FAIRMONT HIGH SCHOOL

1977 - 2007

Clive Wiggwith contributions from:

Shirley Visser and Ron Dingley

FAIRMONT HIGH SCHOOL 1977 - 2007

Clive Wigg - with contributions from

Shirley Visser and Ron Dingley

‘Stand Fast’

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This history document

is dedicated to all the pupils,

past and present

from 1977 to 2007.

The “Flag of Learning”

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1977 - 1981FOUNDING TO FOUNDERS’ DAY - GROWTH AND SUCCESS

1977

This is the story of a school which started at a time of political unrest in South Africa. It has

experienced three decades of change and transformation, both politically and in education.

After only twenty years, Fairmont was rated as one of the top 100 schools in the country.

The story actually begins in 1973, when the Provincial Administration of the Cape Province

decided on the establishment of the school.

The site on which the school is situated was expropriated by the Provincial Education Depart-

ment for school purposes on 26 January 1966. The site at that stage, measuring 10.3511 ha,

was expropriated from a Mr Schabort, and the purchase price was R34 140. It was part of the

Eversdal farm, which originally measured 800 morgen and had been in possession of the

Schabort family since 1830. Portions of the site were transferred to the Municipality for road

purposes, leaving an area of 9.5871 ha.

A notice “Proposed closing of public place and proposed exchange of land” appeared in the

Cape Times and Die Burger on 9 and 16 November 1973. The relevant owners were informed

that: “A new High School is to be erected on the school site between Durbanville Hills and

Durbell and an improved entrance from Durbanville Avenue to serve Durbell and the new

school is necessary. A portion of the school site is required for this improved entrance and in

order to provide the necessary school facilities the open space in Durbell is required for tennis

courts for the school”.

In the early 1970’s, development occurred in the northern sector of Bellville, including

Ridgeworth, Stellenberg and Eversdal. In Durbanville part of Wellway Park in the north and

parts of Durbanville Hills and Valmary Park in the south were developed. This sectoral pattern

remained during the next few years, but the northern part of Bellville was to meet the southern

zone of Durbanville by 1977.

Durbanville High School was the only high school in the area. It was a dual-medium school with

an enrolment of over 1000. On the recommendation of the Parow School Board and the Educa-

tion Department, the Provincial Administration agreed to erect a new school, as an English-me-

dium High School and to change Durbanville High into an Afrikaans-medium high school.

The school was to comprise a hall to accommodate 900, classrooms, typing, music and art

rooms, a library, laboratories, offices and storerooms.

During 1976 there was much speculation as the building, with its attractive design and distinc-

tive arches, was constructed.

During the second half of the 1970’s, South African troops began to withdraw from Angola,

and the bush war raged on in Rhodesia. In 1976 violence swept through many townships and

even into the centre of Cape Town. Protests and unrest were experienced in various parts of

the country. On 16 June 1976 a student march in Soweto was stopped by police bullets.

There was to be further death and rioting during June of 1977 when the riots of the previous

year were commemorated. Disturbances were to continue throughout the country until 1980,

and return in a different form in 1984/85.

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Clive Wigg: Principal October 1976 - December 2002

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It was during this period of upheaval that the school staff was appointed, requisitions were

placed, pupils were enrolled and the Eversdal English-medium High School was opened. It

was the third such school in the Northern Suburbs, The Settlers having started in 1965 and

Fairbairn also starting in January 1977.

The position of Principal was advertised in the Education Gazette dated 15 July 1976. Inter-

views were conducted at the Parow School Board offices and Mr Clive Wigg, the Deputy

Principal at The Settlers High School in Bellville, was appointed, to commence duties on 1

October 1976. Mr Wigg, aged thirty-six, had taught previously at Muir College, Paarl Gymna-

sium and Sea Point Boys’ High.

He was required to appoint the new staff and to ensure that everything was ready for the first

term in 1977. The new school building was still being constructed. He was thus faced with the

daunting prospect of starting a school from scratch without an office or any assistance. Fortu-

nately, Mr Gerrit van Wyk, Principal of Kenridge Primary, and Mr Mike Reeler, Principal of

The Settlers High School, provided the use of offices. Mr Wigg thus did most of the requisi-

tioning of furniture, books and equipment from his old office at The Settlers, and enrolments

and interviews from a medical inspection room at Kenridge.

Interviews for the position of vice-principal were conducted at the Parow School Board office.

Mr Don Gibbon of Grey High School, Port Elizabeth, was nominated. The applications for all

other posts were supplied to the Principal, and he had to submit his nominations through the

School Board.

The school had to provide for Standards Six to Eight in the first year. The majority of new

enrolments were thus for pupils then at Durbanville High School. The subjects to be offered

would be the same as those at Durbanville High School. The first name to be entered into the

admissions register was Petra Abel. Needless to say, a new school attracted applications from

pupils at many different schools. It would be the task of the staff to weld these into a new

identity. This would not be an easy task without a common uniform and with new rules to be

formulated and observed.

The first circular to parents, dated 10 November 1976, stipulated that if an official school

uniform was worn, it must be complete. The principal of the school concerned had to give

permission. For those who did not possess a uniform or whose uniform was too small, white

shirts and grey trousers were prescribed for boys and a “plain one colour school uniform length

and style” dress for girls. Most of the rules listed in this circular are still applicable.

Further paragraphs of the circular read:

“The committee will be elected as soon as the hall becomes available. A PTA will be estab-

lished only after the formation of the school committee. Until such time, I hope to work on a

system of small voluntary committees. Attention will have to be given to fund-raising, ground

development, the tuck-shop, the design of the school uniform, the name of the school and the

names of the Houses, library facilities and the provision of library assistants.

The Department does not provide funds when a new school is established. Naturally, we will

need funds before we can purchase, for example, any sports equipment.

To start with, the voluntary (school fund) contribution is:

R20 for one child for one year,

R30 for two or more children for one year”.

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Founder Staff:

The founder staff were to be:

Principal: Mr C Wigg

Vice-Principal: Mr D Gibbon

Senior Assistants: Miss L Coetzer

Mr A Viviers

Secondary Assistants: Mrs D Carstens

Miss D Durand

Mrs C Esterhuizen

Mr T Gilman

Miss V Hill

Mr K Milford

Mr W Roux

Miss N Smuts

Miss E Strauss

Mrs E van Rijswijk

Secretary: Mrs Y van Wyk

Janitor: Mr S Engelbrecht

Six of these were beginner teachers. One teaching post and posts for cleaners were still to be

confirmed.

Additional teaching posts were granted on the strength of the enrolment, and Mrs F Gillman,

Mrs E Els and Mrs I Murray were appointed later to start in January.

The caretaker and two cleaners, Mr W Herwil and Mrs E Arendse, started work on 1 December

1976, all other posts taking effect on 1 January 1977. Mr Engelbrecht, the caretaker, the

longest serving member of staff, was still at the school in 2007. Miss D Malan replaced Mrs

Els in April of 1977 and Mr W Ladewig replaced Mrs Murray in October.

Facilities

As the end of 1976 approached, a storeroom was finally made available for the receipt of

material requisitioned from the Provincial Stores Department. The main quadrangle was still

a pile of sand and soil, and the builders’ huts and stores extended across the site of the present

swimming pool. The only developed areas were the grass strip in front of the entrance and the

field next to the partly constructed Hall. The grass at the front had to be cut with a lawnmower

brought from home!

In January, everything was ready for the big day. The offices were furnished with standard

desks, four-door cupboards and chairs. There were no curtains. The secretary’s office was that

now occupied by the Finance Secretary, and visitors had to sit on a hard wooden bench while

waiting to go down the short passage and into the Principal’s office. The secretary was pro-

vided with only a typewriter. Standard-issue chairs awaited the staff as they arrived for the

staff meeting on 17 January 1977, the day before the pupils were to arrive.

As can be imagined, all were excited; thrilled to be a part of a new venture in a wonderful

building, but somewhat wary about what to expect the next day. The list of thirty-three items

for the meeting included items such as procedure for the first day, record books and schemes of

work, dress, control, duplicating, equipment, inspectors’ visits, the model library and the for-

mation of a uniform committee to investigate and to present proposals to the school committee

when it was formed.

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Everyone was impressed by the design and appearance of the school building, which was

different from that of other schools. The brickwork and aluminium windows would be main-

tenance free. The ramp was a new innovation and led to much speculation and rumour that the

building would be used as a hospital in an emergency. What was most striking, however, was

the multi-coloured interior. Every classroom had a different colour combination of walls,

floors and doors. The magnificent view across to the mountains was a talking point and al-

ready people were picturing what the grounds would be like when fully developed. The prin-

cipal made it clear that beautification of the grounds would be a priority.

The next few months would see a flurry of activity as classrooms were organised, teaching

progressed and sports and societies started. This, of course, took place with the building still

unfinished, the hall not available for assemblies until the start of the third term, and very

limited facilities for sport. No sports fixtures could be played at the school itself.

There was great excitement on 3 February when the tennis teams played their first matches.

The girls beat Tygerberg Commercial by eight games to four and the boys lost badly to Bellville

Technical High.

Certain basic equipment was still required. A diary entry on 25 February shows the purchase

prices of a vacuum cleaner (R199.50), a floor polisher (R796.00) and an adding machine

(R198.00).

On 16 March the staff considered the appointment of the first monitors - prefects would come

later. Leon van der Merwe and Lesley Windell were named as Head Boy and Head Girl.

The gymnastics requisition for ropes and apparatus for the hall was placed on 31 March.

The First School Committee

On 20 April School Board officials conducted the election of the first School Committee. This

committee met on 25 April. The office-bearers were elected unanimously as follows:

Chairman: Mr E J Fivaz

Vice-Chairman: Mr F J Egan

Secretary: Prof T J McCarthy

Other members present were: Mr F Choice, Mrs D Matchett, Mr B Starke and Mr E Windell.

The Principal was present in an advisory capacity. It would be many years before Education

Department regulations changed to allow for staff and pupil representation. The agenda for

this meeting included the following items:

• transport payments

• refreshments for home games

• Speech Night

• bus services

• flooding from sports field

• establishment of a PTA

• an intercom system, the school name and school uniform.

The financial statement was considered and “it emerged that the current balance on school

funds was R940.36”. It was resolved that an “additional levy of R20 per family would have to

be requested from parents”.

A list of possible school names had been circulated to parents and it was clear from the re-

sponses that the name “Fairmont” enjoyed most support.

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Building in progress 1976 (Courtesy: the Tygerburger 1976)

Founder staff

8

The Chairman was delegated as a one-man sub-committee to have uniform samples made up

as well as to report on the various cloths to be used. The official school colours were declared

to be chocolate brown and white. At the next meeting on 10 May, the committee “unani-

mously accepted that the name ‘Fairmont High School’ be forwarded to the School Board for

approval as the future name of the school”.

Voluntary Committees

The system of voluntary committees had been working well from the start. Mrs Maureen

Windell convened the Tuck Shop Committee, Mrs Val Williams the Fund-raising Committee

and Mrs Beryl Fivaz was the convenor for the first fête. A grand total of R2042.16 was raised.

Keen support from parents led to the presence of twenty-five stalls, the most successful on the

day being handwork (R321.87), cakes, plants and sideshows. Two plants left over grew into

big trees in the small garden next to the Administration block passage. The original iron

support is still embedded in one.

As a certain amount of money would now be available, the School Committee discussed the

purchase of an intercom system, an electric typewriter, a stencil cabinet, an automatic signal

clock for the bell, letterheads, report cards and cups and saucers.

The next significant event in 1977 was a meeting of parents held on 31 August. The staff and

approximately 150 parents were present, with Mr Wigg in the chair. He gave an outline of the

nature of various PTA’s and a brief history of such associations. “The main aim was to pro-

mote co-operation in the education of children and not merely to establish a fund-raising body.”

Discussions followed and it was decided that the provisional constitution presented be used for

one year. A committee, comprising Mrs B Craddock, Mrs B Fivaz, Mr B Froneman, Mrs S

Jordan, Mr I Shepherd, Mr D Stewart, Mrs V Williams and Mrs M Windell was elected.

The first meeting of this new PTA Committee was held on 8 September and included Mr Fivaz,

as School Committee representative, and staff representatives Miss Coetzer, Mr Gibbon and

Mr Wigg. Mr Stewart was elected as Chairman, Mr Shepherd Vice-Chairman, Mr Froneman

Treasurer and Mrs Craddock Secretary. It was agreed that the tuck-shop and fund-raising

committees would continue functioning with Mrs Windell and Mrs Williams as convenors

respectively. A Careers Evening was planned and a fund-raising competition proposed. Mr

Wigg requested that consideration be given to the composition of a suitable school song. It

was suggested that songs in addition to the one with words written by the Principal and music

by Miss Malan be composed and presented to the School and PTA Committees.

At a subsequent meeting quotations for curtaining of the school hall and other requirements

were presented as follows:

Curtaining R3000 - R5000

Public Address System R900

Stage Lighting R3000 - R5000

The Careers Evening, held on 19 October, was a great success. More than 600 parents and

pupils attended. The most popular careers, with numbers attending, were:

Ground Hostess 131

Primary School Teaching 123

Marine Biology 107

Kindergarten Teaching 102

Prizes for the fund-raising competition were drawn at a special meeting on 6 December - 1st

Prize - R400 worth of paint; 2nd Prize - a portable TV set and 3rd Prize - a R50 shopping

voucher.

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The first cricket team to represent the school

Fairmont Karate Club

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Grounds Beautification

In July a group of volunteers - Mrs Greshoff, Mrs Greaves and Mrs Shaw - assisted with the

selection and planting of a number of trees and shrubs as a first step in beautifying the grounds.

A large number of golden privets were also planted alongside pathways, and ficus trees pro-

vided by the Municipality were planted down Medway. Pupil Heather Stewart was to write

prophetically:

“I catch my first glimpse in twenty years of my old school. Through the mist and rain it looks

like some majestic castle high on a hill in the moors, dominating the broken skyline. The road

up towards the school is now an avenue of equally majestic trees. I can remember when this

road was lined with tiny saplings...”

In August of 1977 a circular listing a number of suggested school mottoes was sent to parents.

“Stand Fast,” suggested by Mrs Wigg, was the clear favourite.

Three potential school songs were prepared and sung at a school assembly. The song origi-

nally proposed by Mr Wigg and Miss Malan was chosen and later ratified by the School Com-

mittee. A suitable badge was the next important item to be designed.

By August the first school uniform, apart from the badge and the tie, had already been

designed. Dr C Pama was asked to design a school badge. His proposed design was

completed by November. The school committee discussed this at their meeting on 24

November and asked for amendments to the original design, including a battle-axe as the

crest! A new design was presented in January 1978. The committee reversed the original

decision, and the battle-axe was changed to a sphinx. This required a change to the design

of the mantling as well. The design was finalised in May 1978, the heraldic description

being:

ARMS: Or, three vine leaves conjoined in a fess-point and a chief dancette Vert

WREATH AND MANTLING: Or and Vert

CREST: a sphinx or

MOTTO: Stand Fast

For some reason the incorrect colour (light brown) was used on the shield instead of gold

(or) and for a number of years the blazer badges were thus actually incorrect. The original

drawing of the coat of arms had “disappeared”. Dr Pana did a new drawing in 1987. The

school badge was finally correct in both colour and design of mantling and the vine leaves.

Subsequently, an attempt was made to trace the coats of arms of Superintendents of Educa-

tion Dr James Rose-Innes (1939 - 1859 term of office), Sir Langham Dale (1859 - 1892)

and Sir Thomas Muir (1892 - 1915) after whom the school Houses were named. Registra-

tion of the school arms with the State Herald was considered

Limited facilities did not prevent a wide range of sports from being offered in the first year. In

addition to boys’ and girls’ tennis teams, mixed teams were also entered in leagues. Badmin-

ton started under the guidance of Miss Malan. Three boys’ hockey teams entered leagues. Mr

Gibbon was in charge. The Durbanville Hockey Club granted the school the use of their fields.

This was to lead to a long association between school and club. Four girls’ hockey teams were

entered and also relied on the kind support of the Club. Miss Coetzer was in charge. There

were two rugby teams. All matches were played on an away basis. Softball started during the

summer term at the end of 1977, and netball teams were entered in all four sections of the Co-

Ed Schools Competition. An U14 soccer team initially played in the league. Karate-Do was

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established as one of the first activities, with Mr Milford in charge. The Durbanville Cricket

Club kindly provided facilities. Two teams were entered in the first year. A start was also

made with swimming and athletics, and a cross-country competition was held. Initial develop-

ment was again hampered by lack of facilities. The first drum-majorette squad was to be

formed at the start of 1978. Provision was also made for golf, squash, table tennis and volley-

ball. By the end of the year it was proudly announced that individual pupils had represented

the province in tennis, sailing, gymnastics, cycling and ice-skating.

Societies

A Drama Club was founded. Mrs van Rijswijk, Miss Hill and Mr Gilman ran a course on

speech training, movement and creative drama, leading up to the first One-Act Play Competi-

tion in the second term. The stage had no curtains or backdrops, so flats were constructed.

Pupils themselves chose the plays, rehearsed and acted in the plays. The Houses were desig-

nated Blue, Yellow and Red as a temporary measure. Red House’s play, “The Crimson Coco-

nut”, produced by Angela Bremner, was the winner. Other groups to start were the Students’

Christian Association and the Chess Club. Three teams were entered in the Northern Suburbs

Chess League. The Choir performed twice. A number of pupils assisted Miss Hoogenhout

with the classification, shelving and covering of books in the library. A room, next to the boys’

changing room, was set aside as a photographic darkroom, and Mr Roux constructed the nec-

essary cupboards. The Grapevine, a quarterly newspaper, was started in the second term.

The Tuckshop

In April 1977 the grand opening of the tuckshop took place. As the kitchen was not yet ready,

thirty-seven enthusiastic mothers decided to start working for school funds, operated from two

classrooms, and made an excellent profit of R1000.

Speech Night

The first Fairmont Speech Night (Prize-giving) took place on 2 November. This was an im-

portant occasion as it would be the bench-mark for all subsequent functions. It would be a

formal occasion with the staff in academic dress. The programme was:

1. Introductory Remarks

2. Annual Report Mr C Wigg

3. Piano Solo Miss J Hall

4. Introducing the guest speaker Mr E J Fivaz

5. Address Mr E Louw

6. Piano Solo Miss G D Malan

7. Vote of Thanks Mr F Egan

8. Presentation of prizes and trophies Mrs E Louw

9. National Anthem

In addition to the academic and sports awards, there were also special awards including those

for best actor and actress, best orator and the winner of the general knowledge quiz.

It was announced that the full school uniform would soon be available, that provision had been

made for recognition of honours and merit awards and that a school badge was being designed.

The system of monitors would continue until the first prefects were appointed at the end of 1978.

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An analysis of examination results revealed that one could be reasonably satisfied with the

progress. Unfortunately, a new school could not provide immediate answers to those with pre-

existing problems. The creation of a teacher-psychologist post was, therefore, particularly

satisfying.

Two high points of 1977 were the Fête and the Careers Evening. Two lows were the non-

payment of the voluntary school fees and the fact that only nine parents assisted with guarding

the school during the June holiday, considering that this was a time of unrest in the country,

much focused on schools. Staff members had thus to bear the brunt.

1978The rapid growth in numbers meant that additional teachers were appointed. The average

enrolment was 500. The year proved to be a most exciting one in that three new fields were

levelled. This came about because of the generosity of Mr Basil Starke, a member of the

School Committee and a parent. As a result of a very low tender by Mr Starke, the Provincial

Administration had sanctioned the preparation of an additional three sports fields for the school.

This would mean that all sports would be played at the school from 1979. The provision for

these facilities so soon after the school’s inception was unique. It would be necessary, how-

ever, to raise the necessary funds for the purpose of grassing the fields and paying for the water

supply. To this end the teachers and pupils would embark on a sponsored twenty kilometre

walk on 1 May. It was hoped to raise R5000 in this way.

The appearance of the school altered rapidly as the slope down to the road was terraced. Grass

was planted in November after a pipe to supply water points for the additional fields was

supplied by the Works Department of the Cape Provincial Administration.

Mr Clarke, the teacher in charge of the grounds, reported: “In an effort to encourage pupil

participation in the development and funding of the grounds, a sponsored Big Walk was held.

