Farewell to the sixth Headmaster Mr David Knowles

Extracts from the Final Headmaster’s Newsletter

Over the last few weeks there have been a good number of farewells to my wife, Susannah, and me. We are immensely grateful to all those involved in planning these farewells, and those who have attended – in particular the Council Farewell on Friday 24 November. Our closing period has been very special, more than we could have imagined, and this period, whilst emotional, has created many wonderful memories, to add to those we already have from our seventeen years here, and from the last year. It has been uplifting and humbling at the same time, and I am most grateful.

It has been a singular privilege and blessing to me, to have had the opportunity to work and to lead this incredible school, and to have met and worked with some amazing and wonderful people – parents, alumni, friends of Saints, staff and boys. Whilst Susannah and I are sad to be leaving, Saints will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Subsequent to me preparing the initial first draft of this message, the school has closed, and we have held our last Chapel service of the year. I would like to thank all those who made that service so special for my family and me. To the Music staff, Miss Schoeman, Mr Walker for arranging the return of the Dukes alumni (in secret!) including my own son, Anthony. What an incredible surprise – and thank you for the Hymn and prayer. To Mrs Muller, for supporting me (and saving me!) through the number on the sax. To Mrs Grobler and Mrs Brooks, and to Mr Wright, for all the other arrangements – my heartfelt appreciation! It was truly a special moment for me – thank you.

Finally, I would like to wish everyone an enjoyable holiday and a blessed and peaceful Festive season. It is again a frantic time of year and many of our boys’ minds will not be on school, but I would encourage them all to take time to be introspective and reflect on their year as a whole – this is an indication of learning the many lessons from the year. The boys have received their marks and seen their reports or draft copies thereof, so they are in a good position to do this now. I would also challenge them to remain fit and active over the holidays in order to return to school in a healthy and refreshed state.

I wish the Saints Community all the very best for 2018; and I have no doubt that the Boys’ College will continue to fly the flag high under the guidance of the seventh Headmaster, Mr David Du Toit, and will have a meaningful impact on the lives of our boys, and on the community as it grows from strength to strength.

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face;

May the rains fall soft upon your fields

And ’til we meet again,

May God hold you 

In the hollow of His hand.

With warmest regards and deep appreciation

DAVE KNOWLES

HEAD OF SCHOOL: BOYS’ COLLEGE