The Mitre Trinity Term 2017

So Trinity Term 2017
often
we limit HEADMASTER’s MESSAGE
ourselves
at school I have recently returned from two Old Boys reunions in New York City and
because we London and was reminded of the timelessness and significance of an
have not yet educational institution like St Alban’s College. For many generations, our
understood school has relentlessly pursued the idea that the young men who walk the
the limitless pathways of the College are prepared for the future. In a world, which lives
potential of and breathes instant gratification we are constantly living in the now and in
the human a way, it has robbed us of perspective and the joy which comes from seeing
race. things in wholes.

So many of the young and not so young men I engaged with at these
functions reminded me of how the College played a significant role in
their growth, their self-esteem and their dreams about life. So often we
limit ourselves at school because we have not yet understood the limitless
potential of the human race. We see and judge each other through a
narrow lens, of academic results and forget that our potential is far more
complex than a set of comments and results from teachers.

As we come to the end of our Trinity Term, I am acutely aware that our
Matrics do not have much time left of their school careers and it is now I am
hoping that they begin to appreciate the lessons they have learnt outside
of the classroom context. I recently had a conversation with a particularly
successful businessman who lamented the fact that schools neglect to
nurture emotional and spiritual skills. As Ken Robinson, who wrote the book,
The Element says, ‘our bodies are not just vehicles to transport our brains
around from exam to exam.’ We are whole human beings and it is exciting
to see that the St Alban’s culture of developing all-roundedness continues
to flourish here.

The corridors and classrooms this term have been filled with laughter,
excitement and energy and I have no doubt that the College continues
to develop and refine the skills young men need for the future. One of my
favourite poets, Robert Frost, wrote: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I
took the one less travelled by. And that has made all the difference.’ Our
young men stand at the crossroads of two paths - one, which is well-travelled,
leads to mediocrity of mind and character and to social decline. The other,
less travelled, narrower more difficult path leads to limitless possibilities, to
hope and ultimately to social cohesion. St Alban’s should be encouraging
all its young men to see those possibilities and to ensure that they believe
in themselves enough to know that they can make a difference once they
leave.

Enjoy the countless stories relayed in this edition of the Mitre and celebrate
the diversity of activity our young men can experience here.

Shane Kidwell 1

ACADEMICS

Come and Be Heard Romeo and Juliet
Exchange – 10 May 2017
The TC Mitchell Public Speaking
Competition Onto the bus … we were departing for our
sister school, St Mary’s DSG, for our annual
Public Speaking is one of life’s most ‘Grade 8 Romeo and Juliet Day’. We were
underrated pleasures. It is also commonly accompanied by the English Department
cited as one of life’s greatest fears, but teachers: Dr Moore, Ma’am Mackenzie, Mr
not so for an Albanian. This has been Oldnall and Mr Hunter. We arrived at DSG
proven time and again by the calibre of to a warm welcome from the girls and their
speeches offered during the TC Mitchell teachers.
Public Speaking Competition.
To begin with, we played a mini game
This year, once again, seniors and juniors whereby you had to walk around and find
participated in the competition, giving group mates of 25. After multiple attempts
well-prepared and heartfelt speeches. On from the shy boys and girls to sort this out, we
the nights of both finals the Auditorium was finally got into our teams and then separated
filled with an atmosphere of excitement into different venues. The atmosphere at
and eagerness to hear what the boys had that time was still a bit awkward for both the
to say, and they were not disappointed. boys and the girls.
There were eloquent discussions on space
colonisation and sibling rivalry. There were Once we were in the different venues, the
also more serious topics, such as Keroshan programme began with a little bit of fun and
Pillay’s analysis of ‘The Argument from movement. Yes, ‘’fake’’ sword fighting to
Ignorance” and Sahil Govind’s critique of illustrate and teach us how people fought
thieving evangelical organizations. in the time when Romeo and Juliet was set.
We did further interesting activities relating
In the senior section, Sahil Govind and to this topic such as role playing. We were
Louis de Jager tied third place. Matthew given a piece of paper with a short script
Field placed second, and Keroshan Pillay from a scene, and told to name all the
placed first. parts in which Lord Capulet was criticising
his daughter, Juliet, about how she was a
The juniors also did well in their rounds, disgrace to the clan by wanting to marry a
having clearly learned and developed Montague.
since last year. Timon Hough placed third,
Yudarshan Pillay placed second and We ended the day by socialising with the
Simon Augustyn placed first. girls. By this time, the boys were no longer
shy! It was a beautiful day spent both
The TC Mitchell Public Speaking learning and socialising.
Competition is one of the few occasions
when boys can freely express their ideas Oratile Kekana
orally. In class they are assigned topics,
and boys are lucky to get a Chapel slot
to present them. It is therefore essential
that boys sign up for competitions like TC
Mitchell, as the experience truly prepares
young men for life.

Matthew Field

2 Academics

Matric Art Exhibition 2017

Each year the Matrics hold an Art exhibition of who he is as a person, being half black
showcasing some of the work they’ve done and half white, showed us what an impact of
during the year, as well as work they did the where we’ve been in life has on us; and finally,
previous year and each year the Matrics raise Duncan Oosthuizen’s display of how different
the bar; this year it was no different. angles and different points of view can show
you different things about the same object,
Each artist has expressed his true self: Karabo was fascinating.
Pare’s comment on social media shows how
in the 21st century we see people through The Matric artwork of 2017 is amazing, and we
obscure lenses; Alex Papavarnavas’ showcase can’t wait to see their final art exhibition at the
of his artwork using skeletons and bones end of the year.
expresses that all that really matters is what is on
the inside, whilst Thaba Kgalema’s expression Zachary Ziegelmeier

The Oratorical Society

The Oratorical Society had a spectacular Easter Term. Many of its top
speakers stretched themselves, winning competitions, addressing
the school, and more. Perhaps the Club’s best performance
was at the Tyger Valley Public Speaking Festival. In the Junior
category, Simon Augustyn placed first and Yudarshan
Pillay placed fourth. In the Senior category, Matthew Field
placed first, Keroshan Pillay placed second and Yangeni
Saidi placed fifth. These boys did the School proud and
have set a trend of excellence.

The Club’s debating team also performed well,
winning debates against Affies Meisies, Willow Ridge
and Pretoria Boys’ High. The members of the debating
team were Jarryd Clark, Keroshan Pillay, Yangeni Saidi,
and Matthew Field. The College recognized three of
the Club’s speakers with Colours awards; Yangeni Saidi
was awarded Half Colours for Public Speaking whilst
Keroshan Pillay and Matthew Field were both awarded
Full Colours for Public Speaking.

The Oratorical Society has moved from strength to strength
this term. It will continue to grow in ambition and success as the
year progresses.

Matthew Field

Academics 3

COMMUNITY

Blanket drive is going
to warm the needy

News from the French In April this year St Alban’s College
Department – May 2017 decided to knit, crochet, collect
blankets, and secondhand clothes
We have had quite a busy term socially in the which will be distributed on Nelson
French Department. Mandela Day, 18 July 2017.

