The Mitre Trinity Term 2018

Trinity Term 2018

HEADMASTER’S MESSAGE of the classroom. This diverse set of experiences has enabled each young man,
who has been prepared to engage, to learn about himself and the world around
him and ultimately this will prepare him for the world at large. I am excited by the
positive culture developing here: a culture of support for each other, a culture
of acceptance, a culture of high standards, a culture of helping the community
around us and a culture of not being afraid to make mistakes and try different
things. Perfect and bulletproof are seductive but they do not exist in the human
experience, (Brene Brown), and I believe our boys are understanding that
developing a true sense of learning and thinking requires them to be vulnerable,
learn from their mistakes and believe in their dreams.

Two young men who certainly believe in their dreams and who have made a
wonderful difference in the communities within which they operate are Michael
Kumbirai (Class of 2014) and Matthew Field (Class of 2018). Michael has been
nominated as one of the top 200 young South African’s by the Mail and Guardian
and quite clearly continues to make a significant impact in the community of
Cape Town and Matthew has been announced as one of the top 100 young future
Mandela’s which is particularly apt as we celebrate the centenary of Madiba’s
birth. We are immensely proud of these two young men but even more so we
are immensely proud of what they are doing to initiate positive change in the
community around them. Nelson Mandela said: ‘What counts is not the mere fact
that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that
will determine the significance of the life we lead’ and it is this significance which
we would like to encourage in each and every one of our students.

The Trinity Term has been a wonderfully We have had so many different facilitations which have stood out in terms of
successful term for a number of reasons allowing our boys to experience real learning but there is one project which has
but most importantly I believe it has really stood out in terms of innovation and creativity. The fact that a large group
been successful because of the way the of boys across the grades have been designing and building a solar powered car
boys have engaged at every level. Our which will race from Pretoria to Cape Town is truly magnificent. This project has
boys have understood the importance had its own stresses but I have no doubt that Rob Lodge, our team leader in this
of giving of their best and allowing facilitation, will ensure that real learning takes place. I would like to thank him and
themselves to be vulnerable. Brene his team for ensuring, at short notice, that this project can get off the ground. I
Brown says: Vulnerability is not knowing would also like to thank everyone in our community who has helped, whether it be
victory or defeat, it’s understanding the with materials, expertise or logistics; we really appreciate the generosity shown by
necessity of both, its engaging. It’s being so many community members. The learning and complex problem-solving which
all in! I have no doubt that your sons is taking place in this facilitation speaks directly to the College’s aim to create
have been ‘all in’ this term. They have an innovative, creative space which will ensure that our young men are not only
allowed themselves to engage and they ‘future fit’ but equipped with skills which will ensure that they are competitive and
have stretched themselves as they have prepared for the future world of work.
been prepared to grow and learn from
their own actions and the interaction with Our boys have excelled in a number of diverse areas as a result of our focus
others. and determination to ensure that the Trinity Term was well balanced in terms of
activities. There are a number of boys who have achieved at the top level and I
True learning organisations are would like to congratulate them wholeheartedly.
continually expanding their capacity
to create their future and St Alban’s St Alban’s is an extraordinary place and this has been an extraordinary term in
continues to amaze me with the way every respect and as we embark on our mid-year break, I wish each family a time
we engage wholeheartedly in all we do. of restoration and peace as you take the time to reconnect with your sons. This is
Yes, it has once again been a busy term a significant time in their lives – enjoy the moments with them. Live, love and laugh
but I have a sense that our boys have together and travel safely!
been purposefully engaged in and out

SHANE KIDWELL 1

CELEBRATE!

WORLD CHOIR GAMES 2018 the judges’ hands.

We are immensely proud of the Barbershop Boys The Awards Ceremony took place at the impressive
who competed in the 10th World Choir Games, held Moreletapark Church in Pretoria on Friday 13 July.
in Tshwane, from 9-14 July 2018. This is the world’s Here, the Barbershop Boys were awarded a Gold
largest choral competition and it provided our young Diploma (Level 1) and announced the Category
men with unique and memorable experiences, and Winners of the Young Male Voice Category in
wonderful encounters with choirs from around the the Open Competition of the World Choir Games
world. 2018 – an incredible achievement. This result also
means that the Barbershop Boys now automatically
After many months of rehearsing, on Tuesday 10 qualify for the World Choir Games and the World
July, the Barbershop Boys headed off to the State Choir Championships for the next 5 years.
Theatre for their qualifying round, in front of a panel of
international judges, where they were placed in the This unforgettable evening was followed by the
Open Competition of the World Choir Games. Parade of Nations through the streets of Tshwane
and the Closing Ceremony at the Sun Arena
On Wednesday 11 July, it was time for them to on Saturday 14 July, and brought to an end the
compete in the final round of the Open Competition, Barbershop Boys’ very special time at the World
in front of a new panel of international judges, in the ZK Choir Games 2018.
Matthews Hall at Unisa. The boys gave an outstanding
performance and received a standing ovation from
the audience at the end. The final result was now in

2 CELEBRATE!

CELEBRATE! 3

FROM THE MUSIC AND MATHEMATICS
DEPARTMENTS COMES THIS WONDERFUL NEWS!

LOUIS NEL

National Youth Music Competition and South African
Mathematics Olympiad, Final Round

Congratulations to Louis Nel, who auditioned successfully
to participate in the National Youth Music Competition
in Cape Town from 9-13 October. This competition aims
to identify and promote the talent and abilities of young
classical musicians, and to expose the competitors to
the requirements of professional careers as soloists and
orchestral musicians.

The competition is open for candidates between the ages
of 14 and 19. Louis is one of only 20 competitors (pianists,
wind players and string players) from across South Africa
who have been selected to participate.

Louis is a private piano student of Mrs Claudine van Breda.
We wish him all the best as he prepares for this taxing
competition!

Louis has also qualified for the South African Mathematics
Olympiad third round 2018.
The second round was written on 16 May. The best 100 junior
and best 100 senior learners qualified for the third and final
round. Louis qualified to take part in the final round. The
national winners will be announced in August. They will
receive their prizes at a presentation dinner, which will be
held on 22 September in Cape Town. We will be thinking of
you, Louis!

WORLD INDIVIDUAL DEBATING AND PUBLIC
SPEAKING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2018

The College was proud to send three of its best public speaking section. This means that they are a part of
speakers to the World Individual Debating and Public the top 12 speakers in the world in their respective
Speaking Championships (WIDPSC). Yangeni Saidi, categories.
Keroshan Pillay and Matthew Field joined the South
African team in Cape Town for the championships Special mention must be made of the South African
which were held at Bishops Diocesan College from team. I have never met a more open-minded,
9 -15 April. There were four categories: prepared energetic, humorous, hard-working, intelligent and
speech, prepared reading, impromptu speaking and inspiring group of young game changers. The entire
debate. championship was a life changing experience. The
young mind, and the young voice, can possibly be
Our boys spoke incredibly well. Speaking amongst the greatest teacher.
world champions and future leaders was an inspiring
experience. My hopes for humanity were certainly I would like to thank St Alban’s College, and particularly
lifted to new heights by this competition. Matthew Mr Brits, for all they did to make this experience possible.
spoke about the failing state of global democracy. But it is to Yangeni and Keroshan that my deepest
Keroshan rendered an inspirational ode to innovation, thanks go for being the best speaking partners and
and Yangeni spoke about the plight of modern media. comrades that anyone could ask for.
Keroshan made it into the impromptu speaking final,
whilst Matthew made the final in the persuasive Matthew Field, Form 5

4 CELEBRATE!

ATHLETICS PHATUTSHEDZO MASWANGANYI

Phatutshedzo Maswanganyi (Knoll Form 4), has done the AGN Championships he competed in the 200m which
remarkably well this past athletics season. He opened the he won with a time of 21.56. These results qualified him SA
season with a wind-aided 10.68 at the Puma School of Speed Schools and ASA National Championships. Unfortunately,
series in the first heat. He then went on to cruise the finals due to injury, he was unable to compete at SA Schools, and
with a 10.78 in headwind. AGN league meetings followed at ASA National Championships he only competed in the
and his personal best kept dropping. Phatu competed in the 100m, Long Jump and the 4x100m Relay. In the 100m he
Tuks Top 10 and ran a 10.55, which at the time placed him came 7th with a time of 10.58 in the final and he jumped a
top 8 in the world. He then went on to District Championships distance of 7.14m in heavy headwind to earn a bronze for
in which he came first in Long Jump and second in the Long Jump. His relay team went on to take the gold medal,
100m which qualified him for the Gauteng and AGN slicing the SA record by 0.2 splits. The College would like to
Championships. At the Gauteng Championships he cruised congratulate Phatu on another successful season.
through his heat and semi-final to clock a 10.51 in the final.
He came 3rd in Long Jump with a distance of 7.10m. At Yaw Fosu-Amoah, Athletics Coach