This event formed part of the school’s contribution to Conservation Year. The Big Walk was

preceded by a talk on conservation and a tree-planting ceremony in which the monitors of

each class and Mr Wigg, Mr Gibbon and the Head Boy and Head Girl each planted a tree.

Additional shrubs and trees (nearly 200 in all) were also planted. By the end of 1978 trees had

been planted to form surrounds for all fields. In an effort to produce some shade in the quad-

rangles, shade trees were planted in pots.”

During 1978 new innovations included a “Meet the Teachers” evening after the May examina-

tion, a “Subject Choice” meeting for standard sevens and their parents and a “Fairmont Get

Together” in September. These were to become annual events.

The appointment of only one stockist to provide the school uniform led to some dissatisfaction

until the decision was clarified and explained by the School Committee at a special meeting.

“Film Evenings” were started, the first being on 10 February.

The PTA planned quarterly meetings with themes, The teenager and the school, the teenager

and his problems, The teenager and the community, and The teenager and his career. A mini-

fête was held on 27 May, at which approximately R2000 was raised. The final total for the Big

Walk was R4260.

By June the principal could report that the curtains for the hall had been ordered. The cost

would be R5219. A refund of R1400 would be received from the Education Department.

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First tennis team - 1978

Standard Eight play - “Sorry wrong number “- 1978

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Official Opening

The official opening of the school took place on 5 September. During the afternoon, class-

rooms and subject exhibitions were on view. The programme for the afternoon included: a

Physical Education class on the top field, the drum majorettes accompanied by the Paul Roos

Gymnasium Band, and boys’ hockey, girls’ hockey, netball and chess Inter-House matches.

The evening programme was:

1. School song - sung by the choir

2. Welcome - Chairman

3. Hymn

4. Lesson (Psalm 119, verses 1-8) and prayer - led by Mr P Holgate

5. Introduction of the Guest Speaker - Mr A D du P le Roux, Circuit Inspector

6. Address - Mr P S Meyer, Director of Education

7. Unveiling of Plaque - Mr P S Meyer

8. “Do You Know Where You’re Going To?” - sung by the choir

9. Thanks - Mr C Wigg, Principal

10. The National Anthem

Here follows an extract from Mr Meyer’s address:

“Tonight may be compared with the christening ceremony of a new baby and, on such an

occasion, it is wise to cast the thoughts ahead.

“What are the influences which are going to affect the future of Fairmont High School? What

is going to determine its ultimate character as an educational institution, and how is it going

to compare over the years with its fellow schools?

“I believe that a school must stand and fall by its end product. In other words, what is the quality

of the pupils who will leave its portals after having written their final school examination?

“What will be the quality of the lives they lead as adults, and what contribution will they make

as young South Africans to the corporate life of our country?”

A new draft PTA constitution was prepared and was adopted at the AGM of the PTA on 18 October.

Speech Night

In 1978 Speech Night was held on 1 November. Dr Sandra van der Merwe, who was to be the

guest speaker, was indisposed, and Prof McCarthy replaced her at short notice.

Staff

In his report, the Principal outlined the growth in enrolment and staffing. At the start of 1979

there would be thirty-one teachers. Two of the new posts would be promotion posts. Mr W

Ladewig and Mr P Holgate had been nominated to fill these posts. The projected enrolment

was 670. The school thus also qualified for a part-time Secretary and a fifth cleaner.

A printed supplement to the report detailed progress in all sports, societies and clubs. A

similar supplement was to be provided at all future speech nights. One significant event was

the Inter-Schools Athletics meeting against Fairbairn High. This competition was to be held

annually until 1992. The first tour was undertaken when both the boys’ and girls’ hockey

teams travelled to George.

A professional dancing teacher held weekly ballroom dancing classes. Drum majorettes started

and the squad performed on the day of the official opening of the school. The Photographic

Society was functioning well. The darkroom was a distinct asset. Unfortunately, the predic-

15

tion that “this society should prove to be of great value as it will assist with the recording of

school events, a photo library will be compiled and photographs may be used as teaching aids

and for projects” did not hold true for more than a few years. Sadly, this was also to be the case

for various history and archive groups formed through the years. An innovation was the pro-

vision of activities boards. These were situated outside the Needlework Room in the main

passage. The colourful plastic tags were intended to enable one to see at a glance in what way

every pupil in the school was participating in the school’s extra-mural programme. The year

was one of extra-mural consolidation and growth.

PrefectsThe first Fairmont prefects were announced at the Speech Night function. From the next year,

they would be announced during the Valedictory Assembly.

The important role that prefects were to play in succeeding years is shown clearly in these

words from the principal’s address:

“Although students cannot make final decisions, they may certainly participate in and influ-

ence decision-making. Given the opportunity to raise issues, debate and discuss them, mem-

bers of the student council will find it necessary to keep in touch with the members of the

student body. The council must act then as the voice of the student body...The students’ coun-

cil, as I envisage it, will, aside from being a forum for ideas, be given responsibilities quite

within their capacity to perform.

We have, therefore, drawn up a constitution embodying such articles as general goals, specific

aims, duties, committees and sub-committees. Embodied in the constitution are also the pre-

fects’ pledge and the pupil leaders’ creed.”

The prefects acted as leaders of the full Student Council, which included elected members

from each of Standards 9, 8 and 7.

The first Fairmont prefects were Torsten Moëhl (Head Boy), Lesley Windell (Head Girl), Kevin Webb

(Deputy), Vanessa Koening (Deputy), Robin Craddock, Vanessa Edmunds, Diane Eva, Stacy Jonas,

Roderick Leerkamp, Hilary Middleton, Leon van der Merwe, Donna Vos and Gillian Williams.

The prefects attended a leadership and training camp at Steenbras Dam.

Cast of “What a Weekend”

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1979

The school developed rapidly. The enrolment grew from 330 in 1977 to 636 in 1979 and the

staff from seventeen to thirty-eight. The Principal reported: “As the school was built to cater

for 750 pupils, we are fast approaching the position where the school will have the maximum

numbers of pupils possible.” The fact that few men were entering the profession was a cause

for concern.

The Works Department provided much improved outside lighting, and the first set of theatre

lights was installed. One of the cloakroom (peg) areas was converted into a store for the

Clothing Exchange. This conversion, opposite Room 57, was to be the first of many similar

conversions in later years as enrolment grew and the demand for accommodation increased. A

timber hut was purchased to provide a second outlet for the tuckshop in the main quadrangle.

This came to be known as the “Cabin”.

PTA

The PTA adopted the theme “Relationships and Responsibilities” as the theme for the year as

a further development of the theme “The Teenager”.

A major event during 1979 was the fête held on 5 May. This included a Pick a Box Show. The

Fairmont drum majorettes and the J J du Preez High cadet band paraded up the main street in

Durbanville to draw attention to the fête, which was a great success.

Apart from the financial benefit, a very happy atmosphere had been created in which parents,

pupils and staff worked together. Special thanks were expressed to the conveners, Mrs Cradock

and Mrs Williams, and to Mr Peter Hough, the organiser.

Other significant events were the staging on 27 July of the production “Anna and the King of

Siam”, produced Mr Peter Merrill for the Festival Players, and the Dinner Dance on 25 Au-

gust. The latter was the first of the many such PTA dances in later years.

The Dance, held at the Brackenfell Town Hall, with the band “The Pied Pipers”, included a

floor show arranged by Mrs Wigg, and was a tremendous social success.

The Springbok Radio show “Check Your Mate” was held on 12 November.

Matters receiving much attention during the year included traffic flow and the need for a cycle

lane in Durbanville Avenue, the introduction of a school uniform bank and alterations to the

tuckshop/hall kitchen servicing hatch. A first mention was made of “urgent attention...to the

provision of additional change room and toilet facilities”.

The first musical

Fairmont’s first musical was “What a Weekend”, with words and music by Professor T J

McCarthy. The report in the first school magazine read: “It was a pleasant surprise to see a

play written by a parent, produced by the headmaster, and most competently acted by the

pupils of the school”.

17

Inter-House Athletics 1979 - Dale win

One-Act Play Competition - Innes House: Christopher Payne, Michael McCarthy, Paul Bidder,

Michelle Faulhammer

18

CAST - “WHAT A WEEKEND” 1979

Colonel Lancelot (Pongo) Pilkington : Michael McCarthy

Mrs Mabel Pilkington - his wife : Susan Bremner

Deborah Pilkington - their daughter : Michelle Faulhammer

Joan - Deborah’s friend : Jennifer Hall

Captain Reginald (Whacko) Worthington : Kevin Seeley

Mrs Dulcie Worthington - his wife : Tracy McCarthy

Archiebald Worthington - their son : David Parkes

John - Archiebald’s friend : Christopher Payne

Jarvis - the butler : Lisa Brown

Professor Percy Weedsworth : Andrew Steyn

French Maid : Bonnie van der Walt

Hockey Girls and Cricketers

Another enjoyable function was the Music Evening in October. In addition to a number of

music items, the choir sang thirteen songs, the theme being Ben and Michelle.

The Grapevine newspaper was the mouthpiece for the pupils, and was produced entirely by a

pupil staff. The 1979 Editorial Staff was:

Editors: Christopher Payne and Denise Hammer

Sub-Editors: Kim Record, Sharlene Heath,

Karen Boshoff

Printers: Jannie Kolovos, Paul Bruins

Art & Advertising: Jennifer Hall

Assembly & Distribution: The Editorial Staff

This was still the time of wax stencils and manual printers. Covers were printed courtesy of

Mr and Mrs Wulfse. The Grapevine comprised letters, features, sport reports, comments,

articles, society reports, film reviews and literature. Two extracts from the second term edition

follow:

Congratulations

to the Sportsman of the term

KEVIN WEBB

Junior World Sailing

Championships

SA Representative

Levorno, Italy

Sailing a “420”

(2-man boat)

19

An appeal for understanding

Sitting while the world goes by.

Not saying a word.

Proud, putting on a bold front.

Feeding crumbs to pigeons

Thinking of yesterday,

and a house full of children

Caring, coping.

Encouraging, loving.

Always understanding.

Until now -

the one day of the year

when it would be nice

to be remembered.

You won’t forget - will you?

Craig Maasch

Literature would become a feature of future issues and of the school magazine. The annual

literature competition was to gain in importance. Parents and friends donated prizes and tro-

phies for academic, sporting, cultural and special achievements. A strong poetry tradition also

developed.

Traditions

Traditions commencing in 1979 were the Valedictory Assembly, including the induction of the

new prefect body, the first Matric Farewell Dance, and the meeting for parents of the Standard

Tens.

The Matric Farewell Dance

The farewell took place in the school hall on Friday 5 October. Tracy McCarthy reported:

“All the matrics attended, with most of the staff and their respective partners. The Std Nine

Farewell Committee attended and many standard nines were working behind the scenes.

Thanks to our efficient cooks, waitresses and washer-uppers, we were served with delicious

food: fish cocktail, hot tropical chicken and vegetables, and cheesecake triangle. The theme

was ‘Asterix.’ Large murals, the length of the hall, were painted by some standard nines

during the holidays. The ceiling was lowered with a net and silver streamers were attrac-

tively looped around the hall.”

“That everybody thoroughly enjoyed the evening is indicated by the fact that the band was

requested to play on after midnight.”

The Valedictory Assembly

The Valedictory Assembly programme, which was to be similar (but with amendments) in

following years, was:

20

1. Choir - Guadeamus Igitur, prefects and other matrics to enter the hall from the foyer, in

procession.

2. Introductory remarks - Principal.

3. Announcement of the names of the new prefects.

4. The Prefects’ Pledge (said by one of the new prefects).

5. Presentation of badges and certificates - prefect to prefect.

6. The outgoing Head Boy/Head Girl address, and handing over of the School Flag to the

new Head Boy/Head Girl and to charge them with their responsibilities.

7. The outgoing prefects leave the stage.

8. Address to Std 10’s - Principal.

9. Scripture reading.

10. Prayer.

11. School song.

12. Pupils leave the hall, with standard nines leaving first.

13. Stage party leave Hall, the 10’s leaving last.

14. 10’s to pass through 6’s, 7’s, 8,’s, 9’s to leave at front gate.

15. Past Pupil representatives to greet Matrics at front gate.

The Valedictory Assembly, which took place on the day after Speech Night until the introduc-

tion of Matric Day on that day, followed breakfast for the staff and the matrics, the matric

concert for the school and tea for staff, committee members and matrics. Mrs Lyn Wigg

organised the tea for a number of years.

The camp for the new prefects (the second such camp) was again held over three days from 3

November at Steenbras Dam. Mr Gibbon reported: “An overflowing Steenbras Dam added

excitement to the initial proceedings...and provided a promising omen for the year ahead. The

spirit of the group, their willingness to learn and their determination to contribute positively to

the school provided a sound base from which to launch.”

The goal of the camp was to prepare prefects for their role as members of the Student Council

by including:

• styles of leadership

• creation of team spirit

• decision-making

• clarity regarding duties and responsibilities.

The 1979 school magazine was the first. The editors were pupils, Tracy McCarthy and Lynn

van der Hoven, under the supervision of Mr Parsons. The magazine covered the events of the

first three years. The list of contents read:

• Principal’s report

• Thoughts (literature)

• Fairmont in action (sport)

• Fairmont’s other activities (societies and cultural)

• Inter-House Competition

• Looking back

• Prizes and awards

• Class of ’79

21

The teaching staff had grown from an initial seventeen to thirty-three. Only eight of the origi-

nal teaching staff were still at the school, and also Mrs Y van Wyk (secretary), Mr S Engelbrecht

(caretaker), Mr W Herwil - who was to become an institution at the school as “Willie” - and

Mrs E Arendse (cleaners). Nine staff members were married during the period 1977 - 1979

and seven babies were born.

Outstanding achievements in sports offered at the school were those of Janet Grieve (cross-

country), Tracey Jordan and Belinda Ireland (squash) and Ashley Ware-Lane (hockey), all of

whom were selected for WP school teams.

Carol-Ann Brown won the WP U14 javelin event, establishing a new record.

Robin Craddock hit the first four, six and fifty on the new cricket field, and Russell Davies

scored 105 against SACS.

School Committee:

P Hough, T McCarthy, P Ireland, D Smith, A Parker, E Fivaz, F Choice

22

1980

The examination results of the first matric class, published on 1 January 1980, elicited much

interest and comment.

Candidates: 73

Passed: 72

Matriculation Exemption: 43

Fifteen of the twenty-three subject averages were above those of the province.

Three founder members were among those who left at the end of 1979. The staff looked

forward to greeting the new faces in 1980, but possibly did not realise the extent to which the

complement would be altered.

Thirty-eight teachers comprised the academic staff in 1980.

As the year started with 700 pupils, the main concerns were accommodation and staffing.

Rapid development was taking place in the area which the school served. “The Education

Department is aware of the situation, and we trust that an answer will be found in the provi-

sion of another school or extensions to your building in the foreseeable future.” These words

from the Annual Report were a foretaste of what would occupy the minds of the School Com-

mittee for the next few years.

Widespread publicity was given to the “crisis in education” and it was increasingly difficult to

recruit Mathematics and Science teachers. An encouraging development was the reservation

of 15% of posts for the permanent appointment of married women.

Another matter which was given much attention was the system of examining and testing. The

cycle examination system, in which pupils were examined weekly throughout the year, was on

trial. A modified and more flexible system would be introduced in 1981.

The year saw a number of innovations such as the S.C.A Mission Week, the contact with The

Settlers High School staff and pupils over a number of days, a number of inter-disciplinary and

subject excursions, an inter-class sports day, the planning of a Std 6 camp and the establish-

ment of a course in first-aid. Kelly Austin from the USA became the second Rotary Exchange

Student to attend the school. Kim Cowley from Australia was the first in 1978. It was said that

“these new events and activities on our calendar will give a better indication of the spirit and

nature of this school than a thousand words can say”. The Settlers Contact and the Standard

6 Camp were to become important annual events.

Three events which brought great satisfaction were the pupils’ response to the call to partici-

pate in the Spring Walk, their appeals for sponsorship and their participation leading to an

amount of R6718 being raised, in the World Vision 40-Hour Fast, in which 150 pupils partici-

pated and raised R2100 for the World Vision Hungry Children’s Fund, and the establishment

of the Past Pupils’ Association in June. Evangelos Kolovos, the first PPA chairman, described

the formation of the Association in his report in the 1980 School Magazine: “At the first

Valedictory Service breakfast, the first Std 10 class chose five of their number and gave them

the unique task of drawing up a constitution for the newly-christened Fairmont Past Pupils’

Association. The steering committee was: E G Kolovos (Chairman), M S Hansen (Secretary),

R A Craddock, R M Davies and K C Usmar-Blake.

23

First Softball Team - 1980

Drum Majorettes - 1980

24

“At the inaugural meeting at the Boston Hotel in June 1980, the nine-point constitution (pro-

posed by the steering committee) was unanimously approved. The following Executive Com-

mittee was elected for the year ending February 1981:”

Chairman: E Kolovos

Vice-Chairman: M S Hansen

Secretary-Treasurer: H M Middleton

Additional Members: C A Mostert, G S Williams

Staff member: L Coetzer

Principal (ex officio): C Wigg

Head Prefect (ex officio): J Cranke

The position of Honorary President was not filled initially.

“The main objectives of the Association are:

1. To promote the welfare of the school in all branches of its activities.

2. To promote the welfare of past pupils and to provide such social, cultural and sporting

functions as shall be to their interest.”

Among the items discussed at the first meeting of the PTA Committee in 1980 were a Dance,

a Big Walk, the sale of House T-shirts and the formation of a 100 Club.

It was resolved at the meeting held on 15 July that the PTA constitution be amended to move

the annual general meeting from October to February, and to elect parent representation per

standard. The draft amended constitution would be circulated to parents.

The PTA Dance was held on 26 July at the Brackenfell Civic Centre. Although the support of

the parents was disappointing, the dance proved to be an enjoyable occasion.

The General Secretary of the South African Teachers Association, Mr R Cope, addressed a gen-

eral meeting of the PTA on 27 August. In his address he drew attention to the alarming increase in

resignations amongst teachers and the fact that certain schools in the country could not effectively

operate due to the staff shortage. He warned parents that if conditions did not become more

favourable and if future incentives did not draw student teachers and keep present teachers in their

profession, the future learning abilities of their children might be seriously jeopardised.

It was decided by those present that an effort should be made by every parent to address a letter to

the Minister of Education expressing dissatisfaction and concern about the future of teachers in

South Africa. This decision was later amended after discussion with the School Committee.

In September the Committee felt that a decision should be reached regarding the type of func-

tion for the Fifth Year Anniversary in order that planning might be commenced.

The only fund-raising event of any significance during 1980 was the Big Walk organised jointly

with the School in April. Other minor sources were the Dance and a recording session of the

Springbok Radio Show “Check Your Mate”.

The 1980 Annual Report had a supplement detailing progress in sport, societies and clubs. The

remarkable progress made in only a few years is evident from these extracts from the supplement.

Ballroom DancingApproximately 35 pupils have attended regular weekly classes conducted by professional teach-

ers. The pupils have received tuition in both ballroom and disco dancing.

ChoirThe choir has performed in public on four occasions this year and has been very well received.

They were invited to the European Immigration Festival as a result of their good performance

in the Tygerberg Song Festival. On 8 December the first Carols function will take place.

25

Chess15-20 players have participated regularly and two teams have competed in the schools’ league.

CulturalThis society has had a successful year and there have been numerous outings.

DramaA successful Variety Show was held on 6 October, and a one-act play was presented on 23

October. A music revue, “Head Over Heels”, with words and music by Prof T McCarthy, was

presented in our hall on 7 May. This was a most enjoyable and successful production.

Inter-House One-Act PlaysThe competition, held on 26 March, was a great success and a high standard was achieved.

Three-Act Play“See How They Run”, the first three-act play to be presented at the school, ran for two nights

in October. This excellent production was very well received.

Drum majorettesThe drum majorettes have had a full programme and performed in public nine times.

German SocietyAn enjoyable evening was arranged for those senior pupils taking German at Brackenfell,

Durbanville and Fairmont, and will be an annual event.

LibraryMuch greater use has been made of the library, mainly due to the increased number of books.

Over R3000 has already been spent on an additional 800 books this year.