Early in the term, all boys taking French in Forms 3 The intention behind Mandela Day
to 5 were invited to attend an afternoon hosted is quite simple. Mr Mandela gave 67
by the French government and Pretoria Boys’ High years of his life fighting for the rights of
to meet one of the authors of the short stories set humanity. Nelson Mandela Day asks
by the IEB for the Grade 12 2017-2019 literature that we give 67 minutes of our time
syllabus. Unfortunately, many boys were unable to supporting our chosen charity or serving
attend but those who did enjoyed the ambiance our local community.
of over 500 excited French pupils meeting and
then listening attentively to Agnès Ledig’s beautiful Cosy blankets, quilts, comforters, goodies
French and basking in her joy in being in South for party packs and clothes dominated
Africa and meeting us. The afternoon ended the Community Service office and
with more socialising, but not much French being storerooms. This overwhelming response
spoken! came from students, parents, ground
staff, the social development wing
Two weeks later, we were invited by Madame of the Anglican Diocese of Pretoria
Kona Enslin-van Rooyen and her senior French (Tumelong Mission), Churches from the
pupils to a Soirée Française at St Mary’s DSG. We Pretoria Diocese, the Department of
were asked to arrive dressed in something blue, Correctional Services and The Presidents
white and red; some people went to a lot of Awards.
trouble to enter into the spirit of things and looked
very good in their colours of the French flag! The “I thoroughly enjoyed doing this and I am
hall had been beautifully decorated with round very passionate about helping others. St
tables on which were Eiffel Tower centre pieces. Alban’s College is a wonderful school
We were given a wonderful French-themed three- that assists in sharing and helping and
course meal, and then moved to the auditorium caring for others,” said Rachel Mathabe.
to watch a French comedy (with English sub-titles,
of course!). Those boys who attended agreed it To those who donated “Thank you,” Your
was a fun-filled and worthwhile evening as it is donations will truly make a difference in
always good to be with other pupils doing French,
and to see friends from DSG. It was a pity that the
senior members of the French Club were unable
to attend as a good time was definitely had by all!

Marianne Scholtz

4 Academics

Y SERVICE THE JOURNEY PROJECT

One of our key focus areas is to “Encourage charitable and
generous giving”. Ubuhle Christian School in Bronkhorstspruit
provides world class education to orphans and vulnerable
children living in under resourced farmworker families and
in the township areas surrounding Bronkhorstspruit. The
school’s mission is to raise a generation of well-educated
children who have exceptional morals and character, and
who can make a positive contribution to their families and
to society. For more information about Ubuhle please visit
their website by following this link. http://ubuhlecares.org.
za/ubuhle-christian-school/.

The Form 3 Journey boys have worked incredibly hard to
raise their share of the money for the purchase of these
bicycles and we are proud of the manner in which they
have adopted the project.

KNYSNA FIRES: APPEAL FOR ASSISTANCE

“The Garden Route was plummeted into chaos on
Wednesday, as about 30 fires broke out across the region
and Knysna residents were evacuated.” (Citizen 08.06.2017)

On behalf of the Principal of St Alban’s college, I would like to
thank both the parents and staff for your generous donations
which made it possible for us to help alleviate the plight of
the victims in the Knysna fire disaster. It is your support that
enables us to take on and accomplish philanthropic causes
and help those in need.

Handover Ceremony - St Augustine’s Diocesan Leap School

On Friday, 24 March 2017, St Augustine’s Diocesan Leap
School in Garankuwa received R100 000 from Andru Mining
to better education.

Learners from St Augustine’s Diocesan Leap School will
now benefit from this assistance from Andru Mining as the
money will be used for the construction of a new Science
Laboratory. Andru Mining is committed to the continuing
upliftment of local communities through its corporate social
responsibility initiatives.

Community Service 5

On 15 May 2017, the Form 3 Journey boys of The Eersterust Feeding Scheme has truly taken
St Alban’s College handed over 22 cleaned on a life of its own.
and serviced bicycles to Ubuhle Christian
School. The bicycles were given to children An increase in the number of children seeking
who will use the bicycles as a mode of a nourishing meal made it urgent for us to
transport to get to school, improving their look beyond not only feeding them, but also
quality of living and ensuring their sustainable doing so in a safer place. We approached the
education. Nantes School opposite the carport from which
we used to feed the children, and asked if we
could use the school grounds instead as we
needed to reduce the risk of children being hit
by passing cars. This should also help with the
smooth running of the serving process whilst
allowing our boys to interact with the children.
As they serve here, our boys are becoming
more aware of the difficulty of others’ lives and
developing more appreciation for their own
privileged positions.

PLATINUM DAYS

Form 1- Preparing sandwiches for Happy Hour Creche

Eersterust Feeding Scheme Wetnose

6 COMMUNITY SERVICE

Moshate Kingsmead College – Sleep Out

U13 Rugby Challenge Kingsmead College once again invited us to join them in
the School Sleep Out. The event encourages students to
The biggest challenge to spend a night out in solidarity with the participants of the
the growth of rugby in South CEO Sleep Out whilst gaining empathy for the homeless
African townships is that and collecting items for selected beneficiaries in need.
there is no competition for The items (from a list provided by Kingsmead College)
the large numbers in which were taken to the sleep out and were delivered to the
to participate. St Alban’s following beneficiaries: Angels Baby Sanctuary, Impilo
Rugby Club created a Child Protection and Adoption Services, as well as
tournament in 2016 with Refilwe Community Project.
this in mind. In the Tshwane The boys were in fine spirits and participated
region, six teams were enthusiastically!
identified – Attridgeville,
Soshanguve, Eersterust, Connie Kannemeyer
Mamelodi, Tswaing and Community Service Co-ordinator
Stanza. Coaches and
referees were also selected Community Service 7
from their regions to
conduct training sessions.
Now in its second year,
the Tournament has grown
from six to eight teams, and
seems set on becoming a
permanent fixture on the
Tshwane annual sports
calendar as it grows in
momentum.

This year selectors were
asked to identify 22 players
from the Tournament to
play in a challenge match
on 9 August 2017 before the
Blue Bulls/Sharks Currie Cup
match. All involved had a
wonderful time.

Kennedy Tsimba
Director of Rugby

CULTURAL WEEK

Cultural Festival Week: 2017 Cultural Festival Awards
One Act Plays
2017 Cultural Festival Awards
With the 2017 Cultural Week bringing the excitement
of music, art and games to the campus, the drama Order of Announcements
was yet to kick off. The boys had been preparing AV Club Service Award
their well-written one act plays for weeks and they Culture Vulture Service Award
were all eager to hit the stage. The boarder houses
were the first to taste the spotlight and they made Category C
sure they left their mark on the stage. A special
mention goes to Knoll House for their exceptional POTJIE
performance of ‘The Lion King’. Aidan Ridgway and Best Taste: De Beer
Luke Teixeira ended up winning awards with their Best Preparation: De Beer
exceptional performances in this play. Best Presentation: De Beer

But the excitement was not over. The following BRIDGE
evening the dayboy houses were given their
chance to take to the stage. Knapp Fisher started 1. Best Junior Team: Knoll
the evening’s events with their performance of 2. Best Senior Team: Murray
“Mama Mia” followed by Murray and finally De
Beer. It was Murray that stole the show with their CHESS
truly outstanding performance of ‘The Jungle Book’
written by David Osae and John Venter. They won 1. Best Junior Player: Shariq Sinah Ray (De Beer)
the Trophy for the Best One Act Play which they fully 2. Best Senior Player: Brad Johnston (MacRobert)
deserved.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Overall, it must be said that the 2017 One Act Plays
were a tremendous success. A huge thanks and 1. Best Junior Photographer: Daniel Yelseth (Ochse)
congratulations to all who participated, as well 2. Best Senior Photographer: James Alison & Justin Leonard
as to parents who made sure make-up and props
were organized. (both MacRobert)