CELEBRATE! 5

INNOVATIONS

SOLAR POWERED CAR

There is so much happening in our beautiful travel in this project, I am continually blown
organisation that speaks to innovative thinking, away by the stories of complex problem
collaboration and preparing young men for solving, collaboration and creativity which
the 4th Industrial Revolution. So many of us are this project has encouraged in both boys and
focused on our own tasks that we tend to forget staff.
the complexity of what is happening around us.
Rob, we are all behind you and, I, for one,
I would like to thank Rob Lodge for quietly am excited by the learning opportunities this
coordinating, what I thought was going to be project has provided us. Thank you for being
impossible, the building of a solar powered bold and courageous enough to tackle it and
car which will race to Cape Town with many to ensure that it is a success.
other universities from around the world. Nelson
Mandela said: It always seems impossible until it Shane Kidwell, Headmaster
is done, and although there is still a distance to

6 INNOVATIONS

ROBOTICS contact with the animals as much as possible, so robots
are now employed to handle the vast majority of the
Amongst a few Form 1 students, Robotics chores and tasks in the park.”
is the new buzz work in their perspective
of the daily routine at St Alban’s College The students’ robot had to perform various tasks from
where Robotics was introduced at the planting trees, placing cameras at water holes to
start of the term as part of the Student removing animal droppings, all within a timeframe
Skills Development Module for the current of 2 minutes and 30 seconds. For each task marks are
Form 1 students. This section of the module allocated to the team and the team with the highest
involves learning how to program, build, points, wins the challenge.
communicate, work together as a team
and solve problems using a Lego EV3 This robotics module has also overflowed into the Robotics
robot. Club, where various challenges have been undertaken
from improving on the current GEAR Wild Thing challenge
The module starts with some basic robotic to building a 3D-writer. It is clear that if you are a young
challenges that have to be solved by man just interested in playing with LEGO or serious about
a team of three to four students. These testing your problem solving skills through programming
challenges vary from following a black line and EV3 Robots, Robotics will have appeal for you!
to performing a very specific function such
as placing an object in a specific position. Chris Mouton, Robotics Fanatic
After these smaller challenges, the bigger
challenge of the GEAR (Getting Excited
About Robotics) project with the theme
Wild Thing was given to the students. The
GEAR project is described as follow:
“It is morning at the Safari Kingdom
wildlife refuge and rehabilitation center.
The volunteers have just returned from
their morning anti-poaching patrol, and
found some areas in the park that need
immediate attention. The refuge limits

INNOVATIONS 7

STUDENT SKILLS DEVELOPMENT
MODULE FOR FORM 1

The College has introduced a new module, the Student
Skills Development Module (SSD), in which all Form 1
boys participate.
Each term the boys attend a different sub-module:
Robotics, Research skills and Orienteering and
Experiential Learning.
Orienteering covers all the basic navigational and map
reading skills. The boys were taught Mathematical
concepts of ratio and rate (Speed, Distance, Time),
budgeting, measurement and conversions. Also
included were many Geography and Life Science
facts. All these topics were covered practically outside
through experimentation and discovery - no books!
In addition, the boys were made aware of social
and environmental responsibilities and were often
challenged to make choices while doing risk analysis.
Reflection and “time-out” were encouraged to rest their
minds!
Highlights were rock-climbing, exploring the Spruit,
“Dollar-a-day” and the day we spent at Moreleta
Nature Reserve following an orienteering course.

Mel de Kock, Educator and
Innovator Extraordinaire

8 INNOVATIONS

MUSIC

MUSICFIRST,ACADEMICS
SECOND!

Yes, this was the reality for many members of Nights, the 10th, 20th, 30th, 40th and 50th Old
the School’s music groups this amazingly hectic, Boys’ Reunion Dinner held at St Alban’s College,
successful, brilliant, jam-packed and tiring term the Confirmation Service held at the St Alban’s
Trinity term! This overloading of adjectives is Cathedral in Pretoria, the World Choir Games 2018
necessary to highlight a term filled with practices, held in Pretoria and the Final Countdown Concert
long rehearsals and lots of concerts almost every held in the Auditorium. They were even invited
weekday. At one point there was something to perform at the DSV “Circle of Champions”
going on every single night of the week; yes – Corporate Function, held at the Ndaba Hotel in
that is six nights in a row when at least one of the Fourways, on Friday 18 May. They were an instant hit
groups gave their absolute all to represent the with the guests and brought the house down with
College in such a joyful and professional manner. their outstanding performances. On top of this, they
performed a flash-mob in an assembly, catching
The first performance for the Barbershop and many of the boys and staff off-guard. The busy
Choir was at the Mother’s Day concert during performance schedule eventually wound down
which the boys sang their hearts out for the and we ended off with a moving performance at
special women in their lives. The Barbershop the Confirmation Service.
and Choir were kept hard at work for the next
few weeks preparing for the Eisteddfod where All the boys are to be commended for their effort
the Choir and Barbershop received an A and and time this term. To the Barbershop Boys, the
A+ respectively. In the same week the Choir, Band, the Choir, Gumboots and the Drum Circle
Gumboots, Drum Circle, Band and Barbershop we wish you only a continuation of the energy and
shared performances with DSG and WHPS at enthusiasm so that you keep up the momentum in
the Three School’s Concert. Then on Saturday 26 giving more astounding shows and concerts.
May the Choir and Barbershop also took part in
the UPYC Youth Choir Festival where the music Jannik von Schlichting and Tiago Teixeira,
was of a very high standard. Babershop Boys

Other events at which our Barbershop Boys
performed this term include Chapel Family

MUSIC 9

MUSIC RESULTS

We congratulate the St Alban’s College 16 GOLD+, 9 GOLD, 3 SILVER+ and 2 SILVER
Choir, Barbershop Boys and all the Vocal and Certificates, with an overall minimum
Instrumental Soloists who participated in the recent percentage average of 85%. In addition, we
Music Eisteddfodd in Pretoria and the Yamaha / achieved 3 Item Winners, 4 Category Winners,
Lovemore Music Competition in Johannesburg and 4 Trophy Winners. Well done, gentlemen.
and achieved outstanding results. We are extremely proud of you.

All in all, our musicians achieved 7 GOLD++,

CULTURAL COLLABORATION: ST AUGUSTINE’S
LEAP SCHOOL AND ST ALBAN’S COLLEGE

TOn Friday 8 June St Alban’s College began forward to the continued success of this
a cultural collaboration with St Augustine’s collaboration.
LEAP School from Ga-Rankuwa. This new
partnership involves Choral Singing, Djembe Mark Stenhouse, Director of the Arts, with
Drumming, Marimba Playing, and Gumboot Colleagues in the Art, Music and Drama
Dancing. What an amazing afternoon it
was for all the students involved. We look Department

10 MUSIC

MUSIC RECITALS TERM 2

This term, we had our first Non-Subject Music The Junior Module Music boys are expected
Recital (for want of a better word) on 15 June. to attend the Senior Subject Music Recitals, so
It allowed boys not taking Subject Music, and that they can learn to appreciate the practical
Subject Music boys learning more than one levels and performance ethics towards which
instrument, an opportunity to perform in front they can aspire, as well as getting to know and
of an audience. The turn-out of parents and understand the many different instruments, genres,
other family members in support of the boys was performance styles and personalities associated
impressive. Similarly, the Subject Music Recitals with public music concerts.
on 21 June, on the eve of Half Term, were
also well supported this term. Thank you to the We are glad to inform you that the Non-Subject
parents and staff who have so eagerly supported Music Recitals will continue next term and in 2019,
our recitals. The boys need an appreciative under a more appropriate, friendlier name. Do
audience. Of course we also thank the boys for keep an eye on the calendar!
their preparation and courage.

