their final opportunity. The boys were disciplined and made excellent decisions on attack and defence. College were incredibly determined but found that our pack went for the jugular early on and weren’t planning to let go. The team again laid the foundation for victory (38-8) and for what will be my most vivid memory of a Michaelhouse first team. A great compliment to the team came from a senior College staff member. He complimented them for their behaviour after the famous victory, but unbeknown to that gentleman was the fact that it was standard behaviour for this group of boys. The First XV coach, Mr Schwartz, must be praised not only for this season, but also for his leadership over the past few seasons.
an oversight not to commend the coaches for their continuous efforts. It was another tough season – the third in a row for the coaches – but you would never have said it because they remained motivated and dedicated to the cause. The players followed the coaches’ lead and never gave up. They were often the smaller of the two teams on the field, but that never affected their upbeat attitude. A case in point is the exciting flyhalf, Luc Pousson. Simply put, he oozes gees. He never backed out of a tackle and was happy to take on big defence lines. Again, not the best of all-round results but a group we look forward to watching as they grow. Tours When measured by results it is fair to say that it was not a good touring year. The age-group teams won three of their 11 matches on the road, and the opens won five out of nine. Touring, however, cannot be measured by results only. Rugby tours in general are great fun, with the boys returning with numerous war stories. Nevertheless, touring remains an important aspect of rugby at Michaelhouse, where coaches have quality time with their boys to build knowledge. The Rugby Club This society is driven by the boys and with Michael
Open age group It was a delight to watch the Open teams, not only because they were victorious in 51 of their 67 matches but also for the way they played the game. They were unbeaten against Kearsney, DHS, Northwood, St John’s, St Charles and in both Hilton fixtures – an amazing feat, to say the least. Mr Flanagan’s Second XV win at College was remarkable, with the last-minute loss against Glenwood their only loss against a second XV outfit in the province. The thirds only lost locally against College, marking another fine achievement. Mr McMichael’s sixths, with Dale Coughlan spearheading the attack, were another team you did not want to miss on a Saturday. Their derring-do style led to a spectacular 64-7 victory over Hilton. U16 Unfortunately, the season was a continuation from 2014, with flashes of brilliance few and far between. Their destiny is in their hands and we hope they respond positively to the challenges and opportunities ahead. U15 Results-wise, this group showed no improvement from the year before, but interestingly enough, this is a group that has the potential to excite in years to come. We are satisfied with the progress we have witnessed but not blind to the fact that lots of work lies ahead. Mr van der Vegte can be proud of his B side. U14 Coaching at this level is never easy and it would be
Jack Walters
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Riddle as chairman, they were in good hands. Michael and his team were very involved on match days and should know that their work was very much appreciated. Old Boys Another distinguished year, with some notable achievements. Thomas Walker – made his debut for Maties’ first sevens team as a 19-year-old. Greg Jackson – helped the EP Kings to win their first U19 Currie Cup. Robert Anderson – was instrumental in winning the Student World Cup for UCT in England. Hilton Mudariki – captained the Zimbabwe sevens team. Cameron Lindsay – played Super Rugby for the Kings. Ruan Combrinck – excelled for the Lions in Currie Cup and Super Rugby; was named backline player of the year for Super Rugby. Ross Cronje – scored two tries in a man-of-the-match performance in the Currie Cup final; captained the Lions at times; made the award for Lions backline player of the year his own. Pat Lambie – played for the Springboks at his second World Cup. We salute these men for their accomplishments. They continue to serve as motivation for past, present and future Men of Michaelhouse.
The tradition of being awarded a First XV cap was reintroduced this year. With this initiative we strive to connect significant past, present and future Michaelhouse players with one another. The caps numbered one, two and three were reserved for Patrick Lambie, Patric Cilliers and Ross Cronje, respectively, in recognition of their involvement with the Springboks. The undefeated First XV team of 2015 had 16 players who qualified and they received caps four to 19. Numbers 20 and onwards are reserved for past First XV players. Qualifying OMs are encouraged to contact the Trade Inn to book their numbered First XV cap. Conclusion My Michaelhouse rugby adventure started in 2004. It has been an amazing period of my life and I am eternally grateful to have been blessed with such a wonderful opportunity. I look forward to the next phase of my life at Michaelhouse, while knowing that rugby is in very good hands. We are fortunate to have a wonderful group of people who are prepared to work behind the scenes to ensure that the coaches have a close-to-perfect coaching environment. Sr Lauren Richmond and her team, Gunther Heyneke and his ground staff, and Mandy Rouillard and her caterers have done marvellous work and we thank them sincerely.
RUGBY 2015 P
W
D
L
PF
PA
1st
12
12
0
0
548
136
2nd
12
8
0
4
252
159
3rd
11
9
0
2
307
152
4th
7
5
1
1
181
70
5th
5
3
0
2
148
98
6th
9
8
0
1
390
117
7th
7
5
0
2
218
162
8th
5
2
0
3
126
149
9th
1
0
0
1
10
12
U16A
12
4
0
8
138
297
U16B
8
3
0
5
158
209
U16C
8
0
0
8
40
282
U15A
12
4
0
8
127
285
U15B
8
4
1
3
169
245
U15C
9
4
0
5
213
180
U15D
8
2
0
6
102
264
U14A
13
4
0
9
204
388
U14B
9
2
2
5
147
282
U14C
6
0
0
6
48
198
U14D
1
0
0
1
19
26
Total
163
79
4
80
3545
3711
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FIRST XV RUGBY REPORT Written by Mr Michael Schwartz There were only five regular players back from 2014 for the 2015 season, and some of those had only played a handful of games. The record for our A Blockers when they had played as E, D and C Blockers was not great. What could we expect from the team of 2015? In the end, a coach can only dream of having a season like this one. I remember reading something that Heyneke Meyer once said. He had combined the following two quotes: “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.” – Kevin Durant; and “Hard work beats talent until talent decides to work hard.” – Yvonne Castillo. During the season, I fell back on lines which I have often drawn from at Michaelhouse: “It’s not about rugby, it’s about young men. It’s not about building a championship team, it’s about building championship boys; boys who will be forever strong.” – Larry Gelwix We as coaching staff wanted good players, but also good men. So, imagine coaching a group of rugby players who love the game, who are keen to play, who are talented, who are humble and who want to be role models for the younger boys at the School. Well, in 2015, I was privileged to coach that precise team of boys. The conclusion: my best coaching experience so far as a teacher. Not because of the fantastic results, but because of the total educational experience.
SW Janse van Rensburg
The positive atmosphere created in the First XV in 2014 laid the foundation for success in 2015. Tom Walker and the A Blockers did their best to ensure equality, as opposed to hierarchy, in their First XV. The B Blockers from last year then continued this in 2015. Loyalty to the team was more often than not put before the individual. Pre-season training for 2015 was very good. The boys were committed and the team spirit was off to a rattling start, especially when the going got tough. The striped jersey was used as a motivational tool. Everyone worked hard. During the season, the boys had fun while training and were happy. They enjoyed each other’s company. Many were or became friends. Music and singing were important, especially when arriving at an opposition ground. The group of players was united and this made it easy to motivate them. Giving thanks for our talents was part and parcel of our Saturday routine. The team wanted to do their best for the School. Once again, individual goals were placed behind those of the team. There was an understanding that if the team were successful, the individual would be successful, too. Playing to make others look good first meant success for each member of the team. The focus was on achieving goals or targets, and not the result. Our first game of the season arrived much quicker than anticipated: 14 A Blockers and one B Blocker warmed up for that fixture, and the younger boy found himself welcomed into the unit immediately. The St Stithians College tour followed. Only some of the 17 A Blockers
Sean Joubert with plenty of support
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had single rooms, while others shared with the five B Blockers. At the end of the tour, this was commented on favourably by the B Blockers. They had not expected this to happen. They felt welcomed, so wanted to perform even better to show their gratitude. The boys were willing to sacrifice in order to perform. Those who had been part of the first game of the season (the first- and second-team players) came back early after the Easter holidays so that they could prepare for Kearsney College. It cost both the boys and their parents, but after the matches on the Saturday, when both teams won, everyone knew it had been worth it. The Second XV bought into the system that was put in place. Attitudes rubbed off and when they look back on their season, they will be very proud of their success, too. As the coach of this fine group of boys, I believe success can be attributed largely to mutual respect. The B Blockers understood the seniority of the A Blockers and respected that. The A Blockers, in turn, knew that they needed the B Blockers to be successful. They embraced them as teammates and as essential members of the team. At practices and during matches, boys were simply teammates relying on each other. No favouritism, no hierarchy. The concept of making successful boys, not just successful players, tied in well with the School vision. The boys were living what they had learnt for a number of years already. Yes, they were talented players and worked hard. Add to that the fact that they were happy, humble and respectful and you end up with the successful formula of the First XV of 2015. The following are vignettes of the amazing season which was 2015: Outnumbered, out-sized, out-prepared, we faced the arrival of the Green Machine. Final result: 18-13 in our favour. What a start to the season! For once I was handing the ref drinks and the opposition coaches were having a sit-down discussion with him.
fantastic. I hope you were there to witness a masterclass performance. The time after half-term is always tough, with trials, KwaZulu-Natal training and exams. We were heading into the Maritzburg College week. The boys were exhausted. As a coaching staff, we decided not to train with the team until Thursday. Some thought it strange, but we were very happy when we saw how motivated the boys were at training. The day on Goldstones was like a blur for me. It seemed like the game was in slow motion. I will never forget the reaction of the boys when the final whistle went – calm as you like, thanked the ref and the opposition and then ran over to thank their supporters. A massive victory, but they were humble, keeping their feet on the ground. Truly inspiring. It goes without saying that beating the team from down the road is high on any Michaelhouse coach’s agenda. We were heading into our last game still unbeaten. We decided against focusing on our record, choosing to zero in on what we could control on the day. An Old Boy came to speak to us on the Friday afternoon before the match, after the captain’s run. He warned against being overconfident and then gave us a copy of a speech he had made to a struggling Michaelhouse team a number of years ago. I did not want him to talk about the unbeaten record, but he did. He spoke for another two minutes. Well, it was goosebump stuff – a simple but inspiring message. When he left, the boys asked me if I could get Hilton on to Meadows immediately because they were ready to play. The match, when it eventually arrived, was worth the wait for players and spectators alike, and was the pinnacle of the most memorable of seasons.
It was great to be back in Johannesburg for the St Stithians festival. The home side taunted us in their final war-cry practice, and again before the match, which was the main fixture of the Saturday afternoon. The team needed no extra motivation. In poor conditions we performed very well and this set the bar for the season. I’m not sure what it is, but playing St Charles College on their home field seems to bring out the worst in a Michaelhouse team. In 2014, we had been saved by a moment of magic from Nic Egberink. I really didn’t want us to struggle this year. We did lots of reflection, reset our goals, did lots of fitness early on in the week and trained extremely well. Each unit knew what was expected. True character is shown when one is put under pressure. The way the boys responded to the input given was
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Tyler Grant
Sport
FIRST XV 2015 Date
Opposition
Result
For
Against
21/03/2015
Glenwood Boys' High
W
18
13
02/04/2015
Helpmekaar
W
52
12
04/04/2015
St Stithians
W
52
3
06/04/2015
Windhoek
W
40
19
26/04/2015
Kearsney College
W
27
24
02/05/2015
Hilton College
W
24
18
09/05/2015
DHS
W
54
6
16/05/2015
Northwood
W
78
3
29/05/2015
St John's College
W
37
3
06/06/2015
St Charles College
W
94
3
13/06/2015
Maritzburg College
W
34
8
20/06/2015
Hilton College
W
38
24
SOCCER Written by Mr Chris van der Berg Master in Charge: Mr Chris van der Berg Coaches First XI: Mr Sibusiso Ncamane and Mr Sizo Chalufu Second XI: Mr Sandile Sibiya Third XI: Mr Chris van der Berg and Mr Mikey O’Connor Fourth XI: Mr Andrew Brown Fifth XI: Mr Halalisani Xulu Sixth XI: Mr Nic Cahill Seventh XI: Mr Chris Waldburger Eighth XI: Mr John Crawford Ninth XI: Mr Richard McMichael U16A Mr Ian Crawford U16B Mr Msizi Mchunu U16C Mr Michael Simpson U16D Mr Dennis Mdunge U16E Mr Daniel Maremane U15A Mr Rodney Zondi U15B Mr Sanele Zikhali U15C Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo U15D Mr Sphe Bhengu U15E Mr Alan Dlamini U15F Mr Jacques Richter U14A Mr Tim Jarvis U14B Mr Ernest Rindfleisch U14C Mr Graydon Theron and Mr Sibusiso Nhleko U14D Mr Gary van Breda and Mr Sibusiso Nhleko U14E Mr Craig Pieterse U14F Mr Johan van Rooyen 1st XI Captain: Mulalo Sadiki Awards Colours: Wenzile Ngcobo, Charlie Seabrook, Mulalo Sadiki, Matt Wiseman, Liam Furniss, Luke Tomlinson Half Colours: Lethukuthula Mthembu, Tshiamo
Lesela, Joshua Buys, Lesedi Mokoena, James Overmars, Billy Dean, James Seabrook Provincial Representation U15: Michael Gomes U14: Thabo Dlamini Trophy Winners Team Spirit Award: Liam Furniss and Matt Wiseman Most improved player: Tshiamo Lesela Player of the season: Lesedi Mokoena Non 1st XI with most potential: Letho Mthembu Soccer is a very unique sport at Michaelhouse. The third term is seen as a more relaxed quarter after the rigorous rugby and hockey season and I have no problem with that – as long as this doesn’t become an excuse for mediocrity. The more relaxed atmosphere means that more boys are keen to play the sport. Our sport has a very unique character – especially in South Africa – and we have to deal with challenges that the other sports aren’t faced with. One of these is the administration of soccer in both the province and the country. Unfortunately the structures that we find in rugby and cricket and hockey don’t exist in soccer. When we select our provincial sides towards the end of the season, they have to go and play against club or invitation sides, as other provinces don’t have a football association running things like we have in KwaZulu-Natal. There is no national tournament like Craven Week. Against this background I am very pleased with how far we have come at Michaelhouse. We have gone from a School fielding five sides playing just five fixtures each during the season to where we are today (despite these challenges). Our biggest achievement is the fact that we are able to field 26 teams on any given Saturday – the sport is in a healthy state at our School. The challenge lies in finding
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SOCCER 2015 P
W
D
L
PF
PA
1st
14
6
2
6
21
16
2nd
6
6
0
0
16
1
3rd
7
4
2
1
17
6
4th
6
6
0
0
25
5
5th
6
4
1
1
20
8
6th
5
3
1
1
11
6
7th
5
2
2
1
5
4
8th
3
2
0
1
10
7
9th
1
0
0
1
0
1
U16A
7
5
1
1
13
9
U16B
6
3
3
0
11
4
U16C
7
4
2
1
20
13
U16D
6
4
1
1
19
13
U16E
2
1
0
1
6
4
U15A
14
8
4
2
43
28
U15B
7
2
3
2
18
9
U15C
7
4
1
2
23
15
U15D
5
4
0
1
21
9
U15E
4
2
1
1
14
9
U14A
7
7
0
0
23
8
U14B
7
1
2
4
11
23
U14C
7
2
1
4
12
21
U14D
6
2
1
3
14
11
U14E
7
6
0
1
29
6
U14F
3
1
0
2
2
9
U14G
1
0
0
1
4
6
Total
156
89
28
39
408
251
coaches and fixtures for all these teams every weekend. Of course there are things that we can do better and we will endeavour to get better.
FIRST XI SOCCER REPORT
From a results perspective, we have had another very good year. We played 160 games in total, won 94, drew 27 and lost 39. We scored 412 goals in the process and let in 253, a positive goal difference of 159. We won or drew just over 75.6% of the games we played, with seven teams finishing the season unbeaten – the best season in our soccer history.
Coaches: Mr Sibisiso Ncamani & Mr Sizo Chalufu Captain: Mulalo Sadiki Vice-Capatain: Shingirai Vambe and Matt Wiseman First Team: James Overmars, Jeremy Tratschler, Liam Furniss, Luke Tomlinson, Joshua Buys, Lesedi Mokoena, Charlie Seabrook, James Seabrook, Wenzile Ngcobo, Tshiamo Lesela, Lethu Mthembu, Johann Winkelmann, Sduduzo Buthelezi, Siya Khoza, Billy Dean
First XI stats read as follows: Played 13, won 6, drew 2, lost 5, GF 21, GA 15. We were very unlucky on a number of occasions and these stats don’t tell the whole story. I am optimistic that the future is bright when it comes to football matters at Michaelhouse. Please don’t stop playing the beautiful game once you leave school. We need to see some Michaelhouse Old Boys making it on the world stage.
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Written by Mr Sibusiso (Sibs) Ncamani
The 2015 First XI soccer season can be viewed as successful. Not only did the team play a full set of fixtures in a regular season but we were also invited to participate in the highly rated St David’s soccer challenge. As a coach my job was made easier by the passion and
Sport
FIRST XI SOCCER Back Row: Luke Tomlinson, Tshiamo Lesela, Johann Winkelmann, Jeremy Tratschler, Wenzile Ngcobo, James Overmars, Liam Furniss, Joshua Buys, Sduduzo Buthelezi Middle Row: James Seabrook, Siyabonga Khoza, Billy Dean, Lesedi Mokoena, Lethu Mthembu, Charlie Seabrook Front Row: Matt Wiseman, Mr Sibs Ncamani, Mulalo Sadiki, Mr Sizo Chalufu, Shingi Vambe
FIRST XI 2015 Date
Opposition
Result
For
Against
25/07/2015
St Charles
L
1
2
01/08/2015
Westville Boys' High
D
2
2
04/08/2015
St Thomas
W
7
0
07/08/2015
St Peter's College
W
3
1
07/08/2015
Grey College
W
2
0
08/08/2015
Parktown Boys' High
W
1
0
08/08/2015
Marist Linmeyer
W
1
0
09/08/2015
St David's Marist, Inanda
L
1
4
09/08/2015
Parktown Boys' High
W
2
1
11/08/2015
Kearsney College
L
0
1
12/08/2015
Alexander High
L
0
2
15/05/2015
Northwood
L
0
1
29/08/2015
St Charles
D
1
1
05/09/2015
Hilton College
L
0
1
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Riley Horner
enthusiasm shown by the boys. Football for most of these boys is more than a game. The season started with a trip to St Charles. As the first game, the team had not prepared sufficiently and our performance was very erratic. This inevitably led to a 1-2 loss. The next game was a home match against a very strong Westville Boys’ High team. At this stage there were clear signs of a pleasing progress in the period leading up to the game. The outcome of this game was a well deserved 2-2 draw. This result started a string of six unbeaten games. The highlight of the season was our participation at the St David’s Soccer Challenge, our first appearance at this event and the team was highly motivated. It being our first appearance and based on the previous year’s rankings of the challenge, we were seeded bottom of the rankings. This was certainly a huge motivating factor for the boys as they pledged to leave a legacy and to finish the tournament with a better ranking. We won all our pool stage games against formidable opposition. This meant that we qualified for a quarterfinal, which we also won. We faced St David’s in the semi-final. As a team we defended very well in the first half but we came unstuck against individual brilliance in the second half. We lost against the side that eventually won the challenge. The experience was invaluable and the team learnt a lot of football lessons. In the end, as a team, we were ranked third out of 16 teams. This was a pleasing accomplishment by the team. Individually the experience was a worthwhile one with Wenzile Ngcobo finishing as the team’s top goal scorer with four goals. The second half of the regular season came soon after the St David’s Challenge. Having played six games in three 156
Michael Gomes
days at St David’s meant that fatigue levels were very high at the stage of the season as the boys were not used to playing back-to-back games. Inevitably we suffered a string of disappointing losses. The second game against St Charles had a positive outcome for us as we were able to salvage a draw. The season ended in disappointing fashion with a tight loss to our old rivals, Hilton College. This disappointment was countered by many good football lessons being learned and by the knowledge that many of this year’s regulars will be available for First XI duty in 2016.
SQUASH Master in Charge: Mr Peter Huntley Coaches: Mr Peter Huntley, Mr Mike Thomson, Mrs Mary McMichael Captains: Daryn Flanegan, Bruce Rouillard Awards Colours: Philip Melouney, Geoffrey Blore, Bruce Rouillard Half Colours: Bruere Venter, Stephen Brown, Luke Thomson Provincial Representation KwaZulu-Natal U19: Philip Melouney, Geoff Blore (Selected but withdrew) KwaZulu-Natal U16: Bruere Venter, Stephen Brown, Luke Thomson The first quarter, as always, was another busy one for squash at Michaelhouse, as we had the Super 8 Schools League, as well as the KwaZulu-Natal pre-season tournament and the St Andrews Festival – which the first
Sport
FIRST TEAM SQUASH Back row: Dominic Leslie, Richard Bechard, Bruere Venter, Stephen Brown, Luke Thomson Front Row: Philip Melouney, Daryn Flanegan, Mr Peter Huntley, Bruce Rouillard, Geoffrey Blore
team attend. Our first team was in a re-building phase of sorts and our aim was to blood a new crop of players in order to contest the KZN title within the next two years. Our boys started off the year on a positive note, with a number of outstanding performances; beginning with the provincial pre-season tournament where 16 of our boys participated. Special mention must be made of Bruere Venter and Stephen Brown who performed well in the U16 group and finished at numbers two and three in the province respectively. Also worthy of comment are the performances of Dominic Leslie in his first year at U16 level. The annual tour to Bloemfontein to participate in the prestigious St Andrew’s festival is always special. This is the premier schools squash festival in the country, with champion teams from every province participating and our young and relatively inexperienced team soon discovered the standard required to compete at the top level. Our results were a fair reflection of the team’s abilities at this early stage of the season, claiming two
draws and three narrow losses in five tough matches. Our domestic results were very pleasing, especially in the Super 8 competition, where our only loss was a very narrow one to Westville. The first team recorded comprehensive victories over: Hilton College (6-2), Maritzburg College (8-0), Kearsney College (7-1, with both U16 and U14 teams also performing admirably against the same opponents.) and St Charles/Epworth (8-0). The focus in this first half of the year was almost entirely on the domestic front, with the ultimate goal for our leading players being a KwaZulu-Natal Schools selection, but more importantly – our first team contesting the KZN Inter-Schools tournament. The first quarter ended on a very positive note with our first team campaign again proving to be very successful, with another high percentage of wins for the red and white hoops. Our loss to a very wily Des Sacco’s Jaguars did not deter the boys too much as we were without some of our top order players; and yet again the lessons
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learned were invaluable. This finished off a memorable Jaguars weekend in the Midlands and suggested that we would again be competitive in the KZN Inter-Schools tournament. The KwaZulu-Natal Inter-Schools Tournament, saw our first team eager to challenge for the title, but although our boys performed with great tenacity, unfortunately some of our senior players were not up to their normal levels of competitiveness and we went out in the play-offs. The Boys Midlands Wednesday league which sees our second and U16 teams competing against a number of Pietermaritzburg and local schools was very successful and both these sides unearthed some talented players along the way. A good number of our top boys played in various Men’s League teams in the Midlands league and there is no doubt that they benefited greatly from this experience. We also held a successful School Squash Championship, with our 16 top boys participating in the Senior Championship. Stephen Brown won his first School title, by beating Bruere Venter in a hard fought four set final – and in so doing claiming the Bradford Cup. A most memorable first team squash dinner was held in the Old Boys’ Club on 15 August. Bruce Rouillard was awarded the Mike and Karen Short Trophy for Sportsmanship, whilst Philip Melouney and Stephen Brown shared the Collen Family Trophy for the Most Improved Player. The Deon Royappen Trophy, for achievement and commitment to squash was awarded to Bruere Venter. It was very special to have most parents in attendance at the dinner, especially given the distances some had to travel. All players who had regularly represented the first team at either Super 8 or top six level were awarded a citation noting their contribution to the success of the team this year.
Daryn Flanegan and Michael Buchholz
158
The fourth quarter sees high school squash played on a Stayers’ basis in KwaZulu-Natal. Our Open and U16 teams seemed to indicate that we again have some good depth at our disposal over the next few years, although our U14 crop has been rather thin. The Stayers’ first team recorded some excellent results at the Wynberg Stayers’ Festival, winning three out of five matches quite convincingly. Once again this festival proved invaluable as a learning experience for our new team members. The fact that this was the youngest Stayers’ team to attend the festival from Michaelhouse, speaks volumes for their commitment and fortitude. It was another fantastic learning opportunity to be invited to the Wynberg Festival in October, for the sixth consecutive year. This unique Stayers’ festival sees all of the top schools in the country being invited and it is an education for the youngsters in the team to witness the level of play. It does provide the ideal opportunity to begin some hard work with our new crop for 2016 and this is already on track, as reflected in the results above. On the domestic front, we recorded a superb win over the Midlands Jesters team; and comprehensive victories over our traditional rivals: Kearsney (4-2), Hilton (5-1) and 6-2 over Maritzburg College – with the U16A team also showing some pleasing form as well. Our final match was a 6-0 victory over St Charles College, a most satisfying end to another unbeaten run on the domestic front. It has been another rewarding year for Michaelhouse squash in general, thanks to the committed contributions of all our coaches: Mary McMichael (U14) and Mike Thomson (U16), who have both added much to the success and enjoyment of our teams this year. Our team of coaches are all responsible for the tremendous squash culture that exists at Michaelhouse – long may this merry band continue.
The Michaelhouse squash team at the Wynberg Stayers’ Festival
Sport
TENNIS Staff Member in Charge: Mrs Win de Wet Coaches: Mrs Win de Wet, Ms Lisa Hardie, Mrs Tanith von Mayer, Mr Bongani Ndimande, Mr Nico Boshoff, Mr Herman Visagie, Mr Reenen de Vries (Professional Coach) Captain: James Strachan Vice-captain: Daniel Roberts Awards Colours: Nicholas Kershaw Half Colours: David Karam Provincial representation: KZN Midlands U15: William Norton, Murray Finlay, Luc Lenferna KZN Midlands U19: Nicholas Kershaw KZN U15A: William Norton We have had a very busy tennis year with leagues in the first and third quarters, Inter-House tennis and the match against St John’s in the second quarter, the School championships, the de Wet Cup and the Sun City tour also in the third quarter and we will be finishing off the year with matches against Kearsney and Hilton Colleges. The number of boys playing tennis has certainly increased over the last few years, especially in the first and third quarters. We entered four U19 teams into the Deness League in the first quarter. We had four U15 teams and three U19 teams in the league in the third quarter. We had so many juniors playing tennis that we could have had six or seven teams in the league. It is very exciting to see so many juniors wanting to play tennis. There is also a lot of talent in this group. In the first and the third quarters the U19A team came second behind Hilton in the league. The U15A team won all their matches in the A league in the third quarter and came first in the league. The U15C team played in the B league and also won all their matches, going on to win the league. In the second quarter we played the Inter-House tennis competition. As usual it was fiercely contested and there was some excellent tennis played. Farfield beat East in the final of the senior competition. The Farfield team consisted of James Strachan, Matthew Kiln, Michael McCarthy and Geoffrey Blore. West beat East in the final of the junior competition. The West team consisted of Murray Finlay, Luc Lenferna, Paul McLellan and James Moodie. Unfortunately, we once again lost the de Wet cup (for the fifth time in a row). It was a close match which Hilton eventually won 9-6.
U19A TENNIS Back Row: William Norton, James Redfern Front Row: James Strachan, Mr Herman Visagie, Daniel Roberts
On Sunday 30 October 2015, Miss Lisa Hardie, William Norton, Angus Ferguson, Murray Finlay, Paul McLellan and Tyler Grant headed off to Sun City for six days to play in the Private Schools Tennis Tournament. There was much excitement as visiting Sun City is always a pleasure but the boys were also looking forward to some excellent tennis. The tennis proved to be very tough as we were by far the youngest team there and were placed in the A Section for the tournament but the boys acquitted themselves exceptionally well against some top players in the country. There were many highlights but Paul McLellan and Tyler Grant’s singles wins against Redhill were two matches that will not be forgotten. The Michaelhouse boys were often complimented on their outstanding behaviour on and off the court and they are
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Sport
James Strachan, Dan Roberts and William Norton at the annual tennis dinner
Luc Lenferna
to be congratulated on being excellent ambassadors for tennis at Michaelhouse. Congratulations to William Norton, Murray Finlay and Luc Lenferna on being selected for the KwaZulu-Natal Inland U15 team. William then went on to make the KZN U15A team which played at the interprovincial tournament in Pretoria. The second annual tennis dinner was held in October and was attended by tennis staff, the top ten tennis players and their parents. John Crawford was the guest of honour and was thanked for his support of tennis over the last 15 years. The ER de Villiers Trophy for the winner of the School Junior Championships was awarded to William
Norton. William beat Angus Ferguson 6-0 7-6 in the final. The Ted Tatz memorial trophy for the winner of the School Senior Championships was awarded to Daniel Roberts. He beat James Strachan 7-5 6-3 in a fiercely contested final. The Richard Ashforth trophy for service to tennis was awarded to James Strachan. Unfortunately we lost the services of Reenen de Vries, our professional coach. Reenen played a big role in the success of Michaelhouse tennis. We wish him well in his new endeavours. Gareth Greenwood took over the reins from mid-year. Overall, I believe we have had an extremely successful year on the tennis courts.