David Pitt 3. Best House Static Photography: MacRobert
4. Best House Photography in Action: Knapp-Fisher
8 Cultural week
Category B

DANCE

1. Best Junior Dance: Knapp-Fisher
2. Best Senior Dance: Murray

DEBATING

1. Best Overall Junior Debater: Simon Augustyn (Knoll)
2. Best Overall Senior Debater: Keroshan Pillay (Ochse)

ART

1. Best Junior Non-Art Student: Christopher Marlow (Murray)
2. Best Junior Artist: Gogalameng Kgosienang (Knoll)
3. Best Senior Non-Art Student: Hannes Kruger (Murray)
4. Best Senior Artist: Josh Neilson (De Beer) (2nd year)
5. Best House Static Art: Murray
6. Best House: Art-in-Action: Ochse

Category A

DRAMA

1. Best Junior Actor (Skits): Timon Hough
2. Best Senior Actor (Skits): Tapiwa Chagonda
3. Best House Skits: MacRobert
4. Best Actor (Play): David Osae (Murray)
5. Best Supporting Actor (Play): Warrick Wearne (De Beer)
6. Best Actor in a Female Part (Play): Leonard Murungi

(Ochse)

7. Best Supporting Actor in a Female Part (Play): Luke

Teixeira (Knoll)

8. Best Director (Play): David Osae (Murray); John Venter

(Murray)

MUSIC

1. Best Choir: Murray
2. Best Junior Musician: Isaac Khelo (Knoll)
3. Best Senior Instrumentalist: Louis Nel (De Beer)
4. Best Senior Vocalist: Alastair Scobbie (MacRobert)
5. Best House Ensemble: Knapp-Fisher
6. Best Own Composition: Not awarded this year

TROPHIES

1. Potjie: De Beer
2. Support: Murray
3. Quiz: Knapp-Fisher
4. Bridge: Murray
5. Chess: De Beer
6. Photography: Knapp-Fisher
7. Dance:  Knapp-Fisher
8. Debating:  Ochse
9. Art: Murray
10. Best One Act Play: Murray
11. Drama: Murray
12. Music:  De Beer
13. E-Sport:  De Beer

BEST OVERALL HOUSE TROPHY
3rd place: Ochse
2nd place: Knapp-Fisher
1st place (St Alban’s Cultural Festival
Trophy): Murray

Cultural week 9

EVENTS

Exchange Students

Who doesn’t always love school? In Switzerland, Tapiwa Chagonda and and Raghav Kedia. Shortly after the
For a lot of people, actually, it can David-John Marlow from the Choir August holidays some of our boys will
be quite boring! However, as usual, went to Disentis to the Gymnasium & visit India. Although they are looking
College has a solution! It offers Internat Kloster Disentis. This was the forward to it, they are also a little
international exchange programmes first year that the College had offered apprehensive!
to and from other countries for boys Choir members an opportunity of this
who are keen to experience another kind, and it was a great success for From the Catholic University School
culture and education system. Boys both boys. in Dublin we were privileged to host
who go on Exchange (or who come Peter and Alex Grenham, and Padraig
to us) are left with fantastic memories, The College also welcomes students Mongey.
as well as the experience of another from our partner exchange schools.
culture whilst exploring that country’s These boys stay with host families, An exchange experience can be one
tourist destinations and, of course, often with those whose sons will be of the significant highlights of one’s
attending school and making new going on Exchange later in the year. years at the College, encouraging
friends. They are taken by the host families boys to move out of their comfort
all over South Africa visiting tourist zones into the unknown, and in the
This year we have had boys jetting highlights and places of historical process enjoying a rich and rewarding
off to Germany: Ryan Crewe-Brown, interest. experience. Junior boys might like to
Bradley Leonard and Aaron Viljoen start thinking about trying it out in the
went to Neubeurn where they We welcomed three students from future!
attended Schloss Neubeurn. Welham Boys College in India:
Rudraksh Gupta, Divyansh Aggarval Kian de Gray Birch

Knapp-Fisher

Moms and Sons Evening

On 17 May Knapp-Fisher held its annual Moms and Sons Evening
for Knapp-Fisher Form 4s and their mothers at the Prue Leith
Restaurant in Centurion. Sincere thanks to Mr Chris Mouton for
making it all possible; there was not a single detail he missed.

The theme for the evening was the Great Gatsby which the
restaurant accommodated most elegantly. It was a beautiful
evening during which the boys, showering their mothers with
love and joy, poured their hearts out in individual speeches
about what their mothers meant to them. Later on, the boys and
their mothers had a slow dance together; this was an incredible
experience for most of them because it was the first time they
were dancing with their mothers! The whole evening definitely
brought the boys and their mothers much closer. It was a very
special occasion which will long be remembered by all of us.

Tlogang Mosupye

10 EVENTS

Youth Day Assembly – 14 June 2017

On 16 June 1976, what had started as a non-violent protest
lead by students in Soweto against Bantu Education
(which suppressed African students and limited their future
opportunities), as well as against the use of Afrikaans as the
language of learning and teaching in schools, ended up as
the senseless killing of some of these students, an event which
caused a shock wave throughout South Africa and the world. What
eventually arose from this tragedy was an appreciation for the youth
of the country as well as the acknowledgment of the need for young
people to be actively engaged in, and aware of, what is happening in the
country. We must all stand up against injustice when we see it.

At Assembly on 14 June 2017 various boys spoke passionately about how appreciative
we should be of what the youth of Soweto did that day in 1976 by standing up and speaking out against the injustice of their
situation. The speeches concluded with a reminder about what we Albanians should do with the knowledge we have of
the past and how we would like to be remembered. Youth Day, 16 June, should not only be remembered for the students of
Soweto standing up against injustice, but should also serve as a reminder of the power the youth has to bring about positive
change in this country.

Tlogang Mosupye

The African We are all African, because we have mantle of this spirit. We can choose
Spirit been bathed in the African spirit. to let it wither away into the footnotes
This is a spirit of suffering and hardship. of history, or we can choose to
By Matthew Field © But it is also a spirit of strength and carry on the struggle: the struggle
resilience. A spirit of love. A spirit of against racism, the struggle against
On the 8th of May, 1996, Deputy- victory in the face of impossible odds. exploitation, income inequality,
President Thabo Mbeki addressed violence against women, and all the
parliament. This spirit of justice lived in the heart of other plagues that have infested our
a young Solomon Mahlangu, when he land.
It was on this day that he delivered gave his life for the struggle.
a message that would define a In the prayer for Africa, we call on God
generation. That would stand the test This spirit of unity was with Tsietsie to “restore our dignity.” But this dignity
of time, like the photo we just took. Mashinini when he organized the was never lost completely. This dignity
students of Orlando High, on that is the African spirit. All we have to do is
He said: “I am an African.” fateful day of June 16th 1976. live it.

He said: “I owe my being to the hills It was this spirit of having our own Ngiyabonga
and the valleys, the mountains and the identity that led Steve Biko to renew Dankie
glades, the rivers, the flowers and the our African consciousness. Kialiboga
ever-changing seasons that define the Thank you.
face of our native land.” It was this spirit of defiance that led our
youth onto the streets in 1976. It was this
spirit that was burned into our hearts,
when Hector Pieterson was shot dead.