The value of Music Recitals is manifold. They teach
boys necessary performance skills, develop
confidence, planning and self-discipline, allow
parents to experience their sons’ and other
musicians’ talents, develop an understanding
of different instruments and performance
personalities, and teach boys to appreciate
others’ efforts, skills and growth. In addition,
the Subject Music Recitals are an essential
assessment tool to monitor practical progress.

MUSIC 11

CAMPUS CHANGES

NEW BUILDINGS is a place on the campus where one can buy a cup of
coffee and a light snack during the week or purchase
Saturday 26 May 2018 saw the opening of three new buildings refreshments whilst watching the hockey or basketball over
on the St Alban’s College Campus: the Tom Hamilton Wellness the weekend. The Old Albanian Hockey Club will also use
Centre, a club house, @thegreyblue and the moving and re- the facility as a club house after practices and matches.
establishment of the Jurie du Toit Hut on Moshate. Mr Warwick van Breda, the Chairman of Council, unveiled
a plaque to officially open the facility.
Tom Hamilton was the Headmaster at St Alban’s College for
16 years and it is only fitting that the newest building erected The Jurie Du Toit Hut which recently stood next to the astro
on our school campus be named in his honour. Mr Hamilton turf, was originally erected next to the original 1st team
worked at St Alban’s College for 26 years in total in a variety rugby field by former staff member Jurie Du Toit. With
of positions such as Head of Academics, Housemaster of recent developments around the astro turf it was decided
Knapp-Fisher and Mathematics teacher. Mr Hamilton’s time to move this building back to its original purpose next to
as Headmaster saw the school grow from strength to strength the main rugby field. Mr John Bojé, long-time friend and
and it is an honour to have this fantastic facility named after colleague of Jurie at St Alban’s College spoke fondly of
him. The Tom Hamilton Wellness Centre will be used by all Jurie’s time at St Alban’s College and the impact that
boys as a multipurpose gym facility with cardio and weight he had on the boys at the school. He spoke of Jurie as
training facilities. The building houses offices for all the sports a strong man with a soft heart who loved the school
staff as well a video analysis room and a full time Biokineticist and the boys that were taught here. John Bojé had the
and Physiotherapist. A health tuck shop will also be housed on honour of unveiling a plaque in honour of Juire du Toit to
the bottom floor allowing boys and parents to purchase teas, commemorate the re-establishment of the Hut next to
coffees, light meals and refreshments. Moshate Field and so to remember again the impact Juire
Du Toit had on the school during his time here.
South Cottage, a residential unit on the property, was the
School Shop in recent years. It has been re-opened as a Craig Hoyer, Director of Marketing
club house called @thegreyandblue. This wonderful facility

12 CAMPUS CHANGES

ARTS AND CULTURE

MID-YEAR MATRIC ART EXHIBITION

On 9 May St. Alban’s Matric Art students created a gallery very interesting wire sculpture.
of their artwork which could rival many private galleries in
South Africa. The scope of work and the talent on display The drawing and painting section tackled many different
were a tribute to the Art Department and the teaching of themes. Racism, colour experimentation and some drawings
Mrs Zelda Cloete. made of hundreds of small pen lines, not to mention the
guitars decorated with anime themes. Familiar figures such
The exhibition opened with each student giving a short as Donald Trump made their appearance (in the “Great
introduction to his art work. The passion and inspiration really Again” works by Jamie Bell). Amazing use of colour by
shone forth as each young man gave his introduction. What Matthew Holden was evident in his “Paradise withheld by
was striking was how the themes and inspiration varied. nightmares”.
The art was divided into three broad categories. Painting/ Many other impressive works were on show and space
drawing, sculpture and film. Some students had work in constraints prevent all the students and their works being
more than one category. mentioned. Nevertheless all were impressive and one had
to visit each exhibit more than once to really get a sense of
Walking into the auditorium one was immediately struck by what was being conveyed.
the quality of the films. Crisp high resolution images, stable The enthusiastic attendance of friends and parents and
cameras, interesting angles and perfect lighting. Quality that the excellent catering all added to the ambiance making
would have been acceptable in a big budget production it a night one to remember. Thanks goes to the students,
not many years ago. the guests and the Art Department for a most creative
A number of students tried their hand at sculpture. Herman evening. We hope that many of these students will achieve
Bosman built a piece made of metal obtained from a distinctions for their excellent work.
scrapyard. Using a welding machine, angle grinder and
sand paper he constructed an art work that piqued the Zachary Ziegelmeier,
imagination and also raised comments about how sharp Form 5 Art & Chairman, The Mitre
one of the metal protrusions was. Thomas Sterne created a

ARTS AND CULTURE 13

SOPHIATOWN

On 10 April, the senior Music and Drama students attended reality of Apartheid and the sorrow and brokenness it brought
the much-anticipated production of Sophiatown at the upon so many families. African themes and culture were
Pretoria State Theatre. brilliantly reflected and the boys found themselves on the
edge of their seats for the entire performance.
The play was a touching and spectacular depiction of the
atrocious Apartheid era. The cast consisted of seven brilliant It was a truly memorable experience for the boys and staff
actors and actresses and the boys were in awe from the start. to the extent where many boys wished to see the production
The story deals with a non-white family during Apartheid. again. We learnt, not only about African music and culture,
With the forced removal of non-white South Africans to rural but also some hard history facts and realities.
areas, known as Bantustans, this family has to face and make
some extremely tough choices in order to ensure their safety David Pitt and Kurt Irvine, Form 5
and security. The family is introduced to a white woman who
wishes to experience the rural lifestyle and many challenges
arise soon thereafter. The production expressed the harsh

SPIRITUAL REFLECTIONS

MY CONFIRMATION JOURNEY

About a year ago I decided that I was going to confirm my
faith and affirm my relationship with God. It wasn’t a very hard
decision for me as I knew it would make my family happy and
it was just something that needed to be done.

My confirmation journey was a bit of a rollercoaster ride, but it
has definitely made me a better person and made me much
closer to God. In the beginning, we battled to organise a time
for class but once everything was settled it all fell into place. I
didn’t really feel like going to all the classes at first, but when I
got to the first one I realised that it was exactly where I needed
to be and all of a sudden I had this feeling of warmth inside.

Eventually, I couldn’t wait for the class on a Wednesday night
to learn more about my religion. It made me realise that God
should be the centre of my universe; those classes sparked
something within me.

Recently, my life hasn’t exactly gone to plan and I’ve been
going through a few rough patches. My whole confirmation
journey made me realise that God will be there for me every
step of the way and that everything happens for a reason.

In John 3:16 we read, “For God so loved the world, that he
gave his only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish
but have eternal life.” This is perhaps the most profound lesson
I have learnt in my confirmation journey, that if God is with you,
who can be against you?

It was such a great and profound experience and I wouldn’t
change it for anything!

Jarryd Dick Form 4

14 SPIRITUAL REFLECTIONS

REFLECTION: CONFIRMATION RETREAT

What a friend we have in Jesus Attending the retreat it struck me while watching The Passion
All our sins and griefs to bear! of Christ that indeed I didn’t want to keep my faith in Jesus
What a privilege to carry as my Saviour a secret, I wanted to proclaim it from the
Everything to God in prayer! mountain tops.
Oh, what peace we often forfeit
Oh, what needless pain we bear I am so grateful to Father Gradwell for encouraging me
All because we do not carry to attend the silent retreat with the St Alban’s candidates
Everything to God in prayer! and for baptising me and facilitating my confirmation. I am
equally grateful to the St Alban’s candidates for accepting
This beautiful hymn written by Joseph Scriven in 1855 was my me at their retreat and for helping me along my journey.
comforter throughout my childhood and teenage years and
indeed still is today, I used to sing it softly to myself at night if I Most of all though I give thanks to my God for His Amazing
could not fall asleep. Grace, and give him all the glory.

Growing up in a Christian home I knew this hymn and many Dot Field, Mother
others by heart, however I was never moved to outwardly
state my faith to the world at large until I experienced the
journey that my son Matthew undertook by being baptised
and confirmed last year and his open declaration of faith.

