The Mitre Trinity Term 2019

THE MITRE TRINITY TERM 2019

Tel: +27 (12) 348-1221 | Fax: +27 (12) 361-1917 | Twitter: @thegreyandblue | Webpage: www.stalbanscollege.com

Editors: Mark Stenhouse
Ilse Marlow
Kath Lowe

Mitre Chairman: Sebastionos Papavarnavas

What’s Inside?

Headmaster’s Message
Academic News
Clubs and Societies News
Cultural News
Sports News
Chapel News
Community Service News
Staff News
General News

TheMitre // TrinityTerm2019 1

Headmaster’smessage

Dear Parents though, I was overwhelmed by the description of their
experience as they wandered around the school: they
Our Trinity term has turned out to be a wonderfully suc- spoke of the overwhelming sense of community and
cessful and affirming one in all respects. It is always im- warmth of our boys as they interacted with them.
portant to remind ourselves about how we should de-
fine success. If success is narrowly defined as having This is a special place and this edition of the Mitre cer-
a positive win-loss ratio on the sporting front, or only tainly expresses the diversity of talent on display here,
achieving an ‘A’ aggregate, one may be tempted to say the warmth of relationships and the distinct sense of
that our term was mediocre, but ensuring that our boys community. We are extremely proud of all the young
are truly learning and growing encourages us to define men who immerse themselves in the kaleidoscope of
success in a far broader and significant way. activities around the campus and, more importantly, we
love to see them grow and develop in confidence.
Our success is defined by how we measure our growth
and development in a school environment and, in my Yours sincerely
opinion, there have been significant learning and growth
points in a number of spheres of College life. Each young Shane Kidwell
man at St Alban’s is on his own unique journey and each Headmaster
boy develops and interacts with this environment in his
own particular way and so it should be, because we are
all different.

Success, in my opinion, should be defined by our
well-being. Are our young men in a social, emotional
and spiritual space which allows them to feel like they
belong and have purpose? Have they built authentic re-
lationships which will hold them in good stead in good
and tough times? Is there a sense of kindness and em-
pathy in our community that exudes our genuine care
for each other?

Unfortunately, there are a number of external factors
which create a sense of anxiety amongst boys – societal
pressures, the political and economic climate and par-
ent expectations. I am reminded on so many occasions
of how boys feel these pressures at school, and parent
interaction and reaction to a multitude of situations is
critically important if we are wanting our boys to be re-
silient and confident in tackling difficulty.

Our young men, your sons, continually amaze me with
their thoughtfulness and understanding of complex sit-
uations, for the way they help each other, encourage
friends and extend a friendly hand when needed. I have
recently interviewed a family from Cape Town. Dad is an
Old Albanian and their son would like to experience the
joy of joining the Albanian community despite the diffi-
culty of the distance from the Cape. More importantly

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

Academicnews

Academic Innovation and Creativity Report Another delegate went to a Global Online Academy (GOA)
summit in Washington DC, where valuable information
This term has seen the inception of several exciting was gleaned on moving from an Industrial Model of
initiatives. Based on the success of the Solar Car education to a Post-Industrial one through various
Challenge last year, we have foreseen the need for initiatives, including Competency Based Learning.
a Maker Space which will allow for creativity and
innovation in several subjects and help us to ensure that Delegates to conferences are required to give feedback
our learners are prepared for a world of VUCA (Volatility, in our weekly PD (Professional Development) sessions
Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity). To this end, as well as to implement what they have learnt through
the Headmaster and two staff members attended a the Academic Committee. We have certainly had much
conference run by ESTEQ Industry solutions and were exciting input this term and the implementation thereof
proud to listen to the keynote speaker, Dion Chang, will bear fruit.
who is a St Alban’s Old Boy. We have also been visiting
several similar spaces. BiomimIcry Presentation

With the new laptop roll out, we felt it important to send Recently, the Forms 3 and 4 Life Science students had
three members of staff to the Ed Tech conference and the privilege of hosting Gama Sibanda from Biomimicry
they have brought back new and innovative ideas to South Africa, where they were given an inspiring talk on
share with the rest of us and to keep us abreast of the the possibilities in the field of Biomimicry.
latest trends in the use of educational technology.

We hosted a Future Ready Career Day in which the Gama fuses his training in civil engineering (BSc Eng
boys were intrigued by the insights offered by keynote Honours), Business (MBA) and Biomimicry (CBP)
speaker, Rachel Adams. Thereafter, they were able to towards the creation of a sustainable world; where there
select from several options of speakers and decide is enough for all, forever.
whether or not that choice of career interested them.
Many of these speakers were Old Boys and hopefully, Gama integrates Biology into Design through abstracting
over the course of their schooling career, boys will have strategies from nature to create solutions for human
had the opportunity to listen to a variety of speakers. challenges. “Where others see things that are and ask
why, I dream about things that do not exist and ask why
We were privileged to have Professor Adam Habib, the not.”
Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of the
Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, as a guest speaker
and he shed much light on what can be expected from
tertiary education now and in the future.

Several of our staff attended an Elevate seminar to gain
more insight into assisting boys with good academic
and study habits.

We had a delegation attend the IBSC (International
Boys’ School Coalition) conference in Montreal,
Canada. Ylmé Rappard presented the findings from her
Action Research at the conference and the incoming
researcher, Moira Gundu, began the process of her
research. These findings are integral to us discovering
the success of various initiatives within the school.

3

Academicnews

Ambassador’s Leadership Summit- • Learning about university requirements from an
Harvard University international panel of Harvard Students

Two groups of Form 2s and 3s were given the • A team building ropes course
opportunity of a lifetime to attend a Leadership Summit • A workshop on the “Seven Habits of Highly Effective
at Harvard University in June and July. The students
were accompanied by Mr Strachan, Mrs Dewar and Mr Teens”
Cook. • A community action plan and presentation on a

The leadership summit aims to create a new generation strategy to assist local communities
of leaders in the world, and works on teaching students • Working in a group of students with varying
to collaborate, learn about themselves and each other,
as well as to be more community minded and work nationalities and backgrounds
towards the betterment of local communities. • A tour of Boston and a harbour cruise on a

The summit consisted of students between the ages of superyacht
12 and 18, from many countries around the world.
After the summit, the groups spent a few days in New
Some of the highlights of the summit were: York City. This was an absolute whirlwind of activity and
• Staying at Harvard University, one of the best the students enjoyed sightseeing and shopping before
departing back to South Africa.
Universities in the world
• A Harvard Campus Tour Many thanks to Mr Kidwell for allowing our boys this
experience.