I owe my existence to the Khoisan, the Hector was 12 when he was slain, and
Dutch settlers, Malay immigrants, and he was not even the youngest. These
the kingdoms of our nation’s interior. students rose up because they saw the
injustice of their society. Earlier, I spoke
He was an African. in 3 different languages, and many of
I am an African. you didn’t understand a single word.
You are Africans as well. This is how they felt when they, and
their teachers, could not understand
Wayengum-Afrika. their medium of instruction.

Nne ndi mu Afrikani. But this spirit of self-determination led
them to fight for what was theirs.
Le lona lebathu ba Afrika.
Their blood was spilled by their fellow
To be African is not to hold a passport. South Africans, but the spirit remained
It is not living on the continent. It is not resolute. The struggle carried on, and
being part of a certain race, tribe, or still carries on, through us.
faith.
We are now at the helm. We, the
It is something in us all. youth, are soon going to carry the

EVENTS 11

Blessing of the Boots

On 12 March 2017 the Form 3 dayboys and boarders A variety of topics, chosen to
(accompanied by staff and parents) attended the special put both boys and parents at
service dedicated to the Form 3s who were going on ease about the Journey, were
Journey this year. presented. At the end of the
service, the shiny new boots
The Blessing of the Boots is intended to aid in the safe were blessed using a mixture of water and salt. The boys left
keeping of the boys and staff participating in the annual the event high-spirited and ready to take on any challenges
Journey. The boys (who were in their Journey groups) were thrown into their paths by the great Journey.
addressed by the Chaplain, Father Gradwell, who gave an
extremely motivational sermon that surely sent a spike of Sebastianos Papavarnavas
adrenaline and ease into the boys who were most probably
having mixed emotions about what was to come.

Journey 2017

Yet another hugely successful Journey has been
completed this year. Journey is truly a magical
experience that will leave any participant a new
and fresh person with a completely different attitude
towards life! The 23-day long trek embodies the true
South African experience to the full, and is a gem of
an experience in a world that is filled with such hustle
and bustle.

At first I was rather apprehensive about the whole
thing. I mean, who wouldn’t be scared of going into
the bush (and out of your comfort zone) for a full 23
days! Truly – the whole ordeal was nothing to worry
about. Surprisingly I would give anything to go back
to the unique beauty of nature that so few will get to
experience.

The hike covers close to 450km between Pretoria
and Nelspruit; this distance most definitely allows
one to say ‘these boots walked!’ But don’t fear! The
distance covered also includes three days on which
you are given the opportunity to cycle your way over
dirt roads alongside rolling hills of green fields filled
with peaceful farm life.

Bicycles won’t be the only thing that you’ll be given
the opportunity to ride. Horse-riding is offered over
a two-day period that often provides many with an
opportunity to try something new on one of the two
adventure days which pupils and their teachers really
make the most of! The other adventure day includes
a stunning zipline tour through the lush valleys located
near Loskop Dam at Zip-X adventures. Definitely an
activity that gets the adrenaline racing!

The St Alban’s College Journey is a once in a lifetime
experience that is never going to be forgotten by
those unique men who conquer it!

Sebastianos Papavarnavas

12 JOURNEY

MUSIC

Annual Three Schools the WHPS Rock Bands and Percussion Group, to the joyful
Concert: 31 May 2017 marimba group of the DSG seniors, as well as their brilliant
Choir and Orchestra to our own Barbershop, Choir and
One of the most important concerts in which St Alban’s Band.
takes part is the annual Three Schools Concert. This year it
was the turn of St Alban’s College to host this spectacular As usual, the evening ended with a mass item during which
event that boasts the current musical talent of all three the St Alban’s Band and Choir and DSG’s Orchestra and
schools and their music groups: our Choir, Barbershop Choir performed Justin Timberlake’s ‘Can’t Stop the Feeling’
and Band performed for, and with, St Mary’s DSG and amongst others well-received items.
Waterkloof House Preparatory School (WHPS).
A brilliant quote from Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series
The audience was treated to a variety of performances, sums up what we all felt about this special evening: ‘Ah,
covering different musical genres and moods. These music – a magic beyond all we do here.’
ranged from St Mary’s DSG’s Junior Choir and Orchestra, to
Jannik von Schlichting

Curtain Raiser March 2017

After a fantastic Roadshow in February, it was time for again after the Roadshow and sang with its usual brilliance
the College Music Department to properly reintroduce and enthusiasm. The Barbershop entertained the audience
themselves to the College community. The annual Curtain with some classic covers such as Michael Jackson’s ‘Man in
Raiser Concert was held on 16 March. It is never easy to the Mirror’. The Big Band was last to take the stage and new
reach a high level of musical performance so early in the tunes like ‘Roer jou Voete’, combined with older chart hits
year, but the dedication and enthusiasm of both staff and such as ‘Special Star’ showcased the versatile talents of the
boys made it possible. musicians. One could not have asked for a better way to
close this wonderful evening than a combined item with the
The audience was treated to a variety of brilliant musical Band and Choir; ‘Can’t Stop the Feeling’ which will continue
performances by the staff and boys ranging from individual to echo in our ears throughout the year.
to group Items. The school music groups were the main
attraction of the evening. The Gumboot Club brought the To all the staff and musicians, congratulations on, and thank
best side of their shoes and blew the audience away with you for, a superb evening.
a brilliant act which showcased what they had achieved in
about two months! The Drum Circle managed to give new Jannik von Schlichting
meaning to rhythm with their great performance using cups,
drums and the marimba. The Choir was reunited as a whole

MUSIC 13

Music in Action

What a busy second term the Music Department has had! A
total of seven concerts and performances were given, and
the boys did not falter for a second!

Pretoria Eisteddfod
Eleven boys entered the Pretoria Eisteddfod in different
categories and achieved a spectacular set of results:
Louis Nel won fourteen Category Trophies, a Cash Prize and
fifteen A++ Certificates!
David Pitt was the category winner for Classical Grade 6
Piano Section.
The Barbershop and the Choir also participated in the
Eisteddfod; both groups obtained an A++ and both were
announced Category Winners.
In total 40 Eisteddfod certificates were awarded:
25 x A++ certificates
6 x A+ certificates
8 x A certificates
1 x B certificate

External Music Examination results

Jannik von Schlichting achieved a Pass for Trumpet Grade

5.

Luca Gricia achieved a Pass for Violin Grade 7.

Oliver Godwin achieved a Pass with Merit for Drum Kit Grade 4.

Yamaha Lovemore Music Competition

This year also saw four boys entering this prestigious competition at

Roedean School (SA) in Johannesburg. There were about 120 participants

under the age of 18 from all over the country so it is no mean feat to

achieve here!

Louis Nel won the Piano Category.

David Pitt achieved an A in the Piano Category.

David-John Marlow achieved a B+ in the Vocal Category.

Ethan-John Stoffels was awarded an A in the Woodwind Category.

Congratulations to all Music students on a very busy term of outstanding
achievements!