DENNESS LEAGUE MICHAELHOUSE A
MICHAELHOUSE B
Date
League
Team
Opposition
Score (team
Date
League Team
Opposition
Score (team
26 Jan
A
MHS A
College A
18 – 0
26 Jan
A
MHS B
St Charles A
0 - 18
2 Feb
A
MHS A
St Charles A
18 - 0
2 Feb
A
MHS B
Treverton A
9-9
- opposition)
- opposition)
9 Feb
A
MHS A
MHS B
18 - 0
9 Feb
A
MHS B
MHS A
0 - 18
16 Feb
A
MHS A
Hilton A
4 - 14
16 Feb
A
MHS B
College A
5 - 13
18 Feb
A
MHS A
Treverton A
18 – 0 *
18 Feb
A
MHS B
Hilton A
0 - 18
MICHAELHOUSE C
MICHAELHOUSE D
Date
League
Team
Opposition
Score (team
Date
League Team
Opposition
Score (team
26 Jan
B
MHS C
Howick A
34 – 32
26 Jan
B
MHS D
Treverton B
43 – 23
2 Feb
B
MHS C
Bye
2 Feb
B
MHS D
Grace A
28 - 38 26 - 40
- opposition)
- opposition)
4 Feb
B
MHS C
Wembley A
29 - 37
9 Feb
B
MHS D
Wartburg A
9 Feb
B
MHS C
College B
49 - 17
16 Feb
B
MHS D
Voortrekker A 41 - 25
16 Feb
B
MHS C
Hilton C
41 - 25
18 Feb
B
MHS C
Hilton B
24 - 42
2 March
B
MHS C
St Charles B
33 - 33
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Sport
U15 LEAGUE MICHAELHOUSE A
MICHAELHOUSE B
Date
League
Team
Opposition
Score (team
Date
28 July
A
MHS A
MHS B
48 - 18
28 July A
- opposition)
League Team
Opposition
Score (team
MHS B
MHS A
18 - 48 59-7
- opposition)
4 Aug
A
MHS A
Hilton A
42 - 24
4 Aug
A
MHS B
SCC A
11 Aug
A
MHS A
College A
47 – 19
11 Aug A
MHS B
Bye
48 - 18
18 Aug A
MHS B
College A
31 - 35
25 Aug A
MHS B
Hilton A
39 - 27
Opposition
Score (team
18 Aug
A
MHS A
St Charles A
25 Aug
A
MHS A
Bye
MICHAELHOUSE C
MICHAELHOUSE D
Date
League
Team
Opposition
Score (team
Date
28 July
B
MHS C
Grace A
65 - 1
28 July B
MHS D
St Charles B
27 - 39
60 - 6
4 Aug
30 July
B
MHS C
Treverton A
4 Aug
B
MHS C
Bye
- opposition)
League Team
- opposition)
B
MHS D
St Charles C
57 – 9
11 Aug B
MHS D
Grace A
49 – 17
11 Aug
B
MHS C
St Charles C
58 – 8
18 Aug B
MHS D
Bye
18 Aug
B
MHS C
St Charles B
49 - 17
25 Aug B
MHS D
MHS C
25 - 41
25 Aug
B
MHS C
MHS D
41 - 25
1 Sept
B
MHS D
Treverton
41-25
1 Sept
B
MHS C
Wartburg
66 – 0 *w/o
8 Sept
B
MHS D
Wartburg A
33 – 33*
15 Sept
B
MHS D
U19 LEAGUE MICHAELHOUSE A Date
League
Team
Opposition
Score (team
27 July
A
MHS A
College A
52 – 14
- opposition)
3 Aug
A
MHS A
Treverton A
51 – 15
10 Aug
A
MHS A
St Charles A
46 – 20
17 Aug
A
MHS A
Bye
31 Aug
A
MHS A
MHS B
46 - 20
7 Sept
A
MHS A
Hilton A
30 - 36
Opposition
Score (team
MICHAELHOUSE B Date
League Team
- opposition)
27 July A
MHS B
Hilton A
19 - 47
3 Aug
A
MHS B
College A
38 - 28
10 Aug A
MHS B
Treverton A
57 – 9
17 Aug A
MHS B
St Charles A
36 - 30
31 Aug A
MHS B
MHS A
20 - 46
7 Sept
MHS B
Bye
A
MICHAELHOUSE C Date
League
Team
Opposition
Score (team 21 - 45
27 July
B
MHS C
Hilton B
3 Aug
B
MHS C
Bye
- opposition)
10 Aug
B
MHS C
College B **
41 - 25
17 Aug
B
MHS C
Howick A
23 - 43
31 Aug
B
MHS C
St Charles B
38 - 28
Jack Firth
161
Michaelhouse Life
HA
IF ELHOUSE L
E
M
IC
Daily life at Michaelhouse is constantly informed by the concept of high-quality pastoral care in the pursuit of an all-round education. The idea is to provide something to ignite every boy’s enthusiasm and enable him to develop useful and lifelong interests. Broader involvement in all aspects of student life at Michaelhouse is encouraged and engenders a great sense of civic mindedness and inclusion. Our timetable provides ample opportunity for the boys to take full advantage of what is on offer. Daily routines are designed to encourage and allow our boys to expand their involvement beyond a single activity, such as academics, sport, music, art, drama, community involvement, spiritual growth or time out reading a book, thus ensuring a more open and balanced world view.
SCHLESINGER THEATRE NOTES Written by Mr William le Cordeur Awards D Redfern Trophy for most promising junior performer: Menziwokuhle Mbuyazi – Alfred Doolittle (My Fair Lady) FS Bishop Memorial dramatic prize for best actors: Van Wyk Venter – Henry Higgins (My Fair Lady), Matthew Whelan – Austen (True West) Spud Award for dramatic writing: Gerhard Serton Van Velden Trophy for the greatest contribution to School drama: James Smith WA van der Walt dramatic prize for best novice: Aphiwe Mthalane – Nelson Mandela (The Prize of Peace) Farrow Cup for Theatre Tech: Jaryd Kleynhans Honours: Van Wyk Venter, Kurt Martin, Matthew Whelan, James Smith Colours: Callum Deeble, Aphiwe Mthalane, Aidan Schwartz Each year, I try to arrange the theatre programme according to a broad theme or set of themes. With the exciting introduction of the Michaelhouse Music Festival in 2015, music became a focal theme – in particular jazz and acoustic, which is what the theatre intends to focus on during the development of the festival over the next few years. The dramatic focus was on the American play, in particular the Broadway hit. Two school productions
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that kept to this theme were Tony award-winning play True West, by American playwright and actor Sam Shepard, and My Fair Lady. Even though the latter is set in London, it was opened on Broadway and remains the greatest Broadway musical of all time. We also hosted Tim Plewman with Defending the Caveman, the most successful comedy to come off the Broadway stage. The theatre year began in the second week of the first term with the production of Hanamichi, a play made compulsory for all boys to watch. With a mixture of Japanese Noh theatre and South African physical theatre, the action explored Ted Hughes’s poem The ThoughtFox. The actors and director of the play had spent the previous week running an artistic residency with the drama pupils, which was a very successful undertaking that will hopefully grow in future years. The following week, on 6 February, Old Boy Francis Mennigke performed in his own play, Morgue. The play had picked up an Ovation Award at the National Arts Festival, and Francis impressed the audience with his incredibly physical theatre precision. We opened the Sam Shepard play, True West, on 16 February after only a few weeks’ rehearsals. Matt Whelan, James Smith and Kurt Martin were absolutely brilliant, keeping to accent, portraying minor details of character and owning every second of their stage time. Even in the year of a musical, I believe True West was a highlight for many of the boys. We also had the honour of casting professional actress Annie Robinson in the cameo role of the mother. I firmly believe that the learning experience is hugely affected by including professionals with boys on stage.
Michaelhouse Life
Out at the races: Cast members of 2015’s musical production - My Fair Lady
On Friday, 27 February we hosted yet another Old Boy, Steve Dyer, in The Confluence Homecoming Tour. This world-class jazz concert opened ears and minds in the audience, many of whom had never experienced high jazz of this nature. Steve is an incredibly accomplished musician who spent years in cultural exile during the 1980s because of his determination to unite people through jazz. He continues to have a remarkable influence on the jazz community of South Africa and Johannesburg, where he lives. It was a great honour to host Steve and his band. The next show was just as big, with Dan Patlansky playing live with his band on 13 March. Dan is unquestionably one of the top South African musicians touring globally at the moment, and has won numerous international awards. He plays acoustic guitar but is perhaps better known for his blues rock and completely original electric guitar repertoire. Dan sold lots of CDs and created some new and enthusiastic groupies. This year’s Cultural Week was a great success. I believe there is still lots of work to do to improve the quality of the theatre involved, but it is certainly growing each year. This year, we decided to include only the top four Houses to compete in the Inter-House music and theatre events. The theatre was won by Pascoe under the direction of
Callum Deeble. But mention must be made of Aidan Schwartz, of Baines, and Gerhard Serton, of Farfield, who also excelled. We started the second term with the Michaelhouse Music Festival, which is a hugely exciting addition to our cultural programme. I really believe we can grow this festival into a hallmark Midlands event. The theatre hosted an exciting acoustic event curated by Nibs van der Spuy to open the festival on Friday, 24 April. On Saturday, 25 April the theatre hosted Platform Jazz, which drew a faithful audience but also introduced many to the fun of big-band jazz. After the festival, on 8 May, Cape Town’s Folk and Acoustic Festival director, Gavin Minter, played to a packed house with Mark Fransman, Laurie Levine and Josie Field. This line-up would have filled any venue to capacity, and the event lived up to expectation with a mind-blowing show. The Strange Case of the Freudian Trip brought a return to theatre on 13 and 14 June, with another fabulous murder mystery, this time in the Centenary Centre. Annie Robinson and Mark Mulder performed to two full houses, entertaining with their mix of character and brilliant humour. Paul Spence’s hilarious scripts keep his work
163
Michaelhouse Life
showing a level of professionalism that will undoubtedly have him starring in roles on bigger stages in years to come. As Professor Higgins, Van Wyk brought a singing voice to the role, as well as a level of humour and character acting that surely helped the other cast members along. Sarah Thornton-Dibb from St Anne’s was beautiful, brilliant and mature way beyond her years as Eliza Doolittle. Callum Deeble was humorous as Pickering, and Menziwokuhle Mbuyazi, the youngest cast member, showed a full range of skills by playing the oldest character, Alfred Doolittle. It is difficult to write about these sorts of productions because they need pages of acknowledgements and descriptions of processes for the outsider to understand the amount of work and development that goes into them. This cast achieved an amazing level of showmanship and understanding of the production, which left audiences dumbstruck. I congratulate them all. On 10 September, we introduced a new initiative of getting the larger community into the Schlesinger Theatre as a method of growing the theatre audience. The Hilton School of Ballet produced a beautiful production of Snow White, with two sold-out shows on one day.
Van Wyk Venter in his award winning portrayal of Professor Henry Higgins
touring the country, especially with Cat Simoni, who performed the last show of the year. We are really lucky to have these professionals living in our part of the world. We ended the third term with another School play, The Prize of Peace by Les Morrison. This time, four incredibly talented B Block boys performed in this new South African play. Aidan Schwartz and Aphiwe Mthalane played De Klerk and Mandela on the eve of the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize in Norway, and David Long and Likhona Camane played a chef and a security guard who were both out to assassinate the lifelong enemies. The play is an excellent examination of where we are today in South Africa. It looks at this historic event and remembers that on the other side of the peace award was a nation dealing with painful pasts and everyday realities, which continue to this day. With only four weeks in the third term to achieve the impossible, in collaboration with St Anne’s Diocesan College and the Michaelhouse Music Department, the Schlesinger Theatre produced My Fair Lady from 16 to 19 August. Van Wyk Venter was the standout performer,
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The fourth term’s theatre season began on Friday, 16 October with what is considered Broadway’s and South Africa’s most successful stage comedy, Defending the Caveman. Tim Plewman was back once again, keeping the audience in stitches for two hours. I do hope we can keep bringing entertainment of this quality to the theatre. The annual variety show was reintroduced before halfterm on 21 October, under the title The Michaelhouse Revue. I believe we can grow this event into a much bigger and far more polished version, so the aim now is to keep building on quality. Standout performances came from James Smith, Kurt Martin, Matthew Whelan, Zander Prinsloo, Brandon Jones, Bruere Venter, Aidan Schwartz and Armin Prinsloo, with the marimba band under the leadership of Van Wyk Venter once again stealing the show as the highlight of the evening. Thank you to Ryan Anderson for organising the event with the committee. The final show of the year was on 6 October, with Cat Simoni performing hits by Pink Floyd and other great bands like Queen and the Beatles in an introduction to psychedelic rock. It was a calm and beautiful ending to yet another hectic year. My aim is to continue growing the Schlesinger Theatre audience while engaging in relevant and entertaining work. I believe the privilege of having a theatre of this quality on our doorstep is something to celebrate, and I invite anyone who is visiting Michaelhouse to follow the theatre news and get to the theatre. It is fun and memorable.
Michaelhouse Life
EXCHANGE PROGRAMME The exchange programme this year has again been extremely busy with Michaelhouse welcoming a record number of incoming students to the School as well sending a large number away to schools around the world, as the table on the following page will show. The growth of the programme has meant more involvement from staff and I am very grateful for the efforts and interest put into the programme by Messrs Bailey Coxon, Andrew Laing and Matthew Higginson as well as Father Fred Pitout, Col Reggie Purbrick and Mrs Natalie Snowden. They have all contributed to the expanded activities that have seen this year’s exchange students go on trips to Nambiti Game Reserve, Spioenkop and the Zulu War Battlefields as well as into the underprivileged schools in our area through our Community Partnership Programme. I must also express my thanks to the parents of our exchange boys who have been very involved this year with our foreign students, offering them homes away from home and taking them on trips to Cape Town, Phinda and on dive courses in Umkomaas to name just a few. It really has been great to see how these parents have gone out of their way to make the South African experience for our incoming boys a unique and fun-filled one.
Our boys who have been away on exchange have all conducted themselves in an exemplary fashion and earned the School great credit; be it Nick Kershaw scoring 150 not out off 92 balls at King’s School in Sydney or Michael Jay going out, unprompted, in the town of Metan and collecting blankets and clothing for flood victims in another area of Argentina. They have all grown immensely and have benefitted hugely from the experience as is evidenced in these quotes from some of their reports. “The incredible time that I spent in South America has been one of the most amazing journeys of my life and I really wish to return one day. From the great times with friends to the amazing family dinners, those three months changed me and have helped broaden my horizons and understandings to a culture and lifestyle that three months ago were a mystery and now are some of my best memories.” Michael Jay “All in all exchange is an unbelievable experience that I will never forget as long as I live, the friendships and memories that I have made will last forever. It is truly a life changing experience.” Will Glassock Thus the programme is going well and 2016 looks to be another exciting exchange year.
Tlou Maenetje and Troy Nijland on exchange at Trinity College
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Michaelhouse Life
Incoming Name
Surname
Term
From School
Country
Robert
Singleton
1
Woodberry Forest School
Virginia, USA
Martin Polanco
Calaf
1
The Chase Foundation
South America
Angus
Faulkner
1
Seaford College
West Sussex, United Kingdom
2
Trinity College
Ontario, Canada
Liam
Walsh
Jack
Clausen
2
Christ Church Grammar
Perth, Western Australia
Caleb
Ng
2
Christ Church Grammar
Perth, Western Australia
Harry
Hawkins
3
Christ's College
Christchurch, New Zealand
Hugo
Carson
3
Scotch College
Melbourne, Australia
Myles
Davis
3
Scotch College
Melbourne, Australia
Davis
Cavallo
3
Montgomery Bell Academy
Nashville, USA
Jordan
Rosdeutscher
3
Montgomery Bell Academy
Nashville, USA
Archer
Holz
4
King's School
Sydney, Australia
Joseph
Rylance
4
King's School
Sydney, Australia
Gaspard
Dutheil de La Rochère
4
Lycée Catholique de Pontlevoy
Pontlevoy, France
Benjamin
Castle
4
Canberra Grammar School
Canberra, Australia
Thomas
Smethurst
4
Canberra Grammar School
Canberra, Australia
Harry
Round
4
Cranbrook School
Sydney, Australia
Bruce
Donald
4
Wanganui Collegiate School
Wanganui, New Zealand
Moritz
Schumacher
4
Wittelsbacher Gymnasium
Muenchen, Germany
Surname
Term
From School
Country
Outgoing Name Michael
Jay
1
The Chase Foundation
South America
Daniel
Hughes
1
The Chase Foundation
South America
Nicholas
Forster
1
Seaford College
West Sussex, United Kingdom
Tlou
Maenetje
2
Trinity College School
Ontario, Canada
Troy
Nijland
2
Trinity College School
Ontario, Canada
Leighton
Quin
2
Christ Church Grammar School
Perth, Australia
Ross
Cheshire
2
Christ Church Grammar School
Perth, Australia
Richard
Johnston
2
Merchiston Castle School
Edinburgh, Scotland
Thomas
Price
3
Scotch College
Melbourne, Australia
Wesley
Turkington
3
Scotch College
Melbourne, Australia
Keynan
Knox
3
Christ's College
Christchurch, New Zealand
William
Glassock
3
Wanganui Collegiate
Wanganui, New Zealand
Matthew
Gerrish
4
Montgomery Bell Academy
Tennessee, USA
Sean-Michael
Price
4
Montgomery Bell Academy
Tennessee, USA
Ant
Fleischer
4
Canberra Grammar School
Canberra, Australia
Julian
Smart
4
Canberra Grammar School
Canberra, Australia
Oliver
Calvert-Evers
4
King's School
Sydney, Australia
Nicholas
Kershaw
4
King's School
Sydney, Australia
Jean
Van der Westhuizen
4
Cranbrook School
Sydney, Australia
Cameron
Clark
4
Woodberry Forest
Virginia, USA
Ian
le Roux
4
Lycée Catholique de Pontlevoy
Pontlevoy, France
Odirile
Losaba
4
Wittelsbacher Gymnasium
Meunchen, Germany
166
Michaelhouse Life
A different day at the races: A Block boys and their partners at the Matric Ball
MATRIC BALL
SOCIALS
Written by Rector Greg Theron
Master in Charge: Mr Peter Huntley
Following a great deal of preparation, fretting, thought and anticipation, the sumptuous occasion of the Matric Ball arrived.
The socials programme again proved to be quite a busy one, and the junior boys (D and E Block) attended a number of socials at girls’ schools in the greater Pietermaritzburg area. Unfortunately, our boys often prove to be quite hesitant once the initial enthusiasm dies down and certainly in the latter part of the year, numbers of attendees dwindle.
On cue, of course, it rained, although the upshot of this was that it forced the couples together under umbrellas. Which is, I am sure you will all agree, a nice warm-up to the event. The Indoor Centre was outstanding and the hard work produced something that was truly memorable and exceptional. Certainly the boys I spoke to raved about it all. Part of the success of the setting was a lovely big dance floor and good music, so there was lots of dancing. The food was fabulous, so everyone ate their dinners, which in my experience is a rare occurrence at these dances. As I said on the evening, Angela and I have now been to over 50 of these (which is something I would rather not discuss) and although I cannot even get close to remembering them all, this one I will always remember as one of the best.
Our busy calendar opened with Polar Bear Day, a joint undertaking with St Anne’s Diocesan College, which involves the E Block boys and St Anne’s Grade 8s in a very light-hearted icebreaker of sorts. It is most capably run by the School prefects and often sows the seeds of friendships that last way past the five years of senior school. By and large the socials are aimed at our junior Blocks, with St Anne’s, The Wykeham Collegiate and St John’s DSG hosting a number of events ranging from karaoke nights to U Parties. We have fostered a good relationship with these schools and will look to maintain this in the years ahead.
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Michaelhouse Life
Our senior boys also attend many Grade 11 and 12 formal functions at various girls’ schools, both locally and as far afield as Gauteng. The logistics involved in ferrying boys to and from these places often presents major challenges, especially with most of them taking place on a Friday night. As commented on in last year’s report, there is also an increasing requirement that boys attend the “predrinks” function, photo shoots and the inevitable “after party”. This often leads to the need for compromise in certain areas. It is clear that, in certain cases, the after party and pre-drinks are more important than the dance itself. Whereas the A Block had the Matric Ball, the B Block also enjoyed a formal dinner and dance – in preparation, perhaps, for the real thing. Separately, more than 90 boys attended the Friday rehearsals leading up to the Chanel Ball, which is hosted by St Anne’s. The full programme involved instruction in a number of formal dance styles, from the waltz to the foxtrot and expressive South American numbers. The boys also learned about the etiquette involved on such formal occasions, as well as the art of fine conversation. The ball was a great success and our boys were complimented on their excellent form. I would like to thank all the staff involved in making the socials year a success, in particular Mrs Jo Hume, who is our key administrator and liaison person; Shy Bhugwandeen, for handling the transport requirements with ease; Mr Mike Schwartz, for his efforts with the Chanel Ball; and all the interns who assisted.
SANATORIUM Sister in Charge: Sr Lauren Richmond Staff: Sr Leisa Albertyn, Sr Avis Coxon, Mrs Mae Villar-Stickley First term At the beginning of the year, the San welcomed on board Sr Avis Coxon. The new boys all settled without too much homesickness and Sr Coxon also settled in quickly. We had a busier than usual first term with coughs and colds. The new boys’ impact tests were done and boys came for gum-guard fittings done by Jenny from Dr Lazarus’s rooms; we are grateful to them for this service they offer to Michaelhouse. Towards the end of the first quarter, the buzz and excitement of rugby was already being felt at the San. The scale was used often to make sure that bodies were reaching their full rugby potential. We often took out boys’ cards to share with them how much growing they had done since starting in their E Block year.
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Sisters counsel boys on diet, growth and genetics. We sincerely hope that some of what we share is digested in those teenage brains. Each year, the KwaZulu-Natal San sisters meet in the first, second and fourth quarters, and also attend a national conference during the third quarter. In the first quarter of 2015, we met at Epworth High School and listened to a representative from Smith & Nephew talk about wound care. Second term Rugby and hockey season keep us very busy during the second quarter. This year, we had four home games, so it was not quite as busy for the San sisters as it is in alternate years, when we have six. Copious amounts of strapping are used during this term and we continually educate boys on the importance of icing and resting injuries. This is a big challenge during rugby season because so many boys are keen not to miss games. Nsele Ambulance Services assisted us at all our home games and we are extremely grateful for the support they give us. Mr Bailey Coxon was handed the reins of the First Aid Society and did a great job in making sure that the playing fields were adequately stocked and manned as per SharkSmart Schools of Excellence criteria. Our first-aid boys are an amazing group and we appreciate all that they do. At the end of May, we said farewell to Sr Leisa Albertyn. Sr Morag Atherstone stepped in to do a locum for us while interviews took place for a new San sister. The San sisters attended a meeting at Maritzburg College, where the College counsellor spoke to us on the issues connected with divorce. Third term The third quarter was a fairly quiet term on the illness side of things. The C Block Journey took place and was an amazing experience to be part of; as usual, the San sisters accompanied the boys on the cycle route of their journey, dealing with their illnesses or injuries. This year, Sr Atherstone and I took part and it truly was an experience that left us with amazing memories. Two sisters stayed behind to keep the San staffed. We were very fortunate not to have any really bad injuries and no outbreaks of illness that would send too many boys back to the San. We all attended a national San sisters conference at St John’s DSG in Pietermaritzburg, where we were treated to quality speakers and networked with nurses from other schools. Fourth term We had a fairly quiet fourth quarter in which we dealt
Michaelhouse Life
with the usual respiratory illnesses and gastro. We attended a talk at the Sharks Academy on injury prevention. It would have been useful for our coaches to have attended as well, but owing to their commitments to exams and the business of the end of the year, none of them were able to join us. Staff We are grateful to Dr Cook for always being available to us – day or night, for visiting our boys at School twice a week and for always being at our home rugby and hockey games. His advice and support are hugely appreciated by all of us. Paul Candler, the biokineticist for the past 18 years at Michaelhouse, continues to see our boys and assist with their problems or rehab. We thank him also for always having time to show the San sisters anything interesting or unusual and for all the advice he offers us. Debbie Ludgater has been coming to Michaelhouse most afternoons for the past 17 years to do physiotherapy for the boys. Sadly, Debbie left us at the end of 2015 to move to Johannesburg and a new chapter in her life. We thank her for her support and assistance, and we trust she will be very happy as she takes up her new position. Mae Stickley does all School insurance and Sanatorium accounts, and heads into her third year in this position. Joyce Nxumalo and Elias Bhengu have been here for so long, they are now seeing fathers who were new boys in the San when they first started. They assist in keeping the San clean and the boys fed, as well as with many other odd jobs. Sr Atherstone left us at the end of the year and we are grateful to have had her as part of the team for the second
six months of 2015. We welcome Sr Debbie Hayes, who worked at Clifton as the San sister during 2015. Debbie will join our team in January 2016 and we wish her well.
INTER-HOUSE ACTIVITIES Master in Charge: Mr Allan Laing 2015’s Inter-House Pancake Race was once again held on Shrove Tuesday, in and around the Main Quad. All teams made a good start, with the exception of Farfield who dropped their pancake before the first corner. Pascoe took an early lead, but were soon overtaken by Mackenzie. The crowds enjoyed the spills and thrills that go with racing around the Main Quad as the runners attempted to win the platter of pancakes. Founders surged into the lead early in the third lap and were able to keep ahead of the pack to run out eventual victors, with West in second place after Mackenzie dropped their pancake on the last lap. The tug-of-war was again a keenly contested show of strength, with West beating Founders in the junior final and Baines beating Pascoe in the senior final. The last event of the year was held on the last day of school, amid much excitement. All eight push cars made it to the start line, although Farfield were disqualified as the race began for fielding an over-age driver. Drivers must be in E Block. East lost a wheel while in second place on the penultimate lap, so the last lap was hotly contested by Baines, Mackenzie, Tatham and Founders. Unfortunately for Baines, their last pusher let go of the car inches from the finish line and so were disqualified, allowing Tatham the victory followed by Founders and Mackenzie.
Scenes from the ever-popular Inter-House pancake race, tug-of-war and pushcar race
169
Michaelhouse Life
NICK CROW GOOD FELLOWSHIP AWARD
THE HARRISON FAMILY TROPHY
This award is made each year to a Matric boy who the A Block body adjudge to have displayed the qualities and attributes of all-round good fellowship. The recipient is decided by a ballot taken by all Matric boys. The award may be given to any A Block boy who does not hold the office of School Prefect.
Presented for the first time in 2012, the Harrison Family Trophy is awarded at the annual Leavers’ Dinner to the Matric boy who has achieved the highest points for academic attainment since E Block. In 2015, the award was shared by Ben Adey and Zander Prinsloo.
The award is presented annually at the Leavers’ Dinner and in 2015, Thomas Greig, who was a House Prefect in Farfield, was a most popular and worthy recipient.
Thomas Greig
170
Zander Prinsloo and Ben Adey
Michaelhouse Life
THE REX AND SARAH PENNINGTON AWARD
CHICK HENDERSON MEMORIAL AWARD
The Rex and Sarah Pennington Award was presented for the first time on Speech Day in 2014. The award is made in recognition of a boy entering A Block who, in the opinion of his teachers and peers, demonstrates the following outstanding qualities during the years leading up to his Matric year: • A willingness to participate and become involved in all School activities • Service to the School and others • Kindness and generosity of spirit • A strong and active personal faith • A sense of values and the courage to live by them
Thomas Price is the 2015 recipient of this award, which is presented to a C Block boy who has displayed excellent sporting and academic potential, coupled with active involvement in the School’s Service programme. The recipient should also demonstrate a strong sense of sportsmanship and comradeship towards peers and staff.