Kerry Dewar

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

Academicnews

Boys and the Arts
Great Minds, Big Hearts
2019 IBSC Annual Conference
Selwyn House School - Montreal Quebec, Canada
The 2019 IBSC Annual Conference, Boys and the
Arts: Great Minds, Big Hearts, offered something
special to everyone committed to excellence in
boys’ education. The St. Alban’s delegates this
year included Michael Schwartz, Ylmé Rappard and
Moira Gundu.
This year’s conference theme and format focused
on the need for boys to learn to share themselves
emotionally for their own mental wellness. We
explored simple ways to reach the hearts and
expand the minds of our students.
Selwyn House School hosted a wonderful conference
and some of the highlights were keynote speakers

5

including: Sonia Lupien, the Rapper Jonathan Emile, Afrikaans) on the mindset of grade 9 boys. The project
Ned Hallowell, Jean-Marc Vallée, and the headmaster aimed to provide the boys with the opportunity to
of Selwyn House School Hal Hannaford. The focus was understand the value of having a growth mindset in
also on the vital role of parents and educators, who class and how to apply a growth mindset when thinking
must commit the needed time and resources to the arts about their learning.
and mental health.
Moira Gundu embarked on a new Action Research
I had the wonderful opportunity to present my Action journey for 2020 and will be presenting her research
Research Project at the conference. The 2019 theme paper in Barcelona in 2020. The 2020 theme is
for the Action Research projects was Boys and Stories: Connecting the dots: Boys, community and the future.
Pathways to learning. My research question was:
How might the introduction of storytelling games in an Ylmé Rappard
Additional Language class encourage a growth mindset
in grade 9 boys? The purpose of this project was to
examine the impact of the introduction of storytelling
games in an Additional Language class (in this case,

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

Clubs&Societiesnews

Clubs and Societies Report Seniors
6th - MACROBERT
DDuring the Easter Term, St Alban’s College made some 5th - KNOLL
big changes to the Clubs’ and Societies’ timetable by 4th - KNAPP-FISHER
moving the Clubs’ Period to a Friday afternoon. This 3d - MURRAY
was met with some apprehension and challenges. By 2nd - DE BEER
the Trinity Term all questions and concerns had been 1st - OCSHE
addressed and so the boys were able to make the most
of their Clubs’ Period. Overall winners
6th - MACROBERT
We had two outings this term. The Word of Art Club 5th - KNOLL
made a trip to the Tina Skukan Art Gallery, the Liter- 3rd KNAPP-FISHER (Tie)
ary Club visited the Pretoria News, while the Fly Fish- 3rd DE BEER (Tie)
ing Club went to Wonderland. I have been encouraging 2nd OCSHE
the other Clubs to arrange more excursions during the 1st MURRAY
Michaelmas Term.
Jarryd Dick
I am always encouraged by the energy and activity
during the Clubs’ Period at St Alban’s College. From 7
the very beginning of the school, Clubs have been an
integral part of the vision. I am proud to say that this
term we continued in this great tradition.

Afrikaans Club Interhouse Boeresport
Competition 2019

The Boeresport day this year was a great success. I re-
ally enjoyed taking part in it and enjoyed watching the
other boys having a great time down on the fields. My
attempt to break the record for the “Eiergooi” was un-
successful but it did draw huge crowds. I really hope
that the event continues to be well supported as it is
an integral part of the Afrikaans Club. The day was well
organised and everything went to plan.

Results:
Juniors
6th - MACROBERT
5th - KNOLL
4th – DE BEER
3rd - OCSHE
2nd – KNAPP-FISHER
1st - MURRAY

Clubs&Societiesnews

Literary Club Outing to Pretoria News Newspaper Word of Art Club Outing to Tina Skukan Art Gallery

Books are something social - a writer speaking to a On 17 May 2019, the Word of Art Club visited the
reader - so I think making the reading of a book the Tina Skukan Art Gallery in Faerie Glen to admire and
centre of a social event, the meeting of a book club etc, be inspired by the art of Liekie Fouche. The exhibition
is a brilliant idea, and the basis for life-long learning. explored the human condition through themes of
alienation, isolation and feeling lost in space and time.
Our book club visited the Pretoria News this term, with The figures, portrayed in the South African landscape,
the aim of getting an understanding of what happens are all in transit but, rather than moving towards a set
behind the scenes in newspaper publishing. The editor, destination, they appear to be drifting around in search
Val Boje, whose father is a past schoolmaster of the of something unknown.
College, gave us a personalised tour and ensured that
we were well looked after.

Following this trip, the Literary Club has been invited to
take part in the Pretoria News Interhigh Schools’ General
Knowledge Quiz in August this year. What a privilege
and an honour.

Indeed, reading gives us somewhere to go when we
have to stay where we are.

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

Clubs&Societiesnews

Caffeine Club Outing to Aroma Gourmet
Coffee Roastery

The Cuisine Club members making Butter

9

Culturalnews

“The Arts” @ St Alban’s College event, Sebastian Papavarnavas’s Art work was placed
2nd overall, an outstanding achievement. In addition, a
The MAD Department has seen immense growth over number of Art and Drama students, recently undertook
the past couple of years at St Alban’s College and it gives a tour to the National Arts Festival 2019 in Grahamstown
me great pleasure to write a report on all its activities, and had a wonderful time.
successes and developments.
Drama:
Music: On the Drama front, in 2018, we introduced Drama as
On the Music front, there have been huge successes part of a Module in Form 1. These students are now in
with the Choir, Barbershop Boys, Band, Drum Circle, Form 2 and we look forward to introducing it as a fully-
Gumboot Dancers, and our Vocal and Instrumental fledged NSC IEB Subject in 2020. Drama is proving to
soloists thus far this year at the numerous Concerts, be a very popular option among the students and we
Festivals, Competitions, Eisteddfods and External Music look forward to its continued growth and development
Examinations that have taken place. All of these have over the next couple of years, under the direction of our
been included in the Music Department Report which newly-appointed Head of Drama, Mr Jaco van Wyk.
is also featured in this term’s edition of The Mitre. We Also, this year, the ADAMS Club took on a mammoth
are extremely proud of all our Subject and Extramural task and involved itself in the Festival of Excellence in
Music students who continue to give of their very best Dramatic Arts (FEDA) Regional Drama Competition, held
and strive for excellence in their respective areas of recently in the Fringe at the Johannesburg Civic Theatre.
involvement. The Club presented two plays, which were nominated
for Best Newcomers to the Festival, Best Supporting
Art: Actor (Andile Nzama), Best Cameo Performance (Andile
On the Art front, we have also seen wonderful growth Nzama), Best Set Design and Best Costume Design.
and development and it has also recorded wonderful These are huge achievements, considering that the
successes thus far this year. Recently, we had our first ADAMS Club were up against top schools with already
4-Day Art Residency for our Forms 1-4 Art Students, fully-fledged Drama Departments from around Gauteng.
with Laurence Lenoano, who is a well-known Artist and Currently, the Drama Studio is being upgraded and
Lecturer from the Visual Arts Department at UNISA, and turned into a fully-functional performance venue for
who recently took part in the Afro-Nova Art Exhibition future events, and which will accommodate an audience
in New York. The Residency Topic was Gender and of approximately 80 people.
Subversion of Gender Stereotyping, and a collaboration
of the Residency Art work and the Forms 3 and 4 Art General:
work were on display in the newly-furbished Art Room, In an analysis conducted recently at the College,
which is looking magnificent, at the Mid-Year Matric statistically, there are currently 337 students involved
Art Exhibition, held earlier this term. This Residency in music-related activities (Subject Music, Band,
proved hugely valuable to our students and the plan is Barbershop Boys, Choir, Dance Sport, Drum Circle,
to introduce similar such Residencies in Music in 2020 Guitar Club, Gumboot Dancing, Jazz Club, Music
and Drama in 2021. Also, the Mid-Year Art Exhibition Theory, Practical Music, Saxophone Ensemble and
was a resounding success and we thank our Matric String Ensemble), 76 students involved in art-related
Art Students for their continued hard work, and we are activities (Subject Art, Word of Art and Anime Club),
extremely proud of their producing some wonderful and 65 Students involved in drama-related activities
thought-provoking Art works. In addition to this, at (Forms 1-2 Drama Module and ADAMS Club), which
the School’ Exhibition (involving 19 Schools) at the brings the grand total to 598 students involved in
University of Pretoria’s Visual Arts Department, 5 St arts-related activities at the College. This is incredibly
Alban’s Art works (including those of Yandisa Qata, Dylan exciting, and we look forward to its continued growth
Williams and Sebastianos Papavarnavas) were selected and development in the future.
to form part of this Competition and Exhibition. At this