Jannik von Schlicting

St Alban’s College Roadshow 2017

Despite an early start to the Roadshow boys were excited delivered another great performance. After a filling and
to be on their way. Within a mere five hours we arrived at necessary meal at a restaurant, we boarded the bus for
our first destination, Oranje Meisies Hoër in Bloemfontein. a four hour trip to Bethlehem, Free State. We checked
After attending a long school assembly, our boys were in at Petronella Guest House, and then left for our next
finally given the spotlight for their first ‘official’ performance. performance at Hoërskool Witteberg. We arrived at the
Unfortunately this was cut short leaving us somewhat school, not expecting much, and to our big surprise, we
disappointed. However, our mood lifted again as we were were welcomed in the most humble and kind manner.
given some downtime at a nearby mall before our first real After having the usual sound-check, we were directed to
performance. supper where we were entertained by the school’s Boys’
Choir and also enjoyed the company of the wonderful girls
The reception at Grey College was more than we expected from the school. We were later told that we were given
it to be. We were welcomed by a hot meal followed by the honour of being the guests to perform at the school’s
an outstanding combined concert with Grey and Eunice. annual Red Carpet Concert which is usually performed by
We really felt the appreciation of the crowd after receiving an international choir or orchestra. When we heard that,
standing ovations left, right and centre! The first night ended we all decided to give our maximum effort to ensure the
with the boys being allocated to different host families. best concert ever. The audience was clearly delighted
with yet another fantastic performance! We all, boys and
St Andrew’s College was our next destination. A morning the crowd, left the venue reluctantly but in high spirits and
concert was not the best idea, but we pulled through and with happy faces.

14 MUSIC

The Barbershop

This has been a busy and exciting time for the Barbershop. Boots for the Form 3 boys leaving on Journey. A highlight
As we do every year, we started off with auditions in January of the term was the Curtain Raiser Concert. This was an
and welcomed new members. With less than four weeks of exciting performance with the Barbershop showcasing their
practice, we left for our Roadshow tour to the Free State. new repertoire of (Heart Break Hotel), (Kiss from a Rose) and
The Roadshow is a crucial event for the Music Department (Man in the Mirror).
because it allows the students to become familiar with the
year’s repertoire. On the first two days we performed at We were also asked to perform at an Old Boy’s wedding one
Oranje Meisies Hoër, Grey’s College, St Andrew’s College Saturday afternoon. The ceremony was near the Cradle of
and Witteburg High School. On our third and last day, Humankind and was an awesome experience for us and a
we ended our tour at Truida Kestell and Clarens Primary real honour.
Schools. Despite little sleep, lots of travelling and many
performances, the trip was exciting and hugely successful. A perfect end to a busy first term was an invitation to the
There is nothing better than a happy audience and we fed Choir Festival at Cornwall Hill College. It is always thrilling
off the warm reception and appreciation we received as to perform alongside other schools whilst representing the
we moved from school to school. College. The Barbershop is definitely the highlight of my
College experience.
March was a busy month with loads of performances. We
sang a few songs at Experience St Alban’s for prospective Christopher Katranas
new boys and their families, as well as at the Blessing of the

For our final day we drove to Clarens. At a local primary
school we had a brief sound check before performing in
front of a crowd of eager children for the performance of a
life time! There was no greater privilege than for us to perform
for these children as they were more than eager to stand up,
dance, sing and cheer along.

Our final concert was once again in Clarens where we were
greeted by some familiar faces along with new audience
members. As it was our final performance we gave it our all,
and once again we left the crowd eager to stay on, chanting
for an unplanned encore. The performance finally came to
a close and so did the 2017 Roadshow. It was another great
success adding to the already excellent reputation of the
Music Department at St Alban’s College.

Ethan-John Stoffels and Jannik von Schlichting

MUSIC 15

Old Albanians’ Day and

SPORTFinal Winter Sports Fixtures

On 10 June St Albans’ held its annual Old Albanians’ HOCKEY
Day, the day being particularly significant for the Class
of 2007 because it was their 10th anniversary since The 2017 Hockey Season was indeed successful for the
leaving the College. The College spirit was in full force as St Alban’s College Hockey Club. The Club has grown
everybody watched the final winter sports fixtures against to 17 teams, which is very exciting for the future. Hockey
our traditional rival, Pretoria Boys’ High, playing at home. has become a more popular sport both locally and
Throughout the morning every team could be seen to be internationally and this is certainly evident at St Alban’s.
giving of their best; we were truly moving as one powerful
force that day! Our teams competed in a number of festivals, in addition
to our traditional derby days. The U14A Team played in
Later on, the Old Albanians, who had not been back to the the Parktown Festival, U16A Team in the Independent
School for quite some time, walked through the campus Schools Festival at Bishops and the 1st Team played in the
thinking back to the days they wore the badge. They also Independent Schools Festival hosted by Michaelhouse.
had an opportunity to play against the First Hockey Team. These festivals provide top level matches and certainly
The game was energetic and great fun, and it was clear tested the depth of our Hockey Club.
both sides were having a great time! When the match
was over, both teams joined to sing the song which shows A number of our boys were selected to be involved at
that whether you are still wearing the St Alban’s College provincial this year:
uniform or your time here has finished, you will always Northerns Hockey Representatives
belong to the Grey and Blue. Northerns U14A: Yaaseen Mohanlall, Hlogi Molaba and
Gavin Stanley
At around 2 pm the First Rugby Team match began. Northerns U14B: Rourke Pearse, Latir Grey - Johnson, Oliver
Despite losing several players during the season to injury, Godwin, Ryan Thomaz and Sungjun Park
the team played really well. As we were cheering the Firsts Northerns U16A: Phemelo Setsiba and Ntsakisi Mkhabela
on you could not help noticing that the Old Albanians, and
especially the Class of ’07, were having a really good time Basketball Club
singing war cries. During half-time the spirit leaders Jama,
Welela and William led the College spells during which After going undefeated throughout the Kearsney
the School spelt out ‘SAC’ to honour the Old Albanians Tournament and then losing in the final round to come
present. The class of ’07 came to our stands for the second second overall, the team decided to start the 2016/2017
half of the game and sang with us. At the end of the game season on a good note. However, at the start of 2017
the whole School, along with all the Old Albanians, sang unfortunately we suffered a heavy loss against our rival,
the school song unifying us all under the College badge. It Pretoria Boys High (PBHS), on their home court. This served
was, for me, truly amazing because it showed, yet again, as a wake-up call and re-ignited a fire that took us to
how once you’re a College boy, you’re always a College third place above our rivals in the nationally recognized
boy! U18 St John’s Basketball Tournament, one of the most
anticipated tournaments in the country. The tournament
Tlogang Mosupye attracts 28 teams from around the country as well as our
neighbouring countries of Zimbabwe, Mozambique and
16 OLD BOYS/SPORT Zambia. This achievement instantly placed our basketball
team at a ranking of 3 of the top 3 basketball teams in and
outside the country. This was true motivation to the team
following the departure of teammate Botsile Ramabu,
who went to Oakhill High School, Ohio State, in the USA.