Matthew Watson was 2015’s winner.
Matthew Watson is congratulated by the inaugural winner of the Rex and Sarah Pennington Award, Stew Grant
Thomas Price
171
House Reports
HOUSE REPORTS
Central to the Michaelhouse experience is the House system, with each House being home to approximately 70 boys. There are eight Houses, each one in the care of a Housemaster who is supported by a management team consisting of a Senior Tutor, House Tutors, a Home Room Teacher and a Prefect body. Together they are responsible for facilitating a nurturing and structured environment where every boy can feel secure and valued. Houses are the focal point of group identity, friendship and relaxation, and have a healthy rivalry in sporting, cultural and academic arenas.
FOUNDERS Written by Shingi Vambe Housemaster: Mr Mike Bownes Assistant Housemaster: Mr Ryno Combrinck House Tutors: Mr John Alexander, Mr Michael Schwartz, Mr Herman Visagie, Mr Chris Waldburger E Block Tutor: Ms Joy Preiss, Mrs Candice Smith Interns: Mr Bongani Ndimande, Mr Jacques Richter Senior Prefect: Ryan Anderson Head of House: Shingi Vambe House Prefects: Nicholas Anderson, Thomas Brink, Marc Conlon, Richard Johnsen, Brandon Mottram, Jack Walters “The journey to better:” This short statement has formed the basis of what Founders as a House would like to achieve. This is an endeavour to never settle, but rather to continue to improve in any way possible; to continue making progress even if we are doing well already. Founders is certainly on a journey to be better and continues to go from strength to strength with each year. Be it academically, culturally, socially or on the sports field, the objective has been not to strive for perfection but rather for the perfect effort. Once more it is safe to say Founders was successful in this endeavour. Founders’ tremendous history makes it an ever-popular choice for prospective new boys and their parents, but along with that it has built a reputation for having a special sense of camaraderie and mutual respect between young and old. This camaraderie has for many years created a truly home-like environment in which to live and grow. House synergy has never been better and I can only
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see this continuing, given the nature of the boys present in Founders. The E Block group enjoyed tremendous success throughout the year. They were a confident and immensely well-rounded bunch who should be commended for integrating themselves into the House and gaining the respect of the older boys. I urge them to continue like this after such a terrific start to their Michaelhouse careers. Individually the E Blockers collected some commendable accolades, with representatives in the A sides for rugby, cricket, soccer, hockey and water polo. Notably, Thabo Dlamini represented the KwaZulu-Natal A sides for football and hockey and must be commended for scoring in excess of ten goals for both sides. Special mention must also go to Luke van Rooyen for his performance at the Inter-House gala. Academically the group were even stronger, as demonstrated by the consistent presence of no fewer than two Founders E Blockers in the top five, and five in the top 20. Sebastian Langerbrink was placed first in the Block, a fine validation for his hard work. Barry and Niel Biermann frequently achieved top-ten placings and the group’s members enjoyed consistent effort scores of above 2.00. Culturally, James Gush must be commended on reaching Grade 5 for piano. The D Block of 2015 welcomed a new member to their ranks in Cade Barnes. Cade must be applauded on his successful integration into the group, having come from a relatively different schooling environment. His participation in the School play is testament to his efforts to integrate himself into the community. One’s D Block year tends to be awkward because one is no longer at the bottom of the pile but still pretty close down there. There
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FOUNDERS Back Row: Keagan Chasenski, Nicholas Llewellen Palmer, Rory Ware, Matthew Whelan, James Newton, Geoffrey Brink, Dale Coughlan, Tyrone Thompson, Bradley Young, Ben Jonsson, Oliver Calvert-Evers, James du Toit, Kyle Thompson Fourth Row: Cameron Jack, Warwick Brink, Menziwokuhle Mbuyazi, Matthew Baynes, Michael Herbert, Tom Price, Daniel Smart, Keynan Knox, Freddie Conradie, Fraser Jones, Michael Kimber, Sam Timson, Sean Young, Vuyo Mkhize, Jonathan Dougall, Lethu Mthembu Third Row: Jason Song, Charlie Seabrook, Michael Brownlee, Michael Gomes, Declan Newton, Bernard van der Berg, Juno Griffin, Takudzwa Madombwe, Thomas Quin, James Seabrook, Luke Thomson, Likhona Camane, Dominic Leslie, Nzuzo Tshili, Callum Houston Second Row: Thabo Dlamini, Travis Green, Mako Kamba, Neil du Toit, Tristan Vermeulen, Ryan Funston, Niel Bierman, Jason Stead, Luke van Rooyen, Barry Bierman, Teboho Sekatle, Gomo Mangena, Aidan Logan, Greg Jacobs, James Gush, Sebastian Langebrink Front Row: Mr Herman Visagie, Jack Walters, Mr Michael Schwartz, Thomas Brink, Mrs Candice Smith, Marc Conlon, Mr Ryno Combrinck, Shingi Vambe, Mr Mike Bownes, Ryan Anderson, Mr Chris Waldburger, Brandon Mottram, Mr Jacques Richter, Nicholas Anderson, Ms Joy Preiss, Richard Johnsen, Mr John Alexander
is no longer a cop to look after you, so the year can, in some cases, be the hardest of one’s Michaelhouse career. This did not appear to be the case with the Founders D Block boys. They were an extremely confident and independent group, sometimes mischievous, but a great bunch of boys who added life and vibrancy to the House. Once more, individual accolades were plenty. Culturally, we continued to enjoy Menzi Mbuyazi’s significant involvement and contribution to music at Michaelhouse, which was demonstrated in his selection for the prestigious Midlands Youth Choir. Takudzwa Madombwe also deserves congratulations for joining Menzi in the choir. Michael Herbert continued to impress with his prowess on the saxophone. Academically, representatives in the top 20 were frequent. On the sports field this group continued to succeed, with representatives in the A sides for rugby, hockey, cricket and football, and a first-team squash representative in Dominic Leslie. Special mention must also be made of Michael Gomes, who was selected for the U15A Midlands football side. It was a tremendously successful year for this group, who continue to go from strength to strength. Dynamite comes in small packages. The Founders C
Block group may have been the smallest in the School but they enjoyed a very successful 2015. Of the ten boys, three were selected for student exchanges, with Tom Price attending Scotch College in Melbourne, Oliver CalvertEvers attending Kings College in Sydney and Keenen Knox attending Christchurch College in New Zealand. Ben Jonsson took the reins and was in charge of a successful House play. Congratulations must go to Daniel Smart for his involvement in that production. Jason Song was an ever-present feature in the top five academically in the Block and was frequently joined by Oliver CalvertEvers in the top ten. On the sporting front the C Block group had one firstteam representative in Ben Jonsson, who played for the first basketball team. They also had representatives in the A sides for hockey, rugby (which was captained by Keynan Knox), cricket and football. Rory Weir, Luke Thomson and Jason Song were selected as members of the U16 hockey development side which toured Europe, playing in the UK and the Netherlands. Aside from sporting, cultural and academic achievements, one boy from this small Founders group received an award that recognises all-round success. Tom Price
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must be congratulated for winning the prestigious Chick Henderson award for overall excellence in a variety of facets of School life. The C Block year is synonymous with the C Block Journey, a test of character, leadership and determination, and, above all, an important experience that provides those who participate with vital life skills – and bucket loads of wonderful memories. Our C Blockers embarked on their journey late in the third term and all must be commended for being able to complete the exercise. Once more a member of this small group shone brightly among his peers. Keynan Knox was awarded the Andrew Crutchley memorial award for exceptional leadership on the C Block Journey. This small group of boys will continue to make a big contribution to Founders and Michaelhouse. The group next in line to have the honour of leading Founders are a group who I believe are prepared for the task. They are a diverse bunch with varying opinions, which is always a key agent for progress. Watching them grow from year to year has been a pleasure. They have developed from unassuming young boys into Men of Michaelhouse. Individually, each member of the group excels in his own niche, and this excellence was displayed in 2015. Academically the B Blockers maintained a very high standard, with representatives in the top 20 every term. Culturally, Vuyo Mkhize was selected as a member of the Midlands Youth Choir. Likhona Camane must be commended on his participation in the School variety show. On the sporting front the group shone brightly, with six first-team representatives in football, water polo and sevens.
and was one of the lead actors in a remake of a major old Hollywood film. I am of the belief that it is not about how well one starts but rather how well one finishes. The Founders A Block certainly finished their Michaelhouse careers strongly. The beauty of a new school year is the chance to start over, fix mistakes, move forward and make new memories. For the boys of Founders, this was so true of 2015. The success of Founders is largely down to the amazing effort and enthusiasm that Mr Bownes puts into his work as Housemaster. In 2015 Founders built a wonderful foundation for the potential that 2016 holds, and I am sure that it will continue to produce successful and significant young men who make their presence felt in a variety of spheres of School life. Congratulations to all those who were part of the wonderful Founders family of 2015. Salvete: Cade Barnes, Barry Biermann, Niel Biermann, Thabo Dlamini, Neil du Toit, Ryan Funston, Travis Green, James Gush, Greg Jacobs, Mako Kamba, Sebastian Langebrink, Aidan Logan, Gomo Mangena, Teboho Sekatle, Jason Stead, Luke van Rooyen, Tristan Vermeulen Valete: Nicholas Anderson, Ryan Anderson, Geoffrey Brink, Thomas Brink, Marc Conlon, Dale Coughlan, Richard Johnsen, Brandon Mottram, James Newton, Tyrone Thompson
The Founders A Blockers of 2015 leave behind them a legacy and perhaps a void that will take some time to fill. Their commitment to Founders and Michaelhouse as a School was exemplary and they set a standard for how A Block boys should behave and lead a House. Socially they led, on the sports field they led and, in a small way, even culturally they led. Ryan Anderson was the Senior Prefect for 2015 and Nicholas Anderson received the award for a non-School prefect who best exemplifies the qualities expected of that office. Ryan was also the First XI cricket captain. Furthermore, on the sporting front there were five first-team representatives and a KZN A water polo player in Brandon Mottram, who also captained the first team. Academically, Nicholas and Ryan Anderson were consistently placed in the top ten, and the group as a whole maintained an excellent average effort score consistently above 2.00. Culturally, Richard Johnsen continued to be an important feature in the musical sphere of the School and orchestrated a successful Founders music performance at the Inter-House competition. Matthew Whelan continued to impress on the acting front
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Old and new faces at the induction ceremony
House Reports
EAST Back Row: Siphe Magida, Stefano Raciti, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Christopher Ringwood, Christopher Dowsley, Richard Perkin, Thomas Witherspoon, Seun Afolayan, Richard Dobeyn, Sean Gilson, Vidura Rajpaul, James Rowles, Christopher Broadley, Sean Joubert, Thebe Magashula, Thomas Dean, Jeremy Tratschler, Brad Fyvie Fourth Row: Michael Lavagna-Slater, Jay Naik, Murray Armstrong, James Crowe, Ross Cheshire, Joshua Reichwein, Patrick Garz, Cuan MacNab-Holding, David Pachonick, Carl Winkelmann, Siphesihle Luthuli, Stuart Ferguson, Angus Faulkner, Matthew Armstrong, Jason Boulle, Lance Wartburton Third Row: Emanuel Zaloumis, Justin Fyvie, Jack Perkin, Titana Dube, Samuel Lombaard, Kagiso Motau, Thomas Trotter, Samuel Kasher, Angus Ferguson, Kirin Ramthol, Amar Chauhan, Matthew Gerrish, Bradley Boulle, Thomas Gibson, Thomas Jacobsz Second Row: Khulu Mjwara, Thomas Ringwood, James Armstrong, Neil Naik, Simon Browse, Jack Trotter, Richard Taylor, Robert Officer, Adam Hawke, Joshua Witherspoon, Harrison Garz, Gareth Warbuton, Finn Elliot, Austin Karan, Garin Phillips, Mfolozi Dlamini Front Row: David Armstrong, Mrs Asha Royappen, Matt Saulez, Mr Mike Thomson, John Robins, Johann Winkelmann, Mr André van Wyk, Mr James Bullough, Jordan van Rees, Mr Abri Venter, Billy Dean, Mr Graydon Theron, James Smith, Mr Nico Boshoff
EAST Written by Johann Winkelmann Housemaster: Mr André van Wyk Assistant Housemaster: Mr James Bullough House Tutors: Mr Nico Boshoff, Mr Mike Thomson, Mr Abri Venter E Block Tutor: Mrs Asha Royappen Interns: Mr Graydon Theron, Mr Allen Dlamini Head of House: Johann Winkelmann House Prefects: David Armstrong, Billy Dean, John Robins, Matt Saulez, James Smith, Jordan van Rees As the time comes to say goodbye and reflect on my incredible journey through Michaelhouse, it is an honour and a privilege to be able to call myself an Old Boy of not only the School but also of East. The calibre of man that has progressed through East over my time here has been exceptional and this is reflected clearly in our achievements over the last couple of years. What a memorable year it has been. Once again, we surpassed many expectations and had another hugely
successful year in all facets of Michaelhouse life. This is down to our undying House spirit and ceaseless will for success. Our E Blockers proved to be a diverse yet capable group and were a welcome addition to the House. James Armstrong and Richard Taylor were both part of the U14A water polo team, as was our triathlete Finn Elliot, who also won the junior victor ludorum at the InterHouse gala. Jack Trotter, Josh Witherspoon and James Armstrong all played in the A side for rugby and Jack also played cricket for the A team. Adam Hawke was a member of the fly-fishing society, and Thomas Ringwood, very impressively, completed the Fish River Canoe Marathon. Academically, this group is very sound. Richard Taylor, Jack Trotter and Josh Witherspoon all completed the year in top 10 positions. On the yearly Inhlosane hike, this E Block group fared better than most, and I take my hat off to their undying will to complete the hike even when their bodies were near exhaustion. All in all, they are a very exciting and promising bunch and I have no doubt that they will do the House proud in years to come.
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the Bishop Baines memorial prize for service as a reward for his sustained dedication and selfless contribution to the lives of others. The sporting ability of the House is undoubted. Tom Trotter was selected for the U15 KwaZulu-Natal cricket side and played U15A rugby, along with Sam Kasher. Sam also played U15A water polo, as did Angus Ferguson. Angus also played soccer and hockey, and was selected for the provincial sides. Angus capped a great sporting year by going on the first team tennis tour to Sun City. Nic Forster was selected for the KZN Inland U16 hockey team. Kagiso Motau was part of the first basketball team and the U16A soccer team with Carl Winkelmann. Tom Witherspoon was a stalwart of the U16A basketball team and enjoyed a few run-ons for the stayers’ first team. Jordan van Rees enjoyed a very successful season with the first water polo team. Sam Lombaard continued his fine sailing career with top three finishes at both the International Selection Regatta and the South African National Championships. James Armstrong, Harrison Garz, Joshua Witherspoon and Richard Taylor taking the strain for East in the Junior InterHouse tug of war contest
East won five Inter-House events this year, thus carrying on our good record from previous years. Winning the gala for the fourth time in five years was once again our most remarkable achievement. We also won the junior Inter-House debating competition, the junior tennis and, for the second year running, the Academic Effort Shield. Additionally, we finished second in the senior tennis and third in water polo and drama, further demonstrating that the talents in East are exceptionally well rounded. From spiritual and cultural perspectives, East held its own. Dave Armstrong was on the Christian Fellowship committee. Ross Cheshire became a member of the Christian Fellowship band for 2016. Ross also participated in the National Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships in Cape Town during the September break, as did Chris Dowsley, who was ranked 21st in the country at the same competition – a remarkable achievement. Kulu Mjwara and John Robins were part of the School’s magnificent marimba band, which won three of the four categories at an international marimba competition in Johannesburg. John was also head of the equally impressive jazz band. James Smith did the House proud by fending off stiff competition to win the Inter-House public speaking. He also performed in the True West theatre production, which no doubt helped him claim the Van Velden Trophy for the greatest contribution to drama. Mfolozi Dlamini received
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Of course, I must make mention of the continued brilliance of Matt Saulez on the golf course. Not only is he the men’s U19 captain but he also won a South African U19 tournament, which was his first major tournament win. I’m sure there are many more to come. In addition to this, Matt won the Des Sacco award for sportsman of the year, which is a fantastic achievement. Dave Armstrong and Richard Perkin played for the first hockey team, with Murray Armstrong also earning a couple of caps later on in the season. Matt Armstrong, Chris Broadley and Jason Boulle were selected as first team captains for cricket, basketball and canoeing, respectively, in 2016. On the rugby front, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko and Billy Dean were vital cogs in this year’s unbeaten First XV. Lee-Marvin’s fantastic performances throughout the season earned him a place in the U19A Academy side and he will continue his promising career with Western Province next year. Chris Dowsley, Sean Joubert and David Pachonik were also part of our very successful sevens first team and toured Dubai at the end of the year. Academically, it was another very encouraging year for the House, with a few exceptional achievements standing out. Sam Kasher was part of the top five achievers in D Block this year and achieved an impressive 100% for his June exam in Accounting. Nic Forster received the JL Sisson memorial prize for English and also consistently finished in the top three throughout the year, despite going on exchange in the third term. Most notable, of course, were the achievements of Mfolozi Dlamini, who finished first nationally in the isiZulu Olympiad and first in B Block for the year. Chris
House Reports
Broadley was voted the most promising mathematician in his Block and achieved 100% for his June Maths exam, which is simply phenomenal.
TATHAM
As the House of the rising sun, we can look back at the year and be very satisfied with all that has been achieved, and the boys can no doubt use these feats as stepping stones to an even better and more successful future.
Housemaster: Mr Nic Cahill Assistant Housemaster: Mr Bernard Whitaker House Tutors: Mr Graeme Calway, Mr Sizo Chalufu, Mr John Crawford E Block Tutor: Mrs Helene du Toit Interns: Mr Shaun Thompson, Mr Gary van Breda, Mr Dennis Mdunge Head of House: Dalingcebo Maseko House Prefects: Richard Beckett, Joshua Cullinan, Daryn Flanegan, Frank Goble, Brandon Macleod, Bruce Rouillard
Finally, to my fellow A Blockers, with whom I have had the pleasure of experiencing this journey as we created so many remarkable memories, you are a truly special group. Now it is time for us to tackle the obstacles outside the old redbrick fortress, and we do so with the knowledge and values that this incredible School has instilled in us from our very first days here. To 2016’s A Block group, I would like to wish you all the best. I have no doubt that you will carry on leading the House to even greater heights. Finally, a big thank you to Mr van Wyk and all the tutors for all the time and effort that you sacrifice so regularly in order to make East the comforting home that it is for so many of us. Your selfless guidance and help are greatly treasured by all of us. Thank you and auf Wiedersehen. Salvete: James Armstrong, Simon Browse, Finn Elliot, Harrison Garz, Adam Hawke, Austin Karan, Neil Naik, Robert Officer, Thomas Ringwood, Richard Taylor, Jack Trotter, Gareth Warburton, Joshua Witherspoon Valete: David Armstrong, Billy Dean, Stuart Ferguson, Brad Fyvie, Siphesihle Luthuli, Thebe Magashula, Siphe Magida, Lee-Marvin Mazibuko, Stefano Raciti, John Robins, Matt Saulez, James Smith, Jeremy Tratschler, Jordan van Rees, Johann Winkelmann
“The new main road that laps the further side of the railway line would now be considered sufficiently stable to reckon its 80 odd miles to Durban not far from our gates.” The Chronicle, 1935
Written by Dalingcebo Maseko
“Unless the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman keeps awake in vain. It is vain for you to rise up early, to retire late, to eat the bread of painful labours; for he gives to his beloved even in his sleep.” – Psalm 127:1-2 Tatham has been a great home for the boys who have come through its doors, and I hope it will remain so in the future. The experiences and friendships forged between peers will stay in our hearts forever. This year, I had the honour of working intimately with the boys of Tatham and was pleased with our performance and achievements all round. While I will not hail this year as the greatest, simply because there is no legitimate meter for such, I can happily say that it was very close to great from my perspective. Tatham, like the whole of Michaelhouse, is guided by the Christian values of integrity, humility, compassion and courage in service to our community and country; I believe that we continued our struggle in trying to realise these values and that we fared well. The year started smoothly with a successful prefects’ camp that helped set effective goals for the House and all the boys. As prefects, we managed to set a good vision for Tatham and we worked hard to ensure that our goals were met. After the camp we were introduced to the new boys we had been preparing so intently for. They looked an odd group initially, but as the year passed, they proved to be a very well balanced group of boys, overflowing with enthusiasm, energy and excitement. There was an overwhelming number of younger brothers in this year’s group, so familial support in the House was strong. Despite some early difficulties, which are to be expected, the boys settled into the House very well. The group is filled with talented sportsmen – ten of them play for the A team at one sport or more. The E Blockers were also very good participants in the respective Inter-House events this year, with successful
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TATHAM Back Row:Jonathan Henderson, Luke McDonald, Ethan Hamilton-Potts, Samuel Danton, Cristy Prisacaru, Scott Norris-Jones, Richard Friend, Duncan Boyes, Andrew Edwardes, Thomas Scott-Berning, Patrick Bechard, Luke Taylor, Wenzile Ngcobo, Victor Foster, Ian le Roux Fourth Row: Thomas Edley, Ben Connolly, Joshua Maher, James Bekker, Liam Friend, Nick McMichael, James Redfern, Baron Pearce, Trafford Melville, Anele Songca, Samuel Jarvis, Nick RhodesJones, Marco Parau, Matthew McCarthy, Raymond Liversage Third Row: Bongi Fleischer, Hloni Mabaso, Rogan Muirhead, Tom Usher, Roo Bechard, Bailey Green, Mphathi Zungu, James Dixie, Graham Davies, Michael Rautenbach, Isaac Jarvis, K-J Gaetsaloe, Kyle O’Brien, Tshiamo Mogopudi, Ntsako Maluleka Second Row: Kelvin Green, Tshiamo Seokane, Matthew Craigie Stevenson, Hamish Henderson, Duncan le Roux, Mark Dixie, Zozi Pasiya, Harry Nel, Ryan Davies, Luke HamiltonPotts, Duncan Cribbins, Timothy Goble, Rorke Melville, Siyanda Mkhize, Guy Daugherty, Mike Macleod Front Row: Mr Shaun Thompson, Brandon Macleod, Bruce Rouillard, Mr Graeme Calway, Joshua Cullinan, Mr Bernie Whitaker, Mr Nic Cahill, Ngcebo Maseko, Frank Goble, Mrs Heléne du Toit, Richard Beckett, Mr Sizo Chalufu, Daryn Flanegan, Mr Gary van Breda
participation in the athletics day, swimming gala and E Block survival camp. The D Blockers were an interesting group. Collectively, they chose to have a very friendly relationship with the E Blockers, so that they could become more meaningful mentors to the juniors. They are a very talented group of boys who excelled in all aspects of Michaelhouse life. Bailey Green, Ntsako Maluleka, Raymond Liversage, Nicholas Rhodes-Jones and Luke Taylor made recurring appearances on the list of top 10 academics, and Ben Connolly was always recognised for his diligence. The rest of the grade continued to try their best in meeting their academic goals and they all showed gradual improvement. Matthew McCarthy, Hloni Mabaso, Tom Usher and Ntsako Maluleka were seen performing in the musical arena with impressive perseverance and determination. On the sports field, all of the boys continued to excel and all have a promising future. I took a specific interest in the performances of the senior side of the House. Our C Block can be seen as 178
a group of very energetic boys who like to experiment and push the boundaries. While one may think that this experimentation is problematic, I think it is a sign of growing up. I think this group will make a very promising group of leaders in 2017. Bongi Fleischer, Tlou Maenetje and Mphathi Zungu appeared consistently in the top 10 of their grade and subsequently received academic half colours for their efforts. Those boys, along with Isaac Jarvis, were also placed in Toastmasters after successful auditions, so we can expect more sophisticated discourse from them in 2016. Tshiamo Seokane was selected for the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands Youth Choir; we hope that he can manage his academics and Michaelhouse life with this very demanding commitment. Marco Parau (U16A rugby), Ian le Roux (U16A rugby), Bongi Fleischer (Stayers’ water polo), Ethan Hamilton-Potts (U16A water polo) and Richard Bechard (KZN squash and South African fly fishing) all continued with their endeavours outside of the classroom. This group is very spirited, talkative and funny, even though they can sometimes be biting.
House Reports
I experienced a range of feelings with these young men – from fury to joy – and I wish them luck for the rest of their high school careers. The B Blockers were more difficult to understand. They are an unlikely grouping, all being very different but weirdly compatible. They were also a popular group in the School, sometimes notoriously so. I think the year ahead is going to be challenging, but I cannot fault the group on their leadership. This Block is very similar to our new E Blockers because they are both very interested in sport. Luke Macdonald, Richard Friend, Graham Davies and James Redfern all made impressive appearances in the first hockey side this year. Wenzile Ngcobo, a dedicated soccer player, played in the first team and for Midlands, which earned him his colours. Andrew Edwardes was selected for the Stayers’ basketball team and also made first-team basketball. Kelvin Green flew the Tatham flag on the cycling track, coming in the top 30 of the South African marathon championships this year. He was also awarded colours. Mike Macleod played first team for sevens. This group also has dedicated academics, led by Thomas Edley, who was awarded his academic colours and went on the TARPs tour of China. On the stage, Tshiamo Mogopudi was awarded colours for choir. This is a vibrant group of boys who have a promising Matric year ahead of them. The Tatham Matrics ended the year on a very positive note after their five year journey towards significance. Anele Songca and Victor Foster were selected for the Craven Week rugby side, with Frank Goble featuring as a non-travelling reserve for the Academy side. All of these boys received honours for rugby. Alan Houston ended his school canoeing career on an excellent note, with good performances in the Fish River Canoe Marathon and the Dusi Canoe Marathon. Brandon Macleod was a very committed canoeing captain and ensured that everything ran well within the club. Richard Beckett, Baron Pearce,
Joshua Cullinan and Frank Goble remained nestled in the upper open teams over the year. Daryn Flanegan and Trafford Melville pushed themselves on the astro and in the classroom. Daryn and Richard Beckett deserve special mention for receiving academic honours this year. Jonathan Henderson maintained his musical excellence by getting a distinction in his Grade 8 ABRSM voice examination. However, it was not achievements that were our priority, but the lifelong relationships we have formed. We will definitely share more memories in the future and we will meet up again soon. Personally, I found this year very pleasant, humbling and challenging. Time is always difficult to manage, but it is always rewarding to get things done. The House remains in good hands under the guidance of Mr Nic Cahill and our House tutors. Our values remain intact. I enjoyed all the academic conversations I had with my housemates and the staff involved in running the School. On behalf of the Tatham boys, I thank Mr Cahill and the Tatham staff, including Mrs Matrina Mbambo, for all the sacrifices they made to ensure that we were well. This year was successful and the prospect of next year is exciting. I wish all the boys well. Salvete: Matthew Craigie Stevenson, Duncan Cribbins, Guy Daugherty, Ryan Davies, Mark Dixie, Timothy Goble, Luke Hamilton-Potts, Hamish Henderson, Duncan le Roux, Rorke Melville, Siyanda Mkhize, Harry Nel, Zozi Pasiya Valete: Richard Beckett, Duncan Boyes, Joshua Cullinan, Daryn Flanegan, Victor Foster, Frank Goble, Jonathan Henderson, Alan Houston, Samuel Jarvis, Brandon Macleod, Ngcebo Maseko, Trafford Melville, Baron Pearce, Bruce Rouillard, Anele Songca
Young Tatham lads at the Mvuleni Lapa in the Nature Reserve
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WEST Back Row: Matt Ramsden, Carlisle Hartman, Dimitri Loupis, Khwezi Kgalema, Kurt Martin, Fergus Johnson, Luke Crouch, Tyron Kassner, Gillespie Dougall, Michael Riddell, Matthew Owen, Shaun Tratschler, Tristan Herwood, Salmon Janse van Rensburg, Luvuyo Kunene Fifth Row: Luke Jonsson, William Lyle, Bongi Balisa, Joshua Gilson, Wesley Turkington, Leighton Quin, Brandon Orleans, Tshiamo Lesela, Alan Buttle, Luke Bayett, Sicelo Mkhumbuzi, Luke Volker, Joshua Winter, Andrew Cameron, Murray Finlay Fourth Row: Matthew Holt, Paul McLellan, Matthew Watson, Qaks Mehlwana, Murray Judge, Andrew Holt, Nkandu Chibwe, Thomas Grant, Dante Gutu, Daniel Kariithi, Luvuyo Magwaza, Malusi Mpofu, Tom Tongoona, Liam Laidlaw Third Row: Tristan Wolvaardt, J-P van de Velde, Matthew Myers, Mikael Maingard, Nicholas Kershaw Second Row: Lombe Chibwe, Leruri Sealetsa, Andrew Daly, Luc Lenferna de la Motte, Noah Stanger, Ben Rebeck, James Moodie, Rourke McGrath, Reinhardt Pienaar, Oliver Morgan, Ellis Dougall, Michael Steyn, Kombo Magara Front Row: Mrs Julie Flanegan, Alex Hayman, Mr Peter Stevens, Luke Judge, Mr Jaap van der Vegte, Jack Hird, Mr George Ferreira, Charles Houston, Mr Matthew Higginson, Mulalo Sadiki, Mr Hannes Ebersohn, Thomas Fenn, Mr Hala Xulu, James Tucker
WEST Written by Charles Houston Housemaster: Mr George Ferreira Assistant Housemaster: Mr Matthew Higginson House Tutors: Mrs Julie Flanegan, Mr Peter Stevens, Mr Jaap van der Vegte E Block Tutor: Mr Hannes Ebersohn Interns: Mr Hala Xulu, Mr Michael Simpson Head of House: Charles Houston House Prefects: Thomas Fenn, Alex Hayman, Jack Hird, Luke Judge, Mulalo Sadiki, James Tucker The sun has set on another year in West, and it truly was a great year for this old House. The boys were unrelenting and determined in their endeavours, and this was once again illustrated through not only a wide array of individual achievements but also the growth seen in every boy in the House. Thus, it is with pride, and a little regret, that I look back on the past year.
