The 2023 Chronicle

CHRONICLE OF DEVELOPMENT The year commenced with the Media Centre operating from the Satellite Library, a temporary set-up that continued to host reading lessons and Media Studies classes. The grand opening of the Makan Centre on 17 March was a celebration of the vision and generosity of Divesh Makan, marking a new chapter in Michaelhouse’s history. The grand opening of the centre heralded a new era of innovation and academic excellence, thanks to the vision and generosity of Mr Makan and the collaborative efforts of the Michaelhouse community. THE MAKAN CENTRE: A BEACON FOR FUTURE-FIT LEARNING Strategically placed at the heart of the school, the Makan Centre is the keystone of educational innovation at Michaelhouse. Its design, inspired by the principles of light, space, technology and sustainability, has been realized with the collaborative efforts of the Michaelhouse community. • MAKERSPACE & CO-LAB CLASSROOM: This innova tive space fosters hands-on learning and teamwork, ideal for technological experimentation and group projects. • BREAKAWAY ROOMS: Tailored for focused study and group discussions, these six spaces offer a conducive envi- ronment for quiet contemplation or collaborative learning. • SMART CLASSROOMS: Our classrooms are equipped with cutting-edge smart touchscreens, enhancing interactive learning and enabling seamless integration of online guest lectures. The blend of high-quality audio-visual tools en- sures a dynamic, multifaceted educational experience. • MALHERBE LECTURE THEATRE: A state-of-the-art lecture space with advanced conferencing capabilities, im- mersive surround sound and crystal-clear visual displays, perfect for large-scale presentations and events. • RECORDING AND BROADCASTING STUDIO: This contemporary studio provides boys with the tools for digital storytelling, video production and broadcasting, nur- turing skills in media and content creation. • THE FUTURE FIT CURRICULUM: Spearheaded by Mr Gerry Noel, this stands as a paradigm of forward-thinking education, meticulously designed to tackle the complexities of the current era. Seamlessly blending modern technolo gy with advanced pedagogical approaches, the programme provides a vibrant and all-encompassing learning journey. The curriculum’s successful implementation in 2023 and its scheduled progression into 2024 demonstrate Michael- house’s dedication to innovating new educational pathways, propelling boys towards future success. • PROJECT SUPERHERO: An integrated studies initia EDUCATIONAL MILESTONES AND INNOVATIONS THE MAKAN CENTRE HOUSES SUCH INNOVATIVE SPACES AS:

tive where E Block boys used 4IR technologies to create solutions aligned with the UN’s sustainable development goals. The Makan Centre, central to these educational initiatives, has proven to be a fertile ground for these young visionaries. Its timely introduction has been pivotal in facilitating these innovative programmes. Boys engaged in these pioneering projects enjoy unfettered access to the centre’s staff, facilities and advanced technology, providing them with the necessary tools and environment to bring their ideas to life. MAKAN MASTERCLASS SERIES The Makan Masterclass Series, a distinguished highlight of the year, featured renowned experts and esteemed alumni at Michaelhouse. Leading the series was the Emmy Award- winning cinematographer Graeme Duane, celebrated for his audacious wildlife camerawork and groundbreaking contributions to wildlife film-making. Mr Duane’s illustrious portfolio includes an Emmy award for his masterful cinematography in the renowned 2011 documentary NG Great Migrations , among other remarkable works. During his visit, Mr Duane generously shared his extensive experience in wildlife film-making, emphasizing the vital role of storytelling. Our next guest was Paul Hepker, an accomplished Michaelhouse alumnus and award-winning film score composer, well known for his work on the critically acclaimed film Tsotsi , which earned an Academy award. Mr Hepker’s remarkable career includes contributions to popular series like Deadliest Catch and Shark Taggers . This masterclass offered boys a chance to learn from his vast industry experience. Following that, acclaimed novelist, playwright and theatre director Craig Higginson, another Michaelhouse Old Boy, delved into the intricacies of theatre and novel writing. His passionate presentation enriched boys’ understanding of the literary arts. Mr Higginson made a welcome return to the Makan Centre later in the year when we created an inspiring campus video, sharing insights into his latest work, The Ghost of Sam Webster. QUIZ The annual Inter-Schools Quiz, with the dedicated support of the B Block TARPS, demonstrated our dedication to both academic excellence and community involvement. This event brought together ten schools from across the Midlands for an evening of enjoyable puzzles and intellectual challenges.

LIBRARY EVENTS AND CULTURAL ENGAGEMENT

Mrs Melissa Ross has led a year full of vibrant literary and cultural activities in the Media Centre. The library was always full of life, with timely seasonal video displays and competitions that created an engaging atmosphere for learning and creativity. Notable events and competitions included: • The Show us your Bookface competition, which combined photographic artistry with literature.

72