Matric Farewell Committee

The Dinner /Dance, held in an Arabian atmosphere, was a great success. Few parents and

pupils realise exactly how much effort goes into such a function. The Committee works to a

strict budget, has to seek donations, borrow materials, paint during the school holiday, and

consider numerous other aspects such as gifts, printing, ordering and preparation of the dinner.

Modern DancingRegular Wednesday afternoon classes are held under the auspices of the Charlotte Field Danc-

ing School. The girls performed successfully in public on 23 October.

Photographic ClubFourteen pupils use the Darkroom regularly. The Club was placed second in the Cape Educa-

tion Department’s photographic competition. M. Faichnie and G. Liebenberg won individual

awards. A great deal has been done to expand the Society and to utilise the facilities fully. An

extensive training programme was conducted. Individual interest has been keen, and members

have assisted with other school projects, such as the School Magazine.

School MagazineThis year each class was asked to raise Rl,00 per pupil, either by direct payment or by means

of fund-raising activities. This has contributed greatly to class spirit. Mrs Wulfse again worked

tirelessly on our behalf and raised over R1700 from sponsors.

26

Students’ Christian Association

50 pupils attend meetings regularly, but up to 180 pupils attend on special occasions. Prayer

meetings are also held on Mondays, and area meetings with committees from other schools are

held quarterly. The full programme has included guest speakers, discussions, films, a very

successful “Focus Week”, and a welcome for the new Standard Sixes.

Students’ CouncilThe Council comprises fifteen prefects and thirty-six sub-committee members and monitors.

It has been very active this year under the leadership of John Cranke and Tracy McCarthy.

Evening meetings, ending with tea and cake, have been held two or three times a term. Particu-

larly pleasing areas of involvement have been a party at the orphanage, a garden party for the

members of Huis Aristea and Green Pastures, meetings with The Settlers and Durbanville

prefects, standard six orientation, initiation of the Fairmont Settlers contact, and certain im-

provements in the grounds.

CricketFive teachers and approximately 120 pupils have participated. Four teams competed in the

league and six teams compete internally. The internal Vineyard League has grown in popular-

ity, particularly during the fourth term. Standards have continued to improve and results have

been most encouraging. John Cranke and Gavin Taylor have represented the Tygerberg re-

gional XI, and Victor Hawken has played for the U15 Tygerberg XI.

Cross-CountryJanet Grieve represented W.P. at the S.A. Championships at Voortrekkerhoogte. The Schools’

Cross-country races, the “Spring Runs”, were successful and enjoyable, with much greater

participation this year.

Gymkhana

Ten riders have participated in two teams. The teams fared well at the opening of the Cape

Hunt and Polo Club clubhouse and course, when they came second.

Gymnastics

Juliet Kruger represented Western Province.

Boys’ Hockey

This has again been a very successful season. The School is fortunate in having a number of

experienced coaches. Mr Phillips, a qualified umpire, did much to develop umpiring skills,

and a number of pupils were able to handle games with confidence at the end of the season.

The enthusiasm of the coaches soon led to great keenness on the part of the players, and a

successful 24-hour fund-raising hockey marathon was held. The 1st XI was again invited to

participate in the prestige Outeniqua tournament in George, and during the third term the 1st

and U15A Boys’ and Girls’ teams played in Oudtshoorn and George. This was a successful,

enjoyable and educational visit. The internal “International League” also ‘“encouraged par-

ticipation “.

Girls’ Hockey

The girls also enjoyed a successful season. Four teams participated in senior leagues, the first

team participating in the Southern Suburbs league for the first time. The second and third

27

teams both won their respective leagues. The tour to Oudtshoorn and George was one of the

highlights of the season.

Karate

A small group entered the annual Karate-do competition as the Fairmont Club.

Rugby

The historic first game on our home field was played against The Settlers High. Matches will

be played on two home fields next year.

Softball

Forty girls have played regularly. The first team performed with credit in the Women’s League

during the second half of the 79/80 season. A number of players participated in the trials for the

W.P. team. C. Brown was chosen for the team, and A. Richter was the home reserve. Two

teams have now entered in the new Schools’ league. Our players have done so much for the

school and are to be congratulated on being among those responsible for the development of

softball as a sport in schools.

Squash

Twenty players participate. Two teams compete in the Schools’ league. Stephen Armstrong

won the National U13 championship and Belinda Ireland and Tracy Jordan represented W.P.

Swimming

There was a tremendous upsurge in interest and enthusiasm. The first Inter-House gala, held at

the Sanlam Bath, was a happy and successful occasion. The lack of training facilities remains

a serious obstacle, but the initiative and interest shown compensated greatly.

Head Prefects at play - 1980

28

Tennis

Teams: 1 Girls, 1 Boys 2 Mixed League. The girls won the first league for the second time.

About fifty pupils also participate internally, but additional facilities are urgently required.

André Wulfse, Heidi and Cindy Freudenberg, and Janine Lambert all represented Western

Province. Cindy is the current W.P. U14 champion.

Eisteddfod

Pupils were entered in both the Cape Town Eisteddfod and the Tygerberg Eisteddfod. The

following pupils all obtained Highest Honours for their respective items: Tracy McCarthy,

Louise du Preez, Michelle Faulhammer, Sanette van der Mescht and Grace Elliott.

First AidAll twenty-two Standard Nines who participated passed the first diploma in First Aid after

attending classes for a term during the Youth Preparedness periods.

Leadership and Subject courses: Tracy McCarthy was selected for the course

organised by Die Burger in December 1973. The Head Prefects attended a course organised by

Stellenbosch University, and six pupils attended the Jaycee’s “Tomorrow’s Leaders” course at

Muizenberg. The Principal and Mr van Stormbroek attended a Youth Preparedness Course, Mr

Shaw a History course, and five English teachers a refresher course. Various teachers attended

Scripture courses.

Youth Preparedness: Some of the subjects covered were as follows: Std 6 orientation

and athletics; appreciation of the problems of old age; achievements in sport; inter-class boeresport;

a Best Speakers’ competition; a show on Bob Dylan; Std X Careers Guidance, a demonstration of

weapons, talks on camping and school societies. A number of guest speakers visited the school.

The School - 1980

29

1981

In his report at the PTA AGM on 9 February 1981, the principal indicated that the enrolment

stood at 783. As the school had been planned for 750, accommodating more pupils would be

a problem in the near future.

Matric Results 1980:

Candidates 80

Passes 79

A Aggregates 2

Accommodation

The School Committee considered accommodation requirements in a serious light. Action

taken is evident from these extracts from the minutes of the first term meeting in 1981:

• “Sports facilities: Notification that school is entitled to additional facilities is

noted. Mr Choice suggested a letter be sent to School Board confirming

approved additional facilities and requesting earliest provision/execution by

Works Department (done: 20 Feb 1981)

• Additional Sports fields: Further meetings/discussion with Municipal authori-

ties and Education authorities to finalise agreement to be held.

• Long Term Development Projects: Mr Wigg tabled sketches of school pavil-

ions with the suggestion/request that the PTA should work toward a similar

project on a staged, phased basis.

• Changing Room/Toilets/Clubhouse/Swimming Pool Complex: Mr Choice

reported that the Cape Provincial Administration would provide working draw-

ings of proposed complex free of charge.

Messrs Choice and Parker confirmed as sub-committee to investigate the

possible building of the proposed complex.

• Tennis and Netball Courts and Cricket Nets: Copy of urgent letter from School

Board to Department tabled.”

Other items handled by the committee included:

• the conveyance scheme for pupils

• use of the school building by the Methodist Church

• school signboard

• scoreboards

• honours boards

• raising/flying of school and national flags

• a burglar alarm system

• the possible introduction of a cadet corps.

Buildings and Grounds

In July the School Board informed the school that three prefabricated classrooms had been

allocated to the school for use in 1982. (These were to be the first of many such ‘prefabs’

extending eventually along the parking area to near the front gate and including a prefabricated

toilet block for some time.)

30

Erf 713, the ground below Durbanville Avenue, was acquired by the school on a twenty-five year

lease and grass seeding was completed during the year. These new fields would be used for

hockey and cricket in accordance with an agreement reached with the neighbouring residents.

A number of improvements and conversions were carried out. The original requisition store

was converted into an audio-visual theatre stocked with television camera and monitor, video

recorders and various projectors. Part of the Hall basement was partitioned off as a store.

Cloakroom areas were converted into a store for the clothing bank and a new Deputy Princi-

pal’s office. Staff room chairs and tables were provided.

LETTER FROM DURBANVILLE MUNICIPALITY 28 OCTOBER 1980

Dear Mr Wigg

TRAFFIC : FAIRMONT HIGH SCHOOL

Your letters dated 24 September and 23 October 1980 refer. I wish to inform you that my

Council considered the matter at its meeting held on 27 October 1980 and Council has

agreed to change Medway to a one-way street down from its intersection with Hillrise to

its intersection with Durbell Road. Steps will also be taken to create a no stopping zone

from the intersection of Medway and Hillrise to a suitable distance beyond the front gates

of the school. A pedestrian crossing will be provided in the vicinity of the gate leading to

the school sports-fields. In addition angled parking will be provided on the southern side of

Medway and parallel on-street parking is to be provided on the northern side of Medway.

A strip of road reserve on the northern side of Medway will be tarred for use by pedestri-

ans.

My Council unfortunately did not see its way clear to provide a pavement for pedestrians

and cyclists as contemplated in paragraph 6 of your letter of 23 October 1980. The neces-

sary road works will be commenced with as soon as possible and it is anticipated that all

works and traffic signs will be completed and erected by the beginning of January 1981.

Founders’ Day

Another important innovation in 1981 was a Founders’ Day function. The first Founders’ Day

Dinner was planned for 4 September. Mr and Mrs Isgar organised a most enjoyable Founders’

Day Banquet at which the guest speaker was the MEC for Education, Mr W Bouwer. A similar

anniversary function would be held every five years.

The Past Pupils’ Committee, under the leadership of Evangelos Kolovos, had an active year.

Their functions included a braai for the 1980 Matrics, a highly successful Max Collie (hypno-

tist) Show, the first PPA dinner-dance and the first Founders’ Day sports fixtures against the

school teams. The committee presented a new lectern for use in the hall.

The PTA Committee was elected according to the new system of representation per standard.

The Fifth Anniversary Féte, organised by Mr Gawler, was especially successful. A Fashion

Show was held in April, and the quarterly meetings were interesting and rewarding.

Two additional teaching posts were created. Ten new teachers joined the Staff. Five teachers

filled temporary positions.

31

USE OF SCHOOL PREMISES

For many years official permission had to be obtained for outsiders to use school facili-

ties and premises or to address gatherings of pupil and parents.

Similarly, permission had to be sought for wine to be served.

This letter, dated 24 July 1981, is an example:

The Secretary

Parow School Board

Dear Sir

FOUNDERS’ DAY DINNER: 4 SEPTEMBER 1981

It is the intention to hold a Founders’ Day Dinner at this school the evening of 4 Septem-

ber to commemorate the 5th year of the school.

At the dinner the organisers would like to serve sherry and light wines. The serving of the

wine will be by senior pupils. We request your formal permission to organise the event

and the serving duties as outlined.

Yours faithfully

Secretary: School Committee

Notable successes included the victories in the Inter-School Athletics and Swimming compe-

titions in one week in March. A number of pupils were chosen as provincial representatives,

and Carol Brown (U19 Softball) and Katherine and Theresa Keet (Roller-Hockey) were cho-

sen for South African A teams. Softball, hockey and dance marathons were held as pupils

raised funds themselves for various activities. A prefects’ exchange with Wynberg Girls’ High

was initiated. Rugby teams toured to George, and the Girls’ Hockey team attended a course at

the University of Port Elizabeth. A number of subject excursions were undertaken. The Stand-

ard Six four-day excursion/camp was especially noteworthy.

The first Panel Inspection was held from 3 to 7 August. Seven circuit inspectors and twelve

subject planners and advisors visited the school.

SOLAR ENERGY PROJECT: FIRST IN SOUTH AFRICA

“There was great excitement when the SABC TV crew arrived at the school to interview

and film the Solar Energy Group. The filming took place on the lawn outside the offices -

now part of the Pool lawn. More excitement followed as Fairmont was featured in the

evening news broadcast.

The Group was formed in 1980, following the announcement of a major competition by

the S A Institute of Mechanical Engineers, and comprised nine senior physics pupils. The

competition required that a working model which could harness the energy of the sun, be

designed and built by June of 1981.

The results of the regional judging were made known at the end of September. In Novem-

ber we learnt that Fairmont had been placed first in South Africa.”

32

An interesting consequence was a letter from a gentleman in Mexico, including the fol-

lowing extract:

“Dear Senor Stefan

I see where you have developed a producing machine to make alcohol from the sun. I am

much interested as we have plenty of sun here but alcoholic beverages are expensive,

especially imports from Scotland.

Would you be kind enough to send me details...”

(Mexico would feature again many years later when an invitation was received for the

Girls’ Basketball team to participate in a schools’ tournament in Mexico)

COMMENTS (MADE IN 2006) ON RULES AND REGULATIONS

• We weren’t allowed to ride bikes in the school grounds - we had to push!

• Not being allowed to use haversacks was a big gripe.

• The colour of the school uniform was a huge problem - not cool!

• Not being allowed to wear scarves in class!

• Girls weren’t allowed to wear clear nail polish...

• The lengths of our school dresses were checked!

• Not being allowed to sit in front of the school hall during breaks.

• Not being allowed to bring boyfriends/girlfriends to the Matric dance.

Matric Farewell Dance 1981

33

1982 - 1986FACILITIES, FUND-RAISING AND TRADITIONS

1982

At the PTA AGM on 10 February 1982 the School Committee Chairman, Mr Fivaz, reported

on the distribution of funds for the year:

R5000 on sports equipment

R3100 on office equipment

R5600 on office equipment

R8400 on teaching aids

R2000 on library

R2000 on grounds

R2000 on transport costs

Buildings and Grounds

“According to a master plan, the Fund-raising Committee must set its sights on a building

complex to be erected on the middle terraced field. Improvements for the future would be

changing rooms, swimming bath, squash court, clubhouse and a second squash court.”

The cost of the facilities would be in the region of R250000-00. Mr Fivaz urged parents to

donate on a monthly basis and quoted from the 1981 Income Tax Act, with particular reference

to tax-deductible donations to secondary schools. The aim was for a three-year development

period.

Further development of facilities was in progress. The principal was able to report in April that

four tennis courts and two netball courts were being built, and that additional cricket nets

would be supplied by the Education Department.

The Sports Complex and fund-raising for it was to be the focus for some time. By July the

wording for the special appeal pamphlet was finalised. Fund-raising was to continue into

1983, when a special fund-raising drive would be launched at a finger supper.

It is interesting to note that the PTA catered for teachers who remained at the school after

normal school hours so as to attend the evening meetings. Mrs Page handled this much appre-

ciated support role in 1982.

Problems with laboratory and hall floors were to be considered a number of times before

satisfactory solutions could be found.

The proposed lease for Erf 713 was read paragraph by paragraph and agreed to by the Commit-

tee on 28 July. It was recommended to the School Board for approval.

The constitutions of the Sports Complex Fund and the Educational Fund were ratified in Au-

gust. All funds deposited in the School Fund would henceforth be deposited in the name of the

Educational Fund. Receipts would be issued for purposes of section 18A of the Income Tax

Act of 1962.

34

A committee election took place in September and the new members were welcomed at the

meeting on 23 September. It was resolved at this meeting that “The Chairman, Headmaster

and Mr Choice to see the MEC as a matter of urgency to further motivate an application for

additions to our existing building and also to discuss the rapidly growing need for a new

English-medium school in the area”.

The opening of the new field would be a “low-key affair” - a cricket match between the school

and the municipality would take place.

The main fund-raising events during 1982 were a Big Walk and the Ken Higgens, Pip Freed-

man and Vincent van Rooyen show. The Walk was reported on in the 1982 magazine in these

words: “The Winter Wander was held on 11 August this year, in which 1600 feet raised nearly

R11 000 towards the Sports Complex Fund. That’s nearly R1.00 per foot...”.

The Past Pupils’ Association had a successful year in spite of initial difficulties. A successful

variety show was held early in the first term and two film shows were held at the school. The

traditional braai for the Matrics took place after the final examination.

The opening of the Teachers’ Centre in Parow was an encouraging development.

The Media Centre was being used more extensively. Mrs Paula van Wyk was appointed as

secretary in the Media Centre, and the provision of better printing facilities helped greatly.

Some excellent television programmes were produced, one of which was shown as part of the

Speech Night displays. Thirteen subject displays were on view before and after the Speech

Night programme.

Honours boards were hung in the Hall foyer, and House Flags would soon be available. Fur-

ther conversions led to the provision of offices for the newly appointed laboratory assistant,

Mrs R van der Riet, and the fourth Head of Department.

The purchase of a computer to be used initially for administration purposes was being considered!

Achievements

• Two Std 10’s were selected as exchange students - Karen Davies on

Rotary Exchange to the USA and Kinga Sebesteny as an American Field

Service scholar to Thailand.

• Moira Paveley was placed nineteenth in the English Olympiad.

• Janet Grieve (cross-country) and Belinda Ireland and Trevor Davies (squash)

achieved national recognition.

Visitors to the school included the Jazzart Dance Company and CAPAB Opera and Drama Groups.

A special feature of Valedictory Assemblies at Fairmont has been the singing of a special song

for the matrics. For example, in 1982 Colleen Newham, music teacher, wrote these words to

the music of C Jacobs-Bond:

“When you come to the end of this perfect day

And you sit alone with your thought

You will know through the years there’ll be memories

Of the joy that these days have brought.

You’ll remember your friends and the golden days

And tears, happiness and love

And mem’ry will paint you this perfect day

With colours that never fade.”

35

The English Department submitted a request in March relating to inter-racial contact during

prefect and student exchanges. Unfortunately, at this time such contact was not officially

permitted. Other matters handled by the School Committee during the year included reim-

bursement of petrol expenses to teachers on official school business, advanced reading tech-

nique courses and the purchase of a sundial for the senior quadrangle.

Staff

The enrolment in 1982 stood at 850, with a staff of forty-four teachers, one laboratory assist-

ant, three secretaries, a caretaker and six cleaners.

The projected enrolment for 1983 was 940. Three additional teaching posts would be created.

Only two of the permanent staff left at the end of the year.

It was agreed at the Committee meeting of 23 September that all first teams would be permit-

ted to wear different socks so as “to distinguish them” (from the other teams).

In November it was agreed that fees be increased from R15 to R25 per term per family.

Mr Hardy and Matric Invigilators for Matric Examination 1983

36

1983

The Matric results were again very pleasing. Five pupils obtained A aggregates and seventy

(50.7% of the class) obtained matric exemption. Qualification for an A was to change in the

future, but at this stage it was still a genuine 80%.

Dear Mr Wigg

MATRIC RESULTS, 1982

It is a pleasure and a privilege to me to congratulate you and your staff on your school’s

excellent 1982 matric results, in particular in respect of those 5 pupils who obtained the

highest marks, namely an A symbol in their aggregate.

It is only through hard work that good results are obtained, which proves to me that you

and your staff carried out your vocation as teachers in a conscientious and dedicated

manner, thereby enabling both school and pupils to share in a great achievement.

Once again hearty congratulations and may 1982 be an incentive to aim at even greater

achievements during the new year.

Kind regards.

Yours faithfully

E LOUW

ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CAPE

Buildings and Grounds

Accommodation issues continued to predominate in 1983.

The Principal reported, at a Committee meeting on 16 March, on a meeting with the Chief,

Physical Amenities. Fairmont was not included on any building or sports facilities list up to

1985. A new high school was planned for the Stellenberg area. The school should open in

1986. The Education Department policy was to have schools with a maximum of 750 pupils.

If it was found that Fairmont stabilised at 850, for example, additions would be considered.

The policy was to provide mobile units as a temporary measure.

The Department would refund 100% of the cost of new changing rooms, provided they were

built according to the Department’s plans and specifications. Any extensions and additions to

the Department plans would have to be at the school’s own expense. Refunds would not be

provided for five to six years.

The Committee considered an extensive range of proposed expenditure items including a vacuum

cleaner, a cinema screen, a trailer, reception area improvements, additional intercom speakers,

hockey posts and physical education apparatus.

