TO RELAX & DE-STRESS OR KICK START HEALTHY LIVING!

167 Pages·2014·0.6 MB·English

TO RELAX & DE-STRESS OR KICK START HEALTHY LIVING!
Retreat to our haven where physical health and mental well-being can be restored through pampering treatments,
healthy eating, moderate regular exercise and stress management.
Why not take time out between your child's school commitments for a quick pamper at our Day Spa or treat yourself
to a relaxing and rejuvenating 2,3,4 or 6 night stay at the Hydro.
Tel [phone] www.brookdale.co.za
GIFT VOUCHERS, DAY SPA AND SHOP AVAILABLE
Michaelhouse, the Anglican Diocesan College of Natal, was founded in 1896 and is a South African boarding school
for senior boys, with an international reputation. Situated on a secure estate in the beautiful Midlands of KwaZulu-
Natal, the school has a fully residential staff which facilitates a high level of pastoral care and interaction with the
pupils. The distinctive architecture of inter-linked quadrangles inspires a sense of belonging amongst the 550 boys.
Values
To live our lives according to the Christian values of integrity, humility, compassion and courage in service to our
community and country.
Mission
To provide a dynamic and progressive education for boys that respects individual needs and embraces diversity and
change in pursuit of academic, sporting and cultural excellence, while providing social and leadership skills and
nurturing spiritual growth.
Vision
“Our aim is to make, not accountants, not clerks, not doctors, not clergymen, but men; men of understanding, thought
and culture.” Founder Canon James Cameron Todd (Speech Day 1897)
MICHAELHOUSE
A Message from the Rector
MESSAGE FROM THE RECTOR
Q he writing of the introduction for the Chronicle is a wonderful opportunity to ponder on the activities of 2013.
As I have thought of the year, memories and recollections have come flooding back - a rich tapestry of endeavour,
achievement and success.
The challenge is, of course, what to report on. The development of a holistic educational curriculum is an ongoing and
never-ending series of thought and process, with no year quite the same as the previous one. This is one of the great
joys of Michaelhouse, as well as a challenge. I know that this yearbook will capture our activities in great detail, with
thoughtful reporting on the activities of the boys and the life of the School.
2013 will go down in the annals of Michaelhouse as the year in which we achieved the finest set of academic results
ever. Not only were they markedly better than any that came before, but they were also very competitive countrywide.
A great debt of gratitude is owed to the fine teaching staff we are privileged to have here, as well as to the magnificent
Men of Michaelhouse who responded so wonderfully to their challenge.
This result is the culmination of many years of academic and social development of the boys and staff; it’s the
clarification of both our expectations and the heightened expectations of the boys themselves. We know that this will
set the scene for the years to come, and early indications are that the Class of
2014 is hard at work to scale the peak of their predecessors.
I would also like to highlight the community-based nature of the campus. Having experienced this first hand as the
“new boy” to the staff at the beginning of the year, I can comment that the energy created by this has positive spinoffs
in all areas of School life. There is a constant, ongoing conversation about relationships here, between staff, staff and
boys, and the boys. Only by optimising these relationships, constantly exploring them and building on them do our
many achievements become possible.
I would like to thank all staff at Michaelhouse for their efforts this year - academic, administrative and support. Their
efforts are central to everything here, and their successes are palpable. I would also like to thank the Michaelhouse
Board, so ably led by Mr Gary Ralfe, for all that they do in the stewardship and governance of this fine institution. And
to the Michaelhouse Trust, led by Mr Jamie Inglis, a huge debt of gratitude is owed. Their efforts in the development
of funding for capital projects on the campus continue to be an astounding success.
Thank you also to the greater Old Michaelhousian movement for their support, love of and loyalty towards the “Old
Place”. Our OM movement is the envy of schools everywhere and we are indeed richer for it.
Thank you to the parents of the boys not only for their financial support and the decision to send their fine sons here,
but also for their active support of school activities and their
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It ads dignity and carefulness to our efforts to remember that a “Chronicle ” exists
James Cameron Todd, 1897
Message from the Rector k
obvious enjoyment of these. I have not felt at any stage that any of the activities here are unsupported or that the boys
play lonely fixtures or perform to empty audiences at any stage.
I have no doubt whatsoever that the boys greatly appreciate this.
Lastly, a large thank you to the boys themselves. Always enthusiastic, they are the energy that fuels St Michael’s Red
Brick Fortress, an engine that burns at its core. They are remarkable and I have greatly enjoyed working with them.
This was our 118th year of existence, and the year was built on the solid foundations laid in the past. Happily, I would
like to think that we will look back on 2013 as being a great contributor to the efforts and endeavours of the future. A
significant year.