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

Culturalnews

Music Department Report boys were required to attend the MacRobert and Knoll
Family Night.
Shortly after the return from the April holidays, the Choir
and Barbershop kicked the term’s performances off On 28 May, they again traveled to Johannesburg for
with the Mother’s Day Concert on Friday 10 May. The the Kingsmead Ensemble Festival in the Rosebank
mothers were not only treated to special songs prepared Union Church. The Drum Trio with Tshego Mosupye on
by the Choir, Barbershop and soloists, but also enjoyed Violin, Neo Pono on Cello and Caleb Bediako on Drums,
a scrumptious breakfast prepared by our incredible standing in at short notice for Oreneile Kgokong, who
kitchen staff. was injured, performed two arrangements by Tshego,
Heathens by Twenty One Pilots, and Michael Jackson’s
The Barbershop did not have much time to continue Smooth Criminal, much to the appreciation of the other
working on their different programmes for the many participating groups, especially when they were told that
events that followed. They participated in the National Tshego is only in Grade 9. Robin Olifant was wowed by
ATKV Choir Competition, held only a week later, on the girls for his performance of Hello Dolly, and our part
17 May at the NG Gemeente Skuilkrans in Pretoria. of the programme ended with Perfect, which was yet
The Barbershop achieved a Gold in the Round 1 and again a popular choice.
were invited to participate in the final competition held
in Bloemfontein on 25 July. In the Final Round of the The annual Friends in Concert, hosted this year by St
Competition, the Barbershop Boys gave a sterling Mary’s DSG on 29 May, was yet again a celebration of
performance and achieved a Gold and were placed the combined musical talents of the three schools. The
2nd Nationally in the Open Category – an incredible Choir, Jazz Club, Band and Barbershop all gave riveting
achievement. performances on the evening.

On Saturday 18 May, they then also sang at the 2019 UP In this busy last week of May, four of our boys participated
Choir Festival in the UP Musaion, where they shared in the Yamaha/Lovemore Music Competition at
the stage with a selection of other Gauteng choirs. At Roedean School. This competition caters mainly for
the Renaming Ceremony of the Don MacRobert high school music students in Gauteng. Ntsako Lekula
Walkway on Thursday 23 May, they sang their African (Voice) achieved an A, Tautona Moloi (Saxophone) an
programme at the Bell Tower, contributing to the festive A+, and Jacob Christoffels (Trumpet) and Louis Nel
ambience, and again during the lunch in the Pavilion, (Piano) each attained an A++. Louis and Jacob were
where they performed a selection of their challenging invited to the prestigious Gala Evening of this competition
pieces to the guests of honour. The guests were very at Roedean School on Friday 7 June, where both won
appreciative and Don MacRobert thanked the boys their respective categories (Louis: Piano; Jacob: Brass).
personally. It is the first time that two St Alban’s students have each
achieved a first place in this competition in one year.
The Barbershop then had a few days’ break while Congratulations to Louis and Jacob for this outstanding
the Band headed into the fast performance lane. The achievement!
Pridwin Jazz Festival on Sunday 26 May is an annual
open-air event, featuring Jazz bands from a variety The 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 Year Reunion Dinners on
of Primary and Secondary schools. The Band really Friday 7 June again featured the Barbershop Boys
enjoyed this because they were able to perform a full performing a selection of their well-rounded repertoire.
programme of 20 minutes. Their first public performance On Wednesday 19 June, the Note-4-Note Concert
of the Ed Sheeran hit, Perfect, received animated featured many of our beginner and advanced musicians
applause. Unfortunately, the Band members were not in solo or combined ensemble items.
able to see St John’s College and the Johannesburg
Youth Jazz Ensemble in action, because many of the

11

The long-awaited Consecration of the New Chapel • Latir Grey-Johnson (Saxophone)
arrived on Thursday 20 June. The Music Department
looked forward to this event; the Organ, equally festive Instrumental Piece A+
as meditative, played by Mark Stenhouse, and the Choir,
Barbershop and Support Staff Choir played an important • Tautona Moloi (Saxophone)
part on this sanctimonious day. The awareness of
praise and worship on this special day was profound Examination Piece Grade 4 A+
and the music contributed substantially to the overall
atmosphere. Examination Piece Grade 6 A+

• Michael Watkins (Saxophone)

Exam Piece Grade 7 A+

Exam Piece Grade 8 A

• Jacob Christoffels (Trumpet)

Quick Study Grade 7 A++

On Monday 24 June, the Forms 2, 3, 4 and 5 Module Impressionistic and Modern Piece A+

and Subject Music students were assessed in a public Classical Piece A+
performance at the termly Subject Music Recitals. Due
to the size of the Form 1 Module Music classes, their Study A

recitals were during their academic lessons. Jacob was also invited to the Woodwind and

Brass Gala Evening on 21 May

• Julio Mamabolo (Contemporary Vocals)