With a good season behind us, we then played King Edward
VII School (KES), in the final match of the Johannesburg
Basketball League. This was a great way for the Form 5s in
the team as we clearly dominated the match to win by a
large margin, and so finsihed the league on a high note.
The end of the Johannesburg League, however, only

Northerns U16B: Max Morhart and Joshua Khazila Rugby Tour to Italy:
Northerns U18A: Chris Williamson, Mikail Carrim and Alex 18 - 29 April 2017
Elphinstone
Northerns U18B: Ross Whitelaw, Rein Hulme, Sam Da Silva Getting the balance right in a school
and Yangeni Saidi sports tour is a complex matter. Standards
vary from country to country and town
A number of our staff are also involved in administration, to town: it is never easy to ensure that
playing and coaching at provincial and national level: there will be a good balance between
competition and development, between
Richard Pautz - Senior National Men’s Team and Northerns sport and play. Touring in Italy, a country
Men’s Team (Captain) with a great history and culture, also
Matthew Guise - Brown - Senior National Men’s Team required a good balance of non-sport
Tim Guise - Brown - Northerns Men’s Team and TUKS Men’s activities. While the results of the games
Team (Captain) were perhaps too much in our favour
Craig Hoyer - Northerns Schools Hockey Chairman during our tour, better that than to suffer
Krinesan Moodley - Northerns Men’s Head Coach and heavy defeats and occur serious injuries to
South African Schools U18 Selector. disrupt the forthcoming domestic season!

The 1st Team will be going on a very exciting overseas tour The 12-day tour started in beautiful
to Singapore and Malaysia in the August holidays. This is Venice, then off we went to Florence in
always a great opportunity afforded to our boys and will be the mountains of Tuscany. We passed by
an unbelievable experience. the famous Tower of Pisa on our way to
our final destination in Roma.
We look forward to continued growth of the Club in 2018. Our boys recorded wins in every match
they played:
Krinesan Moodley
Director of Sport Padova Rugby Club: 37 - 0
Badia Rugby Club: 69 - 7
meant the start of the winter Pretoria league season, Capitolina Rugby Club: 59 - 10
and after achieving the third place as mentioned above Appia Rugby Club: 85 - 7
against PBHS, the road to victory was in reach but it wasn’t This tour to Italy achieved a superb balance
going to be easy. Dominance was the nature of the team in terms of the type of activities, sights and
in the Pretoria League tournament and as anticipated our experiences that the boys encountered,
Pretoria support base was in for an entertaining playoff giving us all memories for a lifetime.
round in 2017. The team took on Prestige College and
dominated the courts in order to meet up with PBHS in Kennedy Tsimba
the finals, which would take place the following Saturday Director of Rugby
at the Glen High School. There, however, the team came
up short yet again. Nevertheless, blood, sweat, and SPORT 17
passion were laid down on the court and the badge was
undoubtedly made proud as players Jean Tognia and
Nale Malaudzi were made All Stars of the League.

The season was a demanding one and the team can
only continue to dominate basketball in the seasons
ahead with the exciting prospects coming from the U16s
who are to join us later this year for the annual Kearsney
Tournament.

Tapiwa Chagonda
Captain

Profile: Josh Harty, a rower to watch

are the machine…just gliding over the water in the dawn just
before sunrise. It’s graceful and becomes effortless. But you
are powerful, aggressive and strong.’

From watching an Old Albanian winning gold at the Rowing Have you always been
Olympics in 2012, to experiencing rowing at Experience St ‘sporty’?
Alban’s Open Day in 2013 and then starting rowing in earnest ‘Before taking up rowing I did
in 2014, the dream and journey to green and gold is now swimming. I wasn’t too bad,
perhaps becoming a reality for Josh Harty. but definitely nothing special!’

Back in 2012, South Africa was all abuzz when the lightweight What is your favourite subject?
coxless men’s fours rowing team of Sizwe Ndlovu, Matthew ‘History! It’s the only subject I find myself reading the text
Brittain, John Smith and James Thompson won gold at the book for just for fun!’
Olympics! St Alban’s College is John Smith’s alma mater so
the rowers at St Alban’s College have a dream of following What has been your most difficult moment taking up this
him. Young Josh Harty also made his first connection between challenge?
rowing and St Alban’s College! “For me training is harder than racing. As I said, it’s the hours,
days, weeks and kilometres in both the gym and on the water
It was at the Experience St Alban’s Day in 2013 that he that are challenging. The thing is, ‘you can do it’, anyone can
decided that rowing was what he would put his heart and do it, but the mental part is the hard part. You can always
soul into, and he has done so, with outstanding results. give more than you think you can. It is pretty tough but what
drives me is knowing that I’ve made my family, my coach
Josh Harty, Nicholas Botoulas, Thomas Scholtz, Daniel Phillips, and my friends proud.’
Dillan Laubscher, as well as Craig Solomon as cox, were all
invited to attend provincial rowing trials on 18 March 2017; How big is your dream to go to the Olympics?
this is where the journey to possible green and gold glory ‘The Olympics is definitely an ambition of mine,
in rowing starts. Josh Harty was crowned the Africa Junior but there is still so much to do before I can
Champion as well as the new record holder for the course consider the Games. At this stage I am aiming to
record with a time of 7.04, a record last achieved in 2005. attend as a spectator.’

Catching up with Josh, I asked him about a typical day in the Who are the people who are instrumental on your journey?
life of a rower: Anyone you would like to thank?
“I’d like to thank my coach Tiago Loureiro. I would like to be
‘There is no magic. Just hard work. Anyone can do it if you get in one of the photos on the wall in his office. I’d also like him to
the mental part right. That is the hard part. For me, training is tell the next great rower he produces that ‘Josh was good’.”
harder than the rowing course of 2000m down the dam. I do
countless kilometres on the rowing machines and spend hour Zachary Ziegelmeier
after hour in the gym.”

Why do you love rowing?
‘That is a fantastic question. There is a beauty about the sport.
It’s hard to describe but when it comes together it leaves
you with an unbelievable feeling of achievement. Once you
get into that click, you feel like you are in a machine…you

18 SPORT

Leading from the front – Mc Squashlan.

What a year it’s been for sixteen-year-old Reece 16 top 10 South African team and has most
McLachlan! Reece played number one for the under 16 probably booked himself a place in the top 4
Northern’s age group at the Inter-provincial tournament, to go on tour to Singapore.
his team had ended 4th in the A section. After having
a really good tournament he was chosen for the under This is an amazing achievement from a young
Albanian. Reece must be commended for this
amazing effort. Many of the boys that make
it to the top at this age group have chosen
to specialize only in one sport. Not Reece. He
has managed to balance long hours on the
cricket field, a very busy and competitive
hockey season and maintained a good set
of academic results. This achievement must
be credited to the amount of hours Reece
puts into squash in his personal capacity. The
manner in which Reece trains and plays the
game is an example to the rest of the first team
and an ambassador for the sport.

Justin Cook

Captain’s report
- Squash

The First St Alban’s Squash side started
the year off with an absolute bang at
the prestigious St Andrews School Squash
Festival held annually in Bloemfontein. We
beat exceptional sides and created some
surprising upsets by defeating Hilton, Grey PE,
and Kingswood College .

Throughout the year the boys have really
worked hard on and off the court and with
the help of our inspiring yet cheerful coach,
Mr Cook, aka Big Paps, the team reached
an all-time high by beating one of our close
rivals, Hoërskool Menlo Park; in awe-inspiring
fashion beating them 4-1.

Four of the boys were chosen to represent
Northern Gauteng at the interprovincial
tournaments (Reece McLachlan, Simon
Miller, JP Bleeker and Rivoni Mathebula) and
Reece McLachlan went one further, setting
our standard even higher, by receiving South
African colours.

The boys have been exceptional throughout
the year and I cannot be more proud. The
team shares an amazing bond, not just
with each other, but also with the coach.
The team spirit is always great and we are
excited to see what the rest of the season
and 2017 has in store.