In June Mr Choice reported on his consultation with Mr R Nixon (the architect who had de-

signed the school building) concerning the proposed Sports Complex. The Committee de-

cided to proceed with sketch plans by Mr Nixon. These were presented at the meeting in

August. At this meeting it was decided to change the name of the Sports Complex Fund to

“Fairmont Development Fund”.

37

By the end of November the sketch plan for the Sports Complex had been approved and work-

ing drawings were being prepared by the architect.

Four additional teaching posts were granted for 1984. They were advertised in the Education Gazette of

15 September. At the Committee meeting on 7 September twelve appointments were ratified.

A finger supper was arranged for 14 November for the School and PTA Committees, eight

senior teachers and certain parents who had rendered special service to the school. This was to

be the forerunner of many similar functions.

In a letter to new parents the School Committee chairman commented on the fact that Fairmont

was already the biggest English-medium high school in the Cape Province.

The following comments were among those made by the principal in his annual report:

Enrolment and StaffThe enrolment stands at 933. The subdivision of the school into three manageable units has

been an attempt to provide more individual attention.

FacilitiesSix new tennis courts and four cricket nets were used for the first time this year, and the Oval Field

across the road has relieved the pressure on the original site. A large percentage of our pupils,

especially in the junior standards, participate in sport and all facilities are extensively used.

Drama A qualified Drama teacher, Miss Chait, has been appointed for next year and each standard six

class will have a drama period once a week. I hope that a strong drama society will develop and

that the school will present regular productions. Attention will thus have to be given to the

purchase of additional theatre lights, the stocking of a drama store and the improvement of

facilities in the drama room on the top floor of the changing room block.

Media CentreThe Media Centre will also be extended. Additional facilities will be provided and, with Mr

Holgate joining the Media Centre team of Mrs Du Toit and Mrs van Wyk next year, I trust that

this Centre will be used to an even greater extent by staff and pupils. Improvements have

already been effected in the A-V Theatre.

We are very short of office space and we hope to convert a cloakroom area to three offices for

Department Heads as soon as possible.

Attention is also being given to facilities for those in the Advanced Learning Programme,

started this year, and for the provision of computers when this becomes feasible. Three addi-

tional prefabricated classrooms have been provided.

You will have noticed the magnificent new trophy cabinet in the front foyer. This is a gift from

the Matric Class, aided by funds raised by last year’s class. We thank them most sincerely for

providing such a necessary and much appreciated facility.

Our school will be the venue for the Annual Conference of the South African Teachers Asso-

ciation in June 1984; the first time the Conference will be held in the Tygerberg.

Achievements

Some of the noteworthy achievements this year were:

• Greater community service, for example, the work of the Service Society, the partici-

pation in the SANCOB operation to save gannets affected by the oil tanker disaster,

and participation in the ‘Blisters for Bread’, ‘World Vision’ and ‘Beauty without

cruelty’ fund-raising activities.

38

• The boys U 15 A Hockey team won the WP Indoor tournament.

• A Junior Parent- Pupils’ Day in March was a great success.

• Table tennis and basketball were introduced as school sports, and have been very

popular.

• Birgit Hein was chosen for the WP basketball side.

• The standard 6 Camp and tours to Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown were again very

successful.

• Success of a std 8 science group in the Expo 83 competition.

• Success of Helen Letord in the English Olympiad.

• A number of our pupils in outside activities.

We are fortunate in having Mrs Smit, a Springbok, as our senior basketball coach. We much

appreciate the help of coaches Mrs Smit, Mrs Holdsworth (Basketball), and Mrs Steyn (Softball).

We now have an official Cadet Detachment.

Among the highlights of 1983 were the following events: Standard Six and Seven Parent -

Teachers Day, when the parents were invited to participate in cricket, tennis and softball matches

against their children. Over 500 people participated at this highly successful function organ-

ised by Peter Bishop.

No No Nanette: The musical was a dream come true for pupil Sanette van der Mescht, who

produced the show. The performances were outstanding successes. This was to be the stimu-

lus for continued dramatic achievements. The proposed policy was that musicals would alter-

nate with three-act plays annually. The appointment of Miss Cheryl Chait in 1984 was to lead

to an upsurge of interest in drama at the school.

The Standard Six Concert: Standard Nines accepted responsibility for producing class plays.

The theme for the evening was “Fairy Tales 1983”. The highly enjoyable function was to be

the forerunner of many similar Standard Six concerts in following years.

The senior boys’ soccer team was allocated a home field for the first time and celebrated with

several victories in the A section of the Western Province Schools Soccer League. Eleven

boys’ hockey teams participated in the school leagues.

True love never did run smoothly. “No No Nanette” - 1983

39

1984The school was divided into three sections - Lower (Std’s 6 & 7), Middle (Std’s 8 & 9) and

Upper school (Std 10), each headed by a teacher in a promotion post.

While the School and PTA Committees had been devoting much time and attention to accom-

modation, fund-raising and provisioning, development in all fields was progressing apace.

Fifty-seven staff members appear in the staff photograph, as opposed to seventeen in 1977.

AchievementsThree 1983 matrics obtained A aggregates, and sixty-seven matric exemption.

The Advanced Learning Project: This project was initiated to accommodate the needs of those

pupils able to cope with the demands of the syllabus more easily and efficiently than others.

Pupils were allowed to withdraw from class for up to twelve periods a week in order to pursue

project work. The team, under the guidance of Mr Cliff, came second in the Provincial Prob-

lem-Solving Bowl competition.

The prefects organised a highly successful exchange with nine other schools.

Twenty-nine pupils and three teachers attended the Grahamstown English Festival. The National Schools’

Festival had already become a major event in the calendar of South African schools.

Miss Chait’s production of The Boyfriend was a huge success. Eighty pupils were involved,

with Mrs Newham again an excellent music director.

The annual Standard Six Camp was again very successful and enjoyable.

6Ca, with their production of Red Spying Hood were winners at the Standard Six Concert. One

pupil commented: “The spirit all through was fantastic. (It should have been, with all those Std

6’s - we had to beware of untimely dives from the stage).”

SocietiesThe first year of the Home Economics Society was action-packed with interesting demonstra-

tions and excursions.

The highlights of the Debating Society year were The Fairmont-Settlers debate and the Best

Orator competition.

The Matric Representative Committee consisted of twelve elected members, a boy and a girl

from each class. The group “felt it would be a good idea to...establish some traditions amongst

the matrics. We...organised the buying and delivering of red carnations to matrics on St Valen-

tine’s Day. We helped to make a reality the buying of matric badges. We started another

tradition: the planting of a tree by the matrics. Our tree is the Cape Fig Tree and was planted

on the matric lawn. (The original matric lawn was that behind the Hall next to the covered

walkway from the main building to the Woodwork room). We ran a competition for the best

design of the Matric tops. Next on our calendar was the tea-party for the aged.”

The History Society, under Mr Shaw’s leadership, arranged visits by two members of parlia-

ment and by Mr Chipole, a lecturer from UCT, who gave a broad outline of the problems faced

by black people. The group visited the Crossroads squatter camp.

The annual SCA Camp was attended by eighty members. The group organised the SCA wel-

come for Standard Sixes and held weekly prayer meetings.

The Animal Welfare Society had 118 members and was awarded a Gold Star by the Beauty

Without Cruelty Society for contributions made in 1983.

The 1984 Drum majorettes “astounded all at the annual inter-school Sports Day against

40

Fairbairn”. The squad participated in three major competitions and enjoyed many marches

and displays.

The Service Club enjoyed a wide and varied range of activities. The biggest ongoing concern

was for the De Novo old-age home in Kraaifontein. They were visited on a monthly basis and

the group organised a birthday party there for 170 people.

The P.R.O Society organised and displayed the various trophies in the display cabinet in the

foyer - a gift from the 1982/1983 matrics, and presented the first three volumes of the pictorial

history of Fairmont to the Principal.

The Boardsailing Club had grown significantly. Highlights were the Regatta at Zeekoevlei,

the camp, and three teams participating in the schools’ league.

SportCricket: Seven teams participated in the leagues while another eight “battled for supremacy”

in the internal “International League”.

The Boys’ Tennis Team was promoted to the A league.

The U19 Table Tennis team won the Peninsula School Trophy in its first season and during this

season the team remained unbeaten.

The Athletes ran out comfortable winners against Fairbairn. Patrick Day was selected to rep-

resent Western Province at the South African Schools Championships. Heike Longwitz was

placed fifth at the S.A. U13 Biathlon Championship.

The lack of depth in rugby was a concern. A useful foundation, however, was laid during the

rugby camp held at Hout Bay. The first team appeared in its first match with its new brown and

white striped jersey.

THE RUGBY JERSEY

The first team wore the plain brown jersey until 1983. A brown and white striped jersey,

based on the design of the WP jersey, was introduced in 1984.

This was worn until the introduction of a standard first team top for all sports in 1990.

This white jersey with a broad brown band was based on the design of the then Transvaal

rugby jersey.

Boys’ Hockey had a very successful season. Highlights were the visit of the first team to the

York Easter Tournament, the home derby against Settlers and the highly successful annual

hockey awards evening. (Separate awards functions and dinners would later be stopped when

the combined awards functions - summer and winter - were introduced).

The Girls’ Hockey season was “characterised by some outstanding performances and some

rather mediocre results”. Rhondda Davies was chosen for the Western Province Peninsula

Hockey team.

The 1984 Cross-Country season was “one of active excitement and full of surprise”. The girls

won the N.S.P.A. league competition, while the U14 girls won the team competition at the

N.S.P.A. Championships.

There were fourteen netball teams, six in the leagues and eight playing internal matches.

The 1983/1984 Softball season “proved to be another ‘grand slam’ year for Fairmont. The first

team won the Norman Brown Floating Trophy. Six girls were chosen for the two W.P. teams.”

Teams that performed with varying success were chess, girls’ tennis, swimming, soccer, golf,

badminton, squash and basketball.

41

Inter-Schools vs Fairbairn at the Bellville Track - 1984

Matric Dance - Standard Nine Group - 1984

42

PTA

At the PTA meeting on 29 February 1984 it was reported that the first stage of the Sports

Complex would cost approximately R125 000. The C.P.A. would eventually refund an esti-

mated amount of R106 000. In a letter in March, however, the School Board informed the

school that the refund would be limited to R87 500.

A ‘Gold Rush’ was planned for the afternoon of the Settlers/Fairmont Contact. The PTA would

organise the annual supper for the teachers of both schools during the Contact Week.

Mr Peter Bishop, in an article in the Tyger Burger, reported on the Gold Rush: “Fairmont

High School of Durbanville flooded over on Saturday morning as a crowd of 3000 took part in

an unusual Gold Rush which would satisfy the craving of the wildest speculator. Notwith-

standing gold’s discouraging price of $333 an ounce, on offer was over R1000’s worth of gold

coins, plotted over the schools’ main field. The school raised well over R10 000 through this

initiative and is now all set to start on a major building project providing changing facilities

and, in time, a swimming bath and squash courts.”

The Mayor of Durbanville, Mr B Andrag, presented the prize to the winner, Mrs Shirley Smith

of Bloemhof.

In October the chairman of the Building Committee reported on developments. No final deci-

sion had yet been reached, but the PTA Committee wished the project to proceed. The Com-

mittee accepted as fund-raising projects for 1985: a School Levy, a Big Walk and a Big Draw/

Fête. It was hoped to raise R86 000.

Teachers’ conference

The Annual Conference of the South African Teachers’ Association was held at the school in June.

This was the first time the conference was held in the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. The staff

room became The Tiger’s Lair for five days. The participation of the PTA in the catering was

much appreciated. Many favourable comments were received from conference attendees. The

facilities were considered outstanding.

Facilities

Four additional mobile classrooms were to be provided for 1985.

Gas geyers were provided for the staff showers at the back of the hall.

In May further attention was given to toilet facilities, soundproofing of the music rooms, cables

for the intercoms in the mobile classrooms, a burglar alarm system, a proposed rifle range for

Cadets, and additional catwalks for the hall. In August the principal was informed that another mobile

classroom was to be provided specifically for woodwork. This was to be situated next to the field on the

parking area at the end of the road. By October all the prefabricated classrooms had been repaired.

StaffingAs a new staffing structure would take effect in 1985, the number of Department Heads would

double. As all applicants had to be evaluated by an inspector, the principal suggested that evalu-

ations be done so that appointments from within (the existing staff) might be made. The position

of second deputy was also to be advertised.

Mr Alastair Frost was nominated to fill the post of Deputy from April 1985. Mrs E Müller and Mr

S van Wyk were nominated to fill Department Head posts.

A second laboratory assistant was appointed in July.

43

Matric Dance - Fairmont’s Eiffel Tower - 1984

Matric Breakfast - 1984

44

School BoardThe Committee addressed a letter to the Administrator of the Cape supporting Mr A van Niekerk’s

candidature for Ward 1 - the ward in which the school was situated - for re-election to the Parow

School Board. An urgent request was made that consideration be given to nominating at least two

of the four nominated members to be representative of English-medium schools in the area. There

had been a significant increase in the numbers of English pupils. A favourable response was later

received from the MEC for Education.

In November the principal attended a computer seminar for principals. Recommendations in-

cluded one that the school should obtain a computer immediately, this to be available to clerical

staff initially. A needs assessment should be carried out in consultation with the C.E.D. Planner.

At least as much should be allocated to software as to hardware. In-service training would com-

mence in 1985. The C.E.D. would possibly provide computers.

School Committee mattersThe medical inspection report indicated that 277 of the 1006 pupils at the school were examined.

117 parents were present at the examination.

The Committee again considered queries about why the school had only one uniform stockist.

An excellent report was received from the Guidance inspector. Mr Phillips and Miss Middleton

were congratulated and thanked. The Sports Complex Fund and the Educational Fund were

combined into one account.

1984 also saw the introduction of the Uninterrupted Sustained Silent Reading period and the

various questionnaires to be completed during panel inspections.

New Staff 1984

In 1984 Fairmont had 1018 pupils, making it one of the largest English-medium schools in the Cape.

A number of new teachers were appointed. Front from left: Mr P H Phoenix, Mr D A Marnewick,

Miss A Mukheibir, Mr P Vegter and Miss D Middleton. In the back row are Mr J Dempers,

Mrs S van Niekerk, Mrs E Boonstra, Miss D van Niekerk, Miss C Chait, Miss S Lockett, Miss M Kitshoff

and Mr T A Cleevely (Courtesy: the Tygerburger 1984)

45

1985

In his circular to parents on 24 January 1985, Mr Wigg gave details about enrolment, staffing

and communication with the school.

The enrolment stood at 1126.

The new staffing structure meant that the school now had two Deputy Principals and eleven

Department Heads. Mr Gibbon was in charge of the Senior School (Stds 8 - 10) and Mr

Holgate, acting Deputy, in charge of the Junior School (Stds 6 - 7). Each standard had a

teacher in a promotion post as head.

Accommodation

In a note to the Committee he listed factors affecting teacher satisfaction including overcrowded

corridors and quadrangles, overcrowded changing rooms for girls’ physical education classes,

strain on toilet facilities, lack of tarred parking areas and the fact that sixteen teachers had to

teach in prefabricated classrooms.

There was much joy, therefore, on receipt of a letter from the School Board stating:

“A building scheme for extensions to provide accommodation for 850 pupils at your school

has been approved by the Department and it was also confirmed that the highest priority pos-

sible will be given to this scheme.”

A further mobile classroom and a prefabricated toilet block were provided.

An on-site meeting was held to consider alternative siting for the Sports Complex - the rival

sites being the corner of the Vineyard Field (an area to be utilised in later years for garages and

a rifle range) and an area near the library, including the gravel parking area overlooking the

end of the rugby field.

It is interesting to note that in a memorandum to the School Committee on future requirements

the principal included as an item to be considered: “Indoor Sports/Examination/Gymnasium/

Hall: Could this be sited between the two sets of tennis courts or should it be included in the

plans for extension to the main building?”

Eventually, Mr Fivaz, Dr Ireland and Mr Wigg met the MEC at the Provincial Building on 8

May in connection with the various accommodation matters. This was discussed at the subse-

quent Committee meeting.

The Department would first study the effect of the new (Stellenberg) school for some time

before making any decision.

This approach was unacceptable to the Fairmont delegation and an immediate plea was made

for financial assistance towards the sports complex. The MEC agreed to direct a delegation to

visit the school.

Re-siting the sports complex to the parking area site was going to compromise parking se-

verely. This matter would thus receive further attention.

At the Committee meeting in June the Robert Nixon Sports Complex design was cancelled.

New Departmental drawings would be available shortly.

The minutes of the meeting ended: “The meeting closed in record time! Members rushed for

the exits to be in time to see Bobby Ewing’s exit from Dallas!!!”

46

The Joint Association of Parent Associations of the Cape Province was inaugurated on 15

November 1984 to represent the views of parents of children at English-medium schools in the

Cape Province. This was brought to the attention of the School Committee for membership

application.

Three pupils obtained A aggregates in the 1984 Matric examination. Sixty passed with Matric

exemption.

Pupil Barbara Simon was a finalist in the Rooi Rose Home Economics competition. An amount

was allocated to enable the teacher, Mrs Kriek, to accompany her to the final in Margate.

Mr Ladewig and Mr Bishop left on promotion at the end of the second term.

Representations finally resulted in the Department allocating a third full-time secretary to the

school. Mrs Paula van der Wyk was appointed.

School Committee matters

At a meeting in September following the School Committee election, the new office-bearers

were elected:

Chairman - Mr D Truter

Vice Chairman - Mr K Cloete

Secretary - Mr J Cammidge

In his report in the school magazine, Mr Wigg paid tribute to Mr Fivaz, Mr Choice and Mr

Parker, who had served on the committee from 1977 to 1985.

In October new instructions regarding the raising, utilisation of and control over school funds

were received.

Tenders for the new Sports Complex to be built according to the modified Departmental plans

were opened on Thursday 31 October. At the subsequent Committee meeting it was resolved

that the tenders from Louis Naude Construction for the building at R207 817 and Micro Elec-

tric for the electrical installation at R13 771 be accepted.

The Department required annual inventory checks and stocktaking. At the time the general

inventory of furniture and equipment had to be divided into three sections - items provided by

the Department, Rand-for-Rand purchases and School Fund purchases and donations. Subject

inventories were also required. The Department provided separate general and subject cata-

logues.

Following instances of suspension and expulsion of pupils and an administrative inspection,

detailed instructions relating to these were given to all staff members. These included the

words “suspension involves a complicated procedure. The school psychologist must be con-

sulted, the School Committee must meet within seven days, interviews may be required and

the Department must be involved.”

Of the numerous items handled by the Committee in November some of the more interesting

were: the site for the Sports Complex would be handed over on 18 November, the school need

no longer refer requests for use of the school building to the School Board, queries again about

one school uniform stockist and the donation of a ‘tennis ball popper’ by the Rotary Club.

Items to proceed included a rubbish enclosure, a tennis shelter, micro jets and fertilising the

fields. Mr Truter was elected at the regional congress concerning parent representation.

47

Class of ‘85 - (Die Burger) - Valedictory Day 1985

The Swimming Team - 1985

THE THREE HOUSES

The highlight of the year for the 1985

Matric Council was the presentation

on Matric Day of the coats of arms of

South Africa and Fairmont and the

badges of the three houses.

48

PTA

The PTA general meetings during 1985, on a Standard basis, were Std 10 in June, Std 8 in July,

Std 9 in August, and Std 7 in October.

The AGM had as theme “Focus on Fairmont - A face in the crowd”. This was a pupil and staff

presentation in two parts and included the participation of three Rotary Exchange students.

The Big Walk was the main fund-raising activity. R16 500 was raised. The Rotary Careers

Evening (the Std 9 meeting) was also most successful.

Founders’ Day, on 7 September, included a braai organised by Mr Hudson and was a great

success.

The PTA braai was held on 16 November. School Committee members and sub-committee

convenors were included.

Achievements

Twenty-two pupils were selected to represent the Province during the year.

Softball was flourishing as these comments from the teacher-in-charge, Mr Steve Wright, indi-

cate:

“Fairmont continues to dominate WP Softball. Seven of our girls obtained Provincial colours.

Softball is possibly Fairmont’s biggest and most successful sport”.

Highlights of the year included the production “Relative Values” and the Spring Run - this had

become a tradition to celebrate the beginning of Spring. An extract for the magazine report

gives an indication of the spirit of the occasion:

“Mr Wigg started, first the girls and then the boys, by sounding the now traditional siren. The

boys set off at a blistering pace (obviously trying to catch up with the girls) with Patrick Day

in the lead.