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The fresh crop of E Blockers, though initially a little wobbly on their feet, soon adapted to life at boarding school and in no time at all were adding their worth to our House. This year West was the only House to complete Inhlosane from start to finish. It was a difficult and extremely rewarding challenge for the E Blockers, who established themselves as integral members of the House. They proved to be a force to be reckoned with at sports, too. James Moodie, Kombo Magara and Luc Lenferna de la Motte all played A team water polo, with Kombo doing well to make the Midlands side. James, Andrew Daly and Reinhardt Pienaar all made contributions to the A rugby team, and James was the captain of the team. Andrew and Reinhardt also played A team basketball. Luc performed on the tennis court and was consequently selected for the Midlands U15 side. Michael Steyn took his canoeing to the next level and finished the season by participating in parts of the Fish River Canoe Marathon. A special mention must go to Ben Rebeck, who came third in his age group on athletics day, played an A team sport in
House Reports
every term this year, was vice-captain of the cricket side, captain of the hockey side and made the KwaZulu-Natal Inland U14A hockey team, where he was top scorer at the tournament. These 13 E Block boys grew exponentially as a group, and I look forward to hearing of their future achievements in this House. The West D Block more than pulled their weight this year, winning both the junior tug of war and the junior Inter-House tennis. These boys form an exceptionally close-knit group and can be proud of their successes. There were a number of A team representatives, including Tom Tongoona and Bongi Balisa (basketball), Andrew Holt (rugby), Tom Grant (rugby and soccer) and Andrew Cameron (water polo). Andrew Cameron went on to be selected for the Midlands U15B water polo team. Daniel Kariithi did his older brother proud and was part of the Midlands Youth Choir. Andrew Holt was also in the jazz band and achieved his Grade 6 saxophone. Murray Finlay continued his fine academic form and must be applauded for coming first in the grade every single term this year and for placing in the top 100 in the Maths Olympiad. Murray also received the bronze award in the Inter-House gala. The C Blockers were a relatively small group but their diversity added so much to the House. Remarkably, every single term this year they had someone on exchange, which must surely be a first. Michael Jay, Leighton Quin, Wesley Turkington and Nick Kershaw each spent a term at schools around the world. The House was particularly fond of Martin Calaf, the exchange student from Chile, and despite his hilarious accent he was awarded “player of the week” in his final week, an award nominated by the boys every week for the best achiever in any particular field. Martin’s final words still echo through the House: “I will came back.” Although in C Block, a number of boys featured in firstteam sides. Brandon Orleans played first team basketball and Wesley Turkington consistently benched for the First XV, proving he is one to look out for in the future. Wesley also featured in the top ten academic achievers throughout the year. Despite some injury setbacks Nick Kershaw showed his class in the U16A rugby team and first tennis and cricket teams. Nick and Wesley were also selected to play for the Dubai sevens team and will travel to Dubai to participate in a sevens tournament at the end of the year. Luke Jonsson was exceptional in the pool and was named the goalkeeper of the tournament at the DHS provincial water polo event. Luke also played for the U16A rugby side. Dimitri Loupis must be given recognition for his incredible clay pigeon shooting accomplishments, finishing tenth (fourth junior) at the World Clay Pigeon Shooting Championships. Nkandu Chibwe received the PD Barnard memorial Afrikaans prize at Prize Giving and Luke Volker received half colours for performing arts. As a group the C Blockers all managed to complete the daunting C Block journey, illustrating that West will not be in short supply of leadership in the years to come. Finally, I must mention that Matthew Myers bench-
pressed 180kg, which is believed to be a School record. Quite a feat for a 16-year-old. The B Block suffered a major blow early in the year when Alex Sickmueller unexpectedly had to leave Michaelhouse because of personal reasons. Alex was a great friend to many, and it was sad to see him go. He was awarded a music scholarship to Cheltenham College in England and we wish him all the best for the future. We were also sad to say goodbye to Josh Gilson, who decided to finish his school career at the Tuks Golf School. Despite this, the B Blockers were unfaltering in their contributions to the House. On the music front Carlisle Hartman achieved Grade 7 vocals, William Lyle achieved Grade 7 saxophone with merit and Luke Bayett achieved Grade 6 guitar. Carlisle was also a member of the prestigious Toastmasters Society, of which Luvuyo Kunene will also be a part next year. Academically the B Block were sound. Dante Gutu achieved a place in the top five and Mikael Maingard the top ten. Tristan Herwood was awarded the Natural History Society prize and Luvuyo Magwaza made it to the final round of the isiZulu Olympiad. There was also no shortage of sporting achievements. SW Janse van Rensburg again showed what he can do with a javelin and broke the School record, justifiably earning honours for athletics. As well as completing many of the prominent canoeing races this year, William Lyle came fourth in the Men’s South African Freestyle Canoeing Championship, and Carlisle Hartman was elected as the Secretary of the Canoe Club. Tyron Kassner and Matthew Ramsden played first team water polo, with Tyron subsequently selected to play for the KZN U19B side. Tshiamo Lesela played first team soccer and was awarded half colours and the most improved player prize for his contributions. Josh Gilson played for the KZN Schools B golf team. Dante Gutu played second team rugby, and Mikael Maingard’s electric pace proved pivotal in the First XV’s unbeaten season as well as for the first team sevens. Luvuyo Kunene and Matthew Watson were part of the hockey team that toured Europe, and Matthew proved to be an invaluable member of the First XI, later being selected to play for the KZN Inland U18A side. Matthew also received the Rex and Sarah Pennington award on Speech Day. The winner of the award is voted for by his peers, and it reflects what a morally strong and capable man he is. Fittingly, Matthew will take over the reins as Head of West in 2016. For a few, 2015 was the last crack at making it count, and I feel we did ourselves justice. Mulalo Sadiki was an unprecedented success at the highest level of sport. He played in this year’s Craven Week side and even managed to score a try in their first fixture. Not only was he instrumental in the First XV’s success, he also captained the first soccer and second basketball sides and made the Midlands U18A soccer side. Luke Crouch, Gillespie Dougall and Khwezi Kgalema were all influential 181
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members of the first basketball team, with Gillespie receiving the most improved player award. Luke Judge was a regular for the second cricket team and Jack Hird and Tom Fenn played second team water polo. At Prize Giving, Michael Riddell received the award for most improved aggregate, and Jack Hird received a Gabrielle Massey prize. Kurt Martin played a major role in this year’s production of True West, and deservedly received drama honours for his memorable performance. Kurt was also the deputy chairman of Toastmasters and deputy head of the jazz band. Matthew Owen was the recipient of the Trevor Acutt award, which means he was considered by his peers to have made the greatest contribution to friendship and loyalty in A Block in the House. I would like to thank my fellow West A Blockers for making my time at Michaelhouse so special and for leading from the front this year. The contributions of the A Block helped generate a homely atmosphere, to the benefit of the whole House. Their influence is an illustration of their capabilities moving forward. It is scarcely believable that all of West’s successes were accomplished by a group of only 72 boys. However, it would be foolish to portray West as only a list of achievements. It truly is so much more. Though we pride ourselves on being acknowledged throughout the School, even more important is the spirit and camaraderie of the House, of which every boy is a part. At one break time during the second term we were surprised by a visit from some of the A Blockers from when we were in E Block. It was a very interesting moment having three generations of West boys under the same roof, and I was thus able to introduce my cack to his grandcop. I was reminded of how powerful the relationships that are formed can be, and I was reminded that West holds a special place in each boy’s heart – regardless of the colour of the braid on his blazer. A special word of thanks must be extended to our Housemaster, Mnr Ferreira, who has been momentous,
West boys on a day trip to Ushaka
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not only this year, but over the past decade. Meneer’s value to West simply cannot be put into words. Needless to say his willingness to always go the extra mile and his outstanding organisational skills have truly taken West forward. It has been a privilege working with him this year. The House tutors have always been vital in the running of West, and this year was no exception. The fact that Mr van der Vegte completed the Dusi and Mr Higginson completed the Comrades Marathon gives you some idea of the calibre of these people. Although much of their work takes place behind the scenes they must be acknowledged for their willingness always to help out. They really do so much for the House and it is hugely appreciated. I have been fortunate to call West my home away from home for the past five years, and I have witnessed such incredible growth from the people around me, especially over the past year. I have nothing but confidence in the abilities of those taking over next year, and I wish Matthew Watson, the A Block of 2016 and the rest of West all the best for the years to come. Finally, I would like to wish the A Block of 2015 the best of luck as they head out into the great unknown. Fortunately for us we have strong foundations on which we can build. Salvete: Michael Museler, Lombe Chibwe, Andrew Daly, Ellis Dougall, Luc Lenferna de la Motte, Kombo Magara, Rourke McGrath, James Moodie, Oliver Morgan, Reinhardt Pienaar, Ben Rebeck, Leruri Sealetsa, Noah Stanger, Michael Steyn Valete: Alex Sickmueller, Josh Gilson, Luke Crouch, Gillespie Dougall, Thomas Fenn, Alex Hayman, Jack Hird, Charles Houston, Fergus Johnson, Luke Judge, Khwezi Kgalema, Kurt Martin, Matthew Owen, Michael Riddell, Mulalo Sadiki, Shaun Tratschler, James Tucker
House Reports
FARFIELD Back Row: Michael McCarthy, Rory Allan, Geoffrey Blore, Matthew Menear, Luc Maitre, Ant Fleischer, David Blore, Matthew Kiln, Liam Bowmaker-Wood, Michael Hanbury, Grant Haines, Matthew Lewis, Gareth Macaskill, Shane Maartens Fourth Row: Kai Honeywill, Vuyile Sowazi, Ross Dolbey, James Kiln, Craig Heenan, Julian Dias, Jean van der Westhuyzen, Mubeezi Lubinga, Tom Rorich, Gerhard Serton, Craig Pitt, Kieran Benson, Fergus Hathorn, Jake Zilesnick, Michael Menear, Julian Smart, Aidan du Toit Third Row: Andrew Britton, Katlego Mhlongo, Busisa Mtimkulu, Ben Chance, Brandon Jones, Christopher Butcher, Eric Serton, William Norton, Brandon Roome, Jack Worthington, Kuhle Khumalo, Joe Bracken, Christopher Hardie, Aphiwe Mthalane, William Marshall, Thabang Moephuli Second Row: Ayanda Nene, Craig Mason, Matthew Williams, Kian Edwards, Matthew Steere, Gavin Veenstra, Brandon Jewell, Liam Fourie, James Dawson, Kieran Ramsay, Jamie Lycett, Jordan Patrick, Khetha Khoza, Gillespie McCarthy, Luc van der Westhuyzen Front Row: Mr AJ Human, Justin Miller, Mr Richard Snowden, James Strachan, Mrs Win de Wet, Dasyan Nair, Mr Elmar de Klerk, Thandokuhle Mnguni, Mr Dean Forword, John Haines, Mr Ian Crawford, Thomas Greig, Mr Msizi Mchunu, Daluxolo Ngcebetsha
FARFIELD Written by Thando Mnguni Housemaster: Mr Elmar de Klerk Assistant Housemaster: Mr Dean Forword House Tutors: Mrs Win de Wet, Mr Msizi Mchunu, Mr Richard Snowden E Block Tutor: Mr Ian Crawford Intern: Mr André Human Head of House: Thando Mnguni House Prefects: Thomas Greig, John Haines, Justin Miller, Dasyan Nair, Daluxolo Ngcebetsha, James Strachan Michaelhouse enjoyed yet another year of success and continued to promote a positive and well-rounded ethos among the boys, inspiring each to find his niche. Farfield followed in a similar fashion, staying true to the vision outlined by the Farfield prefects of 2015: “In our best efforts we will ensure that Farfield is a home away from
home. Through our leadership and beyond, everyone should find Farfield to be a safe, dynamic and nourishing environment – promoting excellence and bringing out the best in all its members.” It is with a grateful heart that I can openly declare that the leadership in the House, coming from all spheres, ensured that the vision manifested and resonated with the boys. It was no easy task being responsible for 71 boys, but undertaking such a challenge was deeply rewarded through the gift which every boy bestowed upon me – brotherhood. It is no secret that Farfield maintains a strong reputation in the Michaelhouse community. It enjoys an intrinsic way of inspiring excellence and uncovering talent. In 2015 the fruits of such excellence were ever present and our boys enjoyed a broad spectrum of achievements. We began the year by welcoming 15 new boys, who all integrated themselves effectively into both Michaelhouse and the House. Although nervous and rather anxious to begin with, the group, through the help of their men-
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tors, soon began to realise the wealth of opportunities at Michaelhouse and thus valiantly looked to apply themselves. Academically it is to be noted that James Dawson blossomed into a top 10 academic after the first term. James also extended himself at sports by finishing third in the U14 sailing RS Tera competition. Similarly on the sporting side, Luc van der Westhuyzen managed to secure second place in the provincial U14 canoeing sprints and a superb third in U14 canoeing in South Africa. Gavin Veenstra constantly challenged for the position of number one squash player in his age group, finishing the year at number two. The E Block group, in general, more often than not displayed traits of courage and confidence in their development. This was evinced in Khetha Khoza making history by being the first E Block boy to voluntarily speak and share a message at a Christian Fellowship meeting. Khetha further asserted himself by leading the U14A cricket side. Liam Fourie followed in a similar fashion, captaining the U14A basketball side. The D Block group earned Farfield a great deal of prestige thanks to their efforts both individually and collectively. In their first year at School without mentors, they grew to be independent boys yet discovered the fruits of teamwork and camaraderie. One of the group’s most notable achievements was that of Mubeezi Lubinga, William Norton, Chris Hardie and Thabang Moephuli, who broke
an age-group record at the annual athletics Sports Day. Both Christopher Butcher and William Marshall enjoyed successes in the pool, making the Midlands A team for water polo. From a provincial perspective, William Norton represented KwaZulu-Natal in the U15 age group for tennis, and Mubeezi Lubinga shared similar success on the hockey field, making the KZN Inland hockey side. Thabang Moephuli and James Kiln represented us at the Douglas Cup, the annual golf challenge between Michaelhouse and Hilton, in the first and second team respectively. It is to be noted that Thabang delivered a stellar performance, described as “key to the team’s success”, which helped Michaelhouse make history by coming from behind to win the contest. On the cricket pitch, James Kiln managed to crack the 100 club when he scored 104 not out against Durban High School for the U15A side. William Norton produced a consistent and outstanding cricket season, topped with a 75 against St Charles College along with five wickets in the same game. He was also a solid member of the first tennis squad and came second in his age group on athletics day. Culturally, we saw Andrew Britton, through his association with the choir, and William Marshall, through his involvement in marimbas, receive half-colours for music. Andrew also chaired the junior book club, which he ran in a lively manner. The greatest victory for the group, however, was the humble and progressive way in which each boy looked to apply himself. The cloud of the Journey loomed over the C Block group from the beginning of the year, so it was very pleasing to see the boys return from that challenge so optimistic and ultimately appreciative of all they had learnt. Every boy in the Block completed the 14 day Journey and although none was shy to share his story, a greater leadership and interdependent side to the group began to blossom. In the House the C Blockers were more proactively involved than expected, contributing greatly to House morale, generating support for House activities in the afternoons and integrating themselves with both the senior and junior grades.
Farfield, feeling the need for speed
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During the year the group had to bid farewell to Julian Dias, who left for Australia. They also briefly said goodbye to Julian Smart, Ant Fleischer and Jean van der Westhuyzen, who also departed for Australia, but only as part of the exchange programme. Julian Smart represented the province, making the KZN Inland U16B side. Ant Fleischer was awarded colours for his swimming exploits and Jean van der Westhuyzen received honours for his exploits as an international canoeing champion. Kuhle Khumalo made the KZN Inland cricket side, and Michael Menear made the Inland U16A team for hockey. Kuhle also represented both the U16A rugby and soccer sides. Aiden du Toit flaunted his soccer skills in an effective season as captain of the U16A soccer side and went on to make the Midlands U17A soccer side. Culturally, Bran-
House Reports
don Jones must be noted for his inclusion in the KZN Youth Choir and his continued involvement in School productions, where he never failed to amaze his audiences. Academically, Ant Fleischer continued his steady form from E Block by achieving top 10 positions in the grade. The exuberance and lively nature of the group was their greatest asset and characteristic. Small in number, the B Block (dubbed the tightest group in the School) continued to be an example of brotherhood, welcoming a new member in Bruce Pritchard, who went on to be part of the first golf side at the Douglas Cup later in the year. The boys were very involved, often serving as a point of counsel to the leadership of the House. On the sporting front, Grant Haines, Liam Bowmaker-Wood and Ben Strachan all made the first sevens side. Culturally, Jake Zilesnick, Busisa Mtimkulu and Aphiwe Mthalane received colours for music thanks to their exploits in the marimba band. They all performed in the International Steel Pan and African Ensemble competition in Johannesburg, where the band was ranked first in three divisions and second in a fourth, which made it a top-tier band worldwide. Gerhard Serton and Nicholas Forshaw were active members of the exclusive Toastmasters Society, with Gerhard being elected secretary for 2016. Academically, Nicholas Forshaw was awarded colours for his academic application and he remained a consistent member of the TARPs group. It is to be noted that Aphiwe Mthalane will be the athletics captain for 2016 and Matthew Kiln will captain the tennis side and be head of the Christian Fellowship committee. Matthew will also be Deputy Head Boy for 2016 and is sure to assume the office with valour, critical thinking and, most certainly, enthusiasm. The B Block group are sure to maintain a progressive leadership stance in both the School and the House, and we look forward to their exploits in the near future. Having spent five years at Michaelhouse it has been surreal to see the vast potential and talent found and cultivated among my peers. Through steady application and the support of the establishment, the hearts of these boys have slowly grown into the hearts of men. Justin Miller must be commended for making the South African U18A hockey side as goalkeeper. Justin also held the office of vice-captain of the First XI hockey side, and Gareth Mackaskill was captain of the side. Together they led the team to great successes, with Gareth seeming to deliver whenever the team needed him to; he finished as top goal scorer and represented the green and gold, making the national U18B hockey side. Gareth also represented the first cricket side, and Justin represented the first water-polo side. Other first team representatives in their disciplines were Dali Ngcebetsha, Dasyan Nair, who vice-captained his team, and Thandokuhle Mnguni, who captained the side. Michael Hanbury represented the first water-polo side. James Strachan enjoyed success as captain of tennis and was the top ranked first team tennis player. Rory
Allan represented the first golf side along with Thomas Greig, who was vice-captain. Geoffrey Blore represented the first squash side and was awarded colours for his exploits. Culturally, Daluxolo Ngcebetsha was awarded music colours for his involvement with the marimbas and he, too, represented the band at the Steel Pan and African Ensemble competition. Daluxolo and Matthew Lewis were pioneers in the art sphere of Michaelhouse and consistently had works on gallery display. Thomas Greig and Thandokuhle Mnguni were both keen members of the Toastmasters Society. Justin Miller was a member of the Christian Fellowship committee along with Thandokuhle Mnguni. Academically, Thomas Grieg broke through as a top 10 academic and was awarded colours for his hard work. Geoffrey Blore was also awarded colours for academics. As a House, Farfield once again enjoyed winning the athletics day trophy, making it a decade without conceding defeat. Our Housemaster summarised the achievement perfectly: “The victory was not made up of individual talents but the continued involvement of nearly every boy.” Farfield also won the Inter-House basketball tournament, the junior squash challenge, the junior tennis championship and the School golf championship. Farfield boys are proud of their House and all those they share it with. Although the year was hugely successful, the greatest victory for the House was its deep belief in the values of Michaelhouse and in challenging the boys to pursue the ideals of the School’s founder, James Cameron Todd. Farfield is not so much a House as a home. Thank you, too, to all those who made Farfield the place that it is: the team behind the team. Salvete: Bruce Pritchard, James Dawson, Kian Edwards, Liam Fourie, Brandon Jewell, Khetha Khoza, Jamie Lycett, Craig Mason, Gillespie McCarthy, Ayanda Nene, Jordan Patrick, Kieran Ramsay, Matt Steere, Luc van der Westhuyzen, Gavin Veenstra, Matthew Williams Valete: Julian Wingate-Pearse, Julian Dias, Rory Allan, Geoffrey Blore, Thomas Greig, John Haines, Michael Hanbury, Matthew Lewis, Gareth Macaskill, Luc Maitre, Michael McCarthy, Matthew Menear, Justin Miller, Thandokuhle Mnguni, Dasyan Nair
“A special school filled with special people.” Parent Priscilla Meg Cuturi, Facebook
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PASCOE Back Row: Fana Shezi, William Glassock, Mpumelelo Shezi, David Maritz, Todd Dinkelmann, James Overmars, Cameron Clark, Alexander de Villiers, Justin Seymour, Luke Browett, Nicholas Mundell, Mogale Makgekgenene, Nick Elliot, Liam Flanagan, Zuko Fukula, Ross Egberink Fourth Row: Torin Mecklenborg, Liam England, Cameron Williams, Luke Versfeld, Callum Deeble, Joshua Sharrock, Jack McLaughlin, Nicholas Herbert, Jordan Sacks, Nicholas Tooze, Carl Lubbe, James McCormack, William Lister-James, Matthew Hoar, Thabani Ntombela, Dylan Paynter Third Row: Cameron Whittaker, Tinashe Gasa, Kitlano Mosidi, Poonyane Molefi, Mpho Mthethwa, Cameron Leer, Odirile Losaba, Vincent van der Westhuizen, Joshua Paynter, Sebastien Merven, Nicholas Stainbank, Manqoba Ngcobo, Lahlasela Makhubela, Jabu Price Moor, Alex Harel, Thabiso Ntshulani Second Row: Ruben Mitchell, Jesse Paynter, Toby Versveld, Oliver Cradock, Matthew Baird, Jay Sacks, Mika Cabeleira, Elliot Muir, Siphe Mbokazi, Michael Daffy, Akwande Mzobe, Jamie Deeble, Tyler Grant, Lunga Fukula, Lukhanyo Ntuli Front Row: Mr Mikey O’Connor, David Geard, Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo, Pule Ngwenya, Ms Lisa Hardie, Liam Furniss, Mr Peter Huntley, Blake Springate, Mr Righardt Kotze, David Karam, Mr Dominic Gruijters, Christian Botha, Mr Rodney Zondi, Matt Wiseman
PASCOE Written by Blake Springate Housemaster: Mr Peter Huntley Assistant Housemaster: Mr Righardt Kotze House Tutors: Mr Andrew Brown, Mr Dominic Gruijters, Mr Nkanyiso Ngcobo E Block Tutor: Ms Lisa Hardie Interns: Mr Andrew Laing, Mr Mikey O’Connor, Mr Rodney Zondi Head of House: Blake Springate House Prefects: Christian Botha, Liam Flanagan, David Geard, David Karam, Pule Ngwenya, Matt Wiseman As the time comes to say farewell to Michaelhouse, it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed by the experience I have had over the past five years. Michaelhouse and Pascoe have served as my home, and the boys as my brothers.
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I am pleased to say that at the close of another year, I am still in total admiration of Michaelhouse and the unity we have in Pascoe. An atmosphere of camaraderie surrounded us at all times. Pascoe, which houses diverse individuals, excelled on all fronts, whether it was on stage, in the art school, in the classroom, on the sports field or even in our outdoor activities. The boys contributed to all these aspects with vigour and pride, making 2015 another successful year. At the start of the year we welcomed 14 new E Block boys. Despite their different personalities, they settled in well and quickly began to show their potential. As time moved on, the good times and the laughter among them increased and they slowly started to drown out any negatives in their ever-improving friendship circle. They also asserted themselves beyond the confines of the House by completing the arduous Inhlosane hike and frequently taking part in the House’s community partnership programme at Hlanganani.