JP Bleeker

SPORT 19

Rowing 2017

A spectacular racing season for 2016/2017 was concluded Josh Harty, Liam Smit
with a most enjoyable Rowing Dinner which reminded us of (left to right)
the highlights of the past season. We also took the opportunity
to say goodbye to our outgoing captains, and to welcome U16 Most Improved: Ethan Favis
our new 2017/2018 captain, Brad Johnston, and two vice U16 Most Dedicated: Rickus van Staden
captains, Nicholas Botoulas and Daniel Philipps. U16 Crew of the Year: A double - Rickus van Staden & Nick
Jenkins
Awards: U16 Rower of the Year: Rickus van Staden
U14 Most Improved: Joshua Foran
U14 Most Dedicated: Phawu Zitumane Everite First Quad Trophy: Thomas Scholtz, Josh Harty,
U14 Crew of the Year: A double - Ryan Thomaz & Eugene Nicholas Botoulas, Daniel Philipps, and Craig Solomon as
Cloete Cox
U14 Rower of the Year: Ryan Thomaz
Coxswain of the Year: Craig Solomon
U15 Most Improved: Guillaume De Villiers Doubles Crew of the year: Josh Harty & Nicholas Botoulas
U15 Most Dedicated: Joshua Brink U19 Most Improved: Aidan Jones
U15 Crew of the Year: A double - Sebastian Ringrose & Ehros U19 Most Dedicated: Ruben Grobler & Daniel De Villiers
Smith
U15 Rower of the Year: Ehros Smith

Nicholas Botoulas, Brad Jonston, Daniel Philipps Chairman’s Award: Brad Johnston
(left to right) Mr Congeniality: Aidan Jones
Coaches Award: Ruben Grobler, Daniel De Villiers, Aidan
Jones, Hannes Kruger, and Kagiso Motaung as Cox
Most Dedicated Overall: Daniel Philipps
Warren Strong Award for Best All Rounder: Luke Knibbs
Tristan Sol Award for Top Rower: Josh Harty

We congratulate Joshua Harty and Liam Smit for qualifying
for the South African Junior National Team going to
Lithuania in August this year.

Leighann Norton

STAFF

William Koopman

William leaves us after two years’ Department. This has been his second he undertakes a short sabbatical to
service in the Social Sciences stint at St Alban’s College, having complete his Bachelor of Law degree,
previously taught here in 2012. He before starting as a Teacher of History
will be remembered as a passionate at Kingswood College, Grahamstown,
historian whose ability to engage with in January 2018.
all types of boys made him a respected
and much-liked educator. The School Tom Blampied
wishes him all the best for the future as

20 SPORT/STAFF

Andrew van Zyl

collects and curates incredible his life.
content for teachers and boys.
We’re going to miss you, Andrew.
Andrew is a trustworthy friend, and Thank you for enriching our lives.
his resilient spirit – despite many
challenges – is inspirational. This surely Bruce Collins
emanates from his strong faith, which
After almost 9 years at St Alban’s remains a foundation and beacon for
College, our incredible librarian,
Andrew van Zyl, leaves us to join the
team at Pinelands High School in
Cape Town.

As an honorary member of the St
Alban’s College English Department
(if one considers being one of us an
honour), Andrew kept us entertained
with his dry wit and, often wicked,
sense of humour. An avid reader,
Andrew has probably read the entire
St Alban’s College book collection
in his pursuit to choose books that
will appeal to a wide range of boys.
Andrew’s undoubted strength as
a librarian is the skill with which he

Tribute and Farewell to Pierre Labuschagne

and organised work – and of course trademark calm demeanour. Despite
for his love of cycling! He soon had a demanding schedule, he always
a Mountain Bike group going at the found time for the many colleagues
College, and managed to put in long and boys who came to see him and
hours in the saddle despite his busy ask his advice.
schedule.
Pierre is a real gentleman. It is not
Pierre joined the St Alban’s staff in 2011 In the Afrikaans Department his in- easy to be the person in charge of
discipline and yet also be regarded
and stepped into the difficult position novative teaching and technological with great affection by the boys: Pierre
achieved this difficult balance. When
of Boarder Housemaster in Knoll House excellence were appreciated as he the news broke in the staff common
room of his promotion as Headmaster
straight away. introduced new ideas, styles and of Southdowns Preparatory School,
there was that same sense of mixed
methods. His friendly demeanour emotions - happiness for Pierre at the
recognition, yet regret that we were
His competence and experience and cheerful chats were also always losing a good man.

as Deputy Head at Southdowns greatly enjoyed. Thank you, Pierre. We will miss your
enthusiasm and warmth. We wish
Preparatory School helped him make you every blessing as you continue to
make a difference in education.
a great success of this. He kept tight He contributed to other areas of the St

reins on the discipline in the House Alban’s community: he was a coach Nico du Plessis and
Rob Campbell-Atkins
and his presence was soon seen in for both the First and Second Hockey

the changes that Knoll underwent teams, and did four Journeys as a

with regard to the House and Matric leader, after which he continued to

Common Rooms as well as the assist for two years with the cycling

computer common area. He enjoyed legs of the Journey.

the manner and mannerisms of the

boys who, in turn, quickly learnt to When Pierre took over as Senior

understand his sense of humour and Housemaster he brought his own quiet

the calm and efficient way in which manner and dignity to the job. He was

he operated. then asked to combine the positions

of Senior Housemaster and acting

Pierre is known for his effective time Deputy Headmaster of Administration,

management as well as his tidiness tasks which he carried out with his

STAFF 21

It’s About Time! S – Siza
H – Hlonipha
It’s About Time! A – Amandla
N – Nqoba
Welcome address, 7 July 2017 E – stands for Ee
Mr Kidwell, Sir,
Opportunity knocks at Siza: he HELPS which, by now, we know he certainly does.
the strongest time. Hlonipha: he RESPECTS. Our Headmaster respects. Yes, I know
It’s not the time that that every Albanian here is obliged to greet regardless of the
matters but how person and the time. Our Headmaster unfailingly acknowl-
you answer the edges you by greeting you and making you feel noticed.
door. In our com- Amandla! means STRENGTH or POWER. On 10 June 2017, we
munity we talk celebrated Old Boy’s day. Most Old Boys remember who Mr
of ‘umuntu ngu- Kidwell is and what kind of a man he is. They recalled how
muntu ngaban- they were so scared of him. Some went on to say that Shane
tu’, which loosely has the power to make you tell the truth. As they say, dyna-
means – you are mites come in small packages.
because of other Nqoba is to CONQUER. Shane Kidwell has managed to draw
people. Mr Kid- the Academic staff in, to get us to slow down. He has chal-
well, you are who lenged us to dare to be great and to be aware of feeling
you are because vulnerable as we move to change. It is difficult, but we are
of other people: a glad to have him alongside as we do this.
people’s person and a And Ee? This means ‘Yes! Yes!’ in Sesotho. It is a resounding
strong leader. yes to our Headmaster. You are sensitive and empathetic.
You are willing to listen and not only just to listen, but also to
Welcome back to the Albanian act.
community – it’s about time! Some years ago, in his previous life here, when Mr Kidwell was
Mr and Mrs Kidwell, we as the Albanian community are the Administrative Director, there was a young man from a
blessed to have Shane as our Headmaster. I’ve used the humble family who did not want to attend his matric dance
Zulu language as well as Sotho to explain what each letter because he did not have money for everything he needed
of Mr Kidwell’s name means: for the occasion. I remember speaking to Shane and that