Editor: Mr Murray Witherspoon Editorial Committee: Rector Greg Theron,
Mr Murray Witherspoon and Mrs Colleen Cook Advertising: Mrs Colleen Cook
Formal Photograph Administrator: Mr Greame Calway Informal Photographs: Mr Murray Witherspoon,
Mrs Colleen Cook, Mr Elmar de Klerk and Mr Ian Crawford
Design & Layout: TerraNova Strategic Marketing
Printers: Interpak Books (PTY) LTD
Contact: Private Bag XI, Balgowan, KwaZulu-Natal 3275,
South Africa. Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone]
E-mail:
MICHAELHOUSE STAFF
MANAGEMENT
Mr Greg Theron, BA (Hons), MSc, HDE (PG) Wits, Rector Mr Charlie Burton, BCompt (Hons,) CPA (SA),
Bursar
Revd Canon Alan Smedley, BCom, Dip Theol, Chaplain Mr Paul Fleischack, MSc, HDE, Deputy Rector (Co-
Curricular)
Mr Allan Laing, HED, FDE, MEd, Deputy Rector (Pupils) Mr Alan Adlington-Corfield, BSc, PGCE, BEd (Hons),
Deputy Rector (Academics)
Mr John Crawford, BA, UED, BEd, Senior Master (Sport) Mrs Melanie Wester, Director of Marketing (left 30/03/13)
Mr Murray Witherspoon, MA, Director of Marketing,
(wef 01/04/13)
Mr Nic Cahill, HED, Senior Housemaster
Mr Michael Schwartz, MSc (Physics), HDE, Senior Master
-Academics (wef 01/07/13)
HOUSEMASTERS
Mr Michael Bownes, BA, HED, M.U.R.P, Founders Mr André van Wyk, HED, MEd, East Mr George Ferreira, BA
(Hons), HDE, West Mr Michael Schwartz, MSc (Physics), HDE, Farfeld Mr Nic Cahill, HED, Tatham Mr Peter
Huntley, BA (Hons), HDE, Pascoe Mr Johan van Rooyen, BA (Hons), HDE, Baines Mr Iain Guthrie, MSc, HED,
Mackenzie
HEADS OF DEPARTMENT
Mr Richard McMichael, BCom, HDE, Accounting, EMS, Senior Tutor - Founders
Mrs Louise Erwee, BA, HDE, Afrikaans, Home Room - East, Tutor - Media
Mrs Julie Flanegan, BSc (Info. Proc.), HDE, Computer Applications Technology, ICT, Tutor - IT Mr Tim Jarvis, BA
(Hons) (Ed), BA (Hons) (Psych), Counsellor, Life Orientation
Revd Canon Alan Smedley, BCom, Dip Theol, Chaplain, Divinity
Mrs Asha Royappen, BA, PGCE, Dramatic Arts
Mrs Win de Wet, BA, HDE, Economics, EMS, Home Room -
Farfield, Intern Admin
Mr Elmar de Klerk, HED, Engineering Graphics & Design, Senior Tutor - Mackenzie
Mrs Mary McMichael, BA, HDE, English, Home Room -Mackenzie, Tutor - IT
Ms Martine Planteau de Maroussem, BA, PGD, HDE, French
Mr John Alexander, BA (Hons), HDE, Geography, HSS, Tutor - Founders
Mr Mike Thomson, BA, HDE, History, HSS, Tutor - East Mr Sizo Chalufu, BEd (Hons), IsiZulu, Tutor - Tatham Mrs
Lynn van der Vegte, MSc, Media Centre, Media Studies, Tutor - Media
Mr George Ferreira, BA (Hons), HDE, Life Orientation Mr Paul Snyman, BSc, HED, Life Sciences, Natural Science,
Tutor - Mackenzie Mr Bailey Coxon, BSc (Hons), HDE, Mathematics,
Tutor - Baines
Mr Abri Venter, BMus (Ed), Music, Tutor - Music Mr Matthew Higginson, BSc (Hons), HDE, Physical Science,
Natural Science, Tutor - East Ms Joy Preiss, HDE (Art), Visual Arts, Home Room -Founders, Tutor - Media
05
A Leadership & Staff
MANAGEMENT: Back Row: MrNic Cahill, Mr John Crawford, Mr Alan Adlington-Corfeld, Mrs Melanie Wester
Front Row: Revd Canon Alan Smedley, Mr Paul Fleischack, Rector Greg Theron, Mr Allan Laing, Mr Charlie Burton
ACADEMIC STAFF
Mr Dean Forword, BCom, PGCE, Accounting/EMS,
Tutor - Mackenzie
Mr Ryno Combrinck, HED, Afrikaans, Director of Rugby, Senior Tutor - West
Mrs Heléne du Toit, BA, HED, Afrikaans, Home Room -Tatham, Tutor - IT
Mr Hannes Ebersohn, MMus (Performance) UVLM& UOLM (Piano & Organ), PGCE, Afrikaans, Music, Home
Room - West, Tutor - Music Mr Chris van der Berg, MA, HED, Afrikaans,
Tutor - Baines