House Reports
The group has much talent, as evidenced by their numerous achievements. Jamie Deeble, Toby Versfeld and Tyler Grant were all members of the U14A rugby team. Jamie and Oliver Cradock both played in the U14A water polo team, and Jamie was selected for the Midlands team. Oliver came first in breaststroke during the Inter-House gala. Jayden Sacks and Matt Baird were part of the U14A basketball team. Toby and Elliot Muir were prominent members of the U14A soccer team; Toby was selected for the KwaZulu-Natal soccer squad and Elliot for the Midlands team. On the academic front, Ruben Mitchell and Tyler Grant placed consistently in the top 10 in the Block. Ruben also achieved a position in the top 100 in the national Maths Olympiad. Elliot Muir featured in the School play, My Fair Lady. A few of the boys registered for the President’s Award and given their enthusiasm, you can be sure they will be deserving of medals soon enough. These fine young men made an excellent start to their Michaelhouse careers and it was a pleasure getting to know them. Our D Block comprised a diverse group of characters who showed tremendous growth, both individually and as a Block. Although they returned to School without their cops, they still managed to be a lively bunch and assist with the E Blockers’ integration into Michaelhouse. On the sporting front, we continued to achieve. Liam England and Cameron Leer were part of the U15A cricket side. Cameron Williams played for the impressive U15A water polo team. Torin Mecklenborg played for the U15A basketball team along with Fana Shezi, who was the captain. Mpho Mthethwa, Liam and Fana were all key players in the U15A rugby team. Tinashe Gasa, who is a year young for his Block, represented Pascoe in the U14A soccer team. Fana played in the U15A soccer team. Torin excelled at mountain biking this year, achieving first position in his age group at the Dargle Festival Cycling Race and coming fourth overall in the race in Eston. Manqoba Ngcobo placed consistently in the top 10 in the Block, and his academic efforts secured his membership of TARPs. Manqoba also won the individual junior Inter-House public speaking title. Mpho Mthethwa was awarded first place in isiZulu. The D Blockers grew in their relationships with one another. I admire their cheerful, confident demeanour. We were sad to see Cameron Whittaker leave Pascoe and Michaelhouse at the end of the third quarter, and wish him well in his future endeavours. The C Blockers were an equally well-rounded group. William Glassock, Odirile Losaba and Cameron Clark were selected to go on exchange. We welcomed Siphe Mbokazi, who fitted in with ease. Siphe, along with Poonyane Molefi and Thabiso Ntshulani, played in the U16A basketball team. Dylan Paynter and Jack McLaughlin were
part of the U16A water polo side, and Jack was selected for the Midlands water polo team as well as the stayers’ first team. Jack was also a member of the U16A soccer team. William excelled on the sports field: he was captain of the U16A cricket team and a player in the U16A rugby team. Odirile, Cameron and Thabiso were also members of the U16A rugby team. Josh Sharrock was part of the School play, My Fair Lady, and was awarded half colours for Service and Dramatic Arts. Carl Lubbe was also awarded half colours for Service. Thabani Ntombela achieved a first position in isiZulu and Sebastien Merven achieved a first in French. William Glassock, Nicholas Mundell, Odirile Losaba and Cameron Clark were top 10 academic achievers during the year. The C Blockers embarked on their C Block Journey at the end of the third quarter. They had the opportunity to hike, paddle, cycle and learn more about themselves. It was an experience that helped in their transition from juniors to seniors in the School. The B Blockers enjoyed a successful year, building momentum as they prepared to lead Pascoe during 2016. Their fun-loving natures contributed to the positive atmosphere in the House. Whether it was out on the sports field or in the House, these young men were always approachable and friendly. They flew the Pascoe flag high this year, excelling in numerous areas. James McCormack and Callum Deeble were members of the successful first water polo team. Justin Seymour, Matthew Hoar and Luke Browett were part of the second water polo team, with Luke being selected for the stayers’ first team. James Overmars and Jordan Sacks were part of the first basketball team, and Luke Versfeld played in the second cricket team. During the second quarter, Ross Egberink and Nicholas Herbert played for the second rugby team, and both earned a few caps for the First XV. The two were also part of the Michaelhouse first team for sevens. During the third quarter, James Overmars played first team soccer and Matthew Hoar was part of the second team. Nicholas Herbert was a member of the first squash team. Luke Browett and Callum Deeble dominated the athletics track, with Callum being awarded the victor ludorum and Luke winning a few medals. Pascoe B Block’s relay team won almost all of their races on Athletics Day, also breaking a record, and won all their races at the Inter-House gala. Other noteworthy accomplishments: James Overmars was elected chairman of the Toastmaster’s Society for 2016; Jordan Sacks, Vincent van der Westhuizen and Zuko Fukula were part of the successful marimba band; Vincent was awarded Debating colours and was chairman of the Boxing Club; Luke Versfeld attained a first position in Drama; and Matthew Hoar was awarded half colours for Service. 187
House Reports
Having spent four years with these gifted men has been splendid. They have grown into a group who embody the characteristics of Pascoe and I will miss many of them. To accurately describe the Pascoe A Block of 2015 in one paragraph is simply not possible. Although their achievements were plentiful, their success as a group was not determined by their individual achievements but by the way they grew closer – the strengths of the different characters in the group uniting as one. Leadership was a huge strength among this group, as proven by the strong prefect body and various captains of sports teams. David Geard held defence position for the second soccer team and captained the side. He was joined by Mpumelelo Shezi, the vice-captain, and David Maritz. In the pool, Blake Springate captained the second water polo team and Matt Wiseman was vice-captain. Both the second soccer and water polo teams enjoyed unbeaten seasons. David Geard was also vice-captain of the First XI cricket side, of which Nick Elliot was a part. Both David and Nick have earned themselves more than 50 caps for the First XI while at Michaelhouse. Mpumelelo was part of the first basketball team and Pule Ngwenya part of the second team. Matt Wiseman and Liam Furniss were both indispensible to the first rugby team, which remained unbeaten during 2015. Matt was selected to represent KZN at Craven Week and Liam was selected to play for the KZN Academy A team. The two were awarded rugby honours. During the third quarter, Matt and Liam continued to display their talent while playing for the first soccer team. Todd Dinkelmann, who was the captain of his soccer side, was the top goal scorer in the School. David Karam played first team tennis, second team rugby and earned a few caps for the First XV, too. David also
excelled at athletics, winning the high jump and receiving a bronze medal for his overall efforts. Nick Elliot was part of the first golf team and played a vital role in winning the Douglas Cup against Hilton College. The A Block achieved in other areas, too. Christian Botha achieved first place in Visual Art and English, and Blake Springate achieved first place in Maths. Liam Furniss was a leader in the Christian Fellowship Committee. Christian, Liam and Mpumelelo Shezi were members of Toastmasters. Blake and Mpumelelo were elected to the War Cry committee, and Pule Ngwenya was elected the deputy leader of that committee. Along with all the individual performances, Pascoe was able to remain competitive in most Inter-House activities. And besides the boys who went on exchange, a couple of Pascoe boys were able to represent Michaelhouse worldwide. Christian Botha, Cameron Clark, Nicholas Mundell and Manqoba Ngcobo were all privileged to be part of the TARPs tour of China, which was enriching because they experienced a different culture. Matthew Hoar, Callum Deeble, Jack Mclaughlin, Cameron Clark and Blake Springate all enjoyed their once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go on the water polo tour to play against the best in the world, the Croatians. A special word of thanks must be extended to Mr and Mrs Huntley, along with the staff and tutors. They always showed care, were easy to talk to and offered advice on various matters. Thank you all for putting so much time and effort into ensuring the wellbeing of the boys as well as the House. To Mr Huntley, Callum Deeble and the A Block of 2016: we wish you success as you carry Pascoe forward. I have no doubt that Pascoe will continue to flourish next year and in the years to come. To my friends in A Block: my heart is heavy and sad, but fortunately, it is only the end of the chapter and not the book. We each have our own books to write, holding our own pen. It is up to us. My only hope is that I will have the privilege of featuring in your chapters once this chapter has passed. It has been an honour to be a Pascoe man, and I am eternally grateful for the influence it has had on my life. Salvete: Matthew Baird, Mika Cabeleira, Oliver Cradock, Michael Daffy, Jamie Deeble, Lunga Fukula, Tyler Grant, Ruben Mitchell, Elliot Muir, Akwande Mzobe, Lukhanyo Ntuli, Jesse Paynter, Jay Sacks, Toby Versveld, Siphe Mbokazi
Pascoe boys looking natty for House photos
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Valete: Cameron Whittaker, Christian Botha, Todd Dinkelmann, Nick Elliot, Liam Flanagan, Liam Furniss, David Geard, David Karam, Mogale Makgekgenene, David Maritz, Pule Ngwenya, Mpumelelo Shezi, Blake Springate, Matt Wiseman
House Reports
BAINES Back Row: Matthew van Eeden, Kani Malekela, David Long, Christian Kohrs, Philip Melouney, Lance Tratschler, Marcel van Niekerk-Edwards, Jaryd Kleynhans, Declan Clackworthy, Aidan Schwartz, Kwanza Kukubo, Jacques Badenhorst, Devan Cowley, Charles Janse van Rensburg, Jonathan Maitre, Robert Singleton, Van WykVenter Fourth Row: Solomon Marx, Armin Prinsloo, Junior Buthelezi, Joshua Adlington-Corfield, Christian Opperman, Bradley Lovett, Joe Jangulo, Lewis Kamau, Mkuzo Kuwani, Toivo Khumalo, Angelo Lissoni, Thabang Dloti, Tristan Hughes, Jack Parsons, Warwick Albertyn Third Row: Richard Bam, Lesedi Letebele, Christian le Roux, Jack Firth, Stephen Brown, Stuart Beach, Johannes Steyn, Matthew McNally, Bruere Venter, Levin Kamau, Tom Bradford, Rigardt Albertse, Sebastian Maitre, John McLuckie, Cameron Fellner, Robert Melouney Second Row: Ndziwe Setloboko, Ryan Stringer, Sonwabo Gigaba, Bevan Albertyn, Nana BuxtonTetteh, James Harrison, Paulo Lucas, Alex Taylor, Langa Mgeyane, Gordon Suttie, Matthew Chettle, Luc Pousson, Tobias Dittmann, Themba Dloti, Riley Horner Front Row: Mr Sanele Zikhali, Mr Chris van der Berg, Bader-Werner Pretorius, Mr Craig Pieterse, Zander Prinsloo, Mr Sibs Ncamani, Nicholas Harrison, Mr Richard McMichael, Nicholas van Niekerk, Mr Bailey Coxon, duduzo S.Buthelezi, Mr James Smith, Mrs Mary McMichael, Qhayiya Lujiva, Dante Ceronio
BAINES Written by Nicholas Harrison Housemaster: Mr Richard McMichael Assistant Housemaster: Mr Sibs Ncamani House Tutors: Mr Bailey Coxon, Mr Jonathan Smith, Mr Chris van der Berg, Mrs Mary McMichael E Block Tutor: Mr Craig Pieterse Intern: Mr Sanele Zikhali Head of House: Nicholas Harrison House Prefects: Sduduzo Buthelezi, Dante Ceronio, Qhayiya Lujiva, Bader-Werner Pretorius, Zander Prinsloo, Nicholas van Niekerk Baines’ exclusive location on the furthest edge of the redbrick fortress allows for one to open the House door and jog on to Punchbowl and the surrounding fields. This is a privilege many people don’t get to experience and it’s a key factor in making the House unique. Being located away from the main educational facilities provides for a peaceful atmosphere because you don’t feel you’re at school but rather at home.
Over the years, Baines has transitioned into an environment where the junior boys can feel at ease in the presence of the older boys, and the bonds developed across the various Blocks have created a lively environment for work and play. The positive energy generated from this environment flows out of the House and into cultural arenas, classrooms and sports fields. At the beginning of the year, the House narrowly lost out on winning the Inter-House gala because of a few key athletes being away on the China TARPs tour. What I found to be greater than winning was the fact that the rest of the boys stepped up to the plate in the absence of their House-mates and gave it their best shot. We went on to win the senior Inter-House squash, music and debating. The Inter-House Cultural Week consisted of various competitions, such as music, drama and art, and Baines walked away as the overall winners. The Baines spirit was showcased when the entire House united to sing Uptown Funk, which secured the Inter-House music victory.
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House Reports
Our new boys arrived with big smiles on their faces, eager to make the most of the opportunities that lay in wait for them at Michaelhouse. They bonded well as a group and their position of third on the E Block Camp was evidence of this. They also excelled in their various fields, with many of them representing the House in the top rugby, cricket, squash, basketball and soccer teams, as well as a few achieving top 10 positions in the classroom. The new boys also made an effort to engage with the community and many lent a helping hand at Sunfield Home for the mentally challenged. This group displayed tremendous potential, which bodes well for the future of the House. The D Blockers brought with them the energetic spirit of their first year, with boys qualifying for the KwaZulu-Natal Inland soccer, hockey and golf sides. Our academics maintained their top 10 positions in the Block and our sportsmen represented the top cricket, tennis, basketball, soccer, hockey and rugby teams. Many boys were members of the KZN Youth Choir, and our violinist passed Grade 6 with merit. The lively atmosphere ever present in the top corridors of the House can be attributed to this 17-man group. Our C Block musicians and actors played key roles in the School play, competition marimba band, and choir. We also had boys achieving merits in Grade 6 voice and saxophone. Our sportsmen represented Midlands rugby and KZN squash, hockey and fly fishing. They also played active roles in the A teams for soccer, basketball, rugby, cricket and hockey, as well as first team golf and squash. We were fortunate to have the top two squash players in the School in this group. A few C Blockers attained their Level 2 first-aid certificates and we had a boy represent KZN in debating and Maths. The top 10 academic achievers maintained their positions in the Block. The entire group was fortunate to participate in the C Block Journey, where they learnt valuable life lessons and had the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty which surrounds us. The B Block boys had a busy year adjusting to the strenuous academic programme, yet they still excelled, with two in the top five and another in the top 10. Boys represented first and second team rugby, basketball, sevens and water polo. Our director for the Inter-House play won Best Director, and we also had a provincial fly-fishing representative. A few of the boys were invited to join the Christian Fellowship Committee and Christian Representatives Council – bodies which play a crucial role in this School. Special mention must be made of Mkuzo Kuwani for being named Senior Prefect for 2016, and thus receiving the Chree Bright award. I wish him the best of luck as he strives to lead the School to greater heights. The Baines A Block boys did a tremendous job flying the Baines flag high and succeeded in being crucial role models and mentors to the younger boys. The boys put in long
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hours in the classroom to maintain their top 10 positions and many were proud of the improvements in their marks across the various subjects. Our sportsmen were outstanding, with Bader Pretorius representing the South African Schools A rugby team. Charles Janse van Rensburg represented KZN for water polo, Philip Melouney represented the provincial B team for squash, and Jaques Badenhorst and Dante Ceronio were selected for the Inland golf team. Bader Pretorius, Charles Janse van Rensburg and Nicholas Harrison were selected to captain the rugby, water polo and athletics teams, respectively. The boys also played first team rugby, golf, basketball, soccer, tennis, sevens and water polo. Nicholas van Niekerk and Zander Prinsloo were actively involved in hosting the inaugural Youth Voices Conference at Michaelhouse, and Nicholas was awarded Best Speaker at Inter-House debating. Van Wyk Venter excelled in music and drama, playing the lead in the School production of My Fair Lady. Baines also won the senior tug of war, making us the undisputed strongest and manliest House in the School. The Baines boys were involved in various international tours this year, including the TARPs tour to China, the hockey tour to the Netherlands and the water polo tour to Croatia. Three Baines boys were also members of the Douglas Cup golf team who succeeded in beating Hilton College in the annual golf competition between the two schools. It was encouraging to see the large number of honours, colours and half-colours awards achieved in various fields – they show how fortunate the House is to have such talented young men. Baines is unique. We range from farmers and foreigners to city slickers and staff kids. We are all different, yet each one of us – staff and boys – plays a valuable role in making this House the vibrant place that it is. More important than a long list of accolades is the Baines brotherhood: kind, caring, compassionate young men who are always there to lend a helping hand to their peers or even just to share a moment of laughter, anger or sadness. It’s amazing how a bunch of guys from all walks of life can come together in this House to build the strong bond we have today. I believe that a strong bond between staff and pupils is vital in the success of this School and this House, so special mention must be made of the Baines staff, who kept the spirit of the House alive and were always around to lend a hand or share a piece of advice. I thank the Baines A Block of 2015 for the fine example they set for those to come, and I am grateful for the brotherly bonds we created and the moments we shared over the years. I wish the Baines boys the best of luck for 2016 and am confident the Baines spirit will continue to burn bright under the guidance of Armin Prinsloo.
House Reports
As Rudyard Kipling said: “For the strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.” I can say with pride that Mackenzie has indeed been a strong House and this is a reflection of the strength and success of all the boys who occupy its corridors. The E Blockers, though nervous and timid at the beginning of the year, quickly adapted to Michaelhouse life and proved to be excellent assets to the House and the School. Nearly all the boys conquered the dreaded Inhlosane hike despite the terrible weather, and they also made an effort to be actively involved in the community service programmes offered by the School.
The Baines E Block group
Boys, I can’t imagine anything more exciting than the journey that lies ahead of us, so cherish what you learnt here, and go out and make the most of what is to come. Salvete: Bevan Albertyn, Nana Buxton-Tetteh, Matthew Chettle, Tobias Dittmann, Themba Dloti, Sonwabo Gigaba, Riley Horner, Langa Mgeyane, Luc Pousson, Ndziwe Setloboko, Ryan Stringer, Gordon Suttie Valete: Rigardt Albertse, Joshua Adlington-Corfield, Jacques Badenhorst, Stuart Beach, Sduduzo Buthelezi, Dante Ceronio, Devan Cowley, Nicholas Harrison, Charles Janse van Rensburg, Qhayiya Lujiva, Philip Melouney, Bader-Werner Pretorius, Zander Prinsloo, Ibukunoluwa Shonibare, Nicholas van Niekerk, Van Wyk Venter
MACKENZIE Written by Wesley Biggs Housemaster: Mr Iain Guthrie Assistant Housemaster: Mr Paul Snyman House Tutors: Mr Ernest Rindfleisch, Mr William Silk, Mr Johan van Rooyen E Block Tutor: Mrs Tanith von Mayer Interns: Mr Daniel Maremane, Mr Richard de Beyer Head of House: Wesley Biggs House Prefects: Ben Adey, Tim Coxon, Scott Nijland, Ryan Price, Jordan Sesink Clee, Murray Williamson This was a significant year for Mackenzie because it marked the 21st year of the House’s existence. A House so young in age yet so strong in its traditions, spirit and potential.
A number of boys excelled on the sporting front, with most of them playing in the A team for their respective sports. On the soccer field Lwandile Ngcobo represented us as a valuable member of the Midlands soccer side. In hockey, Khanyo Ndlovu was selected for the KwaZulu-Natal U14B side. Thami Zakwe was the U14 discus champion as well as part of the undefeated U15A sevens side, despite being part of the U14 age group. Thomas van der Hoven and Thomas Harper made us proud in the waters of the Fish River, with Thomas Harper coming first and Tom van der Hoven third in their age groups at the Fish River Canoe Marathon. On the academic and cultural fronts, we had two boys in the top 10 of the Block, with Sizwe Madoda placing fourth and Cyle Maynard Wilson first. Cyle also completed his Level 2 first-aid course and was chosen for the Midlands Youth Choir. The E Blockers won the E Block Survival Camp, which is a huge compliment to their teamwork and overall strength as a group. We are immensely proud of them for their achievements and integration into the School, and we look forward to seeing them grow as individuals and as a group in the years to come. The D Blockers, though reduced in number and diverse in character, managed to show a lot of growth and maturity during the year. They were joined by Dane Fischer, who was an active and enthusiastic member of the School’s sporting ethos, taking first place for the KZN U14 400m hurdles at Kings Park Athletics Stadium. Most of the D Block boys showed skill and interest in aquatic sports and activities. Warwick Geldunhuys was selected to tour Croatia as part of the Michaelhouse water polo team. A number of boys were very involved in canoeing. Daniel Dillon placed second in the South African K2 river championships and in the U16 age group for the Dusi Canoe Marathon. Thaki Tshivase was part of the central Gauteng soccer team and along with a number of D Block boys, showed a lot of musical and cultural talent. He passed his Grade 4 vocal exam as well as his Grade 3 guitar exam. Bongani Shabangu proved to be a literary mastermind, winning the Sacci Poetry Competition.
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House Reports
MACKENZIE Back Row: Ross Nalson, Luke Tomlinson, Simukai Madiro, Bongani Shabangu, Daniel Sesink Clee, Michael Buchholz, Stuart Grant, Ross Laing, Richard Johnston, Daniel Dillon, Kyle Kennaugh, Arturo Cuturi, Mikhail Khan, Koyejo Adeleke, Joshua Buys Fourth Row: Lesedi Mokoena, Mark Hadley-Grave, Mthobisi Cele, Matthew Hubbard, Cameron Clucas, Cameron Rawlins, Thomas Erskine, Jonathan Stephenson, Greg Reynolds, David Martin, Troy Nijland, Rowan Mockler, Owethu Phekani, Robert Wood, Daniel Roberts, Takalani Tshivase, Hendré de Villiers Third Row: Kabelo Zulu, Warwick Geldenhuys, Warren Yoko, Sean Li, Samkelo Mvune, Philip Thomas, Siyabonga Khoza, Christopher Lotze, Sean-Michael Price, Robert Ellison, James Courtney, Khanya Tutu, Julian Wingate-Pearse, Lance Reynolds, Seb Huggins Second Row: Bokang Makhele, Thomas Roberts, Cyle Wilson, Thomas van der Hoven, Sizwe Madoda, Nathan Wesson, Dane Fisher, Neil Johnston, Thamsanqa Zakwe, Tom Harper, Lwandile Ngcobo, Khanyo Ndlovu, Ross Nijland, Josh Klintworth Front Row: Ben Adey, Mr Daniel Maremane, Tim Coxon, Mr Richard de Beyer, Murray Williamson, Mr Paul Snyman, Scott Nijland, Mr Iain Guthrie, Wesley Biggs, Mr William Silk, Jordan Sesink Clee, Mr Johan van Rooyen, Ryan Price, Mrs Tanith von Mayer, Mr Ernest Rindfleisch, Ms Judith Msimang
A number of the C Block boys were fortunate enough to go on exchange. Troy Nijland, Koyejo Adeleke, Richard Johnston and Sean-Michael Price all went as ambassadors of the School and flew our flag high in four different countries. The C Block boys also completed the C Block Journey, an epic 13-day journey that includes cycling, paddling and hiking across the province. It is a real test of character and an opportunity for self-discovery. Many C Blockers played in the A teams for their sports. Noteworthy achievements include those of Simukai Madiro, who played first team basketball, and Robert Ellison, who was selected for the Midlands polo team. A good B Block is essential for the successful operation of the House because they are not only the future leaders of the House, but they also play a large role in influencing the younger Blocks. Our B Block grew closer as a group this year and showed enormous individual development. A lot of the boys achieved a great deal as well. Samkelo Mvune was placed third in the country for the isiZulu Olympiad. Michael Bucholz travelled internationally to represent South Africa at the go-karting championships, where he was placed third on the continent. Michael also played first team squash. Siyabonga Khoza and Josh Buys were valuable members of the first soccer team. Josh 192
also showed a lot of skill in hockey, playing for the first team and being selected for the U18 Inland side. Greg Reynolds was selected to tour Croatia as a member of the Michaelhouse water polo team. Our incoming Head of House, Rowan Mockler, was a member of the KZN golf team and chosen as the captain of the Michaelhouse golf team. Rowan was also a part of the Midlands debating team and maintained an excellent academic record, finishing second in the Block. Lastly, a strong A Block is always a good reflection of the success and prosperity of a House because they set an example for the rest of the House. I can say with great confidence and pride that this year’s A Block were astounding. They were all excellent leaders in their own way and made Mr Guthrie proud. They also managed to achieve a lot despite their busy year. Ben Adey and Wesley Biggs were placed in the top 10 for academics, with Ben, Wesley and Robert Wood being awarded Academic honours. Special mention must go to Ben and Robert because this was Ben’s second honours award and Robert was placed first in the country for the CAT Olympiad. Ross Laing was increasingly involved in community service and was awarded his Service honours.
House Reports
Luke Tomlinson came back from injury and persevered to earn himself a well-deserved spot in Michaelhouse’s undefeated first rugby side, and was part of the first soccer side. Jordan Sesink-Clee had an incredible year – not only was he part of the first cricket and sevens sides, he also played first team rugby and went on to represent KZN at Craven Week. Jordan also received the award on sports day for the best all-round athlete. Daniel Roberts played first team hockey as well as first team tennis. Dan was also the Michaelhouse tennis champion for 2015. Ross Laing was a valuable member of the school’s first basketball team. Lesedi Mokoena played first team soccer and held the position of War Cry leader, a role he fulfilled with great passion and enthusiasm. Tim Coxon was the captain of the School’s cross-country team and was placed in the top 10 for most of his races. Murray Williamson put a lot of effort into his art and one of his works was selected for display in the Tatham Art Gallery. Mark Hadley-Grave was a member of the Michaelhouse marimba band that won three first place awards at an international music competition.
A very special thank you to all the tutors and interns. Without them Mackenzie would not be a fraction of what it is today. The tutors and interns sacrifice a lot of time for the House and often do not receive the recognition they deserve.
Ben Adey, Stewart Grant, Jordan Sesink-Clee, Rowan Mockler, Joshua Buys, David Martin, Greg Reynolds, Ross Nalson and Wesley Biggs were active members of the School’s prestigious Toastmasters Society. Stewart was the secretary of the society and the recipient of the Dudley Forde Trophy for promoting excellence in Toastmasters. Jordan was awarded the trophy for the most improved speaker.
I have a huge amount of faith in Rowan Mockler, the Head of House for 2016, to do an incredible job and lead the House to new heights, and to lead with the highest level of integrity, compassion and commitment.
Joshua Buys, Thomas Erskine and Wesley Biggs received their silver President’s Award medals, and Tim Coxon and Mark Hadley-Grave achieved their bronze medals. Robert Wood, Stewart Grant and Wesley Biggs also received special prizes on Speech Day, with Robert being awarded the trophy for service to IT, Stewart receiving a Gabriel Massey award for oral work in English, and Wesley receiving the Andrew Henderson award for service to agriculture.
Salvete: Hugo Ayo, Tom Harper, Neil Johnston, Josh Klintworth, Sizwe Madoda, Khanyo Ndlovu, Lwandile Ngcobo, Ross Nijland, Thomas Roberts, Thomas van der Hoven, Cyle Wilson, Thamsanqa Zakwe, Dane Fisher
Overall, the House had a very good year, particularly the A and E Blocks. I do believe that the other Blocks will shine in the years to come as they nurture and discover their individual talents. Not every boy who played in the A team, or received colours or half colours has been mentioned because so many boys did well. A lot of boys also overcame personal challenges and showed a tremendous amount of character, and this is something to be very proud of. I believe these boys know who they are and can be very pleased with themselves because this is never easy and takes a great deal of courage. Our thanks as a House must go to Mr Guthrie for his endless enthusiasm and care for the House and its members. Mr Guthrie has also been a huge source of support and wisdom to me throughout my time at Michaelhouse. Thanks must also go to Mrs Emma Guthrie for being Mackenzie’s First Lady and for all the support she has given Mr Guthrie.
A final word of thanks needs to go to our parents for giving up so much for their boys and getting involved in the House wherever they can, including the various fundraisers, events, trips and especially the work done to improve the House and its facilities. I have thoroughly enjoyed leading the House and growing closer to all its members. I would not, however, have been able to do it without the help of my selfless A Block, who adapted well to change and always pulled through for me when I needed them to. Most importantly, they went above and beyond to ensure that the House became the best possible version of itself. So I just want to say thank you to them for all their support, loyalty, camaraderie and patience.
May the members of Mackenzie stay loyal, dedicated and committed to the House, and may they always live up to its motto to “shine and not burn”.
Valete: Julian Wingate-Pearse, Ben Adey, Wesley Biggs, Tim Coxon, Stewart Grant, Mark Hadley-Grave, Ross Laing, Lesedi Mokoena, Scott Nijland, Ryan Price, Daniel Roberts, Jordan Sesink Clee, Luke Tomlinson, Murray Williamson, Robert Wood
Mackenzie boys at Khazimula on Blanket Gift Day
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Old Boys
In 1896, Michaelhouse’s founder, James Cameron Todd, reflected that “a boy’s connection with his school is not severed when he leaves, but lasts throughout life. His whole tone, moral and spiritual, as well as intellectual, is largely determined for life by his school.” One hundred and nineteen years later, we are still guided by our founder’s spirit and the belief that each boy who passes through our gates is taking the first major step on a life-long journey of self-discovery, personal growth and camaraderie. The distinctive ivy-clad architecture of interlinked quadrangles, which has inspired a sense of belonging for generations of boys, remains a constant touchstone to the 5 700 alumni across five continents.
OFFICE BEARERS 2014 - 2015
Board Representative Ross Armstrong
The Patron The Rector of Michaelhouse Greg Theron
Ex-Officio Members Murray Witherspoon and Robyn Gruijters
President Mark Lynn President Elect Ross Cheshire Past President John Cheshire Trustees Chris James and Callum Smythe PA to Old Boys’ Club Secretary Michelle Huntley Old Boys’ Club Secretary Rev Canon Fred Pitout Treasurer Damien Rautenbach Central Committee Members Kevin O’Brien, Brett Davidson, Norman Ingledew School Representative Iain Guthrie
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Branch Chairmen Cape Town: Charles Phillips Durban: Steven Boast East Griqualand: Roger Spencer Eastern Cape / Grahamstown: Alan Redfern Gauteng: Robert Brown Midlands: Brett Moller Pietermaritzburg: Craig Lyle Zululand: Jeremy Steere Mpumulanga: Jack Brotherton Overseas Representatives Eastern Australia: Derek McIntosh, Richard Gellie, Dai Williams (Sydney), Shaun Renton (Brisbane) United Kingdom: Sean Lumley Western Australia: Guy Kirk USA/Canada: Mike Havers East Africa: Michael Scott
“Proud to have been schooled there and privileged to have had the opportunity. Thank you Michaelhouse!” Old Boy Nicolas Vaudin (1989), Facebook
Old Boys
Mr Gary Ralfe, the Chairman of the Board of Governors, Mr Peter Thorrington-Smith, the 2015 St Michael Awardee, and Mr Greg Theron, the Rector
ST MICHAEL AWARD CITATION: MR PETER THORRINGTON-SMITH Peter Thorrington-Smith completed his schooling at Michaelhouse in 1963. He was Head Prefect of Baines in his sixth form year and received School honours for athletics, having made the Natal team after becoming the province’s champion for the 440-yard dash. In 1963, while captain of athletics, he recorded the country’s fastest time in this event in his age group. Mr Thorrington-Smith also received School colours for rugby, was the secretary of the Taalvereniging, a member of the Dragon Club and the games committee, a lector and a student officer. According to Mr Goldie-Scot, the Housemaster of Baines in 1963, the House under Mr Thorrington-Smith’s leadership had come under criticism for being too soft, resulting in the cacks becoming full of themselves. He went on to note that to the contrary, discipline had been maintained in a House that had “left behind the old day-room workout” and was working towards a happier junior classroom which, in turn, had led to a happy and unified collective. In short, Mr Thorrington-Smith was a pupil who left behind a rich and positive legacy at Michaelhouse. This was to be a sign of things to come. After leaving School, he went on to achieve a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Natal in
1968, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Cape Town in 1970. Subsequent to this, Mr Thorrington-Smith achieved remarkable success in the business world. Graciously accepting a former head boy of Hilton College, Tiger Wessels, as a business partner, the pair, along with Roger MacFarlane, together built not one but two large-scale supply chain management firms. The first, WTC Airfreight, was sold to a large American conglomerate, and the second, Union Transport, now known as UTI, exists to this day. The company appears on the Nasdaq exchange and has annual sales of more than $5 billion, with 310 offices, 230 logistics centres and a staff of more than 21 000 in 59 countries. Considering that the trio began the company in a tiny office near the old Jan Smuts Airport, Mr ThorringtonSmith’s career has been staggeringly successful. He has worked hard for this success across the world, often maintaining a gruelling travel schedule. In the midst of this and his other pursuits, he has been a devoted family man. Together with his wife, Monique, Mr Thorrington-Smith has raised two sons and two daughters, and now enjoys the delight of many grandchildren. We honour him today not simply for his success, but for the motive and impulse which has been at the heart of that success, which has been stirred by a strong sense of duty to the ideal of Christian service.