So here I was at the age of 52 realising that a vital component
of my spiritual journey was lacking. I approached Father G
one day at the College and quietly asked him to baptise
me in his kitchen so that no one would know that I had not
followed the guidance as laid out in scripture and had not
been baptised.
He kindly pointed out that this is supposed to be a public
testimony and agreed to baptise me at the confirmation
camp. A few days later I was advised that it would be good
for me to attend the silent retreat and then a few days later it
was informed quite casually in the local Woolies that indeed
I would be given a speaking slot at the confirmation service.
You can imagine how I felt: my little secret was no longer
secret and it was with such kindness that Father G challenged
me.

CONFIRMATION 2018

We again celebrated our
affirmation of faith during
the annual Confirmation
Service which was held
at St Alban’s Cathedral,
Pretoria on 14 June. The
candidates, their families,
invited guests and a
cohort of juniors all filled
the cathedral with songs
of praise, and affirmation
for the confirmands.

Bishop Allan Kannemeyer
presided over the service.
The congregation was
inspired by a powerful
sermon about Jesus’ re-
teaching of one of the
Ten Commandments.
The core message was:
let go of your anger and
make peace with your
neighbor.

The morning was filled
with joy. The Barbershop

SPIRITUAL REFLECTIONS 15

rendered two rousing pieces to the amazement of the refreshments, all was executed with aplomb. Special praise
congregation. The sounds of organ music rang throughout must be given to Father Gradwell and the staff who organized
the cathedral, and into the hearts of all present. the event.

It was beautiful to watch the candidates go up with their I would also like to congratulate the candidates for having
families to confirm their faith. Young and old accompanied the bravery to affirm their faith. They have taken their first
the candidates on this important step of their Christian steps into a wider and richer world of joy and righteousness.
journey. The candidates also gave heartfelt speeches which Well done!
gave testimony to their Confirmation journey.
Matthew Field Form 5
Everything about the service was a striking display of faith.
From the communion, to the sermon to the after-service

16 SPIRITUAL REFLECTIONS

OUTREACH

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Participating in community service not only makes a At first, the students were afraid and uncertain about walking
difference to the organization and people being served, in the city streets but as soon as they started engaging and
but it also makes a difference to every student’s career interviewing people, they began to come out of their shells
prospects. Participating in community service activities helps and pose more questions to the facilitators. They were quite
to enhance student resumes by allowing students to obtain effective in their reflection and group discussions.
work-related skills prior to graduation, build good references
for employers in regards to community involvement, and AWARENESS TRAINING - CHOC
provide a forum to network with future potential employers.
It also helps students develop civic and social responsibility The boys from St. Albans (F4 Mac Robert House) spent time
skills and become more aware of what their community at CHOC house. They received information on the Early
needs. Below are some of the activities which took place Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer and the journey that
during the Easter Term. many children and their families travel.

BUILDING COMMUNITY-CENTRED LEADERS - LEADERSHIP The boys participated in the presentation and showed
JOURNEY OF HUMILITY: DISCOVERING SELF, DISCOVERING enormous empathy for both the parent and children
OTHERS, IN AND THROUGH COLLABORATION WITH LEAP affected by cancer.
SCHOOL
The children at CHOC house also enjoyed the Easter egg
Tshwane Leadership Foundation has come on-board and hunt that was organised by these boys
facilitated a programme with the Form 2’s which focuses on
reading the city, seeing the city with new eyes, and giving St Alban’s Cathedral Homeless Ministry
tools that will enable the students to insert themselves into
communities within their proximity. The homeless men and women at the St Albans Cathedral
are truly grateful for the breakfast pack donations they have
As this day is part of a larger process, this will ultimately lead been receiving. These 150 men and women each receive
to our students becoming good citizens and becoming two breakfast packs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
actively engaged in their communities on a grass roots level, Currently, Ashton has handed out 11 880 packs valued at
which will translate into a better and more inclusive society. R4,00 per pack (total value of R47 520).

ENCOURAGE CHARITABLE AND GENEROUS GIVING for Mandela day. Please read more about it on the D6 later
in the month and see how you can help more.
Every first Wednesday of the month boys from Knapp-Fisher
House visit the Tshwane Leadership Foundation to take their OUTREACH 17
food to feed the Akanani Homeless group. Our boys directly
meet the homeless or those at risk of homelessness and it
is that connection to others, a simple conversation and
listening to their stories, which makes all the difference in the
lives of the people they meet.

Thank you to the ladies from Good Shepherd Anglican
church in Eersterust, for your delicious “stews” that helped
feed our little children every Thursday. Your ongoing and
generous support is LOVED, as we keep on feeding hearts,
minds and tummies...As our SAINT Mandela once said: “We
can change the world and make it a better place - it’s in
YOUR hands” I would like YOU to assist in an act of kindness

Food drive
St Alban’s College Community has continued to encourage
charitable and generous giving, in aid to make a difference
in the lives of people in need, irrespective of age or race.
Comments from our boys: “It is essential for us to support our
communities because through these projects we also learn
a very important tool, social awareness.”
MacRobert students really opened their hearts this year
and donated 150 red lunch bags filled with Easter eggs and
other treats!
Lwethu Masilela is seen below with the bags that were given
to the children at Knowledge Centre in Mamelodi; the other
pictures show some of the delighted faces of the kiddies
waiting in anticipating for the treats.

Well done, MacRobert!

FACILITATE THE SHARING OF EDUCATIONAL EXPERTISE AND FACILITATE THE SHARING OF EDUCATIONAL EXPERTISE AND
RESOURCES TO BUILD CAPACITY IN COMMUNITIES

“Sport has the power to change the
world. It has the power to inspire. It has
the power to unite people in a way that
little else does. Sport can awaken hope
where there was previously only despair.
Sport speaks to people in a language
they can understand.” Nelson Mandela,

18 OUTREACH

Music and Art learn, and have fun during these monthly interactions. At
first, the students from Leap School were shy and fearful, but
The Music and Art Department, under the Leadership of Mark as soon as they were able to get to the singing and dancing,
Stenhouse, had the honour of hosting the first LEAP SCHOOL they settled down and enjoyed themselves.
COLLABORATION 2018 PROGRAMME which kicked off on 11
May 2018. This program will provide both St Alban’s College
and the learners from Leap School with the tools needed to

Paired Reading Programme TUMELONG MISSION RESOURCE CENTRE

On 23 March 2018, the Community Service Club launched With the assistance of St Alban’s College boys The Tumelong
a paired reading programme with Nantes Primary School in Mission Resource Centre opened it’s doors in 441 Frederick
Eersterust. On the day, 120 children in Grade seven arrived at Street, Pretoria West. The centre will be providing a much-
St Alban’s College to be briefed about the programme and needed service to the parishes of the Diocese of Pretoria in
be paired with their St Alban’s buddies. The Paired Reading the form of the following items candles (for baptism, altar,
Programme involves pairing Form 1 boys with a Grade 7 and pascal) which can be customised according to one’s
reading buddy from Nantes Primary School. The idea is that needs, charcoal, incense and wafers will be available for
the two read a text together and do prescribed activities sale. The Diocese currently does not have a store where
together. They also get to exchange letters monthly. parishes can purchase such items. The intention of the
Tumelong Mission is to make it easier for parishes to obtain
The first reading and letter exchange activity was on the these items
17 May at Nantes Primary School. This was characterised
by so much excitement and enthusiasm. This may be the
beginning of lifelong learning and indeed lifelong friendships.

Conclusion Our boys are making a difference in the community. These
experiences are important to them and, despite various
So many of our beneficiaries relies on donations from limitations, there is clear evidence that personal and social
Corporates or individuals and we would like to appeal to skills have been developed and that these experience are
all parents, friends of St Alban’s you are welcome to send making a tremendous difference in both the lives of the
us any form of support through donations, campaigning boys and the broader school community.
and of course VOLUNTEERING. Get involve in our reading
programmes or ask where you can be involve in. Maybe a Connie Kannemeyer: Community Development Officer
visit to our elderly people and our orphanages.

OUTREACH 19

The Form 2’s on their Walk-about in the City – 10 April 2018
On this day, the focus was on understanding insertion,
reading the city, seeing the city with new eyes, and giving
the boys the tools that will capacitate and enable them to
insert themselves into communities within their proximity. This
day was part of a larger process, that will ultimately lead
to students becoming good citizens and that are actively
engaged in their communities on a grass roots level, which
will translate into a better and more inclusive society.