Mr Johan van Rooyen, BA (Hons), HDE, Afrikaans Mrs Carlien Walters, BDram, PGCE, Dramatic Arts/ Afrikaans
Mrs Kate Smedley, BA, HPTD, Divinity, Home Room -Baines
Mr Andrew Brown, BCom (Hons), HDE, Economics, EMS, Tutor - Pascoe
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Mr Linda Linda, BEd, Dip Tourism & Administration, Economics, EMS, Tutor - Founders Mr Msizi Mchunu, BEd,
Economics, EMS, Accounting, Tutor - Farfeld
Mrs Colleen Cook, BA, HDE, English, Assistant Librarian (left 30/04/13)
Mr Peter Dennyson, MA, Dip Ed, English (left 22/08/13) Mr Chris Waldburger, MA, PGCE (wef 19/08/13)
Mr Peter Huntley, BA (Hons), HDE, English
Mrs Tanith von Meyer, BA, PGCE, English, Tutor - IT
Mr Richard Snowden, BCom, PGCE, English,
Tutor - Farfield
Mr Jonathan Smith, BA, MTh, PGCE, English, Tutor -Baines
Mr Michael Bownes, BA, HED, M.U.R.P, Geography, HSS Mr John Crawford, BA, BEd, Geography, HSS Mr
Sibusiso Ncamani, BEd, Geography, HSS, Senior Tutor - Baines
Mr Bernard Whitaker, BEd, Geography, HSS, Senior Tutor - Tatham
Mr Dominic Gruijters, BSc (Hons), Information Technology, ICT, Mathematics, Tutor - Pascoe Mr Righardt Kotze,
BSc (Hons), PGCE, Life Orientation, HK & Sports Sciences, Life Sciences, Senior Tutor - Farfield Mr Nic Cahill,
HED, Life Sciences, Natural Science Mr Paul Fleischack, MSc, HDE, Life Sciences Mr Iain Guthrie, MSc, HED, Life
Sciences, Natural Science Mr Alan Adlington-Corfield, BSc, PGCE, BEd (Hons), Mathematics, APM
Mr James Bullough, BEd, HDE, Mathematics,
Senior Tutor - East
06
ACADEMIC STAFF: Back Row: Mr Gavin Ross, Mr Shaun Thompson, Mr Ryno Combrinck, Mr Andrew Duncan,
Mr Elmar de Klerk, Mr Bernard Whitaker, Mr Jaap van der Vegte, Mr Andrew Laing, (?Mr Sibusiso Ncamane), Mr
Halalisana Xulu, Mr Deon Royappen, Mr James Bullough, Mr Michael Stead, Mr Craig Pieterse Fourth Row: Mr
Nhlaka Nzimande, Mr Justin Randall, Mr Paul Snyman, Mr Abri Venter, Mr Linda Linda, Mr Matthew Higginson, Mr
Dominic Gruijters, Mr Hannes Ebersohn, Mr Righardt Kotze, Mr Dean Forword, Mr Hayden Henderson-Everill, Mr
William Silk, Mr Richard Snowden, Revd Canon Fred Pitout, Mr Karl Swartz Third Row: Mr Sanele Zikhali, Mr Sizo
Chalufu, Mr Sandile Sibiya, Mr Peter Stevens, Mr Jonathan Smith, Mr Andrew Brown, Mr Ian Crawford, Mrs Mary
McMichael, Mr Mike Thomson, Mrs Tanith von Mayer, Mr John Alexander, Mr Thabiso Nkabinde,
Mr Bongumusa Cele, Mr Bailey Coxon, Mr Rodney Zondi, Mr Graeme Calway Second Row: Mrs Lynn van der
Vegte, Mr Chris van der Berg, Mr Msizi Mchunu, Ms Lisa Hardie, Ms Martine Planteau de Maroussem, Mrs Colleen
Cook, Ms Joy Preiss, Mrs Louise Erwee, Mr Tim Jarvis, Mrs Julie Flanegan, Mrs Candice Smith, Mrs Win de Wet, Mr
Richard McMichael, Mrs Hélene du Toit, Mrs Asha Royappen, Mrs Carlien Walters Front Row: Mr André van Wyk,
Mr Johan van Rooyen, Mr George Ferreira, Mr Mike Bownes, Mr John Crawford, Mr Nic Cahill, Mr Paul Fleischack,
Rector Greg Theron, Mr Allan Laing, Revd Canon Alan Smedley, Mr Alan Adlington-Corfield, Mr Michael Schwartz,
Mr Peter Huntley, Mr Iain Guthrie, Mr Peter Dennyson
Leadership & Staff k
Miss Lisa Hardie, HDE, Mathematics, APM, Home Room -Pascoe, Tutor - Media
Mr Allan Laing, HED, FDE, MEd, Mathematics Mr Peter Stevens, BA, HDE, Mathematics, Tutor - West Mr Deon
Royappen, NPDE, ACE, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Tutor - Pascoe (deceased 15/08/2013)
Mr André van Wyk, HED, MEd, Mathematics Mr William Silk, MMus (Performance), Vocal Training & Conducting,
Music, Choral Director, Tutor - Music Mr Gavin Ross, BSc (Hons), HDE, Physical Science, Natural Science, Senior