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Old Boys
Mr Thorrington-Smith’s work for Opportunity International showcases that ideal. Opportunity International is a global non-profit organisation that provides micro-loans, training and insurance to millions of impoverished clients throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America and Europe. The organisation employs more than 17 500 people globally and currently has 2.8 million loans outstanding to its clients. Ninety-three percent of its loans are to women, and 98% of its loans are paid back. The organisation does not simply provide a loan, but rather a complete service to its clients in terms of support and guidance as clients work their way out of poverty with new access to credit. Mr Thorrington-Smith has been on the American board of Opportunity International for a decade and has travelled the world on its behalf, training its fundraisers and becoming an expert in micro-lending in his mission to assist the organisation as it seeks to serve the world’s poor. He has been crucial in raising tens of millions of dollars for the organisation using his corporate skills, and has thus been at the heart of its success in creating more than 12 million job opportunities worldwide.
knew so many years ago here at Michaelhouse, the school at which he ran so fast. In addition to these efforts, for the past three years the Thorrington-Smith Family Trust has given generously to the Michaelhouse Bursary Fund as well as to the Michaelhouse Community Partnership Trust, with particular attention given to St Raphael’s Care Centre and Hospice, which was recently completed as a primary healthcare provider for Zenzane village and the wider community. This charitable giving has been quiet and without ostentation. The St Michael Award is given to an Old Boy who exemplifies the virtues of St Michael himself – justice, compassion, kindness, integrity and truth. Mr Thorrington-Smith has brought honour to his alma mater by living according to these high ideals. He is an example to all of us here today. God made him fast, and he has run the race of life with purpose and the pleasure of God.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
His expertise in micro-finance has led to his lecturing on the topic at the revered Kellogg and Marshall business schools in Chicago and Los Angeles, respectively. The president of Opportunity International in the US, David Simms, recounts that the Thorrington-Smiths have used their own assets to personally lift 116 437 clients out of poverty, thereby positively affecting more than 629 000 people. Simms regards Mr Thorrington-Smith as a true hero. He has received no financial recompense for these efforts.
Address by the President of the Old Boys’ Club, Mr John Cheshire
On top of his work with Opportunity International, he has also served as chairman of the board of Westmont College, a Christian liberal arts university of 1 300 students in Santa Barbara, California. The president of the College, Gayle Beebe, testifies that Mr and Mrs Thorrington-Smith are two of the most remarkable human beings he has ever known. In short, their lives are lived as a quiet expression of the life and spirit of Jesus Christ. They routinely make it possible for disadvantaged students to attend the college, while deflecting all attention from themselves.
If I may begin with activities from as recently as yesterday: Last night saw the conferring of our highest Old Boy award, the St Michael Award, to Mr Peter Thorrington-Smith. As always, it was a moving ceremony, and particularly important to honour such men in the company of the School’s boys. Apart from his impressive career in the supply chain management industry, Peter was honoured for his extraordinary and unselfish service to the non-profit organisation Opportunity International, which provides micro-loans, training and insurance to millions of impoverished clients across the globe. All of this was stirred by a strong sense of duty to the ideal of Christian service. Peter, on behalf of all here present, hearty congratulations on this richly deserved St Michael Award.
On countless occasions the college has attempted to honour him, yet all Mr Thorrington-Smith has allowed thus far is a rock engraving of a favourite quote from the classic film Chariots of Fire. The quote, from Eric Liddell, the famed sprinter, reads: ‘I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel his pleasure.’ Dr Beebe notes that in almost every conversation he has with Mr Thorrington-Smith concerning his homeland, he never fails to return to talk of the band of brothers he
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Good morning and welcome once more to the Rector, the Chairman of the Board, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, all the gaudy attendees, fellow Old Boys and, in absentia, all 5 533 registered Old Boys of Michaelhouse. It gives me great pleasure to present my report as President of the Old Boys’ Club.
Immediately thereafter, approximately 270 Old Boys gathered to celebrate their respective gaudies. These are always such special evenings – to witness the brotherhood and camaraderie that exists among your peers. A huge thank you to all those who made the effort, in particular the respective champions of each year, as well as the School for hosting this together with the
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catering staff, who laid on a sumptuous meal. This being my final report, I would like to comment briefly on one key observation about the presidency of this office. While there is much to oversee and adhere to, the relative ease or difficulty of one’s tenure is largely dependent on two things: firstly, the space in which the School finds itself; and secondly, the current form of the First XV rugby. If both of these are in order, believe you me, the job is easy. So after two years, I am happy to report that my time has been a breeze.
All responses received are being collated and will no doubt form part of the ongoing strategic process and
On a more serious note, I would like to pay particular compliments, on behalf of all Old Boys, to the Chairman of the Board, Mr Gary Ralfe, as well as our Rector, Mr Greg Theron. The School, as you heard earlier, is in a fine space. Believe me, this does not happen by chance and I know that a lot can be credited to the fine leadership that exists at present. As Old Boys we can be very proud and thankful for this. A personal thank you to the two of you for the tremendous support you have provided both me and the Old Boys’ Club.
1952 Matrics Jan van Maasdyk, Murray Armstrong and Stan Sharratt on Old Boys’ Day
The Rector spoke earlier of the strategic process, which is well under way. I believe it is important that I give feedback more specifically on the Old Boy involvement in the process and some of the challenges and opportunities that confront us.
discussions at the next Board meeting. Certainly, by the end of this year, the Old Boys’ Club, under the presidency of Mark Lynn, will be equipped to act upon these.
Firstly, of the 2 700-odd respondents to the initial bulk survey sent out, in excess of 50% of these were Old Boys. So to you who took the time to respond, a massive thank you – it again demonstrates the passion and strong ties that prevail. Resulting from these initial findings, the Board, together with the Rector and Exco, met for a full day’s session to drill down the key issues that would form part of our next strategic plan. Seven constituents were identified, Old Boys being one of them, who were then invited to specific focus groups countrywide and abroad to answer general questions as well as Old Boy-specific questions. Specific areas of debate for Old Boys revolved around: 1. Ideas or contributions we can offer to improve or leverage Old Boys’ contact with the current boys. 2. How the School or Old Boys’ Club can improve the communication or transfer of knowledge from noteworthy or successful Old Boys to other Old Boys as well as to the School’s boys, who might benefit from their experience. 3. How the Old Boys’ Club can specifically improve its schedule of meetings or events to improve the relationship between the Club, the School and the boys.
The branch reports in your booklet, for which we will seek ratification later, are evidence that all branches have been active in their respective ways. I am pleased to announce that just recently, our 13th branch has been formed in East Africa, and they enjoyed their first dinner in Nairobi. My thanks to Michael Scott for getting things off the ground. The incoming Old Boys’ President, Mark Lynn, is secretly hoping that their next gathering will be in the Serengeti, which he most certainly must attend. I know it is incorrect to single out a particular branch, but I believe the work being done in the UK branch deserves special mention and praise. The quality of functions, their relative attendance, the assistance granted to young Old Boys arriving in the UK and the professional manner in which the branch is run are a shining light and example to all branches worldwide. Sean Lumley, their chairman, is with us today. If you could please accept our congratulations and take them back to your committee. Incidentally, their next gathering is a live streaming of the final Hilton/Michaelhouse rugby fixture, to be watched with Old Hiltonians at The Loose Cannon, where they expect 200 or more to attend. The Old Boys’ Club Treasurer and School Bursar, Damien Rautenbach, has just taken us through the healthy finances of the club. What he didn’t allude to
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was the fairly significant drop in profits budgeted for this year, in that we have plans for a long-outstanding and important project of searching for the correct contact details of many missing Old Boys, which necessitates a large spend. My thanks to Damien for the efficient way in which you manage the financials of the Club. At last year’s AGM there was much interest and discussion about how the School would commemorate the centenary of the start of WWI, and specifically the 43 Old Boys who lost their lives in the Great War. In October of last year I was fortunate enough to travel to Ypres in Belgium and the Somme in northern France, and to visit either the grave sites or the memorial wall of 13 of our Old Boys. I was also able to plant a cross at the grave of our then Rector, Anthony Brown, who was only 35 at the time of his death. A wreath was also laid at Delville Wood, and I am shamed to say that I pinched 43 pin oak acorns from Delville Wood, which have been transplanted locally to replace the existing trees in Warriors’ Walk as and when required. Remembrance Sunday at Michaelhouse in early November was a stirring occasion, starting with all staff, boys, military dignitaries and guests walking from the School gates through Warriors’ Walk to the Chapel. A dedicated plaque was unveiled in the cloisters, which I invite you all to visit while here. More importantly, though, next year July marks the centenary of the Battle of Delville Wood, in which many South Africans, including Old Boys, lost their lives. I do know that Gary Ralfe and other prominent Old Boys will be there and plan a number of things in honour of our Old Boys. If I may invite Gary to comment on these plans under ‘General’. I know you will be most interested. The Old Boys’ Club started this year with the shock news of our permanent Secretary, Father Fred Pitout, having to undergo an emergency heart procedure. I am pleased to say that Fred has recovered well and, in his own words, is “as strong as an ox”. This necessitated Fred being off for the entire first term, so my thanks to Michelle Huntley, who held the fort with such distinction. I must say it is easy for any Old Boys President to stand up before you all and report back on the busy activities of the Old Boys’ Club. However, none of this happens without the tireless, efficient and enthusiastic work of our Fred Pitout and Michelle Huntley. It is a delight to deal with you and you remain the backbone of the Club. A huge thank you and I shall miss you. My final thank you must go to my fellow members of the central committee, and in particular the wise council of Chris James and Charles Hudson-Bennett, as well as the incoming President, Mark Lynn, who was always there to assist. You have all been great support and I thank you for
your commitment. In Mark Lynn you have an outstanding person to lead the Old Boys’ Club and I wish you well. In conclusion, it has been a privilege to serve as President. The School and, indeed, the Old Boys’ Club remain eternally grateful for the Old Boys’ ongoing support. Thank you for your attendance and enjoy the rest of Old Boys’ Day.
BRANCH REPORTS EAST AFRICA BRANCH
Chairman: Michael Scott
Michaelhouse has always had a proud history of nurturing young East African rug-rats and producing fine gentlemen. Having Matriculated in 2006 and not being from South Africa, my ties with the School that gave me so much in life were essentially cut when I moved on to the UK to further my education, as so many of us from East Africa tend to do. Despite many of us in the region maintaining contact, I had never known of the vast number of OMs, past and present, that were from East Africa or had moved to East Africa for work later in life. In late 2014, one of my closest childhood friends, Tahir Popat, who also attended Michaelhouse, introduced me to Justin Heath, another Old Boy who had taken a similar path in life to Tahir, attending the same educational institutions and ending up with the same employer after university. Over a few drinks one evening we started talking about our times at Michaelhouse, sharing stories and making comparisons of our respective periods at the School. Through our stories we realised we knew a good number of Old Boys living in the region, and so the idea was born to create a database and to see how many Old Boys there actually were, and what their interest in the School would be like. We were blown away. Within a month we had a database of more than 50 names that spanned decades of Michaelhouse generations from the 1960s to very recently, although some of the older Old Boys did not indicate when they Matriculated. With such a positive response, all that was left to do was to plan our first dinner. That dinner was held in Nairobi on 26 March 2015 at a restaurant called Seven Bar and Grill. Given that it was the first event, we kept it simple. Justin knew the owner and head chef, who put together a delectable menu for us. Thirteen Old Boys attended the dinner, with some wives and girlfriends also in attendance. It was impressive to see that all of the Old Boys still had their Old Boys’ ties in working condition. The evening started with drinks
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by the bar as everyone arrived and introductions were made. It was the first time many of us had met each other and it was great to see Old Boys from various generations comparing their war stories from their time at Michaelhouse. Old Boys who laid claim to introducing traditions during their time at the School were pleased to hear that those traditions still existed.
served up an exquisite meal consisting of various starters, pallet cleansers and a wonderful main course that gave us enough gusto to sing a few verses of Stars of the Morning led by Philip Vrontamitis. After a few more drinks, brief speeches and stories, the evening wound down with everyone heading off to their respective lodging for the evening.
It was great to get such a positive response and turnout for the dinner. The feedback was positive, which gave us a way forward for formalising the club and planning future events and activities.
Special thanks go to Justin for putting together an incredibly enjoyable weekend that has forged the path for the East African branch of the Old Boys’ Club.
Only after this dinner did we contact the Michaelhouse Old Boys’ Club to have the East African branch formally recognised as one of the School’s Old Boys clubs. Then it was on to planning the second and last event for the year. Being a regional club, we were aware we could not simply host events in Kenya and expect everyone else to keep coming to us. With that in mind, we engaged a friend of ours, Justin Trappe, an Old Boy in Arusha, to assist with planning the second event. What a weekend he put together for us. On the weekend of 16-18 October, we had four Old Boys drive down from Nairobi to Arusha and a couple of Old Boys drive up from Dar es Salaam. Through family and friends, Justin pulled out all the stops. The weekend was hosted at Kili Golf, a new development on Dolly Ranch between Arusha and Moshi. We had a total of ten Old Boys with wives and girlfriends for the weekend. We had hoped for more, but a Kenyan banking crisis meant that some Old Boys were not able to make it down. Most of the Old Boys arrived on Friday afternoon, after no fewer than five police stops between the KenyaTanzania border and Arusha for the Kenyan contingent. Justin hospitably hosted us for a barbecue dinner at his house that evening, which allowed us all to meet, some for the first time, and break the ice before the fierce competition on the golf course the following morning. Saturday was the day of reckoning. The stunning Kili Golf, a new course, was the setting for what turned out to be a very enjoyable day of golf. Everyone managed to play at least nine holes – 18 holes for the brave ones – at a very leisurely pace and in good spirits. Saturday also happened to be the much anticipated quarter-final of the Rugby World Cup between the Boks and Wales. We were able to watch at the polo club on Dolly Ranch before going on to dinner at Siringit House on Kili Golf. The dress code was smart and it was great to see all of the Old Boys with their Old Boys’ ties or one of their other School ties. Justin had arranged a private chef, who
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As we move into 2016, look out for any dinners and events that the East African branch will be hosting and come and join in the fun of a nostalgic weekend or evening. If you are passing through East Africa, for work or pleasure, be sure to get in touch with us and share a drink or meal.
DURBAN BRANCH
Chairman: Steven Boast The branch’s annual golf day was held at the Durban Country Club. In all 116 golfers took part in a hugely successful day organised by Nigel Williamson. Great fun was had on and off the course. The winners celebrated well into the night. This was the year of the Rugby World Cup. To mark this, the branch held a drinks evening at The Look Out to watch South Africa take on the USA. Hilton College old boys were also invited. Thanks to Ant Brunskill for hosting this function. Thirty Old Boys came out to celebrate a Bok win. The branch’s annual dinner was held at the Durban Country Club in late October. One hundred and nineteen Old Boys dressed in black tie attended. The guest speaker was OM Davey du Plessis, who gave an incredible talk recounting his amazing trip down the Amazon River. The evening ended off with all 119 Old Boys singing Stars of The Morning, followed by the war cry. Social media is a huge part of everyday life. The branch has a Facebook group page titled MHS OB of KZN, and we have 694 members. Twitter is becoming ever more popular and the branch’s Twitter account is @mhs_ob_ dbn, with 1 410 followers. Join us on either account, or both, to get regular updates on events in Durban, functions and sports scores from Balgowan. I would like to thank the Durban branch team for all their effort this year, and I would like to welcome some new members to the team, Guy Cronje, Guy Allan and Mark Bennett, who join old members Brett Davidson, Nigel Williamson, Ian Lambie, Wayne Witherspoon, Nic Dougall, Patrick Baker and Jevon King. I would also like to thank Fred Pitout and Michelle Huntley for their help
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and support throughout the year. We would like to thank all the Old Boys who support the Durban branch and hope to see you in 2016. The branch’s email address is [email protected]. Email me if you would like to be added to our mailing list.
CAPE TOWN BRANCH
Chairman: Charles Phillips
It was another great year for OMs in the Western Cape, with four functions to enjoy. The Rector, the Chairman of the Board and the Old Boys’ Club President, as well as Fred Pitout, never fail to attend our Cape functions. This year we had our biggest annual dinner so far, with more than 120 OMs in attendance, most of whom were students. It was a wonderful, youthful and fun evening, which included an AGM and the singing of the School hymn and the rugby war cries. We also managed a wine auction (magnums autographed by our Springbok, Pat Lambie) to help subsidise the reduced student dinner costs. Mike Howlett was our Kehla for the night. The food at The Wild Fig was great and the wine was supplied again by OM John Hooper, of Mt Vernon Wine Estate. A beer and pizza function was held in August on a typically cold and wet Cape winter’s evening with 16
first-year OMs from Stellenbosch University. It was great to also have the Old Boys’ Club President and Fred Pitout in attendance. Each year our Sunday luncheon at Mt Vernon Wine Estate in their cellars in Klapmuts just gets better and better. Thirty OMs and partners enjoyed themselves. A huge thank you, as usual, to the Hooper family for their great hospitality, the venue and superb wines. Earlier in the year the branch committee treated 39 very keen and excited first-year OMs at UCT to draught beer and chips at their local UCT Sports Club. Most of these students attended our annual dinner as well.
GAUTENG BRANCH
Chairman: Robert Brown
It has been an incredibly busy year for the branch committee in their personal capacities, and as the years go by they seem to get fuller and busier. I do believe, though, that it was a very successful year with the two events that we held. Sticking to our guns, and despite the challenges that it was going through, we decided that the Rand Club would be the venue for the annual dinner. However, the venue for the annual golf day was moved to Bryanston Country Club in order to offer some variation. This year the committee decided to pull out all the stops
The Senior UK Old Boys gathering
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to get a guest speaker who would entice the Old Boys to come out and support the event, which has always been quite well attended. The dinner was held on 27 July, which was a Monday evening in order to accommodate our guest speaker, Mr Mmusi Maimane, the leader of the DA. The event had a record turnout, with 265 guests attending, and the venue was at its maximum capacity. Needless to say Mr Maimane was a hit and the evening was a great success, with one or two tough questions being posed by the audience. Once again, many thanks to Rector Greg Theron and Canon Fred Pitout for making the trip up to Johannesburg to support the event, as well as Mark Lynn, the President of the Old Boys’ Club. The second event was the annual golf day. Once again it was decided to hold a joint golf day with Hilton College, but this time at the Bryanston Country Club. The date selected was 23 October and it was the usual suspects who arranged the day, so a big thank you for the hard work of both Nqoba and Thuba from the branch committee along with the assistance of my PA, Tracy Lane, who has been amazing at supporting the committee this year. The teams were playing for the honour of lifting the Hiltonian Trophy, which was first introduced in 1974 as a prize for matches between the old boys from Hilton and Michaelhouse. Last year Hilton managed a convincing victory, and I’m sorry to say that, unlike the First XV, the Old Boys lost to Hilton again this year. The overall stats are still in our favour but are getting a bit too close for comfort at 15-12 to Michaelhouse. Many thanks to the Hilton old boys for their support in making this event a success. We would like to wish all the boys leaving the School in 2015 the best of luck in their future careers and would also like to encourage them to make use of the Old Boys’ events to keep in touch and to grow their network, as many of us have done since we left this great School.
MIDLANDS BRANCH
Chairman: Brett Moller
As newly appointed chairman of the Midlands branch I would like to convey my thanks to Chris Melouney for his sterling job as chairman and his efficient running of the Michaelhouse Weaner Scheme for the past three years. The branch hosted a couple of social events during the year and was also instrumental in running the weaner scheme. For any interested parties, the scheme was started in the 1980s by John Morgan and the Michaelhouse Agricultural Society. In those days the society’s cattle were run on the Michaelhouse Estate and tended to by enthusiastic pupils. As cow numbers increased and grazing became limited, John came up with
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the idea of asking a couple of Old Boys and parents to rear the calves (weaners) on neighbouring farmland and return them fully grown. The profits were then put into a fund aptly named the Michaelhouse Weaner Scheme, and it is from those humble beginnings that this initiative was started. The scheme has at present 22 Old Boys involved with rearing 210 weaners in the field, and has grown into a fund with a considerable capital base assisted by the BET fund and a short portfolio. The primary objective of the scheme is to assist needy Midlands farmers who are Old Boys with sending their sons to Michaelhouse. Currently there are seven boys who are assisted by scheme bursaries, and six boys will be assisted during 2016. The Michaelhouse Weaner Scheme hosted a drinks evening at the Old Boys’ Club on 3 September. The objective was to recruit new members to the scheme and interact with fellow farmers who are involved with an initiative that is the envy of our friends at the Fleur de Lys Club. Other noteworthy social events hosted by the Midlands branch were the annual Midlands Michaelhouse/Hilton Golf Challenge and the Midlands cocktail evening. The golf tournament took place on 19 June at Boschoek and was organised by Richard Butcher. The rivalry is always fierce at this event. Michaelhouse were victorious and reclaimed the title after losing last year’s play-off. Well done, guys! The cocktail evening was held on 5 November at Gowrie Golf Club and was well attended by more than 50 Old Boys and their wives. The guest speaker was OM Andrew Zaloumis, who regaled us with stories of transforming the Kosi Bay and St Lucia areas into what is now the iSimangaliso Park – South Africa’s first World Heritage Site – and dodging a buffalo bull and living to tell the tale. Andrew is a shining light in the realm of transformation and environment and nature conservation, and may he continue doing great things. The Rector was also present and gave us all an overview of the happenings and undertakings at Michaelhouse. As an Old Boy it is always good to hear how things are progressing at our old School. A most enjoyable evening was had by both young and old. Thanks to Father Fred Pitout and Michelle Huntley for all their hard work in the Old Boys’ office and also thanks to Damien Rautenbach, Michaelhouse Bursar, for his assistance with the weaner scheme throughout the year.
UNITED KINGDOM BRANCH
Chairman: Sean Lumley
The UK branch has approximately 550 members, comprising 10% of all Old Boys alive today. Looking
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through the list of branch members there are captains of industry, Knights of the Realm, artists, historians, public servants, war heroes and elite sportsman. The chairman and the branch committee have had the good fortune of meeting many of them; and all are kind, modest, engaging, good people who are contributors in some way or another to the greater good of humankind. Therefore, it was an easy decision in 2014 to set about organising the branch to bring our Old Boys together, to be a force for good and to become more accountable to the Old Boys’ Club and the UK branch members. The aims of 2015 were to build on the foundations of 2014 and to deliver the four objectives of the branch’s constitution, which was voted in at the branch AGM last November. Objective 1: the promotion of interaction among the Old Boys of Michaelhouse. Our aim was to deliver six to nine events during 2015. We managed seven. The intention was that they would all be different and appeal to both young and senior Old Boys. Although all events were held in the London area, we will look to other parts of the UK as demand grows. Our first event was held in late January, an informal gathering in the Officers’ Mess at Wellington Barracks opposite Buckingham Palace. Forty-five Old Boys attended and enjoyed a sedate evening in unique surroundings. The next major event was a summer luncheon in late May, held in a private dining room at the Royal Air Force Club in London. Chris Kearns and John Dickson, both 1956, were promptly elected as Kehlas, and Duncan Black, 1967, as the Undlela, having come down from Dundee in Scotland. After the main course the branch chairman said a few words about the School, gleaned from the central committee meeting and AGM on Old Boys’ Day, and elaborated on the UK branch and its plans for the future. The Q&A session evolved into a lively discussion thoroughly enjoyed by all. It will come as no surprise to those who know him that Chris took it upon himself to rise to his feet and update us on his ongoing correspondence with Prince Charles. We finished late afternoon, with a few stalwarts retiring to the club’s private tavern in the basement. Less than a month later was our flagship event: a live screening of the return game of the Hilton versus Michaelhouse First XV match. We gathered at the Loose Cannon, a cavernous, vaulted private venue in the heart of the City of London. In all, just short of 100 Hilton and Michaelhouse old boys attended, the youngest having Matriculated in 2014 and the most experienced in 1956. Some came from just across the Thames, some drove all the way from Scotland and two even flew in from the south of France for the day (one from each school). To
add a smell and taste of home, we acquired over 15kg of biltong (made from Britain’s finest beef) and a healthy supply of Castle Lager. For the main event, thankfully the technology worked. The picture was slightly grainy but very watchable. Eskom inevitably let us down at around half-time and the UPS at Michaelhouse ran out with around five minutes to go. Michaelhouse was in the lead at that point and, despite two late tries from Hilton – communicated to us via SMS and relayed to the crowd by an enthusiastic Michaelhouse UK branch treasurer standing on a stool in the middle of the room – it was Michaelhouse’s day. After a few informal gatherings at the Tattershall Castle, a barge on the Thames, we closed in on our final two events of the year in November: the winter luncheon and the AGM. The winter luncheon was held on Thursday 12 November and was attended by 25 Old Boys who Matriculated in 1973 or earlier. Patrick Dorehill, 1938, was elected the Khehla and Barry Methley, 1950, the Undlela, having come down from Glasgow. Patrick is worthy of particular mention. Notwithstanding his humbling achievements as a Lancaster bomber pilot during World War II, he stood after being nominated as Khehla, humbly accepted and gave an emotional confession as to how much his time at Michaelhouse meant to him (77 years ago). It was a very moving moment. We were fortunate enough to have the Rector and the Old Boys’ Club Secretary present. After the main course, both gave extremely informative updates on the School and Old Boys’ Club, respectively. Once again, the few and the brave retired to the private tavern in the basement. The AGM dinner, held on Friday 13 November, was attended by 72 Old Boys. Barry Methley, 1950, from Glasgow was appointed the Khehla and the Undlela. We also had two tickets for the Barbarians v Argentina game at Twickenham on 21 November – the game that Patrick Lambie played in wearing his First XV socks. Names were drawn out of a hat and the tickets won by Bob Angier (Tatham, 1957). Bob supported virtually all of our events this year and, having played rugby for Saracens in his day, was a deserving winner of the tickets. Before starters were served, the branch chairman, secretary and treasurer gave their respective reports to those present. After the main course, the Rector held the room and concluded to rapturous applause, followed by an informative update by the Old Boys’ Club Secretary. We then retired to the Churchill Bar to chat further before carriages at midnight. The branch committee reflected after the event and we unanimously agreed that this year’s AGM had been our most successful to date. Not because of numbers in attendance (we have had more in the past) but because the swell of enthusiasm from virtually all Old Boys seemed
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to go beyond the usual transient nostalgia of the evening. Our hope is that our plans of bringing Old Boys together, beyond just putting on a handful of events, will capitalise on this and take a few more steps towards having an Old Boys’ community in the UK that is worthy of our alma mater.
back to society and then, perhaps, have children of their own who may help perpetuate the cycle by attending Michaelhouse themselves. We see our role as a branch to help accelerate the journey to success by bringing Old Boys together for mutual benefit which may well lead to the benefit of Michaelhouse.
Objective 2: the promotion of social and sporting contacts with other associations. As a result of the time spent together organising the live screening event in June, we have built a strong relationship with the Hilton old boys’ club in the UK. We have open invitations to both of our committees to each other’s events, and we hope to build similar relationships with other old boys’ clubs in 2016.
Our plans for 2016 and beyond are exciting and ambitious. We will: have a similar number of events (six to eight) during the year; be clever with how we communicate, using email, social media, letters and possibly a smart phone app; establish professional groups to bring Old Boys together other than by era – for example, as lawyers, bankers, accountants or by military service; create a sustainable UK branch; be resilient – not built around one or two people; and align with the longterm plans of the School and the Old Boys’ Club.
