83 82 Kearsney College has embraced the spirit of global education with renewed vigour. After a challenging hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the school hosted a full complement of our exchange programme in 2023, breathing life back into an initiative that has been a hallmark of our school’s commitment to fostering international connections. This year marked a turning point for the College as we proudly sent nine students abroad and warmly welcomed six incoming exchange students, along with two short-term enrolments, creating an atmosphere of cultural exchange and cross-border camaraderie. In this endeavour, Kearsney College partnered with institutions around the world, solidifying existing relationships and forging new bonds. The Catholic University School (CUS), Mount St Mary's College, The Scots College, and the latest addition to this global network, Oswestry School, all played pivotal roles in making this year's exchange programme a resounding success. One standout feature of this year’s exchange programme was the partnership with Oswestry School. Mr. Peter Middleton, the Headmaster of Oswestry School, expressed his delight at the newfound collaboration in a post on LinkedIn. He reminisced about his early career in South Africa, where his passion for teaching and running was first ignited. It was at Highbury Preparatory School, located just a stone’s throw from Kearsney, where his love for education was nurtured. He also recalled the thrill of participating in the Comrades Marathon, donning the Kearsney Strider’s vest and running past the school gates to the cheers of hundreds of pupils. This emotional journey came full circle as Oswestry School and Kearsney College initiated their exchange programme, marking a significant ‘pay it forward’ moment for Mr. Middleton. With the programme successfully in motion, three Kearsney students ventured to Oswestry School, while three pupils from Oswestry experience will experience life at Kearsney College in 2024. The exchange promises to be a transformative experience, akin to Mr. Middleton’s own life-changing encounters in South Africa. Kearsney welcomed students from CUS, Mount St Mary’s College, and The Scots College throughout the year, creating diverse international interactions and broadening the horizons of their pupils. The outgoing students, equally eager to embrace their host schools abroad, exemplify the spirit of exploration and openmindedness. The 2023 exchange programme is a testament to the school’s dedication to fostering global connections and providing students with a well-rounded, culturally rich education. The bonds formed this year will undoubtedly pave the way for many more years of successful exchanges, lifelong friendships and cherished memories for all involved. International Exchange A summary of the incoming boys and their hosts (outgoing Kearsney boys) are as follows: Outgoing exchange students PJ Snyman (Catholic University School, Dublin) Jayden Jonsson Catholic University School) Luca Mindry (Catholic University School) Kunashe Kamwendo (Oswestry School, England) Hayden Dunsdon (Oswestry School) Oliver Tubb (Oswestry School) Mason Hielckert (Mount St Mary’s College, England) Kaylin Moodley (The Scots College, Sydney) Connor McGill (The Scots College) Incoming exchange students Christopher Butler (Catholic University School, Dublin) Hugo Ferguson (Catholic University School) Mitchell Grant (Catholic University School) Noah Glossop (Mount St Mary’s College) Nico Hodnett (The Scots College) Hugo Vanstone (The Scots College) Ben Delport (Mount Si High) Max Wölfl (Werner-Heisenberg Gymnasium Bad Dürkheim) Mrs Charlene Elliott Teacher in Charge Mountain Bike Club The Mountain Bike Club grew in numbers this year and enjoyed a productive and active year, with weekly Friday afternoon rides in Giba Gorge and Shongweni. Active participation was a key focus of the club, providing consistent opportunities for skill development and camaraderie among our boys. The bus trips to our rides were certainly entertaining, with Shayne Le Roux leading the banter. Our regular rides contributed to a well-rounded and engaging experience for all involved. Luke Treleaven participated in two KZN Schools races, placing 4th and 3rd in his U14 age group. Mountain Biking is a healthy and exciting sport and we will continue to remain as active as possible. I would like to thank Mr Robinson, who helps me with the club, for his support and enthusiasm, and Mr Kirsten for accompanying us regularly on our rides. Mr Ant Willows Teacher in Charge Mason Hielckert, Mt St Mary’s College, England Three Kearsney pupils spent a term at Oswestry School, England
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