“As usual, the Spring Run had the runners, the joggers, the walkers, the slouchers and...the

teachers. The light drizzle caused some people to look rather soggy and caused others to look

considerably cleaner (no doubt, a serious side-effect). On the whole everyone thoroughly

enjoyed the occasion and we are looking forward to the event next year.”

During the Youth Week contact between Fairmont and Durbanville High Schools, the Public

Relations Society compiled, published and distributed 1500 copies of a sixteen-page booklet

informing the youth of Durbanville of the many sporting and cultural activities available.

Mr Raymond Ackerman was the guest speaker at Speech Night. He very kindly offered to

assist the school with its swimming pool project by way of the Pick ‘n Pay “Till Strip Scheme”.

Pick ‘n Pay would commit 1% of R1 million worth of till strips handed in, that is R10 000. The

period for the scheme would be 1 March to 30 September 1986.

The first rugby and netball teams toured to Lutzville.

The Computer Club was introduced by Mr Ladewig. As Fairmont still did not have a compu-

ter, the first few months were spent on computer basics. Finally, towards the end of the second

term, a BBC computer was purchased.

The art and literature included in the magazine was again of outstanding merit. Bronwyn

Kelly, Linda Padfield, Andrew Loudon and Neil Walker were among those whose contribu-

tions were included.

49

The magazine again featured individual photographs of the matrics with - in most cases -

humorous comments. A random selection:

“René Burbidge: This1984/85 drum majorette leader wishes to become a graphic

designer. She wants to invent a jet-propelled mace with a magnetic-field link with her

hands.

Grant Catto: ‘Commodore’ will proceed in life digging up old trees in search of trunks

(trees of treasure?). He played first team rugby and golf and hopes to retire at an early

age to enjoy his findings.

Gavin Perrow: Although Gavin wants to be famous, he also wants his name in lights,

preferably floodlights. He wants to continue life as an earthworm trainer extraordinaire.

Sally Williams: ‘Willy’ was Chairlady of the Outdoor Club. Too much sun has led to

her believe she can become a fairy. She described her impact on Fairmont as amazing!”

MATRIC AND HOUSE BADGES

The Matric Representative Council introduced Matric Badges in 1984. The 1985 coun-

cil presented on Matric Day the coats of arms of South Africa and Fairmont and the

badges of the three houses. All the funds were raised by the matrics of 1985.

In December, Mr Don Gibbon, Deputy Principal and member of the founder staff, left the

school to take up the position of Principal of Muizenberg High School and Mr Holgate left to

become a Department Head at Plumstead High.

Opening of the Recreation Centre: Dr S W Walters and Mr C Wigg - 1986 (Courtesy: the Tygerburger)

50

1986

PTA

In February the PTA Committee determined that its main project for the year would be the

Tenth Anniversary of the founding of the school. A committee for this purpose comprising

Mrs Stumpf, Mr Long and Mr Kleynhans was established. Mrs du Toit later joined this com-

mittee. To celebrate the tenth anniversary it was decided to include the official opening of the

new building, Founders’ Day 1986, tree-planting and a formal dinner early in 1987.

Mrs Keohane, the tuck shop convenor, outlined a number of requirements and suggestions. A

separate fund-raising committee decided on:

• a 10th Anniversary Swimming Pool Appeal

• a Golf Day and

• a “Diamond Rush” to be linked to Founders’ Day.

The Pick ‘n Pay till slips scheme was progressing well and already half a million rands’ worth

of slips had been collected.

A PTA Maintenance work party met periodically and assisted with a number of projects. Meet-

ings were still being conducted on a Standard basis.

The R1 million target for the till strip scheme was reached by May. Mr Long, in charge, was

congratulated on this remarkable achievement.

At the May PTA meeting the programme of tenth anniversary events was further clarified:

• The official opening of the Recreation Centre (the new name for the Sports Complex)

would take place on 5 September. A cocktail party would follow that evening.

• Saturday 6 September - the 10th Founders’ Day. The sports day would start during

the late morning and end at approximately five in the afternoon. The PPA would also

be involved.

• At 18:00 that evening the “Diamond Rush” would take place and be followed by a

Barn Dance.

• 27 October - 10th Speech Night. There would be an Open Day from lunch-time.

• A formal dinner would be held early in 1987.

The abuse of drugs in the wider community was becoming evident. Unfortunately, this was a

time when a number of false bomb threats were being made in the country. Three Fairmont

pupils were charged with making such a threat at the school.

The school participated in a fund-raising drive for the Diabetes Association. R6000 was col-

lected and one hundred pupils received calculators for their efforts.

The English-speaking Parents’ Association was well established, but most of the work was still

being done behind the scenes.

Coffee mugs had been sold to commemorate the Fifth Anniversary. 500 mugs bearing the

school coat of arms were ordered for the Tenth.

As the year progressed, the PTA Committees and the sub-committees were very active in

preparation for these major events. Each group reported back in detail on the arrangements at

successive meetings.

51

Bugsy Malone - Anthony Shaw and Vanda Fernandes (Photo: The Argus)

52

School Committee

The School Committee devoted much attention to progress on the Recreation Centre, prepara-

tions for the construction of a swimming pool, a proposed cricket pavilion for the Oval Field

(Erf 713), extensions to the main building and various other minor works. The Municipality,

which had facilitated the use of Erf 713 on a twenty-five year lease after a consultation process

with the school and neighbouring residents, now made available the triangle of land south of

Medway for parking. However, no improvements would be made to the area.

An administration sub-committee was established. Proposed rugby and hockey tours to the Trans-

vaal and a cricket tour to Uitenhage were also discussed. It was decided that the publication date

for the school magazine would be January 1987. Mrs Clarke would be the teacher-in-charge.

In August the Department informed the school that no financial assistance could be expected

from the Department. It was resolved that a delegation be sent to object and endeavour to

change the decision. Other items considered at this time were a new prefects’ room, acoustics

in the AV theatre, painting and refurbishing, the tuckshop problems and the school magazine.

Mr Basil Starke was thanked for his very kind donation of a scoreboard for the main rugby field.

Mr Williamson reported on the results of the survey concerning the school uniform and the

stockist. The committee resolved to retain the current school uniform, but to investigate the

appointment of an additional stockist. The La Vita Restaurant at the Bellville Golf Club would

be the venue for the tenth anniversary dinner. Curtaining of the Recreation Centre would be

investigated.

Staffing

Department of Education Circular 66/1986 brought about significant changes in staffing. In a

policy statement, the Minister declared that ten per cent of teaching posts below the level of

head of department were to be reserved for the appointment of students completing their courses

of study and for teachers who were available for temporary appointment. In secondary schools

thirty per cent of the posts should be reserved for men and thirty per cent for women, while the

rest might be filled by either men or women. Married women teachers were eligible for per-

manent appointment from 1 January 1987.

The PTA was informed that two events to thank all parents and staff for the special help given

during the year would be organised - a tea for the tuckshop ladies and a braai for the PTA. All

arrangements for the opening of the Recreation Centre and the Founders’ Day activities the

next day were finalised at the meeting on 4 September.

Opening of Recreation Centre

The Recreation Centre was opened on Friday 5 September by Dr S W Walters, Deputy Direc-

tor of Education for the Cape. The programme read:

1. National Anthem

2. Welcome - Mr C Wigg, Principal

3. Reading - Miss N Oosthuizen, Head Girl

4. The Lord’s Prayer - Choir

5. Introduction of Deputy Director of Education by Mr A J Truter, Chairman, School

Committee

6. Address - Dr S W Walters

7. Official opening of Centre and unveiling of plaque - Dr S W Walters

53

First Awards Function in the Recreation Centre - Terry

Fowler receives her award - 1986Prefects’ Induction Ceremony - 1986

The Prefects - 1986

54

8. Hymn - Your God Reigns

9. Thanks - Mr C Mullet, Head Boy

10. School Song

Special guests included the Head of Physical Amenities, the Director: Works, the School Board

Representative, a representative from the Architects’ office, the circuit inspector, the builder, a

Works Department representative, Mr Fivaz, previous School Committee chairman, and the

school and PTA committees.

They and the staff enjoyed a buffet lunch in the Centre afterwards.

A report in the Tyger Burger provided a description of the opening and of the centre:

“Fairmont High School’s new Recreation Centre of R222 000 was officially opened...last

Friday. More than half of the building costs - an amount of R132 000 - was contrib-

uted by the school.

...the ground floor comprises three changing rooms with showers and toilets for boys,

two changing rooms with showers and toilets for girls, a big kitchen that will also be

used as a tuckshop, toilets for adults, two storerooms of which one will be used for the

swimming pools’ filtration plant and a first aid room, also to be used by referees. On

the top floor are a small kitchen, storeroom and hall for social functions. The hall will

also be used as a venue for girls’ physical education classes”

The events of Founders’ Day, 6 September, were very successful. A R7000.00 profit was

made. Photographs of the weekend would be on display on Open Day (20 October). Thanks

were expressed to all concerned, especially to Mr Brymer, who organised the Diamond Rush,

staff members Mr Long and Mr Clarke, and Mr Bosman for the braai. The Barn Dance was

well organised by Mr and Mrs Parker.

Final arrangements were also made for the Open Day. The Junior Prize-giving would be at

13:00, followed by the events of the day. Mrs J Grieve would be the speaker at the Junior

Prize-giving. Speech Night at 20:00 would be for pupils from Standards 8 to 10 and their

parents. The speaker would be Miss H Starke of Child Welfare.

Unfortunately, the number of parents who attended the two prize-givings was disappointing.

In November the Committee appointed Towers Store as the second stockist of the school uniform.

The school was informed that it would receive a fourteen-point rifle range and a type C ar-

moury during 1990/91.

Other matters of interest included the uninterrupted reading period, the intercom system, the

achievement award process for staff, the commencement of automatic salary payments, item

bank tests by the HSRC, the successful Needlework Fashion Show and the staff bowls compe-

tition. With the exception of one year, when the staff attempted golf, a bowls afternoon was an

annual event.

In 1986, the staff comprised the principal, two deputies, eight department heads, three senior

teachers and forty other teachers. Five acted as department heads for all or part of the year.

There were three secretaries, two laboratory assistants, the caretaker and his six assistants.

The magazine Staff Notes included this paragraph: “The Fairmont Staff Room was a warm,

friendly place in spite of the constantly changing population and the need to get to know new

people almost every month.”

Sixty-nine pupils obtained matriculation exemption in the 1985 examination. Heather McGregor

achieved an A aggregate.

55

Fêtes

Convener Sum Raised

1977 Mrs Beryl Fivaz R2 042

1978 Mrs Beryl Fivaz R2 000+

1979 Mrs Beryl Craddock R3 500+

Mrs Val Williams

1981 Derek & Alison Gawler R5 500

Speech Night - Guest Speakers

1977 Mr Gene Louw

1978 Prof Terry McCarthy

1979 Sir De Villiers Graaff

1980 Mr Clive van Ryneveld

1981 Prof M J Ashley

1982 Mrs Madeleine van Biljon

1983 Mr George Young

1984 Mr G L Hester

1985 Mr Raymond Ackerman

1986 Mrs Helen Starke

Junior Prize-givings

1984 Mr Clive Roos

1985 Mr Philip Parsons

1986 Mrs Julie Grieve

Openings

School - Mr PS Meyer

5 September 1978

Fields - Mr Basil Starke 1980

Recreation

Centre - Dr S W Walters

5 September 1986

The South African Teachers’ AssociationConference (1984) was held at Fairmont

Fund-raising

1978 Autumn Walk R4 260

1979 The King & I

(by the Festival Players)

1979 Pick a box (part of fête)

1979 PTS Dance (Brackenfell)

1979 Check your Mate

(Springbok Radio)

1980 Autumn Walk R6 700

1981 Max Collie Show (PPA)

1982 Pip Freedman (PTA)

Big Walk R11 000

1984 Gold Rush R10 600

1985 Big Walk R16 400

1986 Diamond Rush

Some memorable occasions

1985 - Youth Year: Presentation of fountain

to town by Durbanville High &

Fairmont

1986 - Founders Day

Diamond Rush and Barn Dance

1984 - 29 pupils & 3 teachers attended the

Grahamstown English Festival

(13 attended in 1982)

Annual Events

1. 1st Saturday in September annually -

Past Pupils vs School

2. Annually - first week of third term -

Settlers vs Fairmont contact (the first

contact was in April 1980)

Exchange Scholars at Fairmont

1978 Kim Cowley (Australia)

Kelly Austin (USA)

1981 Melanie Trethowan (USA)

Astrid Levelt (Canada)

Anke Weidemann (Germany)

1984 Drew O’Neal (USA)

Julie Bryant (USA)

1985 Maureen Keeley (USA)

1986 Karl Anderson (USA)

1977 - 1986

56

Exchange Scholars from Fairmont

1983 Kinga Sebesteny (Thailand)

Karen Davies (USA)

1985 Sonja Blok (USA)

1986 Audrey Hepburn (USA)

1986 Michael Paton (USA)

Enrolment

1977 - 330

1978 - 496

1979 - 635

1980 - 691

1981 - 784

1882 - 831

1983 - 935

1984 - 1001

1985 - 1119

1986 - 1078

1979 First School Magazine

1982 Girls’ Hockey & Netball -

UPE Winter Sports School

1982 Tours of Europe (Settlers/Fairmont)

1982 Fairmont/York High Contact

1983 Fairmont/York High Contact

1986 Rugby/Hockey team tour to

Johannesburg

Musicals, Plays and Events

1979 - What a Weekend

1980 - Christmas Carols & Readings (8 Dec)

1980 - See How They Run (Oct)

1981 - Head over Heels - Music revue

5th Anniversary Dinner

(Founders’ Day Dinner): Mr Bouwer,

MEC Education, guest speaker.

1983 - No No Nannette

1984 - The Boyfriend

1985 - Relative Values

1986 - Bugsy Malone

Pupil Achievements

1979 Kevin Webb - SA Sailing team (Italy)

1986 Pantry Pride Competition:

Winners: Penny Neumann & Bridget

Laughton

Past Pupils’ AssociationInaugural meeting - 25 June 1980

First AGM - 25 February 1981

Chairman

1980 - 1982 Evangelos Kolovos, Craig Paine,

Derek Klazinga, Clem van der Riet.

Tenth Anniversary Dinner: Mrs S Neumann, Mr Clive Wigg, Mrs L Wigg, Mr E Louw - 1987

57

1987 - 1991POOL, REUNIONS, SPIRIT AND MODEL B

1987

The 1987 school year started with a 10th Anniversary cake, resplendent with ten candles, in

Assembly.

Financial Matters

Financial matters were predominant at the start of 1987. The Receiver of Revenue informed

the school that of the total initial contribution of R160 made by a parent in respect of his child

in the 1987 tax year (1986 school year) the R60 donation to the educational fund would qualify

as a deduction and a Section 18A receipt might be issued in respect of this amount. However,

the remainder, which clearly constituted school fees, was non-deductible.

One of the full-time secretaries’ posts was converted to a part-time post.

An Education Department circular headed, “Curtailment of Expenditure”, stated:

“The Department’s budget allowance for the 1987/88 financial year is inadequate for the

continuation of all services supplied in the past or their supply on the same scale as before.

For this reason it is absolutely essential that expenditure be curtailed drastically. The Depart-

ment is compelled to suspend the allocation for the upkeep of sports facilities immediately.”

The implication was that over R4000 in school income for 1987 had to be found from other

sources.

This was at the time the school was proceeding with the swimming pool. The Committee was

also to consider the establishment of a bursary fund. A parent, Mr MJ Strydom, had prepared

the relevant documents for the establishment of a trust for this purpose.

Education Department Circulars

Two circulars from the Department, which aroused some debate at the time, were, firstly, one

that stated that “Educational properties may not be made available for advertising purposes

or, with a view to making a profit, to outside bodies. These properties may not be used for

dances unless the dances are for pupils, in which case there must be proper supervision.”

Secondly, in a statement on National Sports Policy, “The Department prefers that a school

committee should do everything possible to attain consensus (unanimity) before a match against

a sports team of a school for Coloured, Asian and Black pupils takes place. If, however, unani-

mous agreement cannot be attained, a majority decision of the committee will be sufficient.”

A litho-printer was purchased and installed in May.

Pool payments made during 1987 were:

• Springbok Gunite R22500 and R20997

• Starke Ayres R462

• Watney’s Excavators R276

• Rolltop Fencing R6548

• Trio Building & Plumbing R4218 and R329

• Pool & Filtration Engineering R2620 and R380

• L&G Landscaping R300

58

To this, paving at R9839 and construction of a new pump area at R2400 had still to be added.

By April the principal was able to inform the PTA Committee that the first phase of the pool

had been completed. The filtration plant was to be installed in August.

Tenth Anniversary Dinner

The Tenth Anniversary Formal Dinner, a Polynesian Buffet, was held at the La Vita Restaurant

at the Bellville Golf Club on 31 January. The guest speaker was the Administrator of the Cape,

Mr Gene Louw. Mr Keith Cloete was the master of ceremonies. Mr Truter, Chairman of the

School Committee, welcomed all present and Mr Clem van der Riet, Chairman of the Past

Pupils’ Association, also addressed the guests.

PTA

The PTA AGM programme in February included talks by Vanda Fernandes, the Head Girl, on

“Die Burger Leadership Course for Head Prefects”, for which she had been selected, slides

and a talk by Sarah Wass, Rotary Exchange Student, and a talk by Mrs Heyns, Teacher-Coun-

sellor, on Lifeskills Teaching.

Main fund-raising ideas on the PTA’s list in March were: Fun Run, Boot Sale, Art and Pottery

Exhibition, 100 Club, Variety Show, Film Premiere at a local cinema.

The Art Display commenced on 18 May. This proved to be a worthy cultural event. The PTA

planned, initially, a 100 Club. The plans were then to change this to a 250 Holiday Club, but

the response was poor and the venture was cancelled. An open Fun Run was held as a fund-

raising venture. 232 runners participated. The next function to be planned was the Alvon

Collison Show. Each standard would perform for fifteen to twenty minutes during the first

half of the programme. The show was well attended and well received.

An important decision was to have a cheese and wine function for the parents of all new pupils

at the start of 1988. The function would become an annual event.

Some of the spirit and fun of the year can be seen in extracts from The Grapevine.

DRUMMIES 1987

Thursday dawned and Fairmont’s badly painted bus made its way to Boksburg. After final

warm-ups and many pep-talks, we marched through to the semi-finals with our best per-

formance ever. Our bus drivers watched us and they were so thrilled by our performance

that they surprised us with a carnation on each of our seats.

On Friday we bettered our display with “happy, smiling faces and sparkling personalities”

and to our great joy, we achieved our goal by reaching the finals. That night we splashed

out in style and dined at Gold Reef City. Various speeches were made and we realised

with rising emotion that the following day would be our last competition march as the

1987 squad. Tears were eventually shed when Yvette de Reuck choked on the first sen-

tence of her speech and everyone vowed to do her best on Saturday.

Saturday arrived and we pulled out all the stops to come 8th in the whole of South Africa

(out of approximately 200 schools). Our leader, Carol-Anne Heibner, was awarded 7th

place and our classy gold and brown uniform, 4th.

59

PAUL BUCKBY AND “CHANCE” VISIT FAIRMONT

The band waddled excitedly onto the stage amid screams for “Paul”. The one lady

member of the band, who was obviously into shorts and mini-skirts, did cause quite a

stir amongst the “boys” not screaming for Paul Buckby.

After the first one or two numbers, a general migration took place towards the stage

and then almost all the girls went ape. It is appropriate to pause here and extend our

sincere condolences to the family of the boy on whose shoulders Sandra sat. We feel

for you. Apart from this, a good time was had by all those pressed against the stage

passionately.

To refocus our attention on the star of the show...well, what can I say about his dress,

other than it reeks of Miami Vice; his style is that of an aspirant sex symbol and his

attitude marks him as a potential Simon le Bon.

The music lacked a South African flavour, but otherwise was refreshingly original.

Our thanks to Mrs Newham for making the concept possible, Mr Wigg for allowing it

and US for supporting it. We hope the enthusiasm shown will encourage more shows.