Tutor - Pascoe Mr Jaap van der Vegte, BSc (Hons) (Chem & Wildlife Management), BEd, Physical Science, Natural
Science, Tutor - West
Mr Michael Schwartz, MSc (Physics), HDE, Physical Science, Natural Science
Mrs Janet Emanuel, NTSD, DSE (Rem), Academic Support Mr William le Cordeur, MA (Drama & Performance
Studies), Theatre Director Mrs Sandile Sibiya, Visual Arts
STUDENT & INTERN STAFF Mr Bongumusa Cele, Tutor - East, Mathematics Mr Ian Crawford, Tutor - Farfield,
IT, Home Room -Farfield
Mr Andrew Duncan, Tutor - Mackenzie Mr Hayden Henderson-Everil, Tutor - Tatham Mr Andrew Laing, Tutor -
Pascoe Mr Thabiso Nkabinde, Tutor - Baines
07
A Leadership & Staff
SCHOOL PREFECTS: Back Row: Cameron Bird, Murray McDonald, Merrick Pringle Middle Row: Ciaran Furniss,
Kura Maswera, Cian Grendon, Stephan Bosch Front Row: Mr Allan Laing, Ryan Thompson, Rector Greg Theron,
Matthew Potter, Rev Canon Alan Smedley
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Mr Nhlaka Nzimande, Tutor - Founders Mr Craig Pieterse, Tutor - Baines Mr Justin Randall, Tutor - Farfield Mrs
Candice Smith, Tutor - Founders Mr Michael Stead, Tutor - West (left 30/09/13)
Mr Karl Swartz, Tutor - Founders
Mr Shaun Thompson, Tutor - East
Mr Halalisani Xulu, Tutor - West
Mr Rodney Zondi, Tutor - Pascoe
Mr Sanele Zikhali, Tutor - Mackenzie
Mr Michael Simpson, Tutor - West (wef 01/10/13)
Mr Murray Daniel, Tutor - Tatham (left 28/02/13)
IT SUPPORT
Mr Brad Flanegan, BSc (Hons), Network Manager Mr Simon Dottridge, BCom, Snr Network Technician Mr Sbusiso
Dlamini, Network Technician Mrs Naveshree Baldavoo, IT Support Secretary / ICDL Co-ordinator / Test Supervisor
(left 31/03/13)
Mrs Gwynaeth van Aardt, IT Support Secretary / ICDL Co-ordinator / Test Supervisor (wef 01/07/13)
SPORTS
Mr Graeme Calway, UCB Level III (Cricket), Sports co-ordinator, EGD, Tutor - Tatham
SUPPORT STAFF Mrs Zanele Ndlovu, Life Sciences Lab Mr Sipho Zikhali, Life Sciences Lab Mr Raymond Duma,
Science Lab Miss Patience Ngubo, Visual Arts Centre
MEDICAL OFFICERS AND SANATORIUM Dr Jonathan Cook, MA (FA), HDE, MB, BCH Dip. for Med (SA),
School Doctor
Sr Joanne McMillan, SRN (Dip), RM (Dip), RCN (Dip),
B. Tech: Primary Health, Snr. Sanatorium Sister Sr Leisa Albertyn, SRN (Dip), RM (Dip), Community Health,
Psychiatry and Midwifery, Sanatorium Sister Sr Lauren Richmond, SRN (Dip), RM (Dip), Pharm (Cert), Occupational
Health (Cert), Sanatorium Sister Mrs Noelene Burton, Sanatorium Accounts Clerk
Leadership & Staff k
ARCHIVES
Mrs Robyn Gruijters, Archivist
BOOKROOM AND TRANSPORT
Ms Shy Bhugwandeen, Bookroom Manageress /
Transport Clerk
BURSARY
Mr Charlie Burton, BCompt (Hons), CPA (SA), Bursar Mrs Susan Dawson, Assistant Bursar (Admin)
Mrs Pushpa Ramharack, Bursar’s Personal Assistant / Debtors ’ Controller
Miss Rita Bhugwandeen, Cashier /Accounts Clerk Mrs Sheena White, Debtors Clerk Mrs Pushpa Govender,
Photocopier /Clerk Mrs Sue Walker, Accounts Clerk Mr Poobie Govender, Creditors Controller
CONFERENCES AND FACILITIES
Miss Mandy Rouillard, Conference & Facilities
Co-ordinator
DATA ADMINISTRATION
Mrs Dorathea van Rooyen, Data Administrator
ESTATE / MAINTENANCE
Mr Miles Alexander, Operations Manager
Mr Danie Griessel, Workshop & Maintenance Manager
Mr Gunther Heynecke, Grounds Manager
Mr Russell Stickley, Assistant Maintenance Manager
Mrs Amanda Jarvis, Gardens Manager
HOUSEKEEPING
Ms Kelly Royden-Turner, Housekeeping Manageress & Safety Officer
HUMAN RESOURCES
Mrs Nancy Rouillard, Human Resources Manager Mrs Cindy Freese, Human Resources Secretary /