This year, seven of our musicians attended the 27th Rock Piece A
Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Festival in
Makhanda (Grahamstown), from Wednesday 26 June • Andile Nzama (Contemporary Vocals)
to Tuesday 2 July. The anticipated cold weather only
arrived at the end of the festival, but even the cold was Rock Piece A+
not convincing. The festival participants were placed
in a variety of mixed-ability jazz bands, performing at • Ntsako Lekula (Vocal Senior)
least once during the festival. The remainder of the day
was filled up with lectures, workshops and concerts, English Song A++
allowing the musicians to work with, and see in action,
many professional jazz artists. Jacob Christoffels was Musical / Film Music A++
one of four trumpeters who passed the final auditions for
the National Schools’ Big Band, after a lengthy audition Art Song A+
process that started with a regional round in the different
provinces, and ended with intensive audition sessions All in all, our musicians achieved 4 A++, 9 A+, 3 A, and 1
from 08h00 to 16h00 on 27 June. During the last rounds, B+ Certificates, with an Overall Minimum Percentage
the remaining contenders alternated with each other Average of 85%.
and were faced with several sight reading and solo
improvisation challenges. The National Schools’ Big Euan Frankim has participated in the Oos Rand
Band, under the leadership of Justin Susman, will be Eisteddfod on 11 May, achieving several outstanding
performing with world renowned jazz trumpeter, Wynton
Marsalis, and the Lincoln Centre Jazz Orchestra from accolades:
New York, on 27 September in Johannesburg.
• A+ 86% Other Languages (Nkalakhata)
• A+ 87% English Pop (For the Benefit of Mr Kite)
• A+ 89% English Ballade (Piano Man)
• A++ 90% Rock (Devil in Disguise)
• A++ 94% Afrikaans Pop (Leja)
• A++ 95% English Musical (Mr Cellophane)

Several of our boys participated in the May session of This works out to an average of 90% at this single event.
the 2019 Pretoria Music Eisteddfod We congratulate Tiago Teixeira was placed on the UNISA Role of Honour
the St Alban’s College Choir, Barbershop Boys and Vocal twice for achieving over 90% in two examinations at the

and Instrumental Soloists who achieved the following end of last year: he achieved 90% for Piano Grade 5,

excellent results: and 98% for Theory of Music Grade 4. He also received
the Hennie Joubert Merit Prize for being one of the top
• St Alban’s College Choir two candidates in the UNISA Theory Grade 4 exams in

2018.

Choral Section A+

• St Alban’s College Barbershop Boys Louis Nel was invited to participate in the South
African Music Competition in October, following his
Ensemble Section A++
outstanding results in the UNISA Piano Grade 8 exams,
• Vaughn Bauser (Saxophone)
for which he achieved 87%. Only a select few candidates
Examination Piece Grade 5 B+

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

from across South Africa get invited to participate in this Culturalnews
prestigious event every year. He also achieved 85% for
the UNISA Music Theory Grade 6 Papers 1 and 2. 10, 20, 30, 40 & 50 Year Reunion Dinner

Ntsako Lekula, Julio Mamabolo, Andile Nzama and
Michael Watkins all received Full Colours for Music
Performance at the end of this term.

We thank the St Alban’s musicians for their commitment,
their many contributions and congratulate them and
their teachers on their excellent results this term! It has
been an extremely busy term and we are very proud of
what the boys have achieved.

13

ATKV National Finals Competition
TheMitre // TrinityTerm2019

ATKV Regional Finals Competition

15

TheMitre // TrinityTerm2019

Culturalnews

Euan Frankim

17

TheMitre // TrinityTerm2019

19

Tiago Teixeira, Jacob Christoffels & Louis Nel
Note-4-Note Concert
TheMitre // TrinityTerm2019

Pridwin Jazz Festival

21

TheMitre // TrinityTerm2019

Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Festival 2019

Louis Nel Jacob Christoffels

Forms 1-4 Art Residency

23

Subject Music Recitals
TheMitre // TrinityTerm2019

Culturalnews

Matric Mid-Year and Residency Art Exhibition
On Monday 10 June, we had the privilege of opening
the Matric Mid-Year & Residency Art Exhibition in the
Auditorium and newly-furbished Art Room. It was a
special evening, which showcased the artistic talents of
our Matric Arts students in the Auditorium and our Forms
3 & 4 Art students, as well as a Collaborative Residency
Work in the Art Room by our Forms 1-4 Art students.
The 4-day Residency was presented by Mr Laurence
Lenoano, a well-known artist and lecturer from the
Visual Arts Department at UNISA, and who recently was
part of the “Afro-Nova Art Exhibition” in New York. The
Residency topic was “Gender and Subversion of Gender
Stereotyping”.
We congratulate all of our Art students on producing some
excellent work, and sincerely thank Mrs Zelda Cloete and
Mrs Ilse Marlow for a most wonderful evening.

25

Culturalnews Culturalnews

University Of Pretoria Schools Art Exhibition & “Drama Alive” Evening
Competition 2019
“ADAMS CLUB” PRESENTS A DOUBLE THEATRE BILL
University Of Pretoria’s Art Exhibition & Competition
A productive rehearsal process undertaken by the ADAMS
club culminated in a fantastic theatre experience on Thursday
13 June in the St Alban’s College Auditorium. That’s Ok, But
Soccer, the first played staged as part of the evening’s Double
Bill, bravely addressed African male identity, Xenophobia
and the (at times complex or strained) relationships that exist
between fathers and sons.

Concerns such as ‘class wars’, snobbery and toxic masculinity
were given a darkly satirical treatment in A Class Apart, the
second One Act Play to share the stage on the night. Both
plays were extremely well received by a very appreciative
audience - a true testimony to the boys’ dedication to their
four-month theatre project! Congratulations to all the club
members on a memorable evening - Bravo, ADAMS.

Sebastianos Papanavarnas
TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

27

Culturalnews

St Alban’s College Stage Debut at FEDA The two ADAMS casts include: Anjola Adejuyigbe, Sibu
Akromah, Michael Butcher, Kalayamore Rabashwa,Ofentse
On 7 and 9 May, our school’s twenty-five ADAMS club members Masoa, Andile Nzama, Anthony Ellis, Ethan Groenendyk,
participated alongside eight hundred drama students from Andre Inwani, Matt Kendal, Lonwabo Kwitshana, Sabian Lau,
other schools across Johannesburg and Pretoria in the annual Oratile Madisa, Sayola Makhohliso, Thabo Masilela, Hloni
FEDA (Festival of Excellence in Dramatic Arts) Play Festival, Matseba, Matsemela Moloi, Tautona Moloi, Loato Molotlegi,
held at the Lesedi Theatre in Johannesburg. Alex Robins, Onthatile Tladinyane and Jack Tuffek.

Our two One Act Plays - which investigated issues such We are very fortunate that our cast also showcases the talents
as African male identity, toxic masculinity, discrimination of one of DSG’s Senior Dramatic Arts students. In this regard,
and “class wars and snobbery” - afforded the Drama Club the College would like to thank Kerryn Moore for her invaluable
current twenty-five members the opportunity to strut either contribution to the production.
their performance or technical (backstage) skills. In fact, our
ADAMS productions evoked much excitement, appreciation
and praise from audiences and adjudicators alike.