22 STAFF

young man did attend his matric dance … thanks to Interview with the new
you, Mr Kidwell. I remember as well that you were really Headmaster, March
concerned about the lady who worked for you before 2017
you left for Knysna, Monica, I think that was her name.
You were so concerned that Monica should not be left Fred Rogers said LIFE IS FOR SERVICE. Not for gain,
in the lurch by your family’s departure. That is the calibre show or prestige … but for service. Now, I am not sure
of man and leader you are. where I came across Fred Rogers, or why the words stayed
with me, but when I looked into our new Headmaster, Mr
As the Albanian community we ask you, Mr Kidwell, Kidwell’s eyes, it struck me. Mr Kidwell is a servant leader.
please to continue Two opposite concepts; separately, they may be seen as
uSize, to help weak, but together, they are so powerful.
uHloniphe, to respect
Ube namandla, to be strong so that I asked Mr Kidwell about being referred to as a servant
uzoNqoba, you will conquer … leader…and his answer was humble and authentic.
His mentors taught him about servant leadership, and
Ee, yes – the opportunity has come knocking. And you, servant leadership is ingrained in the Christian ethos to
Sir, have answered well! which he ascribes. For a moment I paused and thought
about following a leader who is focussed on serving this
Ngiyabonga, Ke a leboga, I thank you! very special school, not only the teachers, but most of all,
the boys. Mr Kidwell’s goal is to hand over the school
Thembekile Mtshali some years hence as a better place, and to continue to
isiZulu Educator nurture the dreams and goals of those who went before
him. Most of all, he wants to serve.

It is no surprise that Mr Kidwell’s family is one of the most
important aspects of his life. His family is what drives him
to excel, it helped him to develop real self-discipline and
to strive to enrich his mind by learning something new
every day.

We often hear the words ‘It takes a village to raise a
child’. They mean that it takes an entire community to
raise a child who to have the best chance of becoming
a healthy adult, but only if the entire community takes an
active role in contributing to the rearing of the child. It is
this ethos and culture that he is actively promoting. One
of Mr Kidwell’s goals for the school is to nurture and to
build a better community spirit amongst all staff, boys and
their families. For all of us, St Alban’s College is a family, so
building our family has to happen on a firm foundation of
Christian principles set with boundaries and honesty.

Mr Kidwell values diligence. He values respect for each
other. And he respects those who learn from each other.
Oh, did I mention DILIGENCE?

One of my favourite conversation starters is to ask people
if they were an animal, which animal would they be,
and why. Can you guess what Mr Kidwell’s answer was?
A lion? A giraffe perhaps as it must be able to see far?
Perhaps a crocodile which is resilient, strong. Or perhaps
an elephant? None of these. The answer was a complete
surprise – or perhaps not. Mr Kidwell’s response was that he
would like to be an eagle. Why? An eagle has wonderful
perception and observation skills, it is majestic and it thinks
ahead. And the more I think about it, the more perfect it
is. In my mind’s eye I see Mr Kidwell looking out over the
school, circling and gliding in majestic circles, making sure
all of us, in the community, in the village, are “all right”.

The Village welcomes you, Sir, our new Chief!

Zachary Ziegelmeier

STAFF 23

hopes that he will learn much during his internship and that
he will inspire the boys to reach new horizons. Apart from his
involvement in the Mathematics Department, he is also a
Duty Master in Ochse House.

WELCOME The Business Studies Department welcomed Mr Michael
Strachan. His warm personality and engaging methods of
Besides Mr Shane Kidwell, the College also welcomed several teaching have made him an instant hit with the boys. Mr
new teachers in the first term of 2017. Strachan loves surfing, golf and teaching. The friendly manner
of the boys, the incredible facilities and the boarding culture
In the Mathematics Department four new teachers joined us. have all made him feel at home. Since he is a Durbanite,
Mrs Melanie de Kock is a highly skilled and passionate perhaps the only thing preventing him from fully assimilating
educator who joined the College from St Paulus. She enjoys into College life is his love for the Sharks! He lives by Philippians
all aspects of her life from her family and reading, to hiking, 4:6: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation,
the bush and sport. She accompanied the Form 3s on their by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your
Journey. requests to God.

Ms Twanette Knoetze joined St Alban’s from Cornwall Hill Mr Krinesan Moodley joined St. Alban’s as the new Director
College. Like Mrs de Kock, she has a passion for teaching, of Hockey. In Term 2, he took over the position of Director
and her classes are already familiar with her saying: of Sport from Mr Craig Hoyer. Mr Moodley was previously
“Mathematics is your future!” She believes that honesty is the Director of Sport at Waterkloof House Preparatory School
the best policy. She remarks that she has been impressed the (WHPS). Many current Albanians are Old Boys of WHPS and
boys’ impeccable manners. were happy to welcome Mr Moodley knowing his warm and
open nature, hardworking ethic and his attention to detail.
Mr Kevin Smith is another experienced and passionate
educator, having taught at a number of top South African Ms Romanda Potgieter joined the College in the Afrikaans
schools including Michaelhouse and most recently, Crawford Department and has already had a noticeable impact
Pretoria. He has already become fully involved in the life of on the students. Ms Potgieter regularly knits blankets for
the School most notably in the Christian Fellowship Club. abandoned babies and does a fair amount of community
service. She leaves us at the end of this term and we thank
Mr Phumudzo Muravha joined us as an Intern. The College her and wish her well.

We wish all these valued Staff members, as well as all new
Albanians, a very happy and fulfilling time at the College.

Matthew Field and Louis de Jager

Yaw’s baby Jess & Mark Holliday

Staff News: a wedding and new babies Bastian Moolman Emily Fawkes

It has been a good year for many of our staff members; we wife, Refilwe, welcomed their baby girl to the world on 15
have seen a wedding and welcomed some new babies. June; the baby will be named at a later date at an official
Mr Mark Holliday and his wife, Jessica, were married naming ceremony. We would also like to congratulate Mrs
on 22 April; we wish them a strong and long marriage. Marelet Moolman, and her husband, Zac, on the safe arrival
Mr Graham Fawkes and his wife, Candice, welcomed of their son, Bastian, on 30 June. Warmest congratulations to
a new little member to their household, Emily Grace all from the St Alban’s College community.
Fawkes, born on 21 May. We are sure she will bring the
Fawkes family lots of joy and pleasure. The Fosu-Amoah Tiago Teixeira
family too had a new child. Mr Yaw Fosu-Amoah and his

Contributors AND Contributions ALL boys are invited to submit articles of interest for inclusion
in the next Mitre, Term 3, with photographs, if possible. The
The Chairman of the Mitre Club, 2017, Zachary Ziegelmeier, articles should be short and sharp - a maximum of 250 words is
is thanked for his articles, communication and patient fine. Submit in a Word document (Font Century Gothic, size 10,
assistance. The Club members for Terms 1 and 2 are thanked single line spacing) via email with the subject line: Mitre Term3
for all their efforts, as are Staff members who contributed. 2017 as well as the subject/title of your article, to
Many of the articles were edited by Marianne Scholtz. [email protected]

24 STAFF/CONTRIBUTIONS