From the Rector’s Desk

The winter season, by this time of the year, seems to drag on somewhat. It is those cold mornings and the “get-out-of-bed” routines that make me look forward to the summer season ahead. I am sure that I am not alone. As the old adage goes, the only inevitable in life is change. I am grateful for the many blessing of this term, but I am also looking forward to Michaelmas term ahead – albeit for the warmer weather.

We read in Ecclesiastes in scripture that “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:” Eccl 3:1. This scripture speaks to our contrasting experiences – some good and some bad. What is assuring is that God sees us and knows us and that as people we can find meaning in all circumstances. Life is ultimately not just about seeking comfort; it’s about finding meaning through our relationships and the value we contribute to our communities through our work. The latter ties up with our school motto, “I Serve”.

Over the past month I have looked after the Preparatory, from a leadership perspective, as we await the arrival of Mr Matthew Moolman. It was a busy time filled with exams, report writing, football, netball, rugby, hockey, music evenings and service day activities, among other things. I have particularly enjoyed the enthusiasm of our pupils in assemblies and chapel services and their willingness to sing with joy during these times, but the most jubilant, however, are those who win the cake raffle. The quality and confidence of the pupils presenting at assemblies has also been encouraging. The Preparatory is a very special place and provides a rich tapestry of activities for all to enjoy.

In light of the reports that have been published, I ask that we all maintain a balanced perspective. While it is important to celebrate success, it is more important to celebrate effort above absolute marks. Look for the progress within your child and and motivate them towards greater effort and improvement in comparison to their own previous achievements. By way of example, if previously they were 10% below class average and now they are 5% below class average then they have made a significant gain. Celebrate who they are while encouraging
continuous improvement.

Next term Mrs Eden Muir joins us in Grade 2 as Ms Dansie takes up our Art teaching post. Mrs Sheena Aitken and Mrs Peta-Anne Patel will be with us for only a short season at the start of Term 3 as they are both going on maternity leave in September. Mrs Karen Cooley will locum for Mrs Patel. We thank Ms Christina Avgoustis for her time with us. We wish her all of the best as she relocates to the Cape. Her replacement is Mrs Claire Schutte.

From January 2026 Mr Kyle Lacy will be joining St Dunstan’s as the HOD of English. Mr Brett Whitelaw (not related to the Whitelaw’s in the College) will be joining the Senior Primary as a teacher. I am pleased to announce that as of 2026, Mrs Magda Biermann will take up a new role as HOD of First Additional Languages and Mrs Michelle Dane the position of HOD of Human and Social Sciences (HSS). These positions will cover the staffing requirements for two of the teachers retiring at the end of the year.

I wish you all a good holiday. May there be time to connect with family and a time for some rest. I thank you all for your support as we make the necessary staff adjustments – change always comes with some challenges but also with new opportunities.

 – Mr WR Taylor –