Ma’am Bossinger assisting the Grade 11 students
from Flavius Secondary school in preparation for

the career day on the 15 June 2018

Exchange students on duty at Eersterust.
20 OUTREACH

COMMUNITY SHOE DRIVE CAMPAIGN we could not have been this successful without you and we
look forward to working with everyone again next time.!!
“There are many children in Pretoria who go to school
without a pair of shoes during the cold winter. We, the Regards
Community Service Club will change this. We launched a Refiloe Mamabolo
shoe drive during May and we are have almost reached
our target. Each house has been allocated to donate shoes
to specific schools and associations. I need to make special
mention to De Beer,MacRobert and Osche for completing
their list of beneficiaries in less than 24 hours. Thanks to your
team’s made the campaign easy, fun and very special.
Your donation will make a massive difference in the lives of
all who are going to receive this, what you have all done
is beyond imagination, you can all be proud of yourselves
.You have not only put shoes on their feet, but you have also
allowed them to go to school with a sense of dignity.

Once we have reached our target, we will deliver our shoes
to the following areas in and around Pretoria: Childware
(Child-Headed families); Brits; Winterveld; Mamelodi and
Garankuwa (St Augustine Leap School). Your contributions
are greatly appreciated.”

We can’t say thank you enough for the love, care and
commitment provided by parents, teachers and the boys,

FOOD DRIVE

“Family members who received a food parcel from the
parcels I received from you. The family would like to send
their sincere gratitude for assisting them during their time of
need.

“We would like to thank you, the parents of St Albans for
the donations you make in the form of food parcels and
make a difference in our communities. Child Welfare
Tshwane is a child protection organisation that cares and
protect children, we cannot deliver these services alone but
holding hands with you we will continue to fight hunger in
our communities”. - Busisiwe Mary-Jane Motshwane - Foster
Care and family re-unification Programme Supervisor

OUTREACH 21

BREAKFAST FOR A BUDDY UPDATE month 6 and probably have another one month’s supply
of food. The project has gained great momentum but it is
I have been doing my feeding scheme project for about not done yet, and I am looking at ways to extend it as it has
8 months now. For the first two to three months it was all helped so many people.
about getting the project up and running, collecting funds
and raising awareness of the stark fact that there are many Ashton Frodsham Form 4 MacRobert
people in this city who simply don’t have food to eat. Since
then I have spent the last five months going once a month
to drop off a month’s worth of the breakfast packs at St
Alban’s Cathedral. In total, that’s about 14 500 breakfast
packs valued at R58 000. We have just done the drop for

22 OUTREACH

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

SANPARKS K9 EXPERIENCE

On 12 April six St Alban’s College boys, joined by should definitely not be under appreciated!
two girls from St Mary’s DSG and two girls from
Kingsmead College, set off on a five day mission The camp was truly a memorable experience
for the Kruger National with the aim of helping during which special bonds were formed and
SanParks rangers in the caretaking of their anti- strengthened. All those involved send a big vote
poaching dog units. of thanks to Mr Turton and Ma’am De Kock for
making this magical experience possible.
After a brief explanation of what could and
could not be done at the camp, the students Tyler Claasen and Sebastianos Papavarnavas,
were giving free run of their home for the next Form 4
four nights. A quick setup of tents and packing of
the kitchen resulted in a few hours of free time.
What better way to spend this time then than to
go for a game drives? And that is precisely what
we were treated to!

The days that followed followed a basic routine:
the cleaning of dog kennels and the feeding of
the dogs, as well as a bit of hectic ‘landscaping’
- needless to say, this was not the most attractive
part of our work!

Despite the hard work, free time was also
plentiful. A multitude of game drives and visits
to various camps in the Park for ice cream were
the highlight of each day, but the nights were
no less fun. Sitting around campfires, toasting
marshmallows and drinking hot chocolate

ENVIRONMENT 23

RECYCLING

Our long awaited recycling plant is up and running! We
have collaborated with The Delta Built Environment, an
engineering firm, who have started an initiative called
“Trash-in Cash-in”. They have provided an enclosure
for our recyclable goods which is located in the
facilities yard below Ochse. We drop our recycling off
in the yard, having attached our team code, where
it is weighed and our team is credited with cash. At
present the boys are collecting their recyclables in
House teams; there is also an academic and admin
staff team as well as a catering team. Thank you to all
those that made this possible, and special mention to
Brad Johnston (MacRobert) who has been a driving
force behind this initiative.

Tracy McKenzie

ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB: VEGETABLE
GARDENS UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

The Environmental Club has been working exceptionally hard
to establish vegetable gardens behind the embankment at
Baloyi Field. Our aim is to have a working garden, which will
produce vegetables that can be used for our community
feeding scheme in Eesterust. Our boys have learned a lot
about DIY vegetable tunnels and we look forward to our first
large crop yield in Michaelmas Term. Watch this space!

Kerry Dewar, Club Co-ordinator

24 ENVIRONMENT

HAPPENINGS

MATRIC DANCE 2018

On 22 June 2018, the St Alban’s have a beginning nor an end which means it represents an unending creation. He
College Matric Dance (MD) was pointed out that our experiences and the memories we share should be like the ring –
held at Batter Boys Restaurant in never-ending and ever strong. This was a magnificent conclusion to an unforgettable
Pretoria North. Year after year, evening filled with fun, laughter, nostalgia and even anticipation for what the future hold
this is an incredibly special day for us. It was certainly one of the greatest experiences for the Class of 2018.
for the Matrics and undoubtedly
one of the most anticipated Tlogang Mosype, Form
moments of a College boy’s
career. HAPPENINGS 25

The evening began as the boys
entered one by one with their
dates. A quick photo was taken
and their dates were introduced
to Mr Kidwell. The evening
started officially around 19:00
once everyone was seated.
Father Gradwell’s prayer of
protection and petition for the
wonderful evening ahead set
the tone. Representatives from
the Form 4 CFC, Jared Le Roux
and Zenile Gubevu, then took
us through the program for
the night and introduced Mr
Kidwell to give his Headmaster’s
address before. Mr Kidwell’s
speech was short, thanking the
class of 2018 for an excellent
year. He also thanked Greg
Kirkcaldy, Head of School for
2018, for leading us in such a
meaningful and disciplined
way. Later on, in his Head of
School address, Greg thanked
the class of 2018 for being a
great year group, as well as
for the great memories shared
over the past 5 years. He ended
his speech by inviting his date
to the stage to start the first slow
dance of the evening and then
invited all to join in.

The evening closed with the
ring ceremony, led by Mr Nico
du Plessis who organised us first
into circles in our tutor groups
to reflect back to the days we
first met each other. We then
formed other circles with those
people with whom we had
gone on Journey. Together we
thought back to our Journey
experiences. One final circle
was made with the whole
grade together; here we put
on our St Alban’s College rings
whilst Mr du Plessis told us the
significance of a ring; it doesn’t

CAREERS DAY: FUTURE READY

The first “Future Ready for Future Impact” whole school
careers conference was held on 15 June 2018. In
addition to all our boys, we welcomed students from
LEAP Ga-Rankuwa and Flavius Mareka Secondary.
Seventy-three industry professionals made themselves
available during the morning to tell the students their
career story. All the students were given the selection
of speakers and they were able to select three industry
professionals whose sessions they wished to attend.

The day started with a keynote address by Mabatho
Sedikela, a Director from the Auditor General’s office
who challenged the students with her mantra, “If it’s
difficult, I want to do it”. This was followed by breakaway
talks by the professionals. These talks ranged from
CEOs to academics, to entertainers. We all gathered
in the amphitheater to listen to retired Deputy Chief
Justice Dikgang Moseneke who encouraged the
audience to maintain their integrity and keep abreast
of civic and social developments. The day ended
with a career expo where the students could interact
with local training institutions and overseas university
agents.

I would like to thank the industry professionals for giving
up their time to educate and inform the students. Their
input made the day an overwhelming success.

