FLIPPING BOOK CHRONICLE 2024

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from various departments. Each snapshot captured the sense of camaraderie that pervades the school, even in the midst of hectic schedules. This year, the Makan Centre experimented with a “controlled chaos” philosophy. That open approach boosted creativity but also revealed stress points. Next year, more focused guidelines will balance freedom with structure, allowing innovation to flourish without overwhelming staff and boys. The space will welcome all types of learners, with stricter boundaries to accommodate those with ADHD or sensory challenges, while still encouraging exploration and tinkering. Michaelhouse teems with variety. Some boys excel in every arena, whereas others shine in just one. Some feel they do not excel at all. Yet this campus has a way of embracing each story, if only through a unique mix of curiosity and tolerance. Misfits find corners to experiment with novel ideas. Experts hone their craft with top-tier gear and coaching. Staff bring unusual backgrounds and talents to the table. A thousand small miracles unfold daily, from epic sports wins to quiet reading breakthroughs. The Media Centre stands at an intersection of tradition and innovation – a welcoming hearth of knowledge and imagination that champions curiosity, reading and collaboration. Michaelhouse’s history grows richer by the day, shaped by those who learn, share and create here.

Some dived into graphic novels, while others tried historical fiction or fantasy. Mrs Ross offered guidance, pointing out classics and new releases worth exploring. The Makan Centre’s physical and digital shelves expanded, providing easy access to novels, thrillers and non-fiction. A broader reading habit nurtures deeper curiosity about the world. An excursion to the vessel Logos Hope added global flair. Billed as the largest floating book fair, Logos Hope carries thousands of titles across the world’s oceans. Students roamed its decks, browsing authors from every continent. This trip opened eyes to fresh cultural perspectives, proving that a good story can travel anywhere – even by boat. Many returned with new favourites and a broader outlook on global literature. June brought the FutureBuilders project to the Makan Maker Lab, which sits at the heart of the innovation centre. Teams investigated ways that Michaelhouse might evolve over the next 50 years. They explored school history, recalling how campus infrastructure had developed over decades. Ideas ranged from returning to on-site vegetable farming to refining water systems. Participants built prototypes using 3D printers and robotics kits, and made use of the green-screen studio. Each group presented findings, resembling a science fair with models, posters and videos. This project drew on the spirit of those who once planted trees whose shade they would never sit beneath. The boys discovered that when imagination meets determination, they can shape the future of their school. In the third and fourth quarters, the Future-Fit programme challenged D Block boys to tackle pressing issues tied to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Instead of standard class work, they formed agile teams and worked in planned “sprints” to design innovative solutions. Projects included reforestation efforts using seed-bombing drones, AI-driven pothole repair, and aquaponic systems for food security. One standout, the Food for All team, cracked the top ten in The Economist’ s Leadership for Change competition – an international honour among 500 submissions. That achievement showed how real world projects and dedicated teamwork can break classroom boundaries. It also highlighted the potential in young learners to inspire global change. A dash of intrigue returned to the Media Centre with A Gaudy Night to Die For . Inspired by classic detective fiction, it invited boys to sift through clues hidden among the shelves. Over several weeks, amateur sleuths pieced together evidence to solve a fictional crime. In the end, the fictional librarian, Vivienne Hughes, stood accused of protecting a priceless book at all costs. Successful detectives earned sweet rewards and the satisfaction of a puzzle solved. Literary excitement followed with the launch of Spud – The Reunion by John van de Ruit. Eager fans formed lines for signed copies, brimming with questions about the beloved Spud characters. Meeting an author in person added depth to the reading experience and encouraged budding writers among the boys in attendance. This event emphasized the Media Centre’s role as a cultural hub, linking creators with their readers. As the year wound down, and with exams looming, holiday spirit arrived at the Media Centre. A festive photobooth adorned with seasonal props drew groups of friends and staff