Objective 3: the raising of funds for the purpose of implementing the objectives. At the last UK branch AGM, the branch voted unanimously to institute an annual £10 levy. This levy has been used to help the committee deliver the objectives as set out in the branch constitution. We have not made this levy a condition of branch membership. We received levy payments from around 20% of our members and, after the branch treasurer’s report detailing how the funds were spent, we believe our membership will be confident that they will receive value for money in 2016. Objective 4: the furtherance of the interests of Michaelhouse and the Michaelhouse community. There is a cycle. Boys go to Michaelhouse and have core values and ethics instilled in them. They then go out into the world, find success in their chosen fields, begin giving
Mid 80s vintage Old Boys
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Our calendar for 2016 will be published with the branch chairman’s new year’s letter. The newly elected branch committee for 2016 will carry this out on behalf of our branch members. They are: Sean Lumley (Baines, 1995), chairman; Rory McKenna (West, 2002), secretary; Ryan Maree (West, 2002), treasurer; Mike Leuner (Baines, 1998), committee member; and Rick Peacock-Edwards (Pascoe, 1961), elder statesman. The committee hopes this has been of some interest. We are excited about the direction our branch is heading in. We are extremely grateful for the support given by the School in progressing the profile of the branch and, most importantly, for the engagement of our branch members.
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WESTERN AUSTRALIA BRANCH
OLD BOYS NEWS
On 16 April I hosted a cocktail party so that the Rector, Mr Greg Theron, who was in Australia, would have a chance to meet some members of the Perth branch. This proved to be a very enjoyable evening and it was good to hear of the School’s progress. We had 15 OMs and ten partners in attendance.
Meyer, Anthony (1940) I left Michaelhouse in December 1940 when I was 16 years old, having matriculated. I was in Founders, with Mnr Barnard as my Housemaster, and only yesterday found a letter from him on School stationery regretting my decision not to attend 6th Form as he had decided to make me Head of House in 1941. Most of my contemporaries in 1940 were then 17-plus years old and would be joining the forces – Army, Navy or Air Force – and I wished to follow. This I was only able to achieve with some help after a year, aged 17.
Chairman: Guy Kirk
The Rector spent two nights with us and flew back to Sydney early on Friday 17 April to continue his lightning visit to Australia. In Perth he met Mr Stuart Meade, the headmaster of Hale School, and enjoyed our beaches and Kings Park. We held the branch’s annual function on 21 November at our house. This year we opted for a very casual barbecue commencing at 5pm, which meant the younger OMs were able to bring their families. In total we had 37 people at the barbecue, including 19 OMs. This year our ranks were increased by the arrival of Charlton Campbell (Farfield, 1991), Matthew Dean (Tatham, 2009), Jonathan Dean (Tatham, 2012) and Richard Warren (Tatham, 1991). Charles Brookes (Pascoe, 1945) passed away on 9 July 2015. Charles had been our Kehla at a number of functions in Perth.
ZULULAND BRANCH
Chairman: Jeremy Steere
The Zululand branch held our annual get-together on 9 October at the Mtunzini Country Club. Of the 85 OMs in the region, 21 attended and we were joined by Fred Pitout, Rector Greg Theron and his wife, Angela. Greg gave an overview of the School and background to the infrastructure master plan and building projects under way, the most notable of which was the Olympic standard swimming and water polo pool. The guest speaker was Davey du Plessis, who attended Michaelhouse from 2002 to 2006. He had a captive audience as he related the story of his adventure down the Amazon River in 2012. The plan was to start at the river’s source and end at the sea. However, five shots from a suspected drug smuggler’s shotgun put a dampener on the odyssey and he ended up in a local hospital, having been rescued by many villagers in small river craft on the river. The message was one of wonder at the compassion shown by people to a complete stranger. I thought that a guest speaker like Davey would attract more interest, but it is understandable that people are reluctant to travel and spend time away from home.
I believe I may have been the first man to be demobilised in the South African army due to the co-operation of Lt-Col Jim McIntyre of the SAEC, who had asked me to volunteer to go to the Far East as a specialist gas warfare officer for a company of the Royal Engineers, then off the coast of Malaysia. I volunteered “for the duration of the war or two years, whichever was the shorter”. My release date was 31 August or 30 September 1945, I cannot now remember which. My next direct encounter with the School was in about 1955, when I was a member of the original committee set up by Bill Wilson, Ian Haggie and Mike Rosholt. It was tasked by the Governors to set up a trust fund to support the School’s future development in financial terms. That was serious fundraising for the times, far beyond the cake sales, bridge drives and theatre nights type of fundraising. Others on that committee who I can still remember were Hugh McGregor (who retired early to set up a new school near Pretoria), John Whiting and, I believe, Clem Morgan, then Rector. There were maybe one or two others, one of whom became Treasurer. I designed the method of collecting – using pledges over a period of years and establishing an organisation to make it possible to canvass all known Transvaal residents of the wider Michaelhouse community. I had heard of an American organisation which professionally employed something similar for charities in the USA. We adapted their principles to fit our needs and culture. In this I was assisted greatly on the secretarial work by one Cecil Kinahan. The results were better than expected and are now history. The system was, I believe, used by nearly every private college in South Africa, including Roedean School in Johannesburg, which my three daughters attended in the 1960s. Even The Ridge School, to which my son James went in the 1960s before Michaelhouse, eventually used the same system. The latter fact I know because when asked to organise The Ridge School’s canvass in about 1966/67, I was handed a file of notes of procedures used by, I was told, “several other schools, which would assist
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me in getting things going” – only to find that most were my original Michaelhouse notes and instructions written in my handwriting. I have lived in the UK since being transferred to Barlows London as finance director in 1972. Sadly, due to past spinal injuries I am not allowed to travel long-haul flights any more, so can no longer visit South Africa yearly as in the past. I have to make do with a biannual visit to our villa in Portugal. I last visited the School about 20 years ago. So much has changed and I am greatly impressed with what I can now see via the School’s website. Greathead, Graham (1950) I matriculated from Michaelhouse in 1950 and am now 81 years of age. After 54 years of marriage, my wife Paddy passed away on 24 August 2011. For the last three years, I have walked pilgrimages in France, Portugal and Spain, ending in Santiago. * The first, in 2012, was arranged by my daughter Susan, who resides on Vancouver Island, Canada. We started in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port on the French side of the Pyrenees on the first anniversary of Paddy’s death and crossed the Pyrenees together. Then we separated and walked our own Caminos, coming together once or twice on the way before walking into Santiago together on 29 September 2012. * Then, while Susan stayed a few days in Santiago before walking the 90km to Finisterre (in three days), I returned to Sarria to re-walk the last 115km of the Camino Francaise. I finished this walk on 6 October as Susan returned by bus from Finisterre. * In 2013, I walked on the Portuguese Camino from Porto to Santiago by myself. * Last year, I decided to walk the Camino Primitivo, between Oviedo and Santiago, by myself, and on completion of this pilgrimage it was my good fortune to have sufficient time available to continue my walk as far as Finisterre. I mention these walks because it is my observation from reading the Chronicle that there is now at Michaelhouse quite a strong interest in trail walking, and though walking on the Camino is vastly different from hiking in South Africa, where one must carry all one’s supplies for a week or so, walking on pilgrim trails which end at Santiago de Compostella may be of interest to past students. For my part, I prefer to carry my own bag, containing all that I need on my walk, including food and water for the day – the option of how far to go that day remains one’s own choice – but there are other options available to pilgrims who would rather walk unencumbered by a heavy pack. In 2015, it is my hope (DVWP) that Susan and I may once again walk together in Spain, possibly a repeat of my pilgrimage of 2014.
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Scott, Richard – Lord Scott, Baron of Foscote (1951) After graduating from UCT in 1955, I went to England and had three years at Trinity College, Cambridge. I graduated from Cambridge in 1957. In 1956, I completed part two of the Law Tripos with a first and in 1957, the LL.Bs with a first with distinction. I obtained a rugby blue in 1957. In 1958, I completed the Bar exams necessary for calls to the Bar in England. In 1958/59, I spent a year as a Bigelow Fellow at the University of Chicago and met the lady who in 1959 became my wife. She was in her final year at St Mary’s College of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. She was a Panamanian and, on graduating, returned to Panama. I followed her, where we were married. We came back to England as the only passengers on a German banana boat. We have been married for over 50 years and have four children and 12 grandchildren, of all of whom we are very proud. I was called to the Bar in England at the end of 1959 and, after a year’s pupillage, began my career as a barrister. I practised as a junior barrister in the Chancery Division of the High Court from 1960 to 1975. In 1975, I became a Queen’s Counsel and practised as a QC until 1983, when I was appointed a judge of the High Court and was knighted. I was chairman of the Bar in the year 1982/83. As a QC, I practised, of course, mainly in London; but from 1980 to 1983 I held the office of Attorney General to the Duchy of Lancaster, an office which carried with it responsibility for the conduct of Crown cases in the north of England. In addition, I was fortunate enough to receive briefs to appear in court hearings in the Channel Isles, the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica and, on two occasions, Nairobi. On my appointment as a judge in 1983, these pleasures as a barrister came to an end. In 1991, I was promoted to the Court of Appeal and, like all Lord Justices of Appeal, became a Privy Councillor. From 1987 to 1991, I held the office of Vice-Chancellor of the County Palatine of Lancaster, a judicial office which required me to supervise judicial work in the civil courts in the north of England. In 1992, I was asked by the UK government to conduct an inquiry into, and write a report on, the defence-related exports that had been made from the UK to Iraq over the period 1984 to 1990. The inquiry took some time, as did the writing of the report, which I completed in 1995 and which was printed in 1996. So, from 1992 to 1996, I did not sit as a judge at all. However, in 1994 I was appointed Vice-Chancellor of the Supreme Court, in effect the head of the Chancery Division of the High Court; and in 1995 I was appointed Head of Civil Justice. I accepted these two offices, which I held until 2000, on the agreed footing that I would not be free to exercise the duties of the offices until the completion of the Iraq inquiry and report.
Old Boys
UKOMs enjoying the live screening of the Michaelhouse v Hilton derby in Canongate, London
In 2000, I was appointed a Lord of Appeal in Ordinary and became a peer and a member of the House of Lords. I chose as my title ‘Scott of Foscote’, first because every title of a peer must be distinctive and Scott is a fairly common surname; and second because Foscote is the parish in Buckinghamshire in which my wife and I have lived since 1964. In England in the year 2000, the House of Lords was the final court of appeal for all litigation, whether civil or criminal, but the only members of the House entitled to speak or vote on an appeal were the Law Lords. In 2009, however, parliament created a new final court of appeal, a supreme court, to replace the Law Lords. All Law Lords in place on 1 October 2009 became justices of the new Supreme Court and for as long as he or she remained a justice of that court, he or she lost the right to vote or speak in the House of Lords. This did not affect me as my statutory retirement date as a judge was 2 October 2009, my 75th birthday. So I gave notice of my retirement as a judge with effect from 30 September 2009. My judicial functions did not completely terminate on my retirement as a Law Lord. I retained a judicial function in Hong Kong and in Qatar. Hong Kong final appeals were, in its colonial days, heard by the Privy Council; but when Hong Kong ceased to be a colony, appeals to the Privy Council were no longer appropriate. So Hong Kong created its own court of final appeal. I, along with judges from other common-law countries, was invited to become a non-permanent judge of the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal. Between 2003 and 2011, I enjoyed the privilege and pleasure of a month or so in Hong Kong each year. By 2013, all my judicial functions had come to an end. I remain, as a peer, a member of the House of Lords and attend sittings of the House in its legislative role.
Chris James and Ian Hamilton
My main recreational interest is, and has been for many years, centred on equestrian activities. I have, since 1963 or thereabouts, owned a horse. My other recreational pleasures that I still enjoy are playing tennis – although, to my regret, some of my grandchildren have begun to beat me – contract bridge and walking my dogs. But my main and lasting pleasure is living with my wife in a beautiful rural part of England in a house that we have enjoyed together for over 50 years. Pickard-Cambridge, David (1952) How nice to think of my old School and all the special memories I have of those happy years. I am still very much alive in my 82nd year and I send you my kindest regards and grateful thanks. Harvey, Miles (1963) I was at Michaelhouse from 1960 to 1963. There were many things I enjoyed about Michaelhouse but two things I still remember were, firstly, the relationship I, and I think most of the boys, had with many of the masters – but, like all things, not all the boys got on well with them. The other thing was that classes ended at 1pm and not, say, 3pm, leaving the afternoon free for sport and then the quiet period later on before supper. My career was in finance and administration, and my last job was working for a highly efficient cotton-spinning company, but one cannot compete with the wages in China, so I am now retired and have been for 10 years. Our family moved to Australia in 1981 and after living in Canberra and Melbourne, we are now in an inner suburb of Sydney (near Sydney University, for those who might know Sydney), where we have been for 14 years. Our son Oliver, who spent a post-matric year at Michaelhouse in 1991, I think, and then became a lawyer, also lives
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in Sydney. He works for the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, which is Australia’s corporate regulator. Von Christierson, Chris (1964) Chris von Christierson was admitted as an Honorary Fellow of Magdalene College, Cambridge, at a ceremony held in Cambridge on 22 July 2015. Wiles, Vaughan (1964) I was an undistinguished student in Farfield, from1961 to 1964, and have tried to make up for my scholastic idleness by publishing my first novel, Lord Souffle, in which some (mostly) kind things are said about Michaelhouse. The reviews offer an enticing insight into Lord Souffle which is also available on Kindle: “Full of sex, lies, intrigue, art theft, stolen identities, and all the other hallmarks of a great caper, Lord Souffle is a rollicking adventure that takes readers from Durban’s sunny beaches to high society London and back again.” Kolling (Wong), Grant (1965) I’ve often pondered how my Michaelhouse experience has chiselled, moulded and shaped my lifelong spirit, character and learning. This musing recently prompted me to return in May 2015 to attend the 1965 gaudy dinner after a near 50-year absence from South Africa. Now that I have refreshed my recollection, I must say the experience has affected me deeply since I left Balgowan at 16. In 1966, I departed from South Africa to learn about my family’s Hong Kong real estate holdings before I sailed to America to study in California. From the University of San Francisco, a Jesuit school, I received my BA degree in Government, achieving honours in my major and membership in a national political science honour society. From the University of California, Hastings, I received my JD degree, participated on the law journal – reserved for top-ranked students, and played for the A rugby team. After law school I worked in Amsterdam as an international tax law research associate. Life in Europe was fun; I travelled extensively, spending more money than I earned, thanks to American Express. I was so immersed in Dutch culture that I couldn’t recall key English words as I penned job application letters to prospective law firm employers in the States. Thank you, Dutch-English dictionary. Since my return to northern California, I have worked at a major bank’s tax department, a securities litigation law firm and a Fortune 500 company’s corporate law department, honing my tax law and accounting, securities, real estate and commercial law skills. In 1986, I began my civil service career as a San Jose deputy city
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attorney. I’ve served as a Palo Alto senior assistant city attorney for over 24 years. Accomplishments I’m most proud of: successfully raising three children (my twin daughter is a UCLA honours graduate; my twin son is a UC Davis graduate); learning to speak French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Russian and Spanish; publishing on law/nonlaw topics in international, national and state journals and newspapers; presenting at conferences to lawyers and lecturing to graduate-school and high-school students; scuba-diving in the Red Sea, Fiji, Hawaii and California (my photo of a sea pen was displayed at an international underwater film festival); and serving as a trustee of an elementary school district, a county Bar association and an Asian American Bar association. The gaudy celebration precipitated a flood of memories – some highs, some lows. My belated, heartfelt thanks go to Rory Gillespie (for so well teaching me Maths that I scored in the 98th percentile on a college Math placement exam), RO James (for building self-confidence in my writing style, when he read my essays to classmates) and RW Hennessy (for nominating me for a distinction in Geography, which was rejected ostensibly because I’d cheated). That singular rebuke firmed up my determination at 14 to emigrate from South Africa, travel the world – using a multitude of foreign languages as my visas to adventure – and encourage others to judge people by the content of their character and learning. The deep scars inflicted by apartheid South Africa still linger, as do memories of fights I was in at School to resist mean-spirited harassment and hazing directed at me, a ‘bucky’ lad. Despite the travail, I’ve committed to be a contributing member of the Michaelhouse Chairman’s Club. That’s my token of appreciation to the institution that has wrought me to become the man I am today. Cartwright, David Gordon (1974) Recently, I took the opportunity of an early retirement, which is proving most enjoyable. It has enabled me to slow the pace and to stop and smell the roses in this hectic world which drives us all. Reid, Steve (1977) I am currently professor and head of primary health care at the University of Cape Town, having moved here from Durban six years ago. I spend my time doing research, teaching medical students and postgrads, playing music and riding a mountain bike as often as possible. Redvers-Lee, Peter (1978) Just back from a 10-month Fulbright Scholarship in Botswana.
Old Boys
Sperryn, Graeme (1980) I have been living in Canada since 1989. I am a lawyer and presently, head of the business law group at Siskinds LLP, a firm of 75 lawyers with offices in London, Ontario, Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City. I have two children: a son, Wyndham, 21, and a daughter, Jessica, 16. Seasonally, I enjoy skiing in Vail, Colorado, and amuse myself in the Canadian winters with landscape painting in oil and watercolour, and basement noodling on several guitars. Graham, Angus (1984) International consultant, food and nutrition security. Two children: Giulia, 20, and Michael, 13. Married to Ilaria Sisto. Wade, Paul (1984) I’m married to Wendy and have four daughters. I run a dental practice in Durban North, specialising in dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. I’m a keen ocean paddler but have also braved the Dusi/Umgeni on a number of occasions. I love living in KwaZulu-Natal, having spent 13 years in the UK. I love this close-knit community where everybody knows your name and you have so much in common with your fellow beings – this is such an awesome province to live in. Thompson, Ivan Saekele (1986) I am currently the head of the Life Sciences, Design and Information Technology Department at Orient Islamic School in Durban, South Africa. Weaver, Paul (1986) I run my own steam-cleaning business in Durban, called Buglezz Dreamz. Price, Warrick (1988) Director of marketing at Venta Financial Group. I married Annmarie in 1998 and we have twin girls, Charlotte and Samantha, born in 2008. Whitfield, Christopher (1989) I live in Weybridge, in Surrey, and work as a year-four class teacher at St John’s Beaumont, an independent boys boarding and day school in Old Windsor. I have recently introduced golf as a sport and we have three boys who are playing in the British Junior Open in a few weeks’ time, which is very exciting. I often see David James (1986-1989), another old boy of the School, who lives in Chertsey, just down the road from me. Oscroft, Rod (1991) After leaving Cape Town at the end of 2013, I have relocated to Johannesburg. Smither, Robin (1992) I currently reside in Mauritius. I am married to a French Mauritian, Sarah, and we have two kids, Olivia and Hugo.
Croasdell, Adam (1993) I have lived in Hollywood for the past six years where I’ve been working as an actor. I’ve done films for Universal and Sony, and a lot of TV. I’ve had a recurring role in NCIS and have been on NCIS: LA as well (with former boy wonder Chris O’Donnell), where I was shot in the chest by LL Cool J. I’ve also worked on Supernatural and Nikita. I’ve guest starred in the sitcom Hot In Cleveland and had some laughs with Betty White. I am currently starring as Hook’s father in Once Upon a Time for ABC. Nairn, Rowan (1993) I’m alive and well, married and still in London. I currently work for an international construction company, Bechtel, where I am leading the company’s effort to grow our infrastructure construction business in sub-Saharan Africa and Europe. Ralph, Brad (1993) Brad recently rejoined the Standard Bank group after a nine-year stint at Nedbank. He is head of transaction and investment products in the retail bank. In addition, he also became a member of the Chairman’s Club, using the opportunity to give back to the School that helped build and shape his foundation for life. His passion for racehorses (which emanated from a few farm visits in the Midlands during his Michaelhouse years) continues, having been involved with another OM in Alistair Gordon (1969), who has been a trainer for over 40 years in KwaZulu-Natal. Brad is in regular contact with some of the Johannesburg OMs and is always available for a networking catch-up. Schulze, Marc (1993) I was the deputy principal at Treverton Prep until the end of July 2015. Since then, I have been in the UAE on a teaching contract. My family and I reside in Al Ain, a city that’s part of the Abu Dhabi emirate. Van Schalkwyk, Johann (1993) Johann is married and has owned the Talisman Plant Hire franchise in Secunda for the past 11 years. Bronneberg, Boris (1994) After leaving Michaelhouse, I moved to the Netherlands in early 1995 and started to work in the environmental sector, with a focus on metal recycling. Simultaneously, I did my BSc with the help of evening classes. After having worked at two multinationals, I spent a few years in Germany at the Lünen plant of MDAXlisted Aurubis as manager of raw-material purchasing, while also representing the German recycling industry on the non-ferrous metals board of the BIR, the Bureau of International Recycling, and chairing the BIR young traders group. In early 2006, I resigned from Aurubis and the BIR to start my own company, MBH,
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in the Netherlands, recycling complex raw materials. I simultaneously purchased the family business, a machine factory manufacturing equipment for recycling purposes that was started by my great-grandfather as a smithy in 1907 and incorporated by my grandfather in 1946. MBH has the primary focus of recovering noble metals, such as gold, silver and the platinum-group metals, as well as recovering refractory metals, rare earth metals and others. Over the past few years, we have increased our research and development efforts and have since developed an installation that can successfully separate mixed materials containing as little as five parts per million of noble metals into recoverable concentrations. MBH adheres strictly to zero landfill policy, as well as best industry standards for processing recycling materials. My daughters were born in 1996 (July-Elle) and 2000 (Caleigh-Ann), and I am proud to say that July-Elle has completed school with her VWO diploma (Matric equivalent) and is now attending China Studies at the University of Leiden. Caleigh-Ann is still attending school and will earn her diploma in 2018. McBride, Rob (1994) After Michaelhouse, via Mala Mala and Yale, I got my doctorate in evolutionary microbiology and am now a scientist in the start-up biotech space, trying to take cool science and turn it into things we can use. I work and live in sunny San Diego, California. Russell, Kirin (1995) The year 2015 in London was fun, what with the Rugby World Cup and a home Ashes series to keep sports fans like myself entertained amidst the craziness of a London working life. Earlier in the year it was all about reunions, meeting my old mate Paul Rebeck (West, 1995) in Oman – before he emigrated with his family to Australia – then making the trip back to Michaelhouse for my 20-year reunion. It was great to see the School in such good nick, having last visited Balgowan 10 years ago. You can’t put a price on rekindling old friendships and sharing a few beers with the Old Boys on the banks of Meadows, watching a dominant 1st XV. Regrettably, I wasn’t able to make the Hilton/Michaelhouse live screening in London this year, but yet again I had a great night at the London Old Boys dinner at the RAF club in Mayfair. Nkosi, Arthur (1996) Wow, so much has happened since I left Balgowan in 1996. I went back to Malawi for a year. At the end of 1997, I went to university in Indianapolis, Indiana. I got a BSc in Marketing and Business Administration. After graduating, I worked in the telecommunications, market research and retail industries. I now work in the banking industry in HR in Lilongwe, Malawi. I have been married to my wife, Eleanor, for seven years and we have two boys, Adam and Noah.
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John Rawlings (1998) After nearly 18 months away from the game of golf and life on tour, I was given the opportunity to caddy for Jaco van Zyl for the 2015 season, both back home in South Africa and in Europe. The decision was fairly simple, knowing I would be traveling the world again, working on some of the most beautiful courses and interacting with some of the most incredible golfers on the planet. With Jaco being out for the 2014 season due to knee surgeries, his official world ranking dropped to 473 and we started the Chase to Investec Cup at 203rd on the order of merit. After solid finishes at Jo’burg Open (Tied second) Dimension-Data (third) Africa Open (Tied sixth) and Final Series (second) we ended the Chase third overall. The Race to Dubai took us to some 18 countries on three continents. Top finishes included: Turkish Open (second) French Open (third) Morocco Open (Tied third). Clear highlights of the year were: Qualifying for THE OPEN at St Andrews, Scotland; playing the Million Dollar at Sun City; finishing twenty first in the overall Race to Dubai 2015 season. Official World Ranking 63 (31 December, 2015). Looking forward to the 2016 season and hopefully the form and partnership continues to grow from strength to strength. We want to get team JVZ into the Majors and World Events. Thorpe, James (2002) James, who was in Tatham, is currently the housemaster of Melbourne House and a senior English teacher (years 10 to 12) at The Southport School on the Gold Coast, Australia. Having previously taught at the Anglican Church Grammar School (Churchies) for a number of years, James is finishing his Master’s in Educational Leadership (part-time) from the University of Queensland and will graduate at the end of 2015 with his MEdSt (Leadership). In June 2015, James presented at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition (IBSC) conference hosted by Diocesan College, Bishops, on the topic of Learning to Lead after doing a small project at Christ’s College, New Zealand. He is very involved with coaching and his roles include that of Second XV rugby coach, U16A cricket coach, Cadets instructor and cross-country manager. James was able to visit Michaelhouse before the IBSC conference. It was his time at Michaelhouse which inspired him to pursue a career in education. Vaudin, Neil (2002) I work at Uefa (the Union of European Football Associations), the governing body of football in Europe. Badal, Arniv (2008) Has been appointed as a candidate attorney at Strauss Daly Incorporated in Durban.
Old Boys
Mokethi, Lerato (2010) In 2015, Lerato was the public relations officer and internal relations representative at Leo Marquard Hall residence at the University of Cape Town. Arron, Myles (2010) Having graduated last year with a Business Science degree from the University of Cape Town, I am in my postgraduate year studying towards becoming a chartered account. Mokgosi, Lebogang (2011) I am studying at the University of Buckingham. Donaldson, Sean (2012) I am hard at work in the Wits Law Library. McDonald, Michael (2013) I am studying at the University of Edinburgh.
ROLL OF HONOUR Braum
K
1939 – 2015
Brookes
C
1929 – 2015
Broom
J
1923 – 2015
Buchanan
GDS
1939 - 2014
Burgess
G
Clulow
A
1928 – 2015
Currie
R
1952 - 2015
Delmont
PJ
1940 – 2015
Garland
M
1936 – 2015
Johnson
P
1957 – 2015
Lewis
DMR
1940 – 2015
Lewis
R
1936 – 2015
Mostert
D
1952 – 2015
Moynihan
P
1928 – 2015
Nicol
W
1922 – 2015
Oldridge
B
1944 – 2015
Peacock-Edwards
S
1946 – 2015
Rattray
C
1937 – 2015
Read
A
1948 – 2015
Sowden
KD
1941 - 2015
Springorum
RA
1929 - 2014
Stone
B
1952 - 2015
Winterton
D
1939 – 2015
A remarkable photograph of all six living Rectors of Michaelhouse, past and present, together at a Remembrance Day production of Stars of the Morning in 2014. Back row: Greg Theron (2013 - present) Dudley Forde (1997 - 2001), Guy Pearson (2002 - 2012) Front row: Neil Jardine ((1979 1987), Rex Pennington (1969 - 1978), John Pluke (1988 - 1996)
Proud Suppliers to
XTEC PMB (PTY) LTD
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Jem Smythe looking for support in the Pirates Old Boys Tens Festival. Kyle Dutton looks on.
OBITUARIES Buchanan, Graham Douglas Stuart Born 1939, Died 2014 Michaelhouse 1953–1956 Written by his wife Cathie Graham Buchanan passed away in October 2014. Husband to Cathie, father to Stuart (Pascoe, 1985 – 88), Grant and Gail, Graham passed away peacefully after a short illness in his much loved Johannesburg where he spent most of his life.
It was while starting his professional career, as a financial advisor and property valuer in his father’s company, Union and Overseas Investments, that he met Cathie, his wife of over 40 years, while she was working in South Africa many miles away from her native Scotland. Though married in The Glens of Scotland, Graham and Cathie were to remain in Johannesburg where close friends and family were always part of his life. Fortunately Graham was able to meet all of his six grandchildren before his sudden illness and will be remembered for the strong family bonds he nurtured and his presence at the frequent family gatherings quietly watching the subsequent generations with pride. Graham will be sorely missed by those he held dear.
An alumini of Pascoe and founding scholar of Baines, Graham cherished his time at Michaelhouse. His days of great friends, a religious foundation, interspersed with duck diving, midnight swimming and Free Bounds, were a source of many happy memories.
Currie, Roy Born 1952, Died 2015 Michaelhouse 1966-1969 Written by Miles Godbold
After Michaelhouse Graham went to Wits University where he met additional life-long friends and led an active sporting life playing golf and hockey for Wanderers.