Esme Momberg HOD: Life Orientation, Career
Counsellor

SUCCESSFUL BLOOD DRIVE - HUMAN MULLER

There is a serious blood shortage in South Africa The day of the Blood Drive came and a lot of
and many healthy individuals are encouraged people donated. Boys were standing outside
to donate blood but they don’t. the door the Sanatorium and the little waiting
room was packed. It was clear that this day
Donating blood can often be seen as an was going to be on another level.
intimidating task and, to be honest, it is rather
daunting for most people. The idea of having a At about 3 pm, after five hours of the
needle in your arm that will eventually suck suck donations, the SANBS minibus was stacked
half a litre of blood out of you is terrifying. full of cooler boxes containing the blood of
the College boys and staff members.
This all changed the day a member of the South
African National Blood Service showed up at On that day donating blood became the
assembly. He was sitting quietly until he was cool thing to do and the intimidating stigma
invited up to the podium. was removed from it. I hope it stays that way
so that when the next donation opportunity
He started speaking about blood donations. arrives it will go just as well.
Suddenly, the whole school’s perspective on
this issue changed. He described it as being a We had 44 donations with 8 that were turned
tiny prick in your arm while you get served juice away because they did not match the
and cookies - all this while saving three lives! criteria.
The last donation we only had 11 donors,
Previously, blood drives at school were rather so we have really had a big improvement.
quiet. There would be four or five 5 boys there Thank You!
at a time but the man from the SANBS got
everybody riled up to donate the following day.

26 HAPPENINGS

INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM

The International Exchange Program has experienced their warmth and friendly approach and it is clear that this is
a makeover in 2018. The application process has been the x-factor in the St Alban’s College international exchange
streamlined, and exchange opportunities have been program. The friendship that is built over the course of six
expanded. These opportunities include countries like Ireland, weeks during these exchanges is undoubtedly made to last.
India, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Argentina, Romania and
the USA. And, of course, we have also been hosts to visitors Chris Mouton, Co-ordinator International Exchanges
from India and Ireland.

At the start of this term we welcomed three students from
India, Bistrit, Abhay and Rudresh, and five students from
Ireland, James, Aaron, Gavin, Brian and Barry. They all
settled in very quickly, involving themselves in the St Alban’s
College environment through hockey and rugby. They also
visited our Eersterus Feeding Scheme partners and through
this became part of our community outreach initiative. It
was clear that they enjoyed their interaction with the little
ones.

The biggest contribution to their experience in South Africa
and at St Alban’s College was made by the hosting families
who took the visitors on various excursions from game parks to
Cape Town. The level of hosting was of the highest standard
and showcased the calibre of our hosting parents and their
commitment to the success of the International Exchange
Program at St Alban’s College. On their departure, when
asked what the highlight of their exchange experience was,
their answer was ‘the people’. South Africans are known for

HAPPENINGS 27

BOOK CLUB OUTING their publications, the Supernova magazine.
This has given us celebrity status because
On the 4 June 2018, the Book Club members, the magazine will publish our pictures and
Tumi Pare, Owen Devadas, Mahapela Hlajoane reviews. We hope to do more activities to
and Ma’am Gundu visited BP publishing house enrich our reading and also promote reading
in Hatfield. We were curious to find out the in our school.
‘behind the scene’ work that goes into a book
before it arrives on our library shelves. Kendall, Owen Devadas, Mahapela Hlajoane and
a publishing assistant at BK publishing took us Tumi Pare
through the publishing process from manuscript
to printing. The tour was eye-opening and
exciting in that we got a chance to review one of

SPORT

BASKETBALL

2018 has, without a doubt, been one of the
best years at the College from a Basketball
perspective; there were some top individual
and team performances throughout the
season.

U14 and vice-captain, Jean Tognia, for leading this side to one of the best
It’s never easy having to learn an entirely new seasons yet: they were victorious in most of their matches throughout the
sport, especially if you’ve never played the season, and with the wonderful win over Pretoria Boys High Boys High, they
game or had a feel for it before. Nonetheless, finished second overall. The team did well at the St Johns tournament as
our U14 side did reasonably well as they they finished 8th out of 32 teams, and in fact lost against the team won the
managed to come up with more wins than whole event in the quarters. This wonderful team’s talent will be missed.
losses this year. Earlier in the year they were This was clearly shown in the way they proved themselves again, against
able to do what most Under 14 sides couldn’t Boys High, in their second game, as they went on to win the league for
do, and that is recording a famous win over the first time in the past 5 years. It was a wonderful way to end the season.
the U/14 Pretoria Boys High side. The team
continued its exceptional performances Nale Mulaudzi, Captain 2018
throughout the season, and we are very proud
of them.

U15
This is a wonderful team as the players are
starting to settle in very well. They played
consistently well throughout the season
highlighting the potential they showed in Form
1.

U16
This group of young men had a brilliant season.
They managed to continue their success from
their previous season by recording wins against
some of the best Basketball schools during the
summer league. This is a very promising group
of young men who we believe will continue the
success of the current First Team this season.

Opens
Probably one of the most gifted group of young
men full of potential to have ever played at the
College, this side has managed to do very well.
A special mention to captain, Nale Mulaudzi,

28 SPORT

BASKETBALL TOUR TO THE USA, APRIL 2018

Assembly Address given by Nale Malaudzi Despite checking in late that day at the Comfort Inn
Afternoon school: and Suites, most of us did not sleep as we actually got
As you all know the best sports team in the school the chance to watch an NBA game on TV; we followed
#Nale’sbasketballclub was given the great opportunity up on the playoff games, and ended up doing that
to tour the United States of America in April. every day for the duration of the tour. Our stay didn’t
only include visiting famous places, but we also got the
After an 8 hour flight and our arrival in Dubai, we opportunity to play against some of America’s fresh
immediately checked in our bags as our next flight talent and have a training session hosted by one of the
to Washington DC was within the next two hours. top recruiting coaches. Of the three games we played
Unfortunately we ended up being delayed as there in Washington, we managed to pull off one win, which
was a bit of an issue with regards to my visa; I’m sure was much needed after being disrespected by one of
most of you will know by now that they refused to their players saying, ” Haha daaaaamn , eyy bra, y’all
believe that I was a male, due to the fact that on my really from the Congo , as in y’all know how to hoop
visa it was stated under sex that I was female! This was for real.” And so, as a result of this uncalled-for banter
a bit nerve racking as I thought that I would be left we felt the need to win and so we did! Another tour
behind, but luckily the issue was resolved. highlight was being able to step on the Washington
Wizards basketball court and into their locker rooms –
When we finally arriving in America (any basketballer’s awesome!
unfulfilled dream) we could feel the excitement and
the adrenalin pumping through our veins. This was the We then spent three nights in Philadelphia where we put
journey that many had been waiting for and which in another exceptional performance against Spooky
started immediately as we took a shuttle from the Nook Club, which is a top AU team. We ended the tour
plane to the baggage claim area, and then took a at the Kings Christian School, playing our second and
luxury bus to explore the Arlington National Cemetery third games there.
followed by a visit the National Mall and Memorials,
a wide, pedestrian-friendly, tree-lined boulevard with We learnt a lot, laughed and played a lot. It was
monuments and memorials, world-famous museums unforgettable!
and impressive federal buildings.

SPORT 29

GOLF

Sun City Golf Championships April 2018 The highlight of the tournament, was undoubtedly
the hole-in-one by Matthew Christie on the final day.
The St Alban’s College Golfers participated in the Sun He was rewarded for this feat with a Scotty Cameron
City Golf Championships during the April holidays. putter.
In total, 27 teams took part. The College team of JP
Bleeker, Warwick Purchase, Kyle Campbell, Matthew Congratulations, Matthew, and well done to the
Christie and Max Morhart played their first round at the Golf team on an outstanding result!
Lost City, their second round at the Gary Player.
Mandy Sutcliff
On the third day the top 14 teams played their final
round at the Gary Player. The final standings were as
follows:
Curro Aurora 928 points
Curro Durbanville 935 points
Westville Boys 940 points
St John’s and St Alban’s College tied for fourth place
with 941 points each.

The individual results, in which 135 players, took part
were as follows:
Warwick Purchase 9th, Kyle Campbell 14th, Matthew
Christie 17th, Max Morhart 20th and JP Bleeker 58th.

Woodlands Junior Masters Golf Tournament May 2018

The following golfers represented St Alban’s College at
the Woodlands Junior Masters Golf Tournament held
at the Ebotse Golf Club recently: JP Bleeker, Warwick
Purchase, Kyle Campbell, Matthew Christie, Max
Morhart and James Skerritt.

