Siyawela Trek

November 14, 2022 | Boys’ College

In Grade 10, as the boys begin their transition from juniors to seniors at the College, they embark on the Siyawela Trek – a seven-day hiking trip through the mountains of Schoemanskloof near Nelspruit. The boys are completely self-sufficient as they plan and provide their own food, are responsible for the decisions that need to be made on camp, and alongside the staff member that accompanies each house, are given a chance to see what they can truly be capable of. The intention behind the Siyawela Trek is a means of creating an opportunity for our boys to discover themselves.

In a world that is brimming with distractions, the camp is an authentic space where the layers of each individual are explored in the process of self-awareness. Siyawela is an opportunity for contemplation, to test boundaries and to enjoy the gift of being together in the wild. Boys are given a chance to be boys, in the most positive spirit of that sentiment. Our boys are self-reliant, determined and feel the warmth of accomplishment. They climb mountains to claim their place in the world. There is hardship, but also reflection, teamwork and most importantly an elemental sense of joy. They experience a fulfilment that is derived from their attitude. The boys live as one and all. They understand how their influence can determine success or failure. In the process our boys capture their memories of fording rivers, sleeping under African stars, and sharing stories around a campfire. There is something profound in a journey where everything one needs is carried in a backpack, and a seed is planted which will anchor our boys for years into their future.

We are living in an era with unprecedented global environmental issues. Our planet is taking strain as a result of our human impact, and as a result, it is important to appreciate our wild spaces and understand how the decisions that we make on a daily basis can create a positive change if we are intentional about being sustainable in our actions.

Outdoor Education has thus been integrated as a pillar at the College based on the importance and awareness derived from this impact on the environment. The purpose of this focus area is both camp and curriculum based. St Stithians has a rich history of promoting our students’ growth through their interaction with outdoor activities as well as developing a responsibility to become globally responsible citizens. We hope that our students leave the school being keystone individuals, people who give more than they take, and who understand their influence on the environmental web to which they are closely connected.

 

South Africa provides a rich heritage of wild spaces, and the key to understanding our globe comes from connecting with nature. Experiences like these add scope to the way we resonate with these wild places, and if our boys can appreciate the wildness that is their heritage, they will understand the importance of giving our planet space to breathe.