Admin Clerk
KITCHEN
Mrs Carol Holyoak, Project Manager Mrs Juliette Bricked, Catering Manager Mr Jonathan Kalika, Catering Manager
Mr Simon Xulu, Storeman
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LAUNDRY
Mr Neil Akal, Laundry Manager MARKETING
Mrs Melanie Wester, Director of Marketing (left 31/03/13) Mr Murray Witherspoon, Director of Marketing (wef
1/04/13)
Mrs Colleen Cook, Marketing Officer (wef 1/05/13)
Mrs Sian McDowell, Admissions Officer
Mrs Catherine Maitin-Casalis, Marketing Secretary
(wef 1/03/13)
MANAGEMENT SECRETARIES Mrs Sally Berriman, Personal Assistant to the Rector Mrs Kathy Butcher, Secretary
to the Rector & Board of Governors
Mrs Katriona Russell, Secretary to the Deputy Rector (Pupils) / Snr Master / Sport
Mrs Cillia van Wyk, Secretary to the Deputy Rector (Academic)
Mrs Joanna Hume, Secretary to the Chaplain & Counsellor
MEDIA CENTRE
Mrs Lynn van der Vegte, Librarian
Mrs Colleen Cook, Assistant Librarian (left 30/04/13)
Mrs Leigh Kotze, Assistant Librarian (wef 01/05/13)
Ms Zanele Mchunu, Library Assistant Mr Phlorian Mnikathi, Media Centre Mr Simon Zondi, Media Centre
MUSIC SCHOOL
Mrs Leigh Kotze, Secretary / Theatre Clerk (left 30/04/13) Mrs Angela Jonsson, Secretary / Theatre Clerk (wef
01/05/13)
OLD BOYS’ CLUB AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Canon Fred Pitout, Old Boys’ Club Secretary, Community Partnerships Manager
Mrs Michelle Huntley, Personal Assistant to Canon Fred Pitout
Mr Nkosi Mahlaba, Community Partnerships SECURITY
Mrs Caroline Higginson, Security Analyst
TELEPHONISTS
Mrs Shakila Moola, Snr Telephonist
Mrs Rose Mlotshwa, Telephonist
TRADE-INN
Mrs Trish Akal, Manageress Mrs Ronel van der Berg, Assistant Ms Roxanne Akal, Assistant (wef 01/11/13)
TUCKSHOP
Mrs Champie Narassa, Manageress Mrs Varsha Pillay, Assistant Manageress
TRANSPORT
Mr Kees Grinwis, Manager (left 30/09/13)
Mr Gordon Rubidge, Manager (wef 01/11/2013)
Mr Robert Duma, Driver Mr Denver Kalika, Driver Mr Eric Ngcobo, Driver Mr Albert Moletsane, Driver Mr Thula
Sikakane, Driver Mr Cornelius Sithole, Driver
09
A Leadership & Staff
STAFF LEAVING
Quring 2013 we said farewell to two members of Staff who had served at Michaelhouse for less than ten years:
Mr Linda Linda (Economics) and Mrs Carlien Walters (Drama and Afrikaans). Intern Staff members Mr Murray
Daniel, Mr Michael Stead, Mr Hayden Henderson-Everill,
Mr Nhlaka Nzimande and Mr Quinton Moolman also left during the course of the year. We bade farewell once again
to Mr Peter Dennyson who made his teaching expertise as a locum available to the English Department for much of
2013.
TRIBUTES TO STAFF LEAVING AFTER MORE THAN TEN YEARS’ SERVICE
Mrs Melanie Wester
Written by Mr Charlie Burton
It is often said that there are two unavoidable issues in life: death and taxes. In the life of an independent school today,
there are also two unavoidable needs: Marketing and Finance. For some people in independent schools, each of these
needs is equally unpalatable, so it is appropriate that the Bursar has the privilege of paying tribute to the Director of
Marketing.
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Melanie commenced employment at Michaelhouse in June 2003 as the Marketing Officer, at a time when the school
was aware that Jan (Marketing Director) and Slash Esprey were thinking of retirement. Jan Esprey had laid solid
foundations for marketing and had set the school on a path towards a more professional and effective marketing
strategy and delivery.