The team place third out of 18 schools, behind
Midstream and the winners Affies. Kyle Campbell had
the best College individual score, finishing in 6th place,
while Warwick was placed 8th.

30 SPORT

HOCKEY

U16 INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS HOCKEY FESTIVAL

This year’s U16 ISHF was hosted by St Benedict’s that disappointing result we took on York and won
in Johannesburg. The U16 boys all arrived at 1-0. On the last day we made our final trip to St
St Alban’s on Wednesday 25 April for a 3 hour Benedict’s to play Bishops. St Alban’s lost 2-1.
training session before the festival started. The
first game against Clifton was closely contested On behalf of the U16 team, we’d like to thank our
but St Alban’s went down 1-0. The next day saw coaches, Mr Trafford, Mr Carlsen and Mr McCarthy
better results as the boys took on Uplands and for looking after us on this tour. Thanks also to Mr
St Andrews Grahamstown, winning 5-1 and 3-1 van Zyl for allowing us to stay in MacRobert house,
respectively. On Saturday our boys were in for as well as to Mr Kidwell and Mr Moodley for allowing
their biggest game yet against Michaelhouse us to have this great opportunity.
and later York. St Alban’s lost 2-0 to Michaelhouse
despite playing one of their better games. After Bruce Kendall Player U16A

UNBEATEN SEASON FOR 2ND TEAM HOCKEY

This year’s U16 ISHF was hosted by St Benedict’s following players, who represented the 2nd XI for
The 2nd XI hockey team capped their unbeaten the second year in a row: Yangeni Saidi, Bradley
season off with a convincing 3-0 win against Shipp, Cameron Dennison, Bryn Ferrari and Henry
St Stithians, in the final fixture of the term. Their Lamprecht. The team also provided a good base
record of 8 wins and 3 draws this season made for the First XI, with a number of players being called
them one of only two teams to go through the up to add depth to their squad. The senior hockey
whole season undefeated, the other being teams all had very successful seasons, with lots of
the 15B hockey team. Memorable matches Form 4s performing exceptionally, which bodes
include a 2-1 win over Northwood and a thrilling well for next year’s hockey.
3-2 comeback against Pretoria Boys’ High
School. Special mention must be made of the John Hunter, 2nd team hockey coach.

SPORT 31

ROWING

Although it is the off-season and a time for St Alban’s octuple, which will surely elevate the Club to previously
rowers to relax, a lot has still been going on behind unimaginable heights. Good luck for the upcoming
the scenes to ensure a smooth transition into the new season, Boys!
season. The expansion of the Rowing Club has taken
centre stage starting with the acquisition of a new Ruben Grobler, Form 4
Hudson octuple. This purchase will allow for new boys
to experience rowing in an octuple and it will also
allow the Club to use its own boat for the SA Schools
Boat Race. In addition to this, two of the First Quad
members, Nick Botoulas and Liam Smit, both qualified
for the SA U19 Rowing Team, Nick in the coxed four
and Liam in the single scull. The Club is also very proud
to announce that our head coach, Tiago Loureiro, has
been appointed as an SA Rowing coach, coaching
both the U19 and U23 squads.

On behalf of the Rowing Club we wish to congratulate
all our club members on their achievements on a
national level, as well as on the acquisition of the new

ST ALBAN’S COLLEGE SQUASH TEAM QUALIFIES FOR FIRST TIME AT SA TOP SCHOOLS

In 2015, a newly appointed Mathematics teacher that effort, the boys were still committed enough to play their Saturday
and squash coach mentioned in his introduction hockey and rugby fixtures against St David’s, and then they conjured
to the School that his goal was to beat the up the energy to beat Midstream 5-0 on Saturday afternoon. This led
squash power house, PBHS, to qualify for the to a highly anticipated “final” between Pretoria Boys High School and
SA Top Schools Tournament. This seemed like a St Alban’s College on Sunday morning at 8:30 am. There was always
farfetched goal because in 2014 PBHS had won going to be highly competitive and emotionally-charged rivalry on the
the SA Top Schools crown, and making this goal court because of the closeness of each fixture. The parents, knowing
more challenging was the fact that St Alban’s what a big fixture this would be, offered to bring a gas braai to cook
College no longer had squash courts on campus. some bacon and egg rolls to make sure there was a calmness in spirit.
However bold and naive that statement was in The entire weekend boasted amazing squash with the highest level of
assembly four year ago. I can proudly say that St sportsmanship and energy. However, the final between PBHS and St
Alban’s College has built a squash culture that Alban’s had a buzz and energy about it that was good for the game in
has achieved that goal! the future. St Alban’s won the fixture 3-2 and thus qualified for their first-
ever SA Top School crown. Every boy gave his absolute best for each
The Northerns Top Schools Qualifier took place other and when Reece McLachlan secured the win there were tears, fist
from 25– 27 May at Pretoria Boys High Old Boys’ pumps and laughs from everyone in blue and white.
Club. This is a highly competitive tournament in
which any school that believes they have a first Well done to the Strings! You have made history and laid foundations for
squash team that is good enough can enter. things to come.
However, there can be only one winner. The
winner of the tournament qualifies to represent Justin Cook, Coach: Squash
Northerns Province at the prestigious SA Top
Schools tournament that takes place at Epworth
School in Pietermaritzburg. The SA Top Schools
tournament allows the Top schools from each
province to play it out over a weekend to try be
crowned the top squash school in South Africa.
Five schools entered into the Boys section:
Pretoria Boys High School, St Alban’s College,
Menlopark, Midsteam and Eldoraigne.

St Alban’s College had been working hard for
the past three years and had finally had an
opportunity to have a realistic chance of doing
well. During the last four weeks the First Team had
been training four times a week with two of those
practices being in the icy winter mornings at 5:30
am. The tournament started on Friday afternoon.
St Albans played two games on Friday, beating
Eldorainge and Menlopark 5-0 each. After all

32 SPORT

RUGBY REPORT

2018 has indeed been an amazing year for the Rugby Club, U15 ISRF St Benedicts Festival
with a record number of boys arriving for training, at the Won Woodridge 19 - 0
beginning of the season. Each age group has given of their Lost St Georges’s Zimbabwe 0 - 10
best to ensure that the “brothers of the sword” mantra is held Won St Andrews 15 - 0
high. Won CBC Boksburg 35 – 0

Certainly the 1st XV have had one of their most successful U16 ISRF Hilton College Festival
seasons for many years. They won 13 of the 16 matches Won Penryn 58 - 19
played, going down only to PBHS, St Charles and Jeppe. The Drew St John’s 12 - 12
final game against St Stithians was an absolute thriller with Lost Hilton 5 - 26
College, from being 17-5 down at half time, emerging as the
victors at 34-24. 1st XV St John’s Festival

Well done to the following the following players for being Windhoek Gym St Aban’s Won 26 - 17
selected for our Provincial Teams:
U18 – Ronaldo Daniels, Tafadzwa Kumbirai, Tapiwa Katete, Lions Select St Alban’s Won 28 - 12
Siseko Mvenya, Simon Miller.
U16 – Isaac Khelo Eye of the Tiger St Alban’s Won 45 - 7

We are extremely proud of our Old Boys, Bongi Mbanambi 1st XV Grey High School Festival
and Jason Jenkins for being included in the Springbok side. Won Muir College 22 - 17
Jason played against Wales and Bongi played against Won Graeme College 17 – 15
England. Well done, guys!
Kennedy Tsimba, Head Coach

We bid farewell to our 1st XV coach, Tom Blampied, who will
be heading back to the UK at the end of the term. He has
been a stalwart in ensuring the best season for the
1st XV. We wish him and Sandy well during this time.
Our teams competed in the following Festivals:

U14 ISRF Uplands Festival
Won Clifton 17 - 12
Lost Bishops 3 - 36
Won CBC Boksburg 45 – 7

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STAFF

IN MEMORIUM - MARIA DIREMELA plan for Maria; though it was hard for those who loved her
to let her go, He had a spot in His garden that also needed
Maria “Ruby” Diremela, was a happy, loving and caring a gentle soul. It was her time to rest.
person. Even on days when she was upset or down, she still
smiled because it was important to her to treat people with ROBALA KA KHUTŠO RUBY.
a smile even if one was at one’s lowest. Not only was she a
colleague, she was a friend, a sister, a confidant for the boys Keitumetse Modise, friend and colleague
and her colleagues. The connection she had with the boys
was strong – she was like a mother. I remember one weekend
during supper she shouted at the boys, but instead of them
being upset, one boy went up to her and hugged her and
they both laughed, whilst she was still shouting! That’s the kind
of relationship she had with the boys. She would be upset the
boys went to play sport with another school and they came
back hungry, complaining that they had not been well fed.
When that school was playing the boys here, she would
confront the coaches about it - that’s how much she loved
these boys. To her it wasn’t just a job, this was home for her and
would be always. When she fell sick, Maria might have been
weak physically but spiritually she was at her strongest as in her
weakness God made her stronger. She held on, she fought
and she passed on a happy soul.