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

The National Arts Festival Drama & Art Tour To the Matchbox Theatre Collective and UP Drama Department
Makhanda in Collaboration with Dance Initiative Gauteng; In Situ, an

The recent tour to Makhanda (Grahamstown), afforded Drama audiovisual installation by award winning artist and composer
and Visual Art students the opportunity to watch and to share Mira Calix; and The Mother of All Eating, a play by Zakes
in twelve of the best national and international theatre, dance
and visual art events and productions on offer at the annual Mda on the evils of greed and corruption. The 2019 ‘festival
National Arts Festival 2019. Our boys - along with Drama and
Visual art students from Pecanwood College - spent five days favourite’, the boys all conceded, had to have been the
jam-packed with creative experiences solely dedicated to the
enjoyment and appreciation of the arts. Swedish performance group Sirqus Alfon’s production titled
I Am Somebody - a unique “high-tech apocalyptic m usic-

theatre piece for the internet generation and beyond” which

combined rap,opera, live electronica, circus clowning, dance

and a great deal of audience interaction.

Some of the highlights of the tour’s production and events Both the Drama and Visual Arts Departments would like
itinerary included video installations such as Snow White to extend their gratitude to everyone involved in the tour -
and Black Smoke Rising by Berni Searle (The National Arts wonderful memories of thought-provoking productions and
Festival 2019 Featured Artist); All Who Pass, a brilliant new exhibitions; early breakfasts and late-night dinners; bus rides
and airports and lots of laughter, linger. Indeed, the Arts tour
work by playwright Amy Jephta (2019 Standard Bank Young to the National Arts Festival 2019 was a fantastic experience.

Artist for Theatre), masterfully directed by Quanita Adams; Jaco van Wyk
the spellbinding contemporary dance piece, Gas Lands by

29

Sportsnews

Phatu Maswanganyi came 5th in the Senior National Basketball Club Report
Athletics Championships held in Germinston
In the second term, only the 1st Team Basketball took part in
the Pretoria Basketball Schools’ League.

The League was divided into two pools of seven schools in the
U19 division, with the top two schools in each pool advancing
to the playoffs. Our 1st Team won all their pool matches and
was placed 1st . In the semi-finals, we played against PBHS
in a tense match, and managed to win 32-26. In the final,
we saw another tough encounter against BEES Academy and
managed to win the match 40-36. The 1st team was crowned
Champions of the League for the second year running and were
undefeated in both years. Some players received individual
awards for their outstanding performances:

Reinhard Venter was voted an All Stars player for best
shooting guard; Ryan Crewe-Brown was voted an All Stars
player for best forward; Thendo Magugumela was named
MVP, the league’s best player.

The Basketball Club has had an outstanding season and we
hope the legacy will continue to live on now that the majority of
these players are in their final year at the College.

Victor Foudar

Senior National Athletics Championships 2019
TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

31

Sportsnews

Hockey Club Report sub-committee, South African Schools’ U18 Selector
and South African Schools U18 High Performance
The 2019 Hockey Season proved to be a successful one Coach.
for the St Alban’s Hockey Club. It is clear that hockey
remains one of the most popular extramural activities at Guy Elliott (Director of Hockey) - Head of the Northern
St Alban’s, as the club fielded no fewer than 18 teams Gauteng High Performance and Coaching Portfolio,
this season. Northerns Men’s Coach, Premier Hockey league’s
Mapungubwe Mambas Assistant Coach, South African
The teams competed in our traditional derby day Schools’ Selector and South African Schools’ High
fixtures, with some of the team also playing in the local Performance Coach.
Pretoria schools’ leagues. Our A teams participated in a
number of Festivals around the country and put in some Alastair Trafford (Hockey administrator) - Northern’s
admirable performances. The U14A team took part in U14A Head Coach.
the annual Independent Schools’ Festival at Bishops
in Cape Town, the U15A team fared well at an U16B Gareth Morgan (Sport Scientist) - Northern’s U14A
Festival, which was hosted by Jeppe High School in Assistant Coach.
Johannesburg. The U16A team attended the Nomads
Festival at KES and the Independent Schools’ Festival at Sam Mvimbi (14A Assistant Coach) - South African
Michaelhouse in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands, whilst the U21 Men’s Player.
1st XI took part in the annual Nomads Festival hosted by
Pretoria Boys’ High, as well as the Saints Easter Festival, Peabo Lembethe (U16A Assistant Coach) - South
which took place at St Stithians in Johannesburg over African Men’s Player and TUKS Men’s Captain.
the Easter break.
Jarred Campbell (U15B Assistant Coach) - South
A number of boys were rewarded with provincial African U21 Men’s Player.
selections in 2019:
The St Alban’s Hockey Club is extremely proud of Aidan
Northern’s Hockey Representatives: Le Fleur, who gained selection to the South African
Schools’ U17 team during the U18 Interprovincial
Northern’s U14B: Tournament in 2019. Congratulations, Aidan.
Nathan Schuldt and Nduna Ntshalintshali.
Northern’s U16A: We look forward to another successful season in 2020.
Arnaud du Plessis, Lethabo Masombuka, Sabelo
Maseko and Yaaseen Mohanlall. 1st Team Nomads Festival.
Northern’s U16B:
Hlogi Molaba, Magnus Koola and Sandile Mzimba. At the start of the 2019 season, the 1st Team attended
Northern’s U18A: the annual Nomads Festival, which was held at Pretoria
Aidan Le Fleur and Phemelo Setsiba. Boys’ High. It is arguably the toughest Festival on the
Northern’s U18B: schoolboy calendar, with the country’s top boys’ schools
Jared le Roux, Khelan Mooloo, Max Morhart and in attendance. This year the 1st Team put in some
Ntsakisi Mkhabela commendable performances in the three days. They
recorded a comfortable victory over Wynberg Boys’
A number of our staff are also involved in administration, High school, a draw against a strong St John’s outfit,
playing and coaching at provincial and national level: and lost narrowly to KES, Hilton College and Maritzburg
College.
Krinesan Moodley (Director of Sport) - Chairman of the
South African Hockey Association’s High Performance

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

Saints Easter Festival College. They then drew to Hilton College, after an
early season defeat and, unfortunately, they lost in the
The 1st team participated in the Saints Easter festival last minute to Clifton College, as well as Pearson High
over the Easter break and had the opportunity to play School. The performance of the season came during the
against new opposition, as well as having a second Festival, when the team managed to defeat Maritzburg
opportunity to face teams they had faced already. The College for the first time since 2004 and for the second
Festival started well with the team beating Kingswood time in the history of the school.

U17A South African Hockey
Congratulations to Aidan Le Fleur who
made the South African U17A Hockey
Team.

