The 2025 Chronicle

ST MICHAEL’S CLUB

Written by Frances Fleming Bolttler

SAINT MICHAEL’S CLUB

The young South Africans who matriculate from schools like Michaelhouse have a great er capacity to change the future, for they are already equipped with principles, conscience, confidence and ability. The responsibility we have is therefore not merely to maintain and continually raise the standard of quality education, but to instill among learners a sense of social responsibility. Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi MP, Old Boys’ Club Durban Branch Annual Dinner, 2019

The St Michael’s Club continues to grow as a meaningful and valued part of the Michael house community. Established in 2023, the club was created to ensure that past parents and former staff remain connected to the school long after their sons have matriculated or their profes sional journeys at Michaelhouse have concluded. In doing so, the club broadens and strengthens our wider community, working closely with the vibrant and active Old Boys network. The spirit of belonging that defines Michaelhouse was a key in spiration behind the formation of the club. Just as the Michael house journey leaves an indelible mark on our boys, so too does it shape the lives of parents and staff. The club provides a platform for continued connection, engagement and support – embodying the school’s enduring values and commitment to lifelong relationships. We are delighted to report that in 2025, 90 new members joined the club. This encouraging growth builds on the strong foundation laid in our inaugural year. The steady increase re

flects both the generosity of our community and the desire to remain meaningfully connected to the life of the school. Guided by a clear constitution, the club seeks to foster ongoing communication between the school and the parents of Old Boys, while promoting interaction among members. The club works closely with the Old Boys’ Club in supporting the growth of our alma mater and its individuals. Members serve as ambassadors for Michaelhouse within the wider community and are encour aged to give back through their time, skills and resources. Im portantly, the club also supports the provision of vital financial assistance for bursaries, scholarships and key school initiatives. An inaugural SMC committee was formed to guide the club through its formative years and to establish strong connections between the various stakeholders in our community. The com mittee consists of Warren Bolttler (chairman), Ray Mkhulisi (Old Boys liaison), Geoff Perkins (parents liaison), Marcel Cor nelius (staff liaison), Johan van Rooyen (past staff liaison) and Frances Fleming Bolttler (Development Office liaison). Their leadership has ensured a firm and sustainable foundation for the club’s future. One of the highlights of the year was the drinks reception hosted at the Old Boys’ Club on the Friday evening before the annual home match against Hilton College. The event enjoyed a wonderful turnout of current, new and prospective SMC members, reflecting the warmth and camaraderie that the club seeks to nurture. Beyond its objectives and activities lies a deeper purpose. It is about preserving memories, strengthening friendships and en suring that the culture and values of Michaelhouse continue to flourish for generations to come. We look forward to another suc cessful and meaningful year ahead, growing membership, deep ening engagement and expanding opportunities for connection. To find out more or to join the St Michael’s Club, please send an email to smc@michaelhouse.org .

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