Roy lived and was brought up in Kloof, twenty kilometres inland of Durban. We met when I was 11 and Roy only six months younger and were drawn together by similar interests. Our houses were separated by a wide plantation of gum trees and we moved between
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the two by a well-worn path. It was a dense plantation, deeply shaded during the day and inky black when the sun went down, but our feet were given wings after dark so scared were we of the creatures which lurked there, in our imaginations if nowhere else. In those early days we roamed far and wide in our district on bicycles and on foot, unfettered by rules and regulations. We carried knives on our belts and air rifles on our backs, slept out in bush camps, made fires and felled trees and hunted small birds which we plucked and cooked. I have no doubt that it was in that rural environment that the seed for Roy’s love for nature and wildlife was sown before it took root and shaped his life. Although we went to different junior boarding schools we met up again at Michaelhouse for our senior years. There, Roy arrived from Cordwalles as a fearsome rugby player and the recipient of the major scholarship. He slotted into his House with ease due to his reputation. Nothing seemed difficult. Schoolwork was a doddle for him, being in the top sets for every subject, and the School bullies steered well clear as his early maturity gave him the size and strength to look after himself. This also gave him an unmatched popularity as a good number of his contemporaries sought shelter and protection in his company. Never able to stand the slow pace of the game of cricket, Roy opted for other sports while he waited for the winter to arrive, bringing with it his true love - rugby. He proved to be more than just a strapping player blessed with an early-matured body and a whiskered chin. Here was a born loose-forward, surprisingly fast, with a devastating tackle and a fearless disposition, the nemesis of opposing forwards and the terror of their backs. He possessed an uncanny ability to predict the breakdown point and arrive first, and best of all an untiring and courageous heart. He seldom spoke, preferring to eye out his next victim and get on with the game and his next crunching tackle. His unruly mop of red hair, matched by his invariably bloody face, made him an easy player to identify on the field and a hero amongst his fellows. Roy was the anchor of every age group team he ever represented, and was quickly catapulted into the First XV. One of very few boys ever to receive his Honours blazer at the age of 16, many felt that a stellar rugby career awaited him, but after playing for the U20s at university his interest waned and his restless mind turned to other pursuits. I was always hugely in awe of Roy’s talents. They were so numerous that it made us lesser mortals feel more than a little insignificant. His ability to finish an exam at university in half the allowed time and then walk out because he had to change a clutch in his Volkswagen Beetle left most of us wondering why we were so dumb. And even more so when the results came out and showed he had finished in the top three. His memory, his depth of understanding and his obvious intellect were astounding -
matched only by the scope of his far-ranging interests. It was at this time that his untiring and ceaseless quest to see new lands and new sights began to bite. This irresistible restlessness, coupled with a practical bent and knowledge that few of us could match made him the quintessential traveller. We made many trips in those days in a variety of vehicles, most of which had been built up by him from spare parts, all of which were kept going by his wide knowledge of engines and things mechanical and all of which were accustomed to his deft touch and keen ear for malfunctions. On one occasion in our first year at university we set off for Swaziland in his Series One Landrover on a journey which passed into legend in our circle. Leaving as darkness fell our first problem occurred driving down the hill into Estcourt, a mere 60 kilometres from the start. Smoke and flames began pouring from the dashboard and we had scarcely pulled over before we passengers had scrambled out for safety. Not Roy. In the haze of smoke and fire he rummaged around for a screwdriver and calmly removed the dashboard to find the wiring loom alight from a dead short in the electrical system. Not being able to extinguish the blaze he used his fabled strength and ripped the wiring from the car and threw it some distance. And then, using pieces of undamaged cable, he proceeded to re-wire the lights to perform in a permanently ON position, unable to dip the beams but enabling us to proceed. On and on through the night the trip continued until in Northern Natal the car came to a gradual halt. Gearbox seized. For an hour we cursed and argued about our plans now being trashed. Then one of the boys idly sitting in the front seat started the engine and eased it into gear and we were off again. How could this be explained? Dawn found us a kilometer from the Swaziland border. We stopped to change drivers and then discovered that the gearbox had seized again and this time we could only move in reverse. No problem again for Roy. With him at the wheel he reversed towards the border crossing to the utter confusion of the customs and immigration guards, one of whom, head shaking, asked us: “Are you coming or going?” At the end of that first year at university Roy worked for a couple of months as a stoker on a steam train of the South African Railways. The work was hard and hot, shovelling coal on a train in the Zululand summer but the money was good and he returned to study the next year as the proud owner of a pale blue VW Beetle, the reward for his labours. The best bit was that its engine could be swapped to power his home-built beach buggy whenever he wanted to head bushwards, as could the licence disc and registration plates. Then after the trip the engine and licence and plates reverted to the blue Beetle for city life, until term end and the bush again. His next purchase was the full camping kit – tent, lamps, tarpaulins and cooking utensils – of a pensioner who was getting too long in the tooth for this activity. I remember watching in awe as Roy stripped a paraffin pressure lamp on his
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desk one night. Ignoring a bleeding hand from a slip of a sharp tool, he was completely lost in the intricacies of his task. On the table top his forgotten accounting books and papers for his commerce assignment were doused in fuel and oil and blood. There was no doubt what was important to him that evening – his studies had taken a back seat. Perhaps his mind had already transported him to some lonely bush camp in the wilds of Africa. Perhaps his lecturers understood that he was no normal student. Oil soaked or not the academic aspects of his life came easily to him and he passed year three and was capped without ever having dropped a subject. Roy now had been truly bitten by the traveling bug. Namibia or South West Africa as it was then known beckoned. Botswana, first visited on a school trip in 1969, called to him again and again and he became smitten by that country with its great game herds and wild places. Mozambique, Lesotho, the Transkei, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya all bore his tyre treads. Some he merely visited, some became his home for varying lengths of time and for varying times in his life. There was also Europe, where he drove a Contiki expedition bus and met Jenny whom he married and who shared so many of his trips and adventures; and England, where they had homes. He wanted to see it all but it was Africa which quenched his true longing. Many years ago I remember saying that Roy was the one person I had met in my life who could have pursued any career path he wished, like the professions of medicine, engineering, law, accounting and countless others. None of these had academic demands which would have precluded him from entering their exalted ranks. And yet he put his lifestyle above this. He decided on the most noble of all pursuits – that of teaching. It was the answer he gave me once when I said “Why teaching Roy? You could do anything.” And he shrugged and said “Yes. But look at what holidays you get.” Was he joking? He saw something bigger I believe. He saw a lifestyle where he could effortlessly impart knowledge, where he could shape young minds to what he knew was out there and where he could share something of the universe and of the wild Africa which had so captivated him. That it gave him the time to travel and experience firsthand its wonders was the bonus of the profession. Roy will be remembered by a generation of schoolboys, many of whom owe him a great deal. They will remember a man of integrity, a man of few words, a man of action, and a man of quiet modesty. His friends will remember the times they enjoyed in his company and recall with deep respect and affection a man who lived his life as he wanted. Here was a man who loved his family and made a huge contribution to his fellows, someone who plumbed the depths of personal courage. He will be greatly missed.
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Delmont, Peter Joseph Born 1940, Died 2015 Michaelhouse 1954-1957 Witten by Tony Clucas Pete and I met in the playground of Mrs Fielding’s nursery school (now St Katherine’s school), Parktown West, Johannesburg in 1945. At the age of six, he lured me into a life of crime by asking me to help him bury a note from his teacher, addressed to Winnie Delmont. I was never quite sure what dreadful misdemeanour Pete had committed, but the kindly Mrs Mills must have wondered why Winnie Delmont never replied. We moved to The Ridge Preparatory School in Westcliff where we formed our life-long friendship. The Delmonts, unlike any of us in the neighbourhood, had a swimming pool, and I always told Pete that people only liked him so that they could go to his house for a swim. In all honesty, Winnie and Alec Delmont were the kindest, nicest parents we knew, and we were always given the most wonderful lunches and spent hours in the pool after exploring the entire area on our bikes. They were most happy, carefree days at a time when crime was something you read about in the comics. The Headmaster, and Founder, of The Ridge, Guy Nicolson, was passionate about Shakespeare and produced a Shakesperean play every year; no boy left the school without having played a part, however small. These plays were heavily cut and lasted for about an hour, including an interval. One of my lasting memories is that of the Merchant of Venice. I was cast as Shylock and Pete was my rebellious daughter, Jessica. Unfortunately, the costumes arrived too late for a dress rehearsal. I was on stage when Pete walked on with heavy lipstick, a full length dress and a wig. This must have been the first production of The Merchant where Shylock and Jessica burst into laughter. The production was delayed to enable us to compose ourselves. I moved on to Michaelhouse and, as he was about six months younger, Pete arrived a year later as a C Block Cack. With him, from The Ridge came John Craven and Chester Emery to Founders and Richard Roseveare to Tatham. I had not enjoyed my Cack year so, in the school holidays, I had filled him with terrifying stories of what lay ahead. When he arrived he shouted out “Tony” and I replied “It’s Clucas to you Cack. You are my junior.” This lack of familiarity lasted for about one day, and our friendship was restored immediately. It was not long before we were introduced to the wonderful world of tobacco, and Free Bounds were frequently spent lazing in the shade at Gleneagles or Rouillards puffing away pretending we were big deals. In later years, we both expressed regret that we had not made better use of those Sundays, and joined the Natural History Society.
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Pete stayed on for Post Matric and left the School having obtained a first class Matric, played rugby for the Second XV and served as a House Prefect. I think the whole of the Founders Prefects’ room must have been akin to that of a tobacconist. We met up again at Wits University where Pete rapidly became a party animal of considerable note. He also had a Triumph convertible sports car which, I often told him, was the only reason so many beautiful girls were attracted to him. In truth, all people were attracted to his easygoing attitude to life and his great sense of humour. The student fraternity were always welcome at Pete’s pool where we had such happy days with him, brother Eric, sister Sally and, later, Robert. After leaving Wits, Pete went into law and I into Barclays Bank. A short while later, he accepted a position with a law firm in Nassau, Bahamas. His letters filled me with envy as he was living a life of the seriously affluent. Unfortunately, he was not affluent, so his mingling amongst the rich and beautiful at the Casino or Paradise Island was usually restricted to one night a month - payday! Amazingly, I was also transferred to the Bahamas, and our meeting up in Nassau was very moving for both of us and tinged, almost, with a sense of disbelief that our lives could continue to cross in this fashion. Pete returned to Johannesburg for a short while and then moved to Canada. I never really understood what he did, but he described himself as an entrepreneur. When I got engaged to Jen, I received a cable from Pete which read: “Congratulations! Presumably I will be best man. Please forward first class air ticket to Nassau.” He was not my best man! Jen and I were transferred back to Johannesburg and Pete was working in London. We kept in touch regularly, even through those old blue airmail letters. Here, again, I never really understood what he did, but we were delighted when he returned to South Africa and renewed his contact with Di, who he married. They moved over to the UK where he got into property development and was highly successful. They had a home in Grasmere which I never saw, but Jen stayed with them while doing a locum in the UK and described it as “stunning.” Di and Pete had two sons, Alexander and William, and his love for them was evident to all. I well remember when Alexander was born, I got a cable from the UK as follows: ‘Alexander Delmont born today. You have made shortlist for Godfather. Please forward your balance sheet by express mail so I can make a decision”. Pete and Di moved back to Johannesburg where he again put his “entrepreneurial” skills to good use. He bought a bottle store! It was not a huge financial success, but Pete certainly did enjoy taking stock. One day he telephoned
me and announced “I have quit drinking”. We had enjoyed many laughs over the years, but I think this was one of the longest. We had both given up smoking some years before, and had found it very difficult, and I had no doubt that he would fail. He never touched another drop. It was at this time that I realised that my old friend had very strong willpower. At around this time, I resigned from Barclays and took up a position as Bursar of Hilton College. (That is a boys’ school near Michaelhouse!). Pete always had great faith in my ability and insisted that I had given up a glittering career. We never regretted our decision. Pete and I spoke on the ‘phone at least twice a week and he really thought I had lost my marbles. It was not long before he sold the bottle store and he and his family bought a property at Lidgetton. Di, who really is the entrepreneur in the family, opened a lovely gift shop on the property which formed part of the Midlands Meander. They also built some cottages which Pete ran as a B&B which he loved doing. When I expressed surprise that he had moved to the Midlands when he had been so critical of me he said “Best decision you ever made my boy!” Alexander and Will both went to Michaelhouse and eventually moved to London. Pete and Di relocated to Plettenberg Bay where Di continued her business of making top of the range bags, shirts, hats and gifts. The twice a week ‘phone calls, to and fro, continued and there was always more laughter than conversation. I once read a life could be considered successful if one was loved by a child. It was not just Pete’s children who loved him; he was equally loved by my children. My younger daughter once said to me: “Dad, if anything happened to you and you could not walk me down the aisle, I would like Pete to do it.” That really is some accolade. We were all devastated when the cancer struck him. He had a lung tumour and two tumours on the brain. After a course of chemo, the brain tumours were gone, and the lung tumour had shrunk significantly. He and Di then went on a cruise of the Greek Islands with their very good friends, Angie and Dick Enthoven. On the day they returned, Pete ‘phoned me to say what a wonderful experience it had been, but he could not stop coughing. The cancer was back. During his last few months, Di was fantastic helping him, and his sons came out from London to say “goodbye”. Two days before he died, he ‘phoned me and said: “It is nearly over now. I just want to tell you that you are my very best friend in the whole world.” I knew that after so long a friendship, how could it have been otherwise, and I replied “You have no idea how much I am going to miss you.”
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I had no idea either. It is almost inconceivable that he will never ‘phone again. Farewell best friend- in my heart your memory will linger. Not a day will pass that I do not think of you.
for service to the community without thought of fame or personal gain. Dave epitomised the characteristics for which the award is given: courage, compassion and a willingness to fight for truth and justice.
Lewis, David Murray Rhodes Born 1940, Died 2015 Michaelhouse 1954–1958 Written by Robin Procter and Pat Hamilton
Retirement gave Dave the opportunity to make many new friends and to work very actively for the Democratic Alliance. Above all, it gave him time to write prolifically to a range of newspapers on a wide variety of subjects. He had well over 100 letters published; in due course these will be collected in book form as an ethical legacy for his children and grandchildren and hopefully for others.
Dave Lewis, our very dear friend for over 60 years, died in August 2015. Dave was born in Swaziland in July 1940, the younger son of Perce and Noélle Lewis. He joined Founders from Clifton, Nottingham Road in 1954, the start of a very full and successful career at Michaelhouse. He played cricket, rugby and latterly hockey with some distinction, acted and sang, debated and achieved a first class Matric in 1957. He was Head of Founders and then Head Boy in 1958, his VIth Form year, following his brother, Rob, who had been Head Boy in 1954. After leaving Michaelhouse Dave spent 18 months at Rhodes University before going up to St John’s College, Cambridge, in September 1960 to read History. At Cambridge he rowed, played hockey and bridge, learnt to ski (with, as he would have been the first to admit, maximum enthusiasm and minimal skill), smoked a pipe, co-owned with the authors his first car named McKenzie and travelled widely in Europe and North America; in between all this he did enough work to graduate with a 2.1 degree in 1963. He then moved to Oxford to do a one-year Postgraduate Certificate of Education; having spent three years at Cambridge with Dave, the authors felt that this was possibly moving downmarket; there were, however, a number of close friends and contemporaries from Michaelhouse and Rhodes, notably Rob Matthew, Tony Ardington, Dave Woods and Mike Chapman, at Oxford at the time. Dave was above all an exceptional teacher who inspired generations of boys. He started his professional teaching career with two years at a secondary modern school in the East End of London. He returned to South Africa in 1967 and spent several years teaching at Port Natal High School in Durban and at Bishops in Cape Town. He returned to Michaelhouse in 1976. At Michaelhouse he was at various times Housemaster of West, Head of History, Master-in-charge of Hockey and a Senior Master; he also made major contributions to the running and development of the Michaelhouse Farm School. It is arguable that since 1896 no one has made greater contributions to Michaelhouse than Dave Lewis and it is unlikely that anyone will in the future. These contributions were recognized formally by his being made one of the first recipients of the St Michael Award, given by the School to a select number of its past pupils
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Throughout his life Dave was an active and committed Christian. His whole life exemplified the philosophy that “the source of true power is servanthood”. Dave made many wise and successful decisions in his life – but undoubtedly his wisest and most successful was to persuade Boo Robertson to marry him in 1977. Boo is the rock on which and around which Dave built his life. Boo, their three children James, Murray and Catherine and in due course their grandson Daniel were a source of immense pride and tremendous happiness to Dave. A factual summary of Dave’s exceptional career is not, however, the full story. It does not tell of his immense courage throughout his life but particularly throughout his long final illness. It does tell of his exceptional honesty, wisdom and integrity. It does not tell of the respect, affection and love that Dave inspired in all who were fortunate enough to know him. It does not tell how many lives he enriched, although perhaps some measure of this in the 700 people who attended his memorial service in the Michaelhouse Chapel in September. Finally, it does not tell what a good friend Dave was, what great fun it was to be with him, what happy times we had with him and what wonderful memories he has given us. We are fortunate beyond words to have known him and the thought that we will never again hear his wickedly infectious chuckle is sad beyond words. Written by Professor Robert Baigrie I shared a beer with Laurie Gardener (who does so much for Bishops Hockey) after a Masters hockey game recently at WPCC, and we reminisced about Dave’s influence on our bright eyed youth which instilled in all of us a life-long love of the game. Names that Sean Rosenberg, Laurie and I remember from that team (or perhaps they were in the 1973 side) include Sean Rosenberg, Laurie Gardener, Michael Maughan-Brown, Edric Gorfinkel (RIP), Andrew Pycroft, Mark Lewis, Robin Bailey, Mike Thompson and Niall Brown. So dear Teddy (for thus to us you will always be) fare ye well, and may your heaven be filled with Elysian playing fields of the most sumptuous (delete “bowling”) green lawns, where you can once again inspire any “lost
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boys” looking to find themselves in the incomparable brotherhood of team sport. To all his loved ones, the boys of 1974ish send warm condolences, fond memories and thanks for a marvellous man who momentarily touched our youth. Written by Tim Hamilton-Smith (Bishops Old Boys) Dave, above all will be remembered as everyone’s friend; a man of immense charm and courage; an inspirational teacher, revered by boys of all ages; someone who was always prepared to help others. We will never see his like again. Written by Christopher van Straaten (Michaelhouse Staff 1979-1982) Dave was, above everything an honourable person. He had enormous integrity and would relentlessly question everything to make sure that it was right, honourable and fair. He rightly valued tradition but always in an open, questioning way. He had that piercing look in his eyes of someone who knew himself and therefore was not afraid to question. And he knew how to notice and appreciate the good in people, of all races and backgrounds. And didn’t he work! For the people and all the staff at Michaelhouse, and for the children and staff at the Farm School. To say I admire him is too weak. He was, simply, one of those people of whom I say that I am the better and the richer for knowing. Written by Anthony Hewat (West Prefect, 1977) and Deputy Chairman of the Michaelhouse Board He always asked caringly after my mother and remembered our names long after he should have or needed to. In latter years I always looked out for his name in the letters pages of the newspapers and the sentiments he expressed there never wavered from the values and principles I knew from the 70s. His love of History and of Michaelhouse were carved in from such an early age that he transmitted them with sincerity and without hesitation. He encouraged me to go to Oxford when no one else knew it was even an option, for which I will always be grateful. If I can serve the School in a fraction of the way he did I will have surpassed any reasonable duty. Moynihan, Patrick Born 1928, Died 2015. Michaelhouse 1943-1946 Extracts taken from tributes given by family members at his memorial service Patrick was born in England to British parents who immigrated to South Africa when he was just 16 months old. The family soon settled on their new farm, near Westminster, in the beautiful Eastern Free State. He went to Cordwalles from 1937-1942 and then onto
Michaelhouse in 1943, where he Matriculated in 1946. He then did a year’s stint at NUC in 1947, excelling at athletics. His older brother, David was also at Michaelhouse, from 1938-1941 and his sister Joy went to St Anne’s. Patrick was a good man, stoic and fiercely independent, but beneath his impervious exterior was a heart that was filled with love for his family and his life, filled with compassion for all of God’s creation. He was of Irish decent and we always joked that he was an Irishman with an identity crisis, because he really fancied himself as a Boer, in spite of his very British heritage. He was a man who made his dreams come true - making his dream of owning a farm into reality enriched every one of his family member’s lives – some of our fondest memories being that of spending time with him and our mother on the farm. He was also an unconventional and adventurous man – he was an alternative living person, before alternative living became fashionable and he had to have challenges in his life. He also placed very little value on material things. This gave his family a good grounding – he taught us to love the simple things. His thirst for adventure and travel made for a very enriching childhood. He built his own caravan and sailing boat and we had holidays the length and breadth of South Africa (even into Africa) in his caravan. He always took his sailing boat along and loved to fish anywhere he could. Fishing was something he enjoyed from his Michaelhouse days. He would sometimes treat the family to stories around the roaring farmhouse fire, of his mischievous adventures at boarding school. How they would brew pineapple beer in the attic of the boarding house, only to have corks noisily popping out of bottles weeks later, to the consternation of the Housemaster. And the time they shot a buck with their air rifle, butchered it up and hung biltong above their class ceiling, and watched, transfixed in horror as the blood started to drip through the ceiling. He had an incredible depth of knowledge in all areas – from science to agriculture, to history and economics and an insatiable love of nature, walking out with him was a pleasure – he could name every tree, bird and grass (common and scientific). He was a man of few words and an introvert by nature but loved his family fiercely. Of his grandchildren, Patrick commanded a respect and love because that was the sort of person he was. His grandson, Elton, summed up really well what all of his grandchildren feel by saying, “I will remember you for your patriarchal values, perseverance, discipline, steadfastness, love of knowledge, and most of all, love for your three beautiful daughters.”
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Pat Lambie was one of 11 Old Boys and one Honorary Old Boy who played a part in the promotional DVD: Armour for Life. Pat is seen here on set with the film crew.
Very recently Patrick wrote his memoirs and called it The call of the Veld. Right at the end of this fascinating story of his life, he writes “I thank the Lord Jesus for a full life well lived.” While holidaying in England a couple of years ago, we visited an abandoned village named Twyneham and there on a stone was this inscription: “My father was a solitary man, there was nothing he liked better than to be out in the woods rather than having to endure the endless banter and babbling of human beings.” This was written by Helen Taylor of her father but was so incredibly apt for my father. Sowden, Ken Born 1941, Died 2015 Past teacher 1981–1985 Written by his daughter Kaye Sowden Ken Sowden died on 11 August at his home in Burnam on Sea, aged 74, ten weeks after he was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer. He was born in 1941 in the Belgian Congo which was the nearest hospital to the leper colony in the Sudan where his father worked. The family later moved to Swaziland and then in 1950 returned to live in the Lake District where his father was ordained. Ken followed his mother into the teaching profession, teaching first in Bilingshurst where he set up the sailing club and ran the youth and trampoling clubs. He then went back out to Africa, teaching in Zambia and then
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Rhodesia where he taught at Churchill school for many years. He then took up a position as science teacher at Michaelhouse in South Africa where he was also a Housemaster and sailing coach. In 1985 he returned to the UK to teach and became a Housemaster at Wells Cathedral School. After 16 years there he retired and he was then free to focus more on his sailing. He developed a love of sailing in his early years and ran clubs at most of the schools he taught at, inspiring countless young people to take up the sport. He trained as an RNLl sailing instructor and did trips to Ireland and France. He and Annette went on to run a B&B, Canon Grange on the Cathedral Green for many years until they finally retired to Burnham on Sea. Ken was a regular at the Yacht Club for many years, becoming Commodore twice and he strived to improve access into sailing for those who were interested in taking it up as a hobby. His lasting legacy is the positive impact in he had on the lives of many young people, acting as a surrogate parent for many who were boarders. He was known for his sharp wit and sense of humour, his compassion for others and drive to push through change if he thought it needed. He was loved by people in all walks of life, young and old, in many countries and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife, Annette, daughters Kaye and Gail, sons James and Kevin, four grandchildren and his sister Carolyn.
Old Boys
CHAIRMAN’S CLUB The Michaelhouse Chairman’s Club was founded in 1999 and since the turn of the Century has been the main vehicle for fund raising by the school. Anthony Evans was the Chairman of the Board Of Governors during the late nineties, and he recalls the details surrounding the founding of the Chairman’s Club: “I remember the first Board meeting attended by Gary Ralfe who was then a newly appointed Associate Governor – he was still the CEO of De Beers at the time. When I asked him for his comments at the end of the meeting, he raised the matter of the school’s endowment, which he felt was at a very low level given the size of the school. I think that we were all somewhat taken aback, as the Trust had investments which as I recall amounted to about R30 million at that time – which we reckoned was quite substantial! But it got us all thinking – and in particular, my ViceChairman, Jamie Inglis. And it was Jamie who came up a few months later with the idea of a “Chairman’s Club”. The Board immediately approved the concept, and the Club was formed with initial commitments from a number of members of the board.” The establishment of a new fund raising initiative depends largely on the receipt of a few substantial donations in order to provide the impetus for future growth, and the Club was fortunate to receive donations totalling R 10 million in the early stages of its existence. The growth of the Club since those early days has been extraordinary, and Jamie deserves all the credit for an amazing achievement. Membership of the Club (and the tie!) has undoubtedly been a special additional attraction for all who have contributed. All funds raised by the Chairman’s Club are paid over to the Michaelhouse Bursary Endowment Trust and are managed by the trustees as part of that Trust. These trustees allocate and monitor capital across professional fund managers, currently three in all, and benchmark performance and asset allocation using industry leading input and applying international best practice. The Michaelhouse Chairman’s Club is a unique fund raising vehicle in that it allows members to indicate their preference as to the use of their donated funds and then provides for comprehensive ongoing reporting to each member. The Club holds three lunches a year across the country which creates opportunity for the members to enjoy both updates on the school and social interaction. Along with this, each member receives a statement showing the financial progress of their “fund” and the support given to the school from their “fund”.
The concept of the Chairman’s Club has been extremely well supported by the Michaelhouse community and the Chairman’s Club now has over 210 members worldwide. In 2014, funds raised by the Club generated over R2,5 million for the school which provided financial assistance for no less than 39 boys in the form of grants and interest free loans. The Board of Michaelhouse has long recognised the vital importance of outside funding to the school. In fact, Michaelhouse would never have reached its pre-eminent position in South African education without the support of its benefactors. Much of the modernisation of the infrastructure of the school, and new capital expenditure programmes and much of the financial assistance given to boys is a direct result of the incredible generosity of past supporters of Michaelhouse. With regard to the future, the Board is deeply conscious of the increasing need to grow the school’s endowment funding which, indeed, has become an imperative of leading Independent schools worldwide. The reasons for this are self-evident: • To ensure the school’s financial independence • To meet unforeseen contingencies and ensure the school’s longer term sustainability • To assist outstanding boys who are eager to come to Michaelhouse • To achieve the goal of educating future leaders of our country which requires the school to become more representative of our population, with resultant funding needs. Membership of the Chairman’s Club is obtained by a donation of a minimum of R50 000 to the Bursary Endowment Trust, which can be paid over a period of five years and which is tax deductible in the hands of the donor. It should be noted that, the amount of R50 000 was established in the early days of the Club, and was based on and equal to the full annual fee for a boy at Michaelhouse. The entry fee remains unchanged at R 50 000, although the trustees would like to point out that the current annual fee for a boy is now set at over R 200 000. Prospective members should consider their entry fee in relation to the increased cost of providing an education for a boy at Michaelhouse. Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Michaelhouse Chairman’s Club should contact the following, who will gladly explain the detailed workings of the Club and the benefits attaching to membership: • •
Nigel Porter (Chairman of the Fundraising Committee) at [email protected] Tel: 033 330 2164 or 082 455 4913. James Inglis (Chairman of the Michaelhouse Bursary Endowment Trust) at [email protected] Tel: 011 786 9358 or 083 655 7681.
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Armour for life These are my number ones. The blazer and tie I wear each day at Michaelhouse. To you they might seem like simple clothing and adornment. But they are much more than that. Though they are light, they carry weight. The weight of integrity. The weight of humility, compassion, courage and understanding. They are my identity and armour. They give me the courage to learn, to discover and to embrace the opportunities that life will present to me. And when I leave my school, I will continue to wear them inside of me. My number ones might appear as a simple blazer and tie – but they are the makings of a man.
Boys today. Men of principle tomorrow.
Balgowan · KwaZulu-Natal · 3275 · South Africa Telephone +27 33 234 1153 · Facsimile +27 33 234 4611
[email protected] · www.michaelhouse.org