(Maybe one day in the not too far off future Savuka and Johnny Clegg will pay us a

visit. Teehee!). The Grapevine

Pupil achievements during 1987 included:

• Fairmont being placed tenth out of 102 schools in the UCT/Shell Mathematics Olym-

piad.

• Annemarie Hettasch and Belinda Ollewagen won 1st prize in the Pantry Pride

Cooking Competition.

• Glynnis Horne was placed second in South Africa in the Bernina/”Rooi Rose” Sewing

Competition for her evening garment made as part of her class needlework.

• Judy Newham was the winner of a national art competition.

• The choir won the St George’s Singers Trophy for mixed choirs of eighteen years and

under at the Cape Town Eisteddfod.

• Five pupils were placed in the top 10% in the country in the 23rd National Youth

Science Olympiad.

• Glen Buckley was selected for the SA All-Star baseball team.

• Andrew Sturdon won the general section of the WP Closed Chess Championship.

• Lance Butler scored 126 against Settlers - the highest individual cricket score to date.

• The Boys’ first hockey team was unbeaten. Barry Chedburn was chosen for the SA

Schools’ B team.

• The U16 soccer team won their league.

• Robert Northcote (captain), Stuart McNee (vice-captain) and Allan Beverley were

chosen for the WP Schools U19 soccer team.

• Samantha Rose, Laureen Fraser and Natalie Lloyd were chosen for the WP Schools’

U19 softball team.

• The first table tennis team won the WP Schools’ League Championship.

• Colleen de Villiers was selected for the WP Schools tennis team.

• Richard Olivier was chosen as a member of the SA Wrestling team.

60

PANEL INSPECTION PANIC

From 31 August to 4 September Fairmont was in a state of emotional and physical upheaval.

This was the week when the no...no...notorious panel inspectors made their appearance.

Teachers lived in fear of these cunning creatures and some still have nightmares. Group-

work suddenly became an everyday occurrence and so did regular homework.

Pupils stared in amazement as plants sprung up in the strangest areas of the corridors,

desks were sanded and painted, floors, walls and ceilings were polished and adorned

with posters, and worst of all...hair and nail inspections were held almost hourly!

When the time came for the teachers to be evaluated, pupils witnessed severe cases of

memory loss and fumbling for words. Long, perfectly manicured teachers’ nails were

bitten to the quick and various other unmentionable side effects were seen taking their

toll on the teachers.

The inspection, however, showed the pupils one thing: teachers are people too and not

the “iron men/women” they appear (perhaps try) to be.

The Grapevine

Each class raised money for the Community Chest during the year. A trophy was presented to

Fairmont in recognition of the effort of the Std 6 to 8 pupils. This was to be awarded annually

for community service.

Speakers at the Winter Sports Awards Dinner were Mr and Mrs K Rose-Innes, and Mr Robin Jackman

was the guest speaker at the Summer Sports Awards Dinner, held in the Recreation Centre.

Winners of the annual literature competition were Dominique le Roux (senior section) and

Charmaine Gray (junior). This is a short extract:

EXAM FEVER

Here I sit in total confusion

With waves of chaos breaking over me.

My mind, like an overstuffed letterbox,

rejects all this information

that I try to cram in.

D le Roux

Past Pupils’ Association

Newly elected to the Past Pupils’ Association Committee in September were K Seeley (chairman), B

Proctor (vice-chairman), J Quine (secretary), S Cummings (treasurer), K Penrose and L Hills.

Staff:

Teachers who left at the end of the year included Mr Gilman of the founder staff, Mr Phillips,

Mr Phoenix, Mr Krige and Mr S. van Wyk (all on promotion), Mr Marnewick, Mrs Mills, Mrs

Povey and Miss Sharpe.

Mrs Neumann, secretary, left to join the Arts Faculty at UCT.

Nine staff members continued with further study.

1987 Matric Results: Six A aggregates, forty-five matriculation exemptions.

61

The Swimming Pool Area - 1987

Front of School - 1987

62

1988

At the first committee meeting of the year the PTA appointed new sub-committees. These were:

• Teas Committee (Evening) S Johnston

• Teas Committee (Day) S Dorrington

• Tuckshop J Gouws

• Clothing Bank T Bramham

• Speakers G Thurtell

• Fund-raising Executive

Proposed capital items for the next four years were listed by the Principal:

1988 Bus No 1 R31300

Garage R6500

Computer-Administration System R15000

1989 Computers - Teaching R11200

A/V Theatre R6500

Equipment Store R10000

Tractor Shelter R3000

Display cabinet (foyer) R3000

1990 Changing rooms (Oval) R60000

Stands and seating R30000

1991 Grand piano R20000

Band instruments R4000

Partition Recreation Centre R10000

The water account for sports fields was budgeted at R14000 for 1988, and boreholes were to

be investigated.

Three combined committees socials were planned.

Improvements were effected to the school coat-of-arms, which led to a neater, sharply de-

fined badge.

The Parow Teachers’ Centre conducted a professional needs analysis at the school. The results

of the surveys presented new challenges. This was the first survey conducted at the school.

Others would follow.

Other important events were:

• the Panel Inspection in May

• the fête and the Leap Year Dance

• the arrival of the Fairmont bus

• Arbor Day

• the Big Swim

• the production “Alice in Wonderland”

• the Needlework Fashion Show

• the official opening of the pool by the mayor, Councillor R Ciolli.

This was a time of national service for both graduating pupils and for staff members, and was

a matter of concern each year, affecting staffing and the lives of those involved. Conscription

would continue until it finally ended in 1993.

63

SCHOOL INFORMATION 1988Number of teaching staff 59

Promotability: number visited 1

Merit Awards: number visited 6

Number of beginner teachers 3

Number of Std 10 pupils 202

Approximate number of grade/subject changes 150

Number of applicants for teaching bursaries 7

The prefects revived the Boeresport Day, which proved to be one of the more successful events of

the year. “In an effort to develop the school archives, numerous photographs were mounted and

hung in the hall foyer, giving the area a sense of history and reminding us of those who have

contributed to Fairmont’s past”. The intention was to add to and extend the display annually.

Sporting achievements included:

• Kim White was champion of her age group at the WP Junior Athletics meeting, and

was placed eighteenth at the SA cross-country championship.

• The most successful year to date of the Drum majorettes. The proud squad returned

from the national championships in Durban, covered with glory and accolades, offi-

cially acknowledged as one of the top squads in the country; and the winners of the

shield for the Best Parade Team. The team was placed fourth in South Africa.

Some Matrics of 1988

(Back) Stephanie Bickel, Heidi Stumpf, Rene Cloete,(Front) Kristina Kratz, Ewold van Mechelen, Angela Cox

(Back) Lynda van der Westhuizen, Nicole Lenz, YvetteLombard (Front) Shirley Cannone, Jenean Whitmore,Carol Whitchurch

Laureen Fraser, Gillian Wood, Chanelle van der Watt,Kathy van der Riet, Caronne Hughes, Julie Kearsey,

Marielle Steeman, Janice Turner

(Back) Ian Skeet, Jane Slabber, Graham Skelding(Front) Nicole Heidemann, Gero Aweh, Ena Venter,

Jean-Pierre Craye

64

• Quentin du Toit and Bronwyn Hudson were selected for WP Hockey A teams.

• Sean Bossenger reached a milestone when he played his fiftieth match for the

first rugby team and played in the Craven Week trials.

• “The First softball team must still be ranked as the number one school side in

South Africa.” Eight girls were chosen for provincial teams - Laureen Fraser,

Samantha Rose and Genevieve Steyn for the U19 team. Mr Long was selected as

the WP U13 team coach.

• “Fairmont was one of the strongest soccer-playing schools in the Peninsula.”

• Steven Crooke was seeded sixth in South Africa in table tennis.

ROLY POLY’S...Whether you are a roly-poly, obese midget, spaghetti giant or Fairmont Fairy, in the eyes

of the PT teacher, handstands on beams are for all!!! Whether you’re dripping with rain

or dripping with perspiration - IT’S PT - whether you like it or not!

The PT lesson (of course) brings with it a sackful of letters from very worried mommies

whose daughters are perhaps sufferers from claustrophobia and can’t bear the thought of

crawling through tunnels under benches.

Even if they are petrified of heights, they’re expected to shin up 10m high rope ladders

and swing along ropes at 50km/h like Tarzan. Except that instead of brave war cries you

hear petrified shrieks.

Perhaps if the PT teachers did the backward rolls on slanting benches and ran around the

field with the girls, they too would experience the pleasures of physical torture.

Sometimes the beam wobbles so much under a poor shaking girl’s legs that it almost

develops its natural frequency. Then there is the horse that nearly cracks under the weight

of the girls that “plonk” heavily onto it!

What sheer madness to make girls (who haven’t exercised strenuously for months) suddenly take

on a vicious aerobics class so that they suffer every time they creakily TRY to take a step.

But take heart - PT isn’t all that bad. Some classes have started to have dancing lessons.

Unfortunately not everyone is born with a sense of rhythm. I wonder how Mrs Nieuwoudt

manages to keep a straight face while some girls plod around doing the “waltz”?

But the sheer fun of it all certainly makes up for it.

The Grapevine 2nd term 1988

Matric Dance Invitation - 1988

65

In September the PTA conducted a survey of parents to obtain feedback on the popularity of a

number of fund-raising schemes. 402 questionnaires were returned. The ratings were:

1. Dance

2. Fête

3. Pop Concert

4. Max Collie Hypnotist Show (or similar)

5. Big Walk / nationwide competition

6. Concert plus dinner / cheese and wine

In November it was decided on:

1. A Valentine’s dance for pupils on 17 February 1989

2. A fête on 29 April.

3. A raffle.

The chairman and vice-chairman would represent the committee at the luncheon for new teachers

on 17 January 1989.

Here are some of the Matrics’ responses to a survey about themselves and what they would

remember about Fairmont (taken from the 1988 magazine):

THE ACADEMICS

• Glen Thomson, The School Dux and all-round A-aggregate pupil (who

was confused about why he lost two marks in his Maths HG exam).

• Paul Klaver and Reinhardt Rall (the Sharp Twins), who never went through a

Maths lesson without whipping out their calculators.

• The modest Gillian Human.

• Greg Wilkinson (always stiff competition).

• Colleen de Villiers and Lawrence Ireland (the academic pride and joy of IOC).

• Konrad Herre (the silent one)

THE “CHARACTERS” . . .

• Janet Beverley and Caroline van Heerden - brought delight and laughter

to many a boring occasion.

• J.P “Loverboy” Gouws, who broke just too many hearts.

• Nicola Prangley, who managed to maintain a tan throughout the year, while her friends

worked hard at school.

• Paul Prior, who split his pants just before the Matric Farewell.

• Robert Northcote, Paul Prior and Alan Rees - unforgettable as the ultimate ugly sisters

and fairy godmother in the Standard Nine production of “Hot Cinders”.

• Lance Butler, the tap dancer, who also was capable of surprising everyone with his

occasional earth-shattering intellectual comments.

THE LASTING MEMORIES . . . OF FAIRMONT

• Having breaks shortened because of someone else’s litter.

• The Standard 6 camp.

• Abortive Physics experiments.

• “Bugsy Malone”, “Alice” and the other dramatic productions.

• The teachers and pupils who tried to make us feel as if Fairmont had always been home.

• Mr Frost and his “when the going gets tough, the tough get going”

• Athletics Day.

• Standard 6 plays.

• The “brown-ness” of it all!

66

OF THE MATRIC YEAR

• Homework ’till the early hours of the morning.

• The thrill of our very first swim in the school pool (we thought it would never happen).

• Cheerleading.

• The prefects.

• The braai with the teachers.

• Valentine’s Day fun.

• The Senior Citizens’ tea-party.

• and - on ALL the lists - “Taking a Chance” at the MATRIC DANCE.

WHAT WE’LL MISS

• Bubbly Cathy Searle giving hugs to everyone.

• The enjoyable hockey tours.

• Mr Collier (“Have you started learning History yet?).

• Drummie competitions.

• Miss Coetzer’s motherly love for her Standard 10’s.

• Just being able to see our friends every day.

• The jokes.

• Usually getting home at 2:45.

• The drama functions.

• Unbelievably, the teachers.

• The annoying Standard 8’s.

• Mr Clarke’s Biology worksheets.

• Swimming during P.E.

• FRIENDS.

WHAT WE WILL NOT MISS

• The early mornings (for a while anyway)

• Homework.

• Short hair.

• Rules and uniform.

• Work squad.

• The commands being shouted at the drummies loudly enough for everyone to hear.

• Lining up and walking in straight lines.

• The pressure of matric.

Five 1988 Matric pupils obtained A aggregates in the final examination, and a further 116

obtained matriculation exemption.

Charleen Cannone, Nicolette Klose, Louise Hullock, Michelle Hauck

67

1989

The 150th anniversary of the Cape Education Department was celebrated. As part of this the

Drama, Art, Cultural and Photographic Societies combined to present a Festival of the Arts

from 17 to 21 April. The Fairmont revue “The Good, The Bad and The Ridiculous” high-

lighted periods during the school life of the pupils. It was highly acclaimed. In addition to the

other activities of the festival, a Standard 6 mural and plaque, donated by the 1989 prefect

body, was unveiled. The mural portrayed that which the 1988 standard 6’s found most enjoy-

able about the first year of high school.

UNVEILING OF STD 6 ART MURAL• Music played while people arrive.

• Items by Lelania Cromwell and Anya Haarhoff (Std 6 1988 pupils).

• Unveiling of mural by Mr Wigg

• Handing out of sweets and more music.

Arbor Day

Mr K Meiring (Administrator of the Cape) and Mr Fox (Chief Superintendent of Education)

were honoured guests at a special Arbor Day assembly on 11 August, and afterwards partici-

pated in a tree-planting ceremony. Tree-planting on Arbor Day was to become an annual event.

Big Walk

11 August “will long be remembered as a day of great determination, perseverance and sur-

vival of the fittest. The occasion was, of course, the infamous 10km ‘Big Walk’.”

Cape Co-Educational Schools Sports Week

Mr B van Wijk, deputy principal, reported on the Cape Co-Educational Schools’ Winter Sports

Week: “The first week of the June/July holidays saw Fairmont hosting the Cape Co-Educa-

tional Schools’ Winter Sports Week. This week was introduced by Cambridge High School

from East London in 1987 and is held every second year. The following schools participated:

Cambridge High and Hudson Park High from East London, Westering High and Lawson Brown

High from Port Elizabeth, Fish Hoek Senior High, Bergvliet High and Fairmont High from

Cape Town. The schools participated in the following sports: rugby, netball and girls’ hockey.”

Despite the severe Cape winter, the week was an outstanding success.

The melodrama “Before Your Very Eyes” was produced by Miss Bartels. The cast was “drawn

from a wide spectrum of Fairmont personalities and included a number of teachers - reference

was made to ‘Marnewick’s Belly Dance, Touzel’s Tutus and Marshall’s Injun’s”.

First Matric Reunion

The 10th Anniversary Reunion of the first matric class was the first such reunion and the

forerunner of many similar functions. Carina (Norman) and Karen (Blake) initiated the reun-

ion and Ilse (Landman) “had telephone lines red-hot over our country to ensure a good attend-

ance. A number of previous staff members also attended a highly successful function.”

1989 also, sadly, saw the departure of two of the outstanding members of the founder staff -

Mrs Yvonne van Wyk (secretary) and Mr Abe Viviers (accounting).

68

The choir’s “Carols by Candlelight” in December was another success.

The cheerleaders for the Inter-Schools athletics meetings, chosen at the Inter-House meeting,

were Angie Niedermeyer, Jayne Cohen, Brent Willet and Gavin Jacobs.

Much of the work of the PTA concerned fund-raising, especially all aspects of the Big Walk,

the Fête, the tuckshop, the clothing bank and the boerewors braai. A total of R29483 was raised.

Other noteworthy events and achievements during the year were the traditional Boeresport

Day, a girls’ rugby match during the fête, the Sports Awards Dinner, the drum majorettes’

outstanding success in being placed fourth at the national championship, the fashion show of

matric dresses and, as always, the dance itself and the Standard Six Camp.

Sport

Carmen Truter captained the WP Schools’ Basketball team and Quentin du Toit captained the

WP Boys’ Hockey team.

The softball team was again exceptionally successful. Genevieve Steyn and Charmaine van

der Walt were selected for the WP U19 team. Past pupils Tracy Turner and Carol Brown were

selected to represent South Africa at senior level. Laureen Fraser and Genevieve Steyn were

chosen as All-Stars (Junior SA team) and Genevieve subsequently represented Western Prov-

ince at U21 level.

Ben Naude was selected for the WP U19 Squash team. Simon Morton and Trevor Rolfe

represented the Boland Schools’ team. Steve Crooke was graded seventh in the country in the

U21 table tennis group, and Theresa Pitcher was the reserve for the team.

Mr Dean Ashworth, Springbok basketball player, used the letters in the word FAIRMONT to

convey a sense of sportsmanship and commitment when he addressed the Summer Sports

Award Dinner:

F - Fairness

A - Positive Attitude

I - Initiative

R - Reasoning

M - Mental preparation

O - Objectives

N - Nerve

T - Temperament

Simon Reeves was placed second in the SA Guild of Speech and Drama Teachers’ Public

Speaking competition.

Conscription was reduced from two years to one year, and South African troops left Namibia.

Fairmont Poetry

Lana Wasson was one of the young poets who attended the 1989 University of Cape Town

Poetry Workshop. She was awarded Eisteddfod Honours for two of her poems.The following

is an example of the many excellent poems by Fairmont pupils appearing in The Grapevine,

the yearbooks and in publications in South Africa and overseas.

69

THE SEA by Lana Wasson

Obscene skull-shells of a prophecy

Rest on your beaches

Patient, eternal waiting for the reader:

Fingers reach to possess their secrets.

Waves have sent whispers rippling

Through time -

Anger and power, and chains

Murmur in the shells -

Promises hung in the limitless skies

of your wayward child allowed

to burst from your blue embrace

knowing nothing -little of why?

But wondrously alive

(the ant-people only a shrug

on her huge back)

and smiling -

And still you slumber in wait

For he who will be born from Africa’s womb

To see the future in the bones.

Tenth Anniversary Reunion of 1979 Class - 1989

70

Standard Ten Boeresport - 1989

Arrival of the Administrator of the Cape: Mr K Meiring, E Kleyn, R Ross - 1989

71

1990

The 1989 matric results were excellent. Thirteen pupils obtained A aggregates, and the subject

averages were very good when compared with those of the province.

The theme for the year was “Respect and Responsibility”. Founders’ Day was changed from

the first Saturday in September annually, to the Friday closest to 1 March. Mr Fillmore re-

ported in the school magazine:

FOUNDERS’ DAY

The start of the new year heralded many changes and innovations at Fairmont, not the least

among these being the celebration of Founders’ Day on 1 March and not on the first Saturday

in September.

The academic school-day ended at midday and was followed by an assembly. Guest speakers

included the deputy mayor of Durbanville, Mr E. Fivaz, and Fairmont’s first head prefects,

Torsten Moehl and Lesley Thompson.

During the afternoon the school first teams played matches against the past pupils in the

summer sport disciplines. The past pupils beat the school’s first cricket side convincingly,

while at basketball the school’s boys’ and girls’ teams won their matches with ease.

The day was combined with an open day at the school. All offices, classrooms and laborato-

ries were opened for parents to visit. Various subject groups and societies exhibited relevant

material to inform visitors about their activities.

The drum majorette leader group provided a display of mace-twirling precision to start the

evening’s activities. This was followed by the first-ever cadet flag parade at which the Stand-

ard 9 and 10 cadets, accompanied by the JJ du Preez cadet band, paraded the national, school

and house flags before the many visitors at the school.

Parents were then invited to observe and participate in society meetings so that they might

gain first-hand knowledge of the activities of the societies and how they were being run. At the

same time, a reunion of the 1980 matric class was held in the Recreation Centre.

These events were followed by a variety programme in the school hall in which various socie-

ties and subject groups presented slide shows, skits and poems reflecting their individual inter-

ests.

In overview, the day’s activities united the school to present to the community Fairmont as it

really is - a many-faceted and multi-talented institution. This day was the start of yet another

fine tradition at Fairmont.