Following Jan’s retirement, it was a very simple decision to appoint the well qualified and accomplished Melanie
Wester as the new Director of Marketing. In the Rector’s appointment letter for Melanie as Director of Marketing, he
stated: “I would like to take this opportunity to wish you every success in the new position and I have every
confidence in your ability to take the department to new heights.”
Melanie certainly did take the Marketing Department to new heights as she quickly set about revolutionising it with
immediate and tangible increases in professionalism, enthusiasm and efficiency. Clear and decisive marketing plans
were drawn up and implemented. Pupil numbers rose from 536 in 2005 to an over-subscribed 562 in 2013, with ever-
growing increases in annual registrations and resultant fierce competition for places at Michaelhouse.
Melanie’s written and spoken words were of the highest order and her organisational ability (sports festivals,
prospective and current parents’ days/evenings, New Boys’ Day, Orientation Weekend, The Chronicle, the compilation
of the school’s corporate ID manual and “protector of the brand”) remain legendary. Melanie has accumulated an
astonishing amount of marketing data which is readily available for trend analyses and other purposes required by the
school.
Melanie has been an absolute professional and has always had the best interests of Michaelhouse at heart. She has
shown dogged determination, tempered at the right times by a dash of diplomacy.
They say that behind every successful man there is a successful woman. Whilst the Rector has deservedly enjoyed the
limelight, there can be no doubt that the facts, figures and support given by Melanie to the Rector over the years has
ensured that Michaelhouse has consistently had the “full House” sign up.
Melanie’s role at Michaelhouse was not confined to Marketing and Admissions only. She served on the EC Forum
(employment equity) and the job grading committee; was a key participant in the Vision 2015 project; was the
protector of the Michaelhouse brand; and was a valuable member of Management. Melanie’s ability to provide
Management with an alternative view and opinion, often informed by parents, prospective parents and boys, was
invaluable. As the sole female member of Management, Melanie ensured that there was a fair amount of “whizz,
crackle and pop” at Management meetings.
Melanie resigned and officially left Michaelhouse on 30 June 2013, and the lasting memory will be of a lady who had
an incredible passion and love for Michaelhouse, who gave her all for the well-being of the School and went way
beyond the call of duty on a daily basis. I am aware of the personal sacrifices made by Melanie for Michaelhouse.
Michaelhouse is deeply indebted to Melanie for what can only be described as a job excellently done. Farewell,
Melanie, and thank you.
10
Leadership & Staff
Mr Kees Grinwis
Written by Mr Charlie Burton
I have always wondered why we pronounce KEES as CASE.
I think the latter is more appropriate as it reminds me of the tractor, but nevertheless it is to Kees Grinwis, our
Transport Manager, that we say farewell.
Kees’ association with Michaelhouse has been anything but short. Kees was employed at Michaelhouse in 1986 as a
mechanic. In 1989, he decided to seek work experience elsewhere and travelled to the UK, where he was employed by
an automotive engineering company. It gave Kees the opportunity to work on prestigious cars like Rolls Royce and
Bentley. Kees returned to Michaelhouse at the end of 1989 for a short while, but left again in 1992 to work at the
Rosetta Garage - perhaps the entrepreneurial bug had bitten. With a great deal more varied experience under his belt,
Kees was re-employed at Michaelhouse in 1994 and was promoted to Transport Manager. Between 1994 and 1999,
Kees explored a number of business ventures before returning to the position of Transport Manager. His re-
employment on so many occasions is a tribute to the quality of the man.
On first meeting Kees, you can be forgiven for thinking that you are dealing with a no-nonsense, serious type of guy.
No doubt Kees has been upset by people who’ve been reckless with his vehicles, but describing him as serious, no-
nonsense and grumpy couldn’t be further from the truth. After interacting with Kees for a very short time, you’re
bound to experience a smiling, caring man who’s always willing to help. There are so many reports of Kees going the
extra mile in both his work and private lives.
Kees seems to have done something that few of us are able to get right - he has found the right balance. At work, he
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has been meticulous, loyal and dedicated. Sheena White, his twin sister, says Kees is the cleanest mechanic she knows.
I am not sure if Sheena only knows one mechanic, but the state of the workshops suggests that Sheena’s views are
accurate.
Kees has always been fair, compassionate and supportive of his staff and I have no doubt that they will miss him as
their Manager. Kees has involved himself fully in School life, the local and broader communities, and no doubt his
circle of friends extends far and wide.
He has been a dynamo on the squash courts playing for Michaelhouse in the Midlands Squash League, representing us
in every league from second to seventh - we assume that with growing age has come more wisdom which has allowed
him to dominate the T.