33

Sportsnews

Rugby Club Report Festival Results:

2019 has been an eventful year for the Rugby Club and Grey PE Rugby Festival
the Club continues to grow in numbers. Each age group
has given of their best to ensure that they develop a 1st Won 10-7 vs Graeme College
set of good fundamental skills whilst enjoying the values 22-0 vs Muir College
that rugby has to offer. Won 22-0 vs Graeme College
U16 Lost 28–10 vs Muir College
The 1st XV may have not had the record wins of 2018, but 15-12 vs Graeme College
this term has proved to be one of their more successful Lost 24-12 vs Muir College
seasons, as the team received 9 provincial call ups for U15 Lost 35-24 vs Graeme College
the Craven Week, which was held in Bloemfontien. The 21–14 vs Muir College
season was filled with highlight matches, the standout Won
match being against a formidable Helpmekaar team at U14 Lost
the St John’s Rugby Festival, where the score at halftime
was 14 – 14, Two late tries in the last 5 minutes saw a Lost
final score of 33 – 19 to Helpmekaar. The team also got
an opportunity to play at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium St John’s Rugby Festival
and Kings Park Staduim in Durban as curtain raisers to
Super Rugby matches. 1st Lost 22-7 vs NSW (Australia)
Lost 33-19 vs Helpmekaar
The 4th edition of the Annual Moshate Community
Rugby Festival saw the addition of U9, U10 and U11 Tshwane U17 Stayers Rugby Festival
local club rugby sides participate, as well as the addition
of an U17 Tshwane Stayers Series and the U15 Moshate U17s Won 27-7 vs Southdowns College
Cup. Won 27-12 vs CBC Boksburg

Well done to the following players for being selected for We would like to thank the boys for their commitment to
Blue Bulls Provincial Teams: rugby this term and congratulate all players, especially
those selected into Provincial Teams, for their hard work
and dedication.

Blue Bulls U18 Craven Week A:

Simon Miller

Sbewu Fipaza
Blue Bulls U18 Craven Week B:

Isaac Khelo

Tinotenda Kuwana

Thabang Mogadima

Mashudu Muleva
Blue Bulls U18 Academy Week A:

Luyanda Mpafa
Blue Bulls U18 Academy Week B:

Nkhensani Flepu
Blue Bulls U16 Noordvaal B:

Blessing Makhubela

We are also extremely proud of Simon Miller on his Blue Bull Craven Week Players

selection into South African Schools’ Team for 2019.

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

U18 South African Craven Week
Selection - Simon Muller

35

Chapelnews

Chapel Report sacred and meaningful context, relating to the College.
It was fantastic to have two previous chaplains, Father
Trinity term started off with a lot of excitement and David Swanepoel and Father Andrew Nel present as
anticipation. Over the past few months we have been well. The Diocesan Chapter, St Mary’s DSG’s Chaplains,
painstakingly constructing our new chapel, and every Father Leonard Nyakale and Father Tim Lowes, and the
aspect of its being involved the whole St Alban’s Presbyterian Minister, Reverend Theo, were present,
Community. From the foundation to the finest detail in too. It was so special to view the vast number of well
completion, we were weeks away from the Consecration wishes and congratulations on social media.
and Dedication of our New Chapel. It was an awesome,
momentous and wonderfully sacred event. A week later, we had our had our Confirmation Service
and 19 boys were confirmed. Sadly, Sabian Lau fell
Then it all started, we had to start getting all the logistics ill and could not be there, but he will be confirmed at
in place for the Consecration and Dedication of the New St Mary’s DSG on 15 September 2019, with the DSG
Chapel on 20 June 2019. With great excitement Bishop confirmands.
Tim Bavin, the first chaplain of St Alban’s College,
accepted the invitation to be the preacher at the On 7 July 2019, we had the first baptisms in the chapel,
Consecration Service. The day before the Consecration when two of our staff members, Mr Daniel Christian
Service, Bishop Bavin paid the College a visit and he and Ms Keitemetsu Modise’s babies were baptised. So,
was awestruck. He showed off his organ playing skills, Athena and Phenyo have made history and they both
by playing two hymns from the Ancient and Modern indeed have bragging rights.
Hymnal.
We concluded the term with the Blessing of the Boots
It was a wonderful privilege to put together the liturgy for Ceremony, as our Form 3 boys are currently preparing
the Consecration Service, with the guidance of Bishop for the Journey.
Allan. He presided over the service and did so in a very

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

37

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

39

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

41

Communityservice

St Alban’s College – Reflection on Living the the LEC Beyers room for the Grade 11 and 12 students
Generous Life from Leap School from 08:00-17:00. Topics such as
Physics, Maths P1, Grade 12 DBE (in-depth classes on
Each year, we strategically invest in programs and Work, Energy, Power), Grade 12 IEB (in-depth classes
people, and philanthropy fuels those investments. on Work, Energy, Power), and Grade 11 mid-year
Chemistry. This was followed by an early preliminary
Several events were initiated throughout this term and seminar at St Alban’s College on 22 June 2019.
these initiatives are directed towards changing lives
and helping disadvantaged communities, such as our Leap School Revision Workshop (2-4 July 2019)
ECD’s, Eersterust Feeding Scheme, Schools’ Sports, Mrs Marelet Moolman launched the first round of a
Orphanages, Old Age Homes, homeless people at project, from 2-4 July 2019, with Leap Maths & Science
Tshwane Leadership Foundation, Flavius Mareka schools with the blessing and support of Mrs Angela
Secondary School, Knowledge Centre, St Alban’s Roche and Mr Sam Chowles. We consulted with staff
Cathedral Homeless Ministry, Wetnose and Wollies. members to identify topics learners struggle with and
Our aim is also to help these organisations to achieve presented sessions on these, which involved Physics
their full potential. Students learned how to use their and Chemistry topics. We exposed learners to practical
leadership skills to serve their community and I am work in our laboratories. We aimed to give plenty of
positive that they will know how to use these servant working examples, but also included videos, quizzes and
leadership skills after their matric. other tools to make lessons fun and more interactive.

This term’s report provides a table that demonstrates Community Service Club Winter Drive
St Alban’s College’s impact on our Community Service Every second week during club period the club members
initiatives as we strive to achieve the maximum impact took soup and bread to the 150 homeless men and
with the resources and budget entrusted to us. We are women at the St Alban’s Cathedral.
convinced that our programmes have impact positively
in all the areas. Clothes To Good Initiative
We know that parents are the centre of their child’s
Structured Intercultural Relationship Building world so that is why we encourage all our parents to
Programme through paired reading with pupils from take an active part in their child’s learning journey, both
Nantes, a low fee-paying school in Eersterust. This inside and outside the classroom. We have received
initiative introduces concepts of dignity in our differences bags and bags of clothes since our appeal on the
as well as sharing. 100 Learners from Nantes visited our D6. I am reminded of the following words: “If basic
school on Platinum day. human generosity is not fostered in our homes, a lack
of generosity will quickly and deeply infect workplaces,
Sharing and facilitating of Educational Expertise and families and community.” We thank all our parents for
Resources to build Capacity in Communities. their support and donations to this worthy cause.

