The 2025 Chronicle

PARENT COURSES

THANKS With the demands of high-school education there are many boys who need academic support. Our gratitude goes to Mrs Kather ine Cass and Mrs Rebecca Bubb, our academic support teachers whose support often overlaps into the area of pastoral concern. Finally, thanks goes to our administer Mrs Caroline Higgingson, who stepped in after the resignation of Mrs Kelly Jacquire. We look forward to working with the newly appointed Mrs Melissa Verwy in 2026. Thanks as always to Dr Rob Pluke and Mr Bryce Dekker, who ensure we provide the very best options in coun selling and guidance. Without the support of all these people it would be impossible to do what we do in terms of support, counselling and pastoral care.

STRONG MOTHERS, STRONG SONS: We have run this course, facilitated by Cape Town psychologist Megan de Beyer, with great success more than 20 times now. 2025 was no exception. DISTANCE PARENTING: This is the third year we have run this course for parents who are new to the boarding experience. Run over three weeks, the course considers how best to support boys who are boarding, given that parents can’t be physically present with them.

LIFE ORIENTATION

Head of Department: Mrs Leigh Kotze Staff: Mr Righardt Kotze, Mr Luyanda Zondi, Mrs Lucy Ivins, Mrs Katherine Cass, Mr Tim Jarvis, Mrs Jenni Clinton-Parker, Mr Lydon Gruijters Life Orientation at Michaelhouse remains a cornerstone of the holistic development of our boys, providing a dedicated plat form to address essential knowledge and skills that are often overlooked in traditional academic settings. The curriculum is designed to foster self-esteem, meaningful relationships, and a deep sense of societal responsibility as the boys progress through the school. THE DEVELOPMENTAL JOURNEY: E TO C BLOCK The journey begins in E Block, where the focus is on a smooth transition into boarding life. Supported by the school counsellor, Mr Tim Jarvis, and the learning support staff, boys are equipped with vital study skills to ensure they are well prepared for their first high school examinations. As they move into D Block, the emphasis shifts to navigating the complexities of adolescent re lationships and making informed subject choices that align with their future aspirations. In C Block, Life Orientation takes on a more academic tone as it begins to count for marks and introduces boys to the discur sive essay format and the critical-thinking skills required for the matric examination. This stage is also defined by a focus on human rights and active community service, allowing the boys to develop the empathy and compassion necessary to become positive contributors to society.

the gap between school and the professional world through ca reer exploration and goal setting. On Wednesday 6 August, the Makan Centre was buzzing with energy for the second World of Work Day. This event featured 20 guest speakers who highlight ed diverse careers ranging from supply chain management to engineering. We are especially grateful to our Old Boy network, whose incredible depth of knowledge provided the boys with invaluable mentorship and guidance. The day commenced with the keynote address by psychologist Paul Bushell from Raising Careers, who encouraged the boys to reflect on their strengths, interests and values. During the day the boys selected four workshops from more than 15 op tions, allowing them to tailor their experience to their specific career interests. The event concluded with careers specialist Mr Jarvis debunking the “5 Myths of University Applications”. These insights provided a vital foundation as the boys pre pared for their Job Shadow Week in September, where they engaged first-hand in their chosen fields to start building their own professional platforms. A BLOCK: PRACTICAL SKILLS AND THE PATH TO ADULTHOOD As our seniors enter A Block, the focus turns towards portfo lio tasks and intensive preparation for the matric exam. This year’s Common Assessment Task focused on “Transition: Navigating the Change from School to Post-School Life”. The boys were asked to investigate the emotional and logistical shifts of leaving school, exploring topics such as independent living, financial management and mental health during major life transitions. In addition to the academic requirements, the boys are encour aged to gain practical life skills. This year, many matrics par ticipated in the “Know Your Car” course offered by Mrs Jenni Clinton-Parker. This hands-on experience provided essential automotive knowledge – such as changing a tyre and checking oil and water levels – fulfilling a practical skill requirement for the boys’ portfolios while helping to prepare them for the auton omy of adulthood.

B BLOCK: WORLD OF WORK AND CAREER EXPLORATION

B Block represents a pivotal stage where boys begin to bridge

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