Kees has appeared in various local fund-raising productions and in at least three of four Stars performances at
Michaelhouse. Who can forget the sight of Messrs de Klerk, van Rooyen, Grinwis and others dressed in tutus and
receiving a standing ovation for their ballet performance on the Michaelhouse theatre stage? Kees is well known for his
singing - it’s a pity that he hasn’t entered the SA Idols contest. Along with his usual “partner in crime”, Nancy
Rouillard, Kees has kept us entertained in song at many functions. That boyish, somewhat mischevious glint in his eye
as he belts out a number with Nancy says it all. We are grateful for the fond and fun memories he has given us.
Kees leaves Michaelhouse for the fourth time to take up the position of Operations Manager at a large complex in
Umhlanga Rocks. Although we would love to have him stay here, we nevertheless wish him and his family every
happiness and success.
r i
“The academic HODs and I remain convinced that our primary goal is an excellent education and great results are
merely a by-product of such an excellent education. So instead of chasing distinctions, we are pushing ourselves hard
to provide a truly excellent education for all boys of all abilities. ”
Mr Alan Adlington Corfield,
Deputy Rector, Academics
L j
A Leadership & Staff
Mrs Naveshree Baldavoo
Written by Mr Brad Flanegan
It’s like the end of an era: Navesh, Simon Dottridge, Julie Flanegan and myself have been together for 11 and a bit
years, so the departure of a core team player can be quite traumatic.
A feather in her cap is that just about everybody at Michaelhouse, from boys to Admin and Academic Staff, has
interacted with, or been assisted by Navesh in her time here. Never once have I ever received a complaint about her
work, behaviour or attitude. She has conducted herself in a proficient, friendly and professional manner ever since she
arrived as a wide-eyed school leaver.
Navesh does, however, have some weaknesses: filing has never been a strong point and a tidy stockroom isn’t her
forte. She also lets you know in no uncertain terms that she never has to be asked twice to do something, so don’t ask
her if something has been done, you can safely assume that it has. From this, you can ascertain that her pros
completely outweigh her cons.
We wish Navesh all the best for the future.
Mrs Katriona Russell
Written by Mr Allan Laing
Katriona joined Michaelhouse in February 2001 as Secretary to the Chaplain and School Counsellor. Some time later
she became the Secretary to the Deputy Rector - dealing with Pupils and the Senior Masters, as well as Sport and
Academics.
Right from the start Katriona proved to be efficient and professional in all she did. She developed many template
documents that will be used for a long time to come. Her office administration has been outstanding and she has
proved her efficiency time and time again.
Katriona will also be missed in her job as coordinator of the DRO notices that are published on a daily basis, often
with a smiley face attached. We wish her all the best in her retirement. Hopefully, now she will have more time to
spend with her grandchildren.
“In 1928 Michaelhouse pioneered the 3-2-1 scrum formation against DHS, much to the disapproval of the Natal
Mercury at the time. ”
Derby Day, South African Schoolboy Rugby,
Laugh It Off Publishers, 2008
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Miss Patience (Thanda) Ngubo
Written by Mrs Robyn Gruijters
Thanda has always been a firm believer in the upskilling of adults within our local community and has given many the
opportunity to develop and improve their English and life situations. To this end, she has been an integral part of the
ABET (Adult Basic Education & Training) Team at Michaelhouse for many years, even going to study a Diploma in
Adult Education at the University of KwaZulu-Natal to equip herself adequately to teach the adult learners in our area.
Thanda was one of the driving forces behind the setting up and implementation of the ABET Programme, and she
assisted two afternoons a week, with both the theory and practical lessons.
Her encouragement and support for those in the Michaelhouse community has seen our ABET class grow.
Her dedication to the programme as well as the nurturing and caring she has shown to the adult learners in the class
have earned her widespread popularity and respect. We will miss her and her contribution very much.
OBITUARIES
Mr Deon Royappen
Mr Deon Royappen died suddenly and tragically on 15 August. He leaves behind his wife, Asha, and his two young
sons, Nivan and Kivar. He contributed much during his short time at Michaelhouse and will be sorely missed.
Tributes to Mr Deon Royappen by the Squash fraternity
A gentle giant, Deon was somebody I knew firstly on the squash court and later as a friend. Deon was a remarkably
humble man with a wonderfully easy-going manner. He
Mr Deon Royappen
was affable and non-judgemental, always had a kind and supportive word and was never critical of others.
I have never seen a person hit a squash ball better than Deon, with grace and ease. He was the envy of anybody who
saw him play, and the way in which he played the game and conducted himself on and off the court was an example to
everyone.
Deon always had time for others and was willing to share his skills and expertise both in the classroom and on the
squash court.
D’s, as he was affectionately known, was one of the most gentle, caring and considerate people I have known, and I
will miss him very much.
Written by Mr Derek Redfern — Squash team and parent
A real gentle giant of a man - truly a gentleman in all he did, be it teaching, playing squash or tutoring in Pascoe
House. The Jesters credo - “gentleman of the court” - could not be more appropriate.
