Letter #5 Journey Closing

Tel: +27 (12) 348-1221 110 Clearwater Road
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www.stalbanscollege.com Lynnwood Ridge
Email: [email protected] 0040
South Africa

19 September 2018

Dear Journey Parents

Letter #5 Journey Closing

It is a beautiful morning here at the far end of the Journey and a great time to reflect. I share this
with you as your son’s Journey is in the closing stages and before you know it he will be back with
you at home.

While Journey is always planned as a programme which our Form 3 boys are encouraged to do,
through what we have seen over the years is that the Journey serves only the catalyst for each
individual boy and his family to begin the journey of their son’s progression to manhood. Yes, the
goal is to complete the 23-day Journey, but more importantly it must have started the process of
each boy’s transition into a man of calibre, character and humility – for him to find his strengths
and to learn how to use them for the protection and benefit of those around them.

This transition takes wisdom and courage from you as parents: wisdom to impart and share the
values and personal code you would like to see your son live by; courage to learn how to let him
go; and courage to believe in him enough so that it enables him to believe in himself.

When your son returns, cherish the time you have with him. Be intentional about making time to
chat and share his experiences and stories with you. Do your best to change the way you deal
and respond to him on a daily basis. Expect more from him. Challenge him to take up more
responsibility as a more “senior” family member. Invite him into conversations and decisions which
usually are only for adults. Respect his input and perspective.

It has been a privilege to watch each of your sons grow and mature over this Journey period. To
see the glimpses of the man he is to become is remarkable and humbling.

Group arrivals:
The arrival ceremonies will start at 10:30 am each morning in the Hamilton Quad around the Bell.
The groups will arrive at school shortly before then. Please allow us to formally welcome the boys
back through the ceremony before you meet with your sons. Parents are welcome to set up a
“welcome back snack table” on the lawn outside the LEC. I strongly advise that this be a small
affair and that you save the true welcome back celebration for your family at home.

Thank you for your support and for the trust you have placed in us. Thank you for allowing your boys
to take on the Journey.

God Bless

Des Turton
HOD Outdoor Education
[email protected]

It takes a school with vision to prepare a young man for life