Knoll House hosted 35 learners from Flavius. Partnership with Leap Maths and Science School –
Recently, learners in Grade 11 from Atteridgeville visited Ga-Rankuwa
St Alban’s for academic purposes, and engaged with
Grade 11 learners from St Alban’s. We focused on the State-of-the-art Science Laboratory in Ga-Rankuwa
following subjects: Maths, Maths Literature, Accounting, needs Sponsorship.
History, and Geography St Alban’s College has partnered with St Augustine’s
LEAP Maths and Science School by joining the initiative
Science Clinic – St Augustine’s Leap Maths and and sharing their vast expertise and experience. St
Science School Alban’s College teachers continue their association
5 Clinics were held on Saturdays at St Alban’s College in and are intimately involved with the development of St

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

Augustine’s Leap School. It is for this reason that we, schools listened to each other’s stories. The boys,
as a school, made a decision to sponsor the building of during these visits, have come to realise that sharing
a much-needed Science Laboratory at the Leap School their gifts, their resources, care and skills, releases a
powerful force for positive change in both giving of their
Progress has been made with the Science Laboratory time and money. This approach encourages action and
and I can confirm that 80% of the work has been teamwork.
completed. We hope that the Science Lab will serve to
mitigate the problems and restriction that the learners As a result of this, I have crafted a story with an update
may currently encounter. With the construction of the on the completion of the new containers at the Crèche
new science laboratory, the Science apparatus can be that was adopted by De Beer House (please read the
readily accessible during science classes while uplifting next Mitre). It is my hope that you will see the countless
the profile of Science at the school. The School is examples of generosity and seeds of love we have sewn
currently using a classroom as a makeshift laboratory. and experienced during this term.

The MacRobert community has worked very hard

with the Knowledge Centre in Mamelodi this year.
MacRobert hosted the 35 Grade R learners at its
House on Platinum Day. They are still working very hard

with the Knowledge Centre to improve their facilities and

growing the relationship with MacRobert.

Final Thoughts
Gratitude is not self-perpetuating. It takes a conscious
effort, a commitment from our entire community and it
starts with the leadership of our school and our parents.
For those of you who are starting to plan your Christmas
Celebration, your fabulous décor and the meals that you
are going to serve (delicious roasts), please be mindful
of those who are not going to have something to eat on
that day. If you want to do some good this Christmas by
donating your time or money, we have a long list of ways
you can help out those in need.

The construction of the laboratory began in 2018 but “What is the difference between a Star and a Leader?
faced huge challenges along the way in finding enough A Star shines, while a Leader helps others to shine” –
funding to complete the building. Construction has Jean Hassett. To our 2019 Chairperson, leading his
been put on hold. first meeting was daunting for Thabo, but he got a lot of
support and respect from his peers, which helped him to
relax and get things done. Thabo constantly affirmed the
members in the club when they did a project, whether it
was tough or they made mistakes, but he was “seeing
the person rather than the problem”. Thabo, from all of
us we wish you well in your future endeavours.

House Charities
Great emphasis is placed on the social responsibilities
of the boys at the College. Each house has at least one
charity that the house members actively support through
raising funds, practical activities and visits arranged by
the boys and the Housemasters.
During visits to these institutions, learners from both

43

TheMitre // TrinityTerm2019

Communityservice

Lesotho High Altitute Cycle Challenge Mark certainly rose to the challenge and spent many
hours on the road alone and at times probably wondered
Mark participated in the Lesotho High Altitude Cycle “what on earth did I get myself into” but no matter how
Challenge during the last week of term. This cycle tour physically or emotionally exhausted he was, he dug
started in 2011, when a group of die-hard, fearless and deep and kept going relentlessly and did himself proud.
somewhat crazy Trollope Mining cyclists decided to put
together an extreme 3-day high altitude cycle through
Lesotho in aid of Charity. Over the past 8 years R10,5
million has been raised for various charities. This year
R1,1 million was raised for Phuthanang Training Centre
for the Disabled in Tembisa. This is a training centre
which provides life skills to young people with mental
and physical disabilities. Students are taught literacy
and income generation skills such as flower arranging,
decorating and cooking.

Mark was invited to join the group of 30 cyclists to take
on the treacherous Lesotho Mountains this year and
he can vouch for the fact that as far as cycle tours go,
this is not for the faint hearted. After many months of
early mornings and long hours of intense training, the
moment had finally arrived. Being the youngest by about
20 years, and amongst a group of hugely competent
and highly experienced MTN bikers, Mark was feeling
the pressure and, in a moment of doubt, asked “what if I
can’t keep up?” Well that was not to be; his performance
was outstanding and he was right up there with the front
runners each day. Headstrong to the maximum, he put
foot to pedal and ploughed on no matter how tough the
going got.

The route changes every year and this year was the Mark Hopkins (Form 3)
most challenging yet. The total distance was 285km
with 10,000m of climbing at an altitude of 9500 feet.
Day 1 - Drak Gardens to Sethlabathebe - was 85km’s
and took him 9 hrs along a gruelling route, which had
them cycling to the border post then hiking for 10kms
up Bushman’s Neck pass with their bicycles on their
backs, wading across rivers, negotiating ravines and
climbing up cliff faces until they got to the top. Day 2
- onwards and upwards to Thaba Tseka - 130km’s and
11.5 hours in the saddle, filled with leg-breaking, heart-
popping endless and seriously steep mountain passes.
Finally, Day 3 to Katse Lodge - 70kms and 4 hours of
unrelenting mounting passes. The pace was faster as
the gravel road surfaces were better.

45

Staffnews

High Performance Hockey Camp

St Alban’s members of staff, Krinesan Moodley (Direc- were involved as coaches at the National U17 and U18
High Performance Hockey Camp.
tor of Sport) and Guy Elliott (Director of Hockey),