Written by Mr Peter Huntley - Head of Pascoe and Squash
Deon’s quiet demeanour and hearty laugh will be sorely missed. Nothing was too much for Deon; he would approach
all tasks with the same enthusiasm and he carried out his duties in a dignified and professional manner. I never heard
Deon raise his voice or become flustered or irritated. His humility and strength of character were the true mark of a
gentleman.
Written by Mr Bailey Coxon - HOD Mathematics
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A Leadership & Staff
Mr Royappen was a phenomenal man, someone you could look up to and a role model to all because of the values he
possessed. A great man that this world was lucky to have, he always had time for you and was always smiling. It was
a privilege to know him and we’ll miss him forever.
Written by Nic van der Bos - Pascoe, A Block
From the moment I met Mr Royappen, I found him to be a very kind-hearted man who always had positive things to
say. Because of this, and the way he conducted himself on the court, I would consider him a role model of mine. He
was a talented man, but more importantly, he was a good man on and off the court.
Written by Luke Stevens - Farfield, A Block
Mr Royappen was a man of character, one of the happiest men I’ve known. He always had a smile on his face, no
matter what. He was one of the most talented squash players and if you were beating him at any point, that was
shortlived. He is the only person I have known who could make the ball roll out of the comers on every attempt.
Written by Kenyon Smith - East B Block
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Raphael Bhengu
Raphael came to Michaelhouse in March 2007. He was employed as a general handyman in the Maintenance
Department, beginning in the maintenance stores and then moving on as a handyman. Raphael had different skills and
was well known for fixing everything from fridges to air-conditioners. He was an active member of the Balgowan
Health and Social Development Committee and assisted with the electrical work during the construction of the St
Raphael’s Care Centre. He passed away tragically and leaves his wife, Thoka, and two young children.
URaphael wafika eMichaelhouse ngenyanga kaNdasa ngonyaka ka-2007. Waqashwa njengo-handyman emnyangweni
wakwaMaintencance, waqala ngokusebenza emaintenance store wabe esedlulela ekusebenzeni njengo-handyman.
URaphael wayeyindoda enamakhono ehlukene futhi aziwa ngokukhanda amafriji kanye nama-air conditioners.
Wayeyilunga eliqavile leBalgowan Health and Social Development futhi waba nesandla kakhulu esiza ngomsebenzi
kagesi ngesikhathi kwakhiwa iSt Raphael’s Care Cente. Wadlula emhlabeni ngokuzuma, washiya umkakhe, uThoko,
kanye nabantwana ababili.
Written by Canon Fred Pitout
NEW STAFF
During 2013, we welcomed the following new Staff to Michaelhouse:
Mr Greg Theron (Rector)
Mr Jonathan Smith (English Department)
Mrs Tanith von Meyer (English Department)
Mr Chris Waldburger (English Department)
Mrs Asha Royappen (HOD Drama)
Mrs Cathy Maitin-Casalis (Marketing Secretary) Mrs Gwynaeth van Aardt (IT Secretary)
Mrs Angela Jonsson (Music Secretary)
Mr Gordon Rubidge (Transport Manager)
Teacher interns
Mrs Candice Smith Mr Andrew Duncan Mr Andrew Laing Mr Sanele Zikhali Mr Quinton Moolman Mr Michael
Simpson
INTERN PROGRAMME
Master in charge: Mr Michael Schwartz
“To grow the next generation of great teachers for our School and our country.”
The Intern Programme continues to go from strength to strength. The aim of the programme remains to develop
excellent teachers for South Africa. The programme caters for different types of students, but they all leave
Michaelhouse as capable and confident teachers who are well equipped to start teaching at any school in South Africa.
The following new Interns joined us in 2013: Andrew Duncan, Andrew Laing, Candice Smith, Michael Simpson and
Thabiso Nkabinde
Each Intern is assigned a mentor teacher in a subject specific department. The role of the mentor is to assist the Intern
on the quest to becoming qualified teachers. Besides their studies and leading academic lessons, each Intern is
assigned to a House and they will also coach sport throughout the year.
A number of Interns completed the programme in 2013. Mr Quintin Moolman has joined Thomas More where he will
finish his studies. Mr Ian Crawford joined Michaelhouse on a part time basis, teaching IT to the juniors. Mrs Candice
Smith finished her PGCE and his now working and studying in the Art Department. Mr Hayden Henderson-Everill is
now a member of the Cowan House staff. Mr Nhlaka Nzimande has gone overseas for a few years to pursue his
teaching career. Mr Michael Stead has taken up a teaching post at Kingswood in Grahamstown for 2014. Mr Thabiso
Nkabinde went back to UJ to complete his studies. Mr Murray Daniel left to join the private sector.
The group of interns in 2013 was 17 strong. They all made a valuable contribution to all aspects of School life. For
2014, it is envisaged that the group will remain the same size.
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WINE OF ORIGIN VOOR PAARDEBERG
SOUTH AFRICA