An interesting article, “Population boom in ‘rustic town”, appeared in the Northern Argus of

30 May. Not only did this indicate future problems regarding school accommodation, but the

words of the Mayor, Mr Frikkie van Zyl, were prophetic, “Durbanville is one of South Africa’s

fastest growing towns...” said the Mayor. “The council is continually requested to start new

residential areas. A growth in the northern borders of Durbanville will shift the business centre

from Bellville towards Durbanville, which I think will eventually become a major shopping

area.”

72

Prefects

The prefects enjoyed a very active year. Among their many projects were repainting of the old

tuckshop, the Std 6 Toilet Scheme (beautifying the toilets), the Supporters Club, matric boys’

netball, a matric café on the matric lawn, three dances, including a Sixties and a Halloween

Dance, the presentation of an Inter-House singing trophy, refurbishment of the Prefects’ room,

the staff-matric braai, the teachers’ birthday tea each term, inter-class volleyball, teachers’

hockey and soccer matches, the senior citizens’ tea party and the Valentine’s Day postal serv-

ice. “The Arts and Societies Week was a creative medley of bizarre ideas and activities con-

jured up by the prefects’ society portfolio and three other matrics. A matric picnic was held as

well as a pavement art competition.”

The Big Walk, originally planned for Arbor Day, was held on 17 August. It was again a well-

organised, safely patrolled and successful function. The Arbor Day tree-planting was de-

scribed by pupil C Dorrington, who ended with the words, “The entire school body is dedicated

to preserving the rhythm of nature and this annual ritual is symbolic of our new awareness”.

Sarah Oates

One pupil who really stood out during the year was Sarah Oates. Her brilliant violin perform-

ance at the assembly during the Settlers Contact Week led to her being asked to perform at

Settlers as well. Sarah became the youngest member of the SA National Youth Orchestra and

was the best overall string player at both the Tygerberg and Stellenbosch Eisteddfods. She

won the Huguenot Festival competition and the gold medal for overall winner at the National

High Schools’ competition.

“In 1990 Cadets at Fairmont came of age. In addition to the first Parade, the band was

formed, boys attended the first bivouac and cadets participated in the Inter-Schools Drill Com-

petition.”

In September the School Committee “agreed unanimously to erect a memorial in the quadran-

gle to pupils of Fairmont who died while still scholars. It would include the names of those

past pupils who gave their lives while doing military service.”

“Grease”, produced by Miss E Kitshoff, ran to packed houses in October.

The drum majorettes again performed with distinction. This was the first year the school

entered the Indoor League as well. At the National Championships the team was placed fifth,

while in the indoor competitions, Mandy Slabber (Individual Rifle) and Tanya van den Brandt

(Individual Flag) were placed first.

Not to be outdone by sport awards functions, the societies had their first ever awards function,

at which Society and Merit Awards were presented.

Three long-serving staff members, Alida Pool, Steve Wright and Rosemary van der Riet, were

among those who left the school.

The school was shaken by three tragic deaths. Charlotte Engel, an exceptionally talented Std

7 pupil, died tragically while on her way to school. Louise Bulman died on 27 October. Roland

Cassels, a 1989 matric pupil, died in the same accident. Everyone was also saddened by the

death of Leigh Duncan after a long illness.

73

Founders’ Day Cadet Parade - 1990

Founders’ Day Flag Procession - 1990 Arbour Day - 1990

74

Past Pupils’ Association

The Past Pupils held a Careers Braai for the matrics in August. Attendance was most encour-

aging. It was hoped that this event would become a tradition. The Past Pupils’ Award was

presented for the first time at Speech Night.

Adult Education

The introduction of an adult education programme was approved by the Department for com-

mencement in January 1991. A letter from the Education Department, dated 16 May 1990,

stipulated the procedures to be followed and the conditions to be met.

A successful Golf Day was held in March as part of the fund-raising for the year. Mrs Jenny

Holland convened the project, which was a team effort among parents, teachers and the

Durbanville Golf Club. R5850 was raised.

The meaning and the usage of the school diary was outlined by Mrs Müller at a PTA general

meeting. In September Mr Wigg informed the PTA that the prize- giving would include prizes

for diligence, perseverance and service. Honours blazers would be introduced. Successful

matric students that year were to be listed alphabetically in the press and not under school

headings.

School Models

On 23 May 1990 Mr PJ Clase, Minister of Education (Administration: House of Assembly)

released a press statement about the draft models for the provision of schooling. These models

were being considered in addition to the existing models, namely separate schools for whites

and existing private schools. (Cape Education Department Circular 44/1990)

A circular explaining the proposed different models of schooling for the future was distributed.

245 parents indicated in their response to questions in a School Committee survey that they

were not prepared to pay considerably higher school fees for the freedom to decide on admis-

sion policy. However, 305 said that school fees should be made compulsory by legislation

before a change was made to admission policy.

First team top

A new first team top, white with a broad brown band, applicable to all sports, was introduced.

This was to ensure that first team players were easily recognisable wherever Fairmont par-

ticipated.

Other Pupil achievements included:

• Justine Fowler and Karin de Beer-Smit were selected for the WP basketball team.

• Charlaine Coetzee was the first girl to captain a school golf team in the province.

• Teresa Pitcher won Junior Springbok colours for table tennis.

• Paul Saman was selected for the WP Schools A tennis team.

• The boys’ first tennis team performed exceptionally well at the schools tournament in

Queenstown.

• Charmaine van der Walt was selected for the SA All-Stars softball team. Genevieve

Steyn represented the WP U19 and senior sides.

75

Buildings and Grounds

Alterations to the secretaries’ office were completed by the Works Department. A new store-

room was constructed under the ramp. A small wooden hut was provided at the netball courts

for serving refreshments. The Traffic Department provided a plan for a change to the existing

traffic layout of the school. This would include an entrance to a parking area on the “Medway

triangle”.

The Cadet Band - 1990

The Ladies’ Tea - 1990

76

1991

Alternative models for schooling under the Department of Education and Culture (House of

Assembly) were announced in September 1990. The focus of attention was on the admission

policies of schools. Options were

• Model A - private school - own admission policy.

• Model B - state school - own admission policy.

• Model C - state-aided school - own admission policy.

“When schools commenced in January, 205 schools all over the country implemented Model

B. The majority of schools are admitting only a limited number of pupils from other groups.”

(Department of Education Newsletter March 1991).

Legislation to make Model C possible had yet to be passed in parliament.

At Fairmont the significant dates were:

• 10 December 1990. The Department was requested to give approval for a poll.

• 26 February 1991. Polling Day - the culmination of a period of voting starting

on the 18 February.

In a poll of 89.3%, 85.4% of parents voted in favour of a change to Model B status.

21 March 1991. Approval was granted by the Minister of Education.

Management Council

All school committees in the Cape were dissolved on 28 February 1991. The decision implied

that management councils had to be elected.

“In consequence of the implementation of the Education Affairs Act 1988, the election of man-

agement councils (previously known as school committees) must in future be held in terms of

the regulations...”. (Cape Education Department Circular C8/1991)

The first meeting of the Fairmont Management Council was held on 5 March 1991.

The principal became a member of the council, the majority of the members of which had to be

parents of the school.

School rules were approved by the Education Department in terms of the Education Act and

gained legal standing.

School Spirit

The wonderful spirit prevailing during the year with its American theme is illustrated in these

extracts from the school magazine:

77

Prefects’ Camp - the 1991 prefects at Steenbras Dam

“The Beeple” - 1991

78

Every school has spirit, but it may not always be as strong as it should be. This year has

been one of remarkable spirit-building at Fairmont, as this magazine clearly shows.

Traditions are a very special part of a school spirit. I am sure that Spirit Week, Home-

coming Week and Polar Bear Day, to mention but a few, will in time become part of the

tradition of the school.

I congratulate everyone on a very successful year. May the spirit of 1991 be sustained,

and the achievements lead to even greater efforts in 1992.

Clive Wigg

Dear Seniors

Your Senior year will not be forgotten! Initiated by a spirited prefect body, the American

theme took off and kept its momentum throughout the year.

Mingled with proven Monties traditions you often had us guessing as to what would

came up next...this Yearbook probably being the last piece of America Graffiti.

The Senior-Staff braai (barbecue), Valentine’s week, Inter-Schools’ Special boaters, Red

Nose Day, Polar Bear Club, Homecoming Week, the Senior Prom...and the Senior (not

you this time) Citizens Tea, all added to the thrill and character of a “colorful” year.

Mastermind McKinley (Summer Cum Laude) had no match, but nor did Milne! For-

eigners Hill and Asnal added “flavor” to an exciting year, as did all who made a mean-

ingful contribution by giving of themselves.

May the memories of this year live on as we remember you and bid you well.

Hans van Stormbroek

Few present in 1991 will forget, for example, the whole school participating in “Simon Says”

in the quad, led by Simon Morton and Kaeli Albertyn from the roof, the assembly “in the

round” in the hall with the prefects in the centre, and the principal as the Easter Rabbit and

Father Christmas at spirit assemblies.

New Traditions

New traditions were established in keeping with the theme - inspired by the yearbook of Fairmont

Senior High in Fairmont , West Virginia and by exchange student Elize Kleyn’s experience in

Arizona.

• The Monty Bear based on the American school’s mascot, a polar bear.

• The Monty Bear banner held over teams as they ran onto the fields.

• The “yearbook” instead of the magazine.

• Pep rallies.

• Spirit Week.

• The Valentine’s Week, including the whole school forming a heart on the field.

• Homecoming Week, in conjunction with the Settlers Contact.

• The Polar Bear Club.

• The Homecoming kings and queens.

• The “Prom” instead of the Matric Farewell Dance.

• The “Valedictorian” for the school dux.

• The special matric awards - Most likely to succeed, Monty Bear, Friendliest, Spark

Plug and Bright Spark.

79

Cherie Werner - best actress, the school debutante

The Big Knit - staff members in action - 1991

80

The teachers became “mentors”, the matrics became seniors, the 9’s juniors, the 8’s senior

sophomores, the 7’s sophomores and the 6’s freshmen.

Achievements

Outstanding pupil achievements were those of:

• Karen de Beer-Smith (SA Schools Basketball).

• Sarah Oates (co-leader World Youth Symphony Orchestra, USA).

• Mandy Slabber and Tanya van den Brandt (SA Show Majorettes).

• Robyn Dreijer (co-leader of National Youth Concert Orchestra).

• Cherie Werner (highest sum for charity, R6550, in the Tygerberg Debutantes

Competition).

• The first senior homecoming king was Ben Naude and the first queen

was Robyn Bruce.

• Kaeli Albertyn and Rory McKinley were chosen by the seniors as “Most

likely to succeed”.

• Monty Bear awards were presented to Richard Friend and

Mandy Slabber.

• The “Friendliest” were Dion Pye, Lynn McGrath and Bradley Northcote.

• Sonja Stumpf and Simon Morton won “Spark Plug” awards, and Rory McKinley and

Lynn McGrath were the “Bright Sparks”.

Civvies Days included Hat Day and Nerd Day. “The Beeple”, produced by Miss Bartels,

enjoyed colourful and successful performances.

PTA

A Golf Day, organised by Mrs Jenny Holland, held on 17 March, was very successful, both

socially and financially. The profit was R7839.

Another successful fund-raising venture was The Big Knit, held on 31 July. R11624 was

raised. The one-hour sponsored knit was followed by a Barn Dance and Disco. Further changes

to the PTA constitution were circulated for ratification at the next AGM.

Mrs Skeet and her helpers ran a very successful Adult Education Programme and donated

R5500 to the school. Colleen Williams donated R3000 after her Ballet School performances.

New Awards

New Speech Night Awards were the Fairmont Award, a service award, presented to adults who

had served the school community for three or more years, Honours with distinction and Hon-

ours summa cum laude. The first recipients of Fairmont Awards were Sheila Johnstone and

Margaret Oosthuizen. Rory McKinley won the Honours summa cum laude award. The pre-

fects’ executive were also presented with special awards.

The principal was selected to be a member of the group which was taken on a three-day orien-

tation tour of defence force bases in the Western Cape in July.

Remembrance Day

The inaugural Remembrance Day Assembly took place on 8 November. In future Remem-

brance Day would always be on the Friday closest to 11 November. The assembly would be an

occasion for the whole Fairmont community to remember loved ones who had passed away,

especially those who died while on military service, pupils and staff members who died while

still at the school, and those who experienced family bereavements during the year. The digni-

81

fied ceremony in the quadrangle included participation by the cadets and pupil leaders, and

wreath-laying.

Buildings and Grounds

The parking area adjacent to Medway was completed and changes were made to provide for a

better flow of traffic. The Chief Architect of the Works Department was consulted about the

possibility of adding another floor to the Recreation Centre. The inspecting engineer reported

that this was possible and that they would draw the plans if required.

A letter from the Executive Director: Education, dated 19 September 1991 and entitled Fairmont

High School: Extensions, included this paragraph, “Your request to provide lecture rooms and

group study rooms instead of conventional classrooms can be considered on condition that the

total area allowed...is not exceeded.”

The memorial stone, with sundial, was

unveiled by Mrs Lyn Wigg, the plaque

bearing the words from the poem by

Lawrence Binyon:

“They shall not grow old, as we who

are left behind grow old;

Age shall not weary, nor the years

condemn.

At the going down of the sun, and in

the morning

We will remember them.”

First Rugby Team 1991

82

1992-1996EXTENSIONS AND VOLUNTARY SEVERANCE

1992A discussion document on A Curriculum Model for Education in South Africa was made

available in January for the information of staff members and the management council.

The South African Teachers’ Association’s newsletter No 1 of January 1992 included:

“The major interest in the alternative models (of schooling) was the extent to which they could

or could not achieve even an initial opening of the white state school system...

It is becoming clear from the broader acceptance of Model B schools, pronouncements by the

State President and various recommendations contained in the interim report on group and

human rights that race will not be a basis for the development of a future system of education.

Seen against this background, the models as determinants of admission policies can be noth-

ing more than an interim measure...

The models as models of school management will have to be re-assessed by many committees

and by the teaching profession during 1992.”

Model C

However, the Minister, Mr Piet Marais, announced an abrupt switch to Model C in February,

and the transformation began on 1 May. The next phase was on 1 August, when new staffing

scales were introduced and teacher numbers cut. In an address to the Cape Province Parents’

Association, he acknowledged that the switch to Model C or state-aided schools had been done

with “extreme haste”.

Various newspaper articles described the implications of the decision, and other matters affect-

ing education, for example, “Schools tax shocker”, “ Fees to rocket for Model C parents” ,

“Teacher terror” (Sunday Times 27 April 1992), “Model C- skole skarrel om geld in te samel “

(Die Burger 29 April 1992). The “Teacher Terror” headline referred to intimidation by pupils

and militant unionists.

Model C provided for greater autonomy for schools but required parents to pay for the cost of

the premises and facilities. The government was responsible for the salaries of only a certain

number of staff.

The school changed from a state school to a state-aided school. This brought about consider-

able confusion, misunderstanding and anxiety. The immediate reaction was to the increase

in school fees.

The reduction in the number of posts, retrenchments, information about voluntary early retire-

ment, and the reduction in the number of promotion posts caused additional stress on teachers.

In order to maintain standards, additional teachers were and would be appointed to positions

financed by the school.

School spirit, which reached a peak in 1991, was again evident when the athletes “took them

by surprise” at the first ever quadrangular meeting, held at Green Point, against Table View,

Milnerton and Settlers. “Dedication of our pupils and enthusiasm of our coaches paid off and

at the end of the day the trophy was ours.”

A long tradition ended when the final inter-schools meeting with Fairbairn took place.

The staff editorial in the yearbook described “the best of times and the worst of times”.

83

Shooting Range preparation - 1992

Victory at Inter-Schools Athletics - 1992

84

STAFF EDITORIALIt was the best of times and the worst of times. 1992 saw many changes to the Fairmont

family with ‘old’ favourites leaving the fold and many new additions arriving.

Mr Duckitt ‘came of age’ and with his family emigrated to the greener pastures of Eng-

land. We will miss his determination, his involvement and his friendly attitude in the

classroom.

At the same time Mrs Heyns decided that being a home executive was more attractive

and she left to have baby Matthew. We miss her friendly smile and concern for everyone.

The Physical Education Department, true to form, kept on the move. Mr Touzel left to

enjoy employment in the private sector and Mr Saayman decided to leave the field of

education to explore the other side of the fence.

Mr Roux also decided that the time was right to leave. So he downed tools, removed his

ear mufflers and retired. His quiet approach and often incisive comments will be con-

spicuous by their absence.

Mrs du Toit packed her books to move up in the world to the Education Department

Library. We wish her every success in her new position.

Teachers returning with renewed vigour and enthusiasm after brief periods of leave were:

Mrs Maclachlan, Miss Elion, Mr Patterson, Mrs Weerts, Mr Dempers and Mr van Wijk.

A tired Mrs Bassett left to give birth to her first child, a bouncing baby boy, Jarrard.

With all these changes may we not forget the ‘old faithfuls’ who, day after day, continue

to give of their best to improve standards at Fairmont High.

The school was fortunate to acquire a car for driver education. Mr Frost led a group of staff

instructors. The head prefects wore green blazers and ties - this, however, was not to become

a tradition.

Included in the results of a survey of matric favourites were:

• Actress - Julia Roberts

• Actor - Tom Cruise

• Music group - U2, Guns ‘n Roses

• Song - Please don’t go

• Radio station - Radio 5

• Sweet - Bar One

• Film - Pretty Woman

• Singer - Bryan Adams

• Teachers - Mr Duckitt, Mr Collier, Mr Vegter.

At the Matric Farewell matrics went off to Greece. Most of the spirit activities of the year built

on those of 1991.

The Bard’s Birthday Bash

An innovation of the English Department was “The Bard’s Birthday Bash” on Shakespeare’s

birthday. Pupils dressed up as their favourite characters.

On 14 and 15 October the school hall was “transformed into a magical setting” for Fairmont’s

first ever Candlelight Dinner and Cabaret. The show, with a cast of forty-four, was produced

by Mrs Colleen Newham. The programme consisted of songs and dances from famous shows.

85

The original bear - Charlaine Coetzee at Fairmont Senior High, West Virginia - 1992

Founders’ Day 1992 - Victor Hawken and Alison Nardone, the 1982 head prefects, with guest speaker

Karen Davies

86

Past Pupils’ Association

The 1992 Past Pupils’ Association committee hosted the 1982 matric class to a very enjoyable

cheese and wine function. An extremely successful fund-raising fashion show was held on 20

August. Two guest models were British professional squash players Mark Allen and Matthew

Rudd. The evening boosted the Foundation Fund by R1600.

Pupil Matters

Matters of importance to the pupils are shown in the agenda for the prefects’ meeting on 18

August. Items discussed were:

• Team photographs - found and to be framed and displayed by the

Traditions portfolio.

• Letter to Fairmont, West Virginia.

• Senior Citizens’ Tea Party.

• Societies Week.

• Spirit.

• Boys’ netball and girls’ soccer.

• Matric Tops Day (40 days).

• Quotes for present - cabinet and sign.

• Dance

• Discipline in quadrangles.

Achievements

The girls’ basketball first team, unbeaten, won the league. Karen de Beer, who had been

selected for the SA Schools team in 1991, Claire Lotter and Estelle Visagie were chosen for the

WP Schools team.

The drum majorettes again performed with distinction, and were placed fifth at the SA Cham-

pionships. The girls’ hockey team “played an incredibly high standard of hockey”. The team

was placed second in the premier league. Twelve softball players were selected for WP teams

during the 1991 - 1992 season. Tanya Price was chosen for the SA Schools team. The high-

light of the squash season was the selection of Shelley Hopkins to the U19 WP Girls Team.

Other provincial representatives were Michelle Dosson (WP swimming) and Leonhard Freidberg

(captain), Elton Neething and Nicky Klip (Boland swimming). Jenny Kirkwood became the

SA Junior Judo champion.

The SCA experienced a particularly successful year. The dramatic recreation of CS Lewis’s

The Screwtape Letters was highlighted. The cast of twenty-four performed during a Bible

Education period and also at Edgemead and Settlers High Schools. The Drama Society mem-

bers won Eisteddfod Highest Honours certificates.

Buildings and Grounds

Although a shooting range was provided by the Defence Force, the school had not yet been

provided with an armoury, strongroom and rifles. The citizenship programme, which had

replaced Youth Preparedness, led to the junior boys becoming involved in cadets, with the

seniors as leaders, and the establishment of a girls’ platoon.