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

Staffnews Staffnews

Farewell To Dear Friends Farewell To Dear Friends

Des Turton Esmé Momberg

Des Turton has been a staff member since January In 2008, Esmé Momberg applied for the newly created
2012 when he was appointed to run the Leadership post of school counsellor. She impressed us in her
Programme and Adventure Activities. He began by interview as a ‘can-do’ person and proved to be so when
assisting Gary Townsend and then took over the bulk of she began her career here in 2009.
the Journey organization.
As the counsellor and Head of Department of Life
His love and passion for the outdoors led to a number Orientation, Esmé’s calm approach and genuine interest
of other initiatives. Des was the driver behind the idea in boys and their activities – whether in the class room
that each Journey year would buy new bicycles for their or on the rugby field – made her a perfect fit for her roles
cycling experience and then donate those bicycles to in the College.
communities for children to use to get to school. So far,
22 bicycles have been donated through this scheme. The Form 3 work experience is also a vital aspect of
Des saw this scheme as a key to better education for our programme that Esmé took over and streamlined.
this community (the Ubuhle Christian School). He also She was also in charge of facilitating accommodation
made sure that College boys interacted with nature by applications up to 2017.
studying and rehabilitating the Moreletta Spruit.
Esmé has more recently taken on the role of Career
When Mrs Connie Kannemeyer was appointed to take Guidance Advisor with similar success. She is a
the Social Responsibility programme forward, Des was professional educator who is comfortable whether
asked to assist her. The Eersterus Feeding Scheme, holding a pen, a stop-watch at Athletics or quietly
says Connie, could not have continued without Des ferrying an injured boy to hospital. She takes it all in her
quietly smiling and arranging the weekly visits from quiet and modest stride.
boys, staff and parents – even during school holidays.
In recent years Esmé has been invited to conferences
Another initiative involving Des was when he decided around the world and her depth of understanding of
to organize a camp for students from St Augustine’s the options available to school leavers will be missed.
in Ga-Rankuwa so that they too could get a taste of She has also overseen the phenomenal growth of the
camping and enjoying their environment. They reported Future Ready conferences at St Alban’s. These slick and
that they had never before been exposed to this kind of interesting days have been characterised by a wonderful
experience. buzz of interest and excitement.

It was typical of the quiet passion that Des brought to We wish her every success as she goes to take up a new
things that this camp was not publicized. Des did not challenge at St Stithians Girls’ College.
talk about things - he just did them.
Rob Campbell-Atkins
In May, Des reported that his wife had been offered a
chance to teach in the Far East and they would be off
with their young son on a new adventure. Mags Pather
described Des as the ‘true North’ of the College. It is
difficult to think of a better and more fitting tribute.

Rob Campbell-Atkins

47

Staffnews Generalnews

Farewell To Dear Friends 100 South African Shining Stars

Magalan Pather Congratulations to Old Albanian, Sibusiso Molimi,
who recently addressed the boys at Assembly, on being
Magalan Pather was introduced to the staff as a new recognised as one of the 100 South African Shining
Mathematics teacher at the Staff Conference in 2002. He Stars. Well done on this outstanding achievement
told us that Mags was his preferred name and that he was Sibusiso!
(and still is) a passionate Mathematics teacher and sports
fan. He remains an active squash player who passed on
those genes to his son Nikhil. Nikhil is the youngest member
of the College 1st Squash team.

Mags and I coached the mighty Under 14B rugby team for a
season before he decided that focusing on squash coaching
would be a better use of his time. In 2007 Mags informed us
that his wife, Kasturie, had been posted to Finland to work
in the SA embassy there. The family packed up and moved
there. Mags learned a lot about the education system in
Finland while he was there and also successfully completed
an MBA during his stint overseas.

In 2011 Mags returned to the College and the HOD of
Mathematics. His expertise in statistics meant that he
could analyze academic tends in new and beneficial ways.
In 2016 Mags was appointed as the Deputy Headmaster
(Academic). For several years, he was working at the
College while his wife and son were living in Venezuela
at the embassy there. He would sometimes send emails
and analyses from there during holidays, especially when
matric results had to be processed in December. We all
felt relieved, for his sake, when his family was reunited and
back on campus. During this period, his daughter, Kaylin,
matriculated at DSG and is now successfully completing
her studies at UP.

Mags, Michael Schwartz and I have been able to bounce
ideas and tackle issues together, so it was with mixed
feelings that we heard that he was a successful applicant
for the post of headmaster at Southdowns College. It has
sometimes been difficult to get into his office because he
can usually be found discussing a boy’s academic progress
with the boy and his family. This personal focus is one of his
great strengths and we know that the boys have benefited
from (if not always enjoyed!) this attention.

Mags and his family will be missed. We wish them well as
they go on to a new chapter in their lives.

Rob Campbell-Atkins

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019

Generalnews

Baptisms Careers Day 2019

On 7 July 2019, we had the first baptisms in the New The 2019 Future Ready for Future Impact Career
Chapel, when two of our staff members, Mr Daniel Conference.
Christian and Ms Keitemetsu Modise’s babies were
baptised. Athena and Phenyo have made history and Rachel Nyaradzo Adams, the founder of Narachi
they both indeed have bragging rights. Leadership, a boutique consultancy aimed at equipping
leaders with tools for transformational leadership, was
the keynote speaker to our second Annual Career
Conference that took place on 6 June 2019. Rachel
challenged all the students to use what they have to
make our country a happier, more prosperous place for
all.

The students then received their conference goodie
bag, proudly sponsored by Stenden University SA and
went off to the first of their three selected speakers.
Sixty professionals agreed to share their career journeys
with the students. The careers represented ranged from
the scientific to the creative, from the business world to
the legal fraternity.

The day concluded with the students engaging with 20
tertiary institutions at the Career Expo.

49

Generalnews

Matric Dance 2019 red carpet, before the youngsters greeted Mr and Mrs
Kidwell. Arriving into what was the beautifully decorated
Be the Storm Batterboys Boutique Hotel, was a magical experience
with clouds, fairy lights and thunder adorning the hall.
“The heart of man is very much like the sea, it has its Each Matric student and his partner proceeded to make
storms, it has its tides and in its depths it has its pearls their own elegant entrance in their breathtaking classy
too.” (Vincent Van Gogh) suits and gorgeous dresses. The sheer excitement of
seeing each other was a special moment to behold.
The night we had all been waiting for, in anticipation
and excitement, finally arrived - Friday 28th of June, the Guests were treated to a plated three course meal, which
Matric Dance of 2019, and it was an evening that was did not disappoint. Mr Kidwell left the guests with some
especially unforgettable! Everyone agrees that this is the lasting thoughts and congratulated them on their fine
event that gives pupils a chance to feel glamorous and appearance. Our Head of School, Ashton Frodsham,
socialise with their friends and teachers. It also signifies did not only speak from the heart, but also opened the
their success in reaching their final year of school. dancefloor with a few spectacular moves!
It really is a memorable evening to reflect on one’s
schooling years. After a long night of dancing, eating, chatting and
picture-taking, the last few songs were played as the
The arrival of the College Matrics resembled a evening came to an end just before the clock struck
Hollywood-red-carpet-meets-motor-show event as the 12.00am.
youngsters emerged from rumbling hot rods, Italian
exotics, supercars, classics and limousines to the The St Alban’s Matric Dance was a night of unity,
dazzle of camera flashes and cheering, ululating crowds. elegance and, most of all, love. From the point of
Phemelo and Atang, the ingenious and eloquent MC’s arrival at the beautiful venue to the momentous ring
for the evening, welcomed guests. ceremony, it truly was an evening we will never forget.
The spectacular evening could have not have been what
As the Matrics and their partners stepped out of it was without the organisation and hard work of Ms
their cars, they were met with a photographer who Michelle van Rensburg. Thank you.
snapped the first candid photo of the evening on the

TheMitre // EasterTerm2019