A beautiful garden now stands alone and is missing one who
nurtured it. Her flowers still bloom as the sun shines over them.
The rain is like teardrops for the ones left behind. The beautiful
memories of its keeper are in our hearts. She loved every
flower, even the weeds which surrounded them. God had a

FAREWEL - TOM BLAMPIED

I have had the privilege of working with Tom for a number in the offseason at his new school, there was really only one
of years while he broadened his teaching experience choice… girls’ rugby! Our First XV will miss his passion, drive and
working in South Africa. Tom did his teacher training in the professionalism.
UK; it was extensive and encouraged innovative, student-
centred teaching to capture the learners’ interest. He has We will miss Tom as a friend, a colleague and a sounding
used this education to assist our boys to order their thoughts, board. He leaves huge boots to fill!
write detailed answers with supporting evidence, counter-
arguments and developing value-based decisions. His Patti Bossenger, Head of Department, Social Sciences
excellent feedback to his students has resulted in our
History results improving in leaps and bounds. Tom supports
his teaching with excellent administrative skills, meaningful
marking and keeps to all deadlines. He is an HOD’s dream
teacher!

While in South Africa he married Sandy, who was the reason
for travelling to a different continent! Tom is a great friend
and all are welcome to drop in at his home. He enjoys
entertaining and socialising with his friends and colleagues.
Tom is known for his integrity, honesty and marked EQ. He
puts people first which allows him to confront difficult issues
and sort out conflict without causing offence.

Tom’s position as Assistant Housemaster in Ochse House has
been integral to his growth as a leader and has expanded
his already extensive skillset. He has taken time and care
building relationships with the boys in Ochse and is often
their go-to person. With his aid, these boys have become
more successful students. Their self-confidence, self-esteem
and resilience have blossomed and their work habits are far
more intentional. Rugby and Tom go hand-in-hand. When
offered the task of coaching football, hockey or girls’ rugby

34 STAFF

FAREWEL - SAMUEL CHOWLES, COLLEAGUE AND FRIEND

It is very sad for us in the Science Department to say
goodbye to our colleague, Sam Chowles who has worked
at St Alban’s College for five years. He has always been
extremely professional, hard-working and a team player.
He has a brilliant mind and always brought creative new
ideas to the team. His love for Chemistry was evident in all
he did.

Sam is a devoted Christian, someone who loves the outdoors
and people. He contributed to the outdoor department,
participating in four Journey trips, leading three groups. He
has completed many hikes and assisted in training before
and during these outdoor events. Sam has completed
three scuba trips the Southern and Northern traverses in the
Drakensberg and the trip to Borneo.

Samuel has not only been a fantastic colleague, he has where he added so much value especially in guiding and
also been a friend. He always took the time to ask how his preparing apprehensive boys for their own Journey.
colleagues were, and noticeably then listened to us.
We all wish you the very best in the future, dear Sam. I know Mr Chowles will be remembered and missed in the College.
that whatever the future holds, you will excel and continue Despite being a quiet and often reserved man he is also very
to be successful. We will miss you but this isn’t goodbye as honest and will express himself when he feels something is
we know you will keep in touch and we will see you sooner wrong and unacceptable. His willingness to help whenever
rather than later. Thank you for everything you have given the College and the House have needed it was a much-
to the school community. appreciated characteristic.

Marelet Moolman, Science Department and Knapp-Fisher On behalf of Knapp-Fisher House, and also as a friend, I wish
Tutor Mr Chowles all the best for the future. I hope our paths will
often cross in the future on some crazy adventures and hikes
I have been fortunate to know Mr Chowles on many fronts. together.
He started his first Journey with me where I really got to
know the man he is. Mr Chowles is a quiet and thoughtful Sean Smith, Housemaster Knapp-Fisher
man who loves the outdoors which he uses as a tool to
know both himself and the boys in his care better. Since
that first Journey together we have been on many trips and
adventures together from travelling to Borneo together
for the World Challenge in 2017, as well as going on some
Drakensberg treks with the College. It was also fantastic to
have Mr Chowles in Knapp-Fisher House as the Form 3 Tutor

FAREWEL - MARK KEARNEY

Mark Kearney, affectionately known as ‘Kearn Dog’, will A staunch Liverpool supporter, Mark will never walk alone
be sorely missed in the St Alban’s community. Ever since he wherever he goes. We wish him well at Treverton where we
arrived in 2013 from Kenya, he has had impact wherever he have no doubt he will thrive in the serenity of the Midlands.
has been involved.
Michael Strachan, Business Studies
Mark holds MacRobert House close to his heart and is
passionate about the pastoral role that he has played over
the years. Many learners, both past and present, talk about
the relationship they had with Mark who they regard as a
wise, knowledgeable and always approachable man.

Mark became HOD of the Business Studies Department in
2017 and the results since then have been proof of the hard
work that he puts in and the way that he is able to inspire his
colleagues. Mark brought innovation to the teaching and
enjoyment of his Business Studies classes. Since his tenure
Business Studies has become an increasingly popular
subject in the College for which he certainly deserves credit.

Mark will also be remembered for the way he coached
Water Polo. He was an extremely passionate coach who
went on many tours both locally and abroad. Despite the
caps covering their ears, his players would never have a
problem hearing him as his booming voice resounded
around the pool.

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IBSC ANNUAL CONFERENCE: THE SOUTHPORT SCHOOL, GOLD
COAST, AUSTRALIA

In July 2018, Tracy Mackenzie, Ylmé Rappard and Bruce Ylmé started her action research journey at the
Collins attended the IBSC Annual Conference at The same time. She is part of a group of 47 international
Southport School in Australia. researchers who will be researching the power of
stories in boys’ education. She has returned very
Tracy presented the results of her action research excited about starting her journey as a teacher-
project to a packed room of international educators. researcher.
Tracy researched the development of empathy in boys.
She integrated the “Philosophy for Children” framework Bruce continued his work as an action research team
into lessons with great effect. Delegates and fellow advisor for the IBSC and also presented a number
researchers responded positively to Tracy’s findings. Her of workshops and talks. He trained his sixth cohort of
research will hopefully have far reaching impact on our researchers this year with whom he will journey for
school, too. the next 12 months.

Tracy and Bruce also presented a workshop on limiting The Southport School hosted one of the best IBSC
narratives in boys’ schools; a session that focused on annual conferences to date. We experienced
toxic and hyper-masculinity and other trends in boys’ Australian hospitality at its finest. Furthermore, the
schools. This session proved to be so popular that it was keynote speakers were superb and the workshops
moved to a larger venue. The conversations sparked all three of us attended were excellent.
at their presentation continued for the remainder of
the conference, with many of the discussion points
resonating with educators from around the globe.

St Alban’s Chapel, Southport School,
Gold Coast, Australia

FROM THE EDITOR

This is the last edition of The Mitre I will put together. I have learnt many
skills and been dumbstruck as I worked through the submissions at
how multi-faceted and dynamic St Alban’s College is.

I would like to thank especially Zachary Ziegelmeier, Chairman of
the Mitre Club, for his patience, support and encouragement since
I took up these reigns. To all staff and boys who have responded
so graciously for the repeated calls for submissions and photos, my
sincere thanks. Wilmien, our Designer, has done a wonderful job
in the production of each sparkling issue! Finally, to Craig Hoyer,
Director of Marketing, my deep appreciation for your patience and
understanding when the amount of copy I had to work through
saw me repeatedly defeated by my own deadlines for each issue.

Marianne Scholtz

36 STAFF