The Medway triangle (Erf 300/8) was transferred to the State and would be transferred to the

school on condition that it could not be used for any purpose other than parking.

In an attempt to find a water source on the school grounds, a geological report was prepared. A

87

water diviner was asked to identify and possibly confirm the geologist’s report. Three boreholes

were eventually drilled but without success. The original farm borehole had been next to the

entrance to the school.

In September the Cape Education Department described its Computers in Schools and Col-

leges Project in a circular to schools. Improvements and alterations to the Media Centre (Li-

brary) were proposed and eventually carried out. These included the creation of a teachers’

workroom/computer room in Room 3.

The total number of teaching posts would be reduced from fifty-one to forty-eight in 1993 as a

result of the changed staffing quotas.

The Flag of Learning - the symbolism explained

Past Pupils’ Reunion 1992

The committee consisted of Monique Bosman, Samantha Quinn, Christopher Lockett (Treasurer), Jacky

Bartels (Teacher Rep.), and Gail Ross (Chairlady and Secretary)

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1993

Buildings

At the beginning of the year, a start was made on the long awaited and much needed extensions

to the main building. Ten years of applications, meetings and interviews had finally borne

fruit. Occupation would be in 1994, when it would be possible to sell a number of the prefab-

ricated (mobile) classrooms. The extension above the art and woodwork rooms, and enclosing

the junior quadrangle, comprised a number of classrooms, a tuckshop, a computer room, vari-

ous special classrooms, cloakrooms and storerooms. Provision was made for a double room to

be used as a lecture theatre for large groups and team teaching. The original intention was to

have the library relocated to this position and to have the lecture theatre and offices adjacent to

it. Unfortunately, this was not accepted by the Department.

The double garages near the hockey field had to be relocated and a new store for sports equip-

ment and kit was constructed. The counselling department was relocated after new offices

were provided by sub-dividing classroom 57. Two new parking areas were provided. A new

burglar alarm system was installed. A link between the main building and the Recreation

Centre was considered so as to make greater use of this facility. It was resolved at the Govern-

ing Body meeting in November that plans be prepared.

Finances

The financial implications of becoming a state-aided school were being felt to a greater extent.

“Model C caused considerable distress and confusion.” An article in the Financial Mail,

dated 15 January 1993, elaborated on this. It described how Model C was always going to be

a transitional arrangement, that the ANC rejected it as a perpetuation of white privilege and

that much of the confusion and unhappiness had its source in the NP’s anxious policy reactions

after the decision to abolish apartheid. “The system of ‘models’ available for white schools

was instituted partly as a result of political pressure and partly to save money.” The article

went on to state, “There is a fundamental tension in the proposition that education can be both

compulsory and not free.”

Academics

Fortunately, there was very little staff movement. Academic excellence was identified as a

priority and to that end a mentor system to improve communication between the school and

parents, and an integrated day with a changed timetable and providing more time for subject

and other groups to meet professionally, were investigated.

The principal announced that a semester system would be introduced in 1994 with two major

examinations and a regular test system for Standards 6 to 9.

The school was selected as one of the thirty schools in the region to introduce the new Educa-

tion for Living programme, comprising citizenship, personal and career education, physical

education, arts education and Bible education. Attention would also be given to topics such as

human rights and education for democracy.

The results of an internal survey of fifty standard nines and fifty parents proved very interest-

ing. One third of the pupils considered unemployment the greatest threat to the country, while

another third were afraid of a possible civil war. 40% considered the greatest threat to pupils

to be deterioration of values and morals.

89

The Junior Quadrangle before main building extensions

Driver Education Societies Promotion Day

90

The parents rated the most important tasks of the school to be the acquisition of basic skills -

reading, writing, speaking, computing, and career planning and training in beginning occupa-

tional skills.

One highlight of the year was the first international pupil exchange undertaken by the school.

The following extract is from the report in the 1993 school magazine.

PUPIL EXCHANGE TO FAIRMONT SENIOR HIGHSCHOOL U.S.A.

On 24 April 1993 three of our pupils - Catherine Broek (deputy head girl), Bradley

Croucher (prefect) and Allison Wiehahn - embarked on the trip of a lifetime, a three-

week international student exchange programme to Fairmont Senior High School in

West Virginia U.S.A.

They report. “After stopping over in London and Washington for two and three nights

respectively, we headed off to Fairmont Senior in the American city of Fairmont - a

school we’ve been twinning with for two years. We’ve been letter-writing and exchang-

ing yearbooks, items of clothing and newspaper articles with them during that time.

In 1992, a past pupil from our school, Charlaine Coetzee - currently studying on a golf

scholarship in Virginia - visited the American school, where she met Amy Leinhardt, the

Student Body President and Mrs Janet Satterfield, the Student Council Sponsor. They

spoke about a possible student exchange, and this year the idea became reality. Through

fundraising activities, such as the Big Walk, we managed to raise money to go towards

the project. We were allowed to raise a maximum of half the travel costs and our parents

made up the shortfall.

In Fairmont we stayed with separate families and were made to feel at home from the

first day in the city. At the school we were shown around by different pupils and were

able to experience various classroom situations.

The school was completely different to ours and we noticed that the pupils there had a lot

more freedom! The classes were very easy and, although a relaxed atmosphere pre-

vailed, the students honoured the name of their school. The students were very friendly,

outspoken and very interested to hear about South Africa. In fact, they were shocked to

see that we were actually just like them. They had actually imagined that South Africa

was very primitive and “backward”.

The Founders’ Day assembly was addressed by the 1983 Head Girl, Mrs J Thompson (Lam-

bert) and many members of the 1983 matric class were present. Included in the activities of

the day were displays of societies and practical subjects, and outdoor displays by the drum

majorettes and the cadets, synchronised swimming and a dog display by the navy. That evening

the class of 1983 had their 10-year reunion in the Recreation Centre. The writer of the maga-

zine report added, “This is an occasion which has become a tradition at Fairmont, and serves to

strengthen the ties between the school and all those who have passed through its doors”.

Catherine Broek submitted a proposal for changes to the Valedictory Assembly based on her

observations in West Virginia. Her proposal that “graduation certificates” be presented to all

matrics during the assembly was accepted. This was to become a feature of all future Valedic-

tory assemblies.

91

StaffAssie van Aswegen, who had been at the school for thirteen years, left due to ill health. A

tribute in the magazine included these words, “with his interest in and knowledge of the mod-

ern media, he was often a sought-after friend. Assie’s positive attitude and sparkling enthusi-

astic personality made him a favourite colleague. Very seldom did he betray the hardships he

had to bear due to ill health”.

There were concerns during the second term about the possible invasion and occupation of

white schools, and contingency plans were prepared. The end of conscription was finally

announced.

Some of the pupils’ concerns are shown in the agenda for a typical prefects’ meeting (22 June):

outfit for Polar Bear Club, shelter for first-aiders, debutante competition, Homecoming Dance

(Cinderella Ball), election of king and queen (matric) and princesses (Standard’s 6 to 9), “Big

Brag”, monitors, team photographs to be hung in passage, detention, banner for co-ed meet-

ings, teachers’ tea, Saturday refreshments, Settlers Contact, La Rochelle visit and matric girls’

nails for the dance.

Alterations to facilitate the better running of the library were completed. A new system of

filing examination papers was introduced, and CNN was screened during second breaks in an

attempt to improve pupils’ knowledge of current affairs.

The extended learning programme, with Ms B Elion as co-ordinator, was very successful. The

Adult Education programme continued to operate successfully. Many Olympiads and compe-

titions were entered. Dr Grazioli addressed the parents and standard tens on various aspects of

sex awareness, and cabaret evenings took place in August. Ronita Wilbert won the gold medal

in the prose section of the Cape Town Eisteddfod for her contribution, entitled “Eclipse”.

AchievementsClaire Lotter was selected as a member of the SA Schools basketball team, the drum majorettes

were placed first in the Western Province and eighth in South Africa, and Catherine Gould and

Bronwen van Heerden were softball Junior Springboks. Others who achieved success in na-

tional competitions were Rory Yorke in the Computer Olympiad and Vanessa Mayley, Simon

Frouws and Kirsty Gilham in the Santam Art Competition.

The Settlers Contact: Mr C Wigg and Mr T Webster - 1993

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1994

The country’s first democratic election took place, and Nelson Mandela was sworn in as

president.

The effects on Fairmont can perhaps best be illustrated by these excerpts from the magazine

messages of the principal and the chairman of the governing body:

Change is the way of life in schools. A changing society requires changing schools. The

public is likely to view those schools responsive to change as the most desirable ones. If

change is going to be our way of life, then nurturing the change process is going to be an

implicit part of every principal’s job.

How true this has been of Fairmont this year. Not only have there been the dramatic changes

in our country, but we have experienced change here too - the opening of new extensions,

plans for further improvements, the expectations of a new Education Department, proposed

changes to syllabuses, to staffing - the list is long and seemingly endless.

In the face of all this change, we must focus on our strengths and develop strategies for im-

provement. We must look at technological advances and see how they may assist us in working

with pupils. We must improve communication, monitor progress, and consider ways to raise

funds and consolidate assets.

Clive Wigg

Whilst the effect of the rapid metamorphosis of our country seemingly has everyone in a frenzy,

it is perhaps a good time to pause for a moment’s reflection.

There is no doubt that a certain amount of apprehension exists within most of us when we think

of the immediate future of this beautiful, but ravaged land and our role in it. We can either

adopt a pessimistic and gloomy “wait and see” attitude, or roll up our sleeves and take up the

challenge to make this country into a peaceful land of opportunity and abundance for all its

citizens.

To achieve this Utopia will require a great deal of teamwork and co-operation and at the

forefront will be the education of our children. Due to the uncertainty of the present education

policy it is extremely difficult for any accurate medium to long term planning. It seems certain,

however, that the face of education is going to experience some major changes, largely due to

past imbalances which will exhaust the Education budget completely and thereby place a

greater financial burden on an already overtaxed community. Larger classes with fewer teach-

ers are fast becoming a reality and in anticipating this, the Governing Body has to a great

degree been pro-active with the limited funds at its disposal.

The parent body is going to have to play a far greater role by participating in the all-round

education of their children.

Let us therefore bring our priorities into focus and give wholehearted support to the Fairmont

Family to help maintain it as a school which prepares young people of calibre ready to meet

the challenges of the future.

Leon Huisamen

Chairman - Governing Body

Buildings and Grounds

There were obvious physical changes at the school. The extensions to the main building were

opened on Founders’ Day, 25 February. Mr Wigg cut the ribbon across the passage near the

new tuckshop in the presence of the special guests - officials from the Education and Works

93

Cheerleaders at Inter-Schools Athletics - 1994

Main Building extension - completedin 1994

94

Departments, representatives of the architects and the builders, and committee members.

A number of prefabricated classrooms - the “prefabs” - were removed and the link between the

main building and the Recreation Centre was constructed.

Other matters handled by the Governing Body included protection for the windows in the new

building, a proposed canopy for the junior quadrangle, a new tie, new tracksuit, seating for the

lecture room, air-conditioning, changes to the old darkroom, vending machines, the textbook

levy, a new kiosk at the field corner of the hall block, a staff benefits scheme and a marketing

survey conducted by Mr Hilton Calder.

It was proposed to halve the existing principal’s office and to extend it into the courtyard to

compensate so as to provide another secretary’s office.

The changes meant that Fairmont pupils could enjoy the best possible facilities.

The constitution of the Governing Body had also to be finalised.

Successes

The 1993 examination results were excellent. Further study, and staff involvement as examin-

ers and sub-examiners, led to a continual improvement in the quality of teaching.

Pupils achieved great success in a number of fields and they and their coaches were congratu-

lated on their fine successes. Nikki Klip became a full Springbok (for aerobics) and Schonette

Coetzee (hockey), Steven Dosson (hockey) and J du Plooy (cycling) were selected for na-

tional school teams. Vanessa Mayley and Stuart Teare achieved great success in international

and other art competitions.

Fairmont provided the greatest number of students (163) at the Cape Technikon in 1994. The

59% success rate of 1991 enrolments obtaining a National Diploma in 1993 was one of the

highest.

A building and grounds administrator (Mr B Gifford) was appointed, and he became responsi-

ble for many tasks previously undertaken by teachers.

Parents were exhorted to support the next major project - the construction of an Indoor Centre

for various sports and other activities, including functions and examinations.

Everywhere in the world pupils were becoming more involved in decision-making. Steps in

this direction were taken at the school and two successful staff-student leader seminars were

held. A peer-tutoring scheme was initiated, and consideration would also be given to the

introduction of peer counselling.

Although the process of appointing prefects varied from year to year, the basic approach

was similar throughout.

In 1994 the procedure was:

1. Completion of nomination forms - proposer and ten signatures.

2. Submission of CV’s with photographs. Pledge to be signed.

3. Interviews.

4. Short-list prepared.

5. Voting

6. Announcement on last day of third term.

95

Valentine’s Day - 1994

Past Pupils’ Association - 1994

Back: Left to right, Wayne Rossouw, Tony Marshall, Steven Goodrich, Greg Hudson, Clive Wigg

Front: Michelle Radford-Hayden, Martina Popkiss (Chair), Tracy Booysen

96

The Flag of Learning

The principal, in his Speech Night address, made reference to the Flag of Learning. The flag,

symbolising the link between education and a strong free nation, was first raised throughout

the USA on July 4 1985. It was subsequently flown at schools and other institutions through-

out the world. At Fairmont it was introduced in 1992 and was the symbol of the school’s

pursuit of excellence, communicating the key foundations of quality education symbolised in

the stylised flame on the flag:

• High expectations for students and teachers.

• Excellent teachers in the school

• A community involved with the school.

• Families willing to accept their responsibility for learning.

The flag would later be used in the Valedictory Assembly, when the school flag was passed

from outgoing head boy to new head boy, and the flag of learning from head girl to head girl.

PTA

The PTA had a busy and successful year. “The first and most profitable venture was the raffle

for a prize of two years’ school fees. This was followed by the Treasure Hunt, in which over a

hundred prizes donated by local businesses were won. The Barn Dance....provided a wonder-

ful opportunity for relaxation and fun. The premiere of ‘Nunsense’ at the Theatre on the Bay

provided scintillating entertainment and was the highlight of the functions for the year”.

The Saturday morning tuckshop was reinstated and the tuckshop, the clothing bank and the

Adult Education programme continued to provide excellent service.

An air conditioner was finally installed in the staff room. Many staff members showed their

versatility in the production of Snow White.

Honours Dinner

Dawn Durrbaum, convenor of the prefects’ academic portfolio, was responsible for the first

Honours Dinner. This was to honour the top twenty students in each of standards eight to ten,

and would become another Fairmont tradition.

Existing traditions successfully observed included civvies days, Arbor Day tree-planting, Val-

entine’s day - again the creation of a huge heart on the field - the Polar Bear Club, the matric-

staff braai, the senior citizens’ tea-party and the boeresport competitions.

A highlight of the year was the unique Matric Farewell Dance. Here is Andrew Wilkinson’s

description included in his review of the Std 9 year:

“The Matric Dance Committee had a mammoth task ahead of them when they were chosen

earlier this year. They organised, painted and laboured away; and the result was an extremely

successful Matric Dance. The theme was ‘A Day at the Races’ and saw the memorial quad

being magically transformed into a marquee. The food was excellent and a Std 9 pupil gave a

commentary on a horse race onto an audio cassette. After the matrics had placed their bets,

97

the race was ‘run’. Two lucky matrics won a gold watch and gold bracelet. The Matric Dance

of this year was, in a nutshell, a ‘runaway success’!”

Miss Basset’s outstanding organisation and Mrs Weerts’s professional catering ensured the

resounding success of the dance.

The United School Sports Association (USSASA) was introduced to WP school sport organi-

sations for the first time in June. In October among the principles listed in the Declaration of

Intent were:

• The participation of all school children in sport on an equal basis.

• School sport should not be politically aligned.

At the meeting on 21 November, the Governing Body resolved to disband the cadet corps,

approved the move of the library to the Recreation Centre and the extension to the principal’s

office. The roller shutters at the old tuckshop were replaced with windows so that the room

could be used as a centre for more advanced students.

Valedictory Day - the last goodbye - 1994

98

1995

The Acting Head of the Western Education Department wrote in a circular dated 1 January,

“The establishing of the new education department of the Western Cape marks the beginning

of a new chapter in education in South Africa”.

Departmental Circular 1 of 1995 included these paragraphs:

“New co-ordinated staff provision scales are still receiving attention. Attempts are being made

to bring the teacher-pupil ratios of the ex-departments closer to each other.

“As a result of budget cuts, new posts may no longer automatically be created according to the

old scales.

“Amendments to certain syllabuses have been approved for implementation in 1995.

“A new system of inspection and subject advisory services is being planned.”

From 1994 to 1997 the new government was faced with the problem of financing the imple-

mentation of its new education policies.

The first important step was the White Paper of February 1995. One of the proposals was the

establishment of a National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Shortly afterwards, the Hunter

Committee was established and recommended that there should be only two types of schools -

independent and public. Each public school was to have a governing body.

Mr Bob Williamson, chairman of the Fairmont governing body (known internally as the Board

of Governors, or BOG), wrote in his magazine message, “It is essential that we, like every

other South African institution, contribute in whatever way we can to the reconstruction and

development of our country and it is the view of your Board of Governors that the community

which Fairmont serves, takes full responsibility for the education of its young men and women,

thereby maintaining its own independence and allowing national resources to be devoted to

priority areas.”

Team-building

The governing body undertook a comprehensive survey during the year to determine the mar-

keting needs of the school and a three-day team-building seminar for the staff leadership team

(all in promotion posts) was held in January at Mont Fleur, near Stellenbosch, and was led by

Mr Hilton Calder. The two events led to the school finalising its aims and objectives. The staff

and the governing body visited the Education Department library and went on a boat trip at the

Waterfront.

The prospectus was re-designed and published in an attractive folder. The English Department

also experienced a team development weekend seminar at Gordon’s Bay in October.

School Mission

The school mission statement - We of Fairmont strive for excellence by seeking opportunities

for all to realise their unique potential through self-discipline in a trusting, enjoyable and

caring atmosphere of mutual respect - was finalised after a series of meetings for staff, parent

and pupil representatives and volunteers. The process was extremely beneficial and rewarding.

Continual reference was made to the statement and its implications at assemblies and meetings.

99

A Scene from Romeo and Juliet - 1995

Staff Orchestra - 1995

100

Media Centre

At the end of 1994 and the beginning of 1995, the Recreation Centre was renovated and re-

vamped upstairs as a spacious attractive Media Centre. The balcony was enclosed, and im-

provements were effected to the storerooms, kitchen and office. A new carpet was laid and

new curtains hung. Mr Gifford and Mr Engelbrecht organised the enormous task of disman-

tling, moving and reassembling the shelves. The books and media equipment were moved

during the December holiday. The enclosed balcony included a teachers’ study and provided a

venue for chess players, for quiet breaks and for a new photocopier. Two large work-stations

were provided for computers and other audio-visual equipment. The new Media and Resource

Centre became a very popular place for pupils. In the first quarter of 1995, issue statistics for

books to pupils were twice as high as for the same period the previous year.

Tour to Zimbabwe

Another first for the school was the first sports tour out of the country - that of the girls’ hockey

squad to Zimbabwe. The tour, organised by Ms Sue Cromhout, covered the whole country and

included a series of matches and unforgettable experiences and visits. A highlight was the

victory over Chisipite School in Harare, the current winners of the National Hockey Cham-

pionship.

The school hosted rugby teams from England - Colston’s School from Bristol and King Edward

from Birmingham.

The Past Pupil’s Reunion in March was a great success. All but nine members of the 1985

class were contacted, and approximately 120 people attended the braai.

The Standard reports in the school magazine were of a high quality, amusing and informative.

Here follow a series of extracts illustrating the wide range of activities and interests during the

year:

“In addition, we finally bagged the Spirit trophy and were awarded with a free civvies day

(yay).

“But the main attraction was definitely the staff doing their rendition of the YMCA (during the

Founders’ Day Festival).

“It was here that the birth of the dreaded Froggy Pond Gestapo took place, who wasted no

time in securing their iron claw grip on the boys’ dorms, crushing all elements of revolution

(referring to the Std 9 leaders at the Std 6 camp).

Lee Herman and Stephen van der Merwe