Headmaster's Newsletters

28 April 2008

Dear Parents

You must do the thing you think you cannot do."
Eleanor Roosevelt

This past week has been a busy one with preparations for 'Grease' drawing to conclusion and our rugby and hockey teams preparing for St Charles.

The fixtures at St Charles proved very rewarding for Hilton College. Particular mention needs to be made of our U14 group. They have quickly adapted to the rigours of high school sport, they demonstrate real passion for their school and, above all, they don't crumble in the face of adversity.

Dave Watson, the School Counsellor, Paul Guthrie and I have had two parent meetings (in Johannesburg and Durban) over the past few weeks where we have presented a talk on 'binge drinking'. This has been well received. The third and last talk will be held this week at the Fleur-de-Lys Club on Wednesday 30 April. I urge as many parents as possible to attend this information evening. Please advise Ann Rake, by Tuesday 29 April, if you are able to attend.

This coming Saturday, 3rd May, is the first of the Hilton/Michaelhouse rugby and hockey fixtures. These weekends are wonderful occasions for the two schools and I know that the boys, in particular, really look forward to the fixtures with great anticipation. The days are unique to the two schools and serve as a reminder of the fantastic relationship the two schools enjoy. The games are always tightly contested and each school takes particular pride in their victories. Let us remind ourselves, however, that the day must belong to the boys. Let us, as spectators, create an atmosphere conducive to good sportsmanship and collegiality.

A reminder that we charge an entrance fee, R45,00, to cover the additional costs associated with hosting the day. Please be advised that parking is available on Henderson Oval, Mansergh, Etheridge (afternoon) and on the Golf Range (afternoon). This year, for security reasons, there will be no parking on Falcon Oval, or in and around the Boarding Houses. Please note that the circular drive running from Lucas House past the Administration Block to the Sports Centre will be cordoned off for the entire day.

Should anyone wish to fly in by helicopter on the day, I would ask that they contact my office to discuss this. No helicopter will be allowed to land here without prior discussion.

The Old Boys of Hilton College and Michaelhouse will be accommodated in the north east corner of Gilfillan, i.e. near the Crews Fitness Centre. No other seating is reserved but will be on a first come first served basis. Please note that spectators will be given access to the campus from 7.00 a.m. on Saturday.

The evening prior to the Michaelhouse fixtures the boys participate in a particular routine. Please be reminded that these occasions are exclusive to the boys and no parents, friends or Old Boys are to attend these activities.

I thank our entire community, in advance, for their full co-operation in ensuring that this forthcoming weekend is a great success.

Enjoy the week.

Kind regards

Dave Lovatt
Headmaster