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Graeme College recently released a Spectator Code of Conduct, pertaining to sports. Please re-visit this code on a regular basis, particularly on a Friday evening - to ensure that Saturday rugby (which seems to impact our emotions more than other sports) is competitive, yet peaceful and enjoyable.
In the ebb and flow of life, it's natural to find ourselves at times feeling like we're simply going through the motions, hoping for something remarkable or extraordinary to cross our paths. Yet, I am of the opinion that within the walls of Graeme College, we can discover something profound everyday (no matter how minuscule it may be). School must be more than just a place of classrooms, textbooks and extra-curricular activities. It's must be a sanctuary—a space where self-discovery and personal growth flourishes.
Virtually to the day, five years ago, I spent a little time writing down some thoughts about where school sport was headed; raising concerns about the ‘culture’ within school and the associated behaviour on the sides of the field. Sadly, I think we are in more trouble now than ever before. In that previous piece of writing, I referred to the Australian cricket chaos that ended in Cape Town 2018. That was a direct result of a culture eroded away, with norms and values not being respected over a long period of time.
2024Graeme College is incredibly proud to be part of the Makhanda community. We are obviously very much acommunity orientated school and our relationship within our community is incredibly important. We aren't anaffluent school and we value relationships above all else. It makes us so proud to host events which make ourcommunity proud but we also love bringing the community together on our campus. Events like the FamilyFun Fair, our annual rugby festival and community runs/ walks are such an important aspect to thoserelationships.
Please join us at Graeme College as we commemorate the extraordinary achievements and contributions of women worldwide on International Women's Day! Today, we honour the resilience, strength, and diversity of women everywhere, acknowledging their pivotal roles in shaping our communities, societies, and futures. Let's celebrate the achievements of women past, present, and future, as we continue to strive for gender equality and empower the voices of all individuals.
Founders’ Weekend is a momentous occasion where we come together, not merely to mark the passing of time, but to honour the vibrant tapestry of our school's existence. As we gather in the warmth of this Founders’ Weekend, we celebrate not just a number, but the living spirit that has animated our institution for 151 years.
Sadly, in recent weeks members of the Graeme College family have been rocked by the untimely passing of the following Old Graemians and/or Graeme College parents : Monwabisi Mdyesha (Matric 1999) [father of Xolisa in Grade 11], Xolisa Ntusi (Matric 1995) and Ayanda Kota [father of Sibalwethu in Grade 11]. Our thoughts and prayers are bestowed upon each of these families who are all experiencing a time of significant loss and mourning.
The past few weeks' newsletters are an indication of how busy the school is. It is great to see the current hive of activity with a wide range of academic and cultural activities taking place. It is vital that your sons seize every opportunity that is available to them. Graeme College offers a myriad of opportunities for learners to flourish and excel.
DREAM PROJECT 2.0
A few years ago Andrew Swift approached me about a “Dream Project” regarding the school’s 150th year… We also know how that story ended – with a world-class indoor facility on our campus. We received incredible support during that process in so many ways, which was so humbling, and so appreciated.
It was pleasing to see a strong parent turnout at the various grade meetings. These meetings provided an opportunity for parents to connect with teachers and gain a comprehensive understanding of the academic year for different grades and phases. One dominant theme that caught my attention was the instilling of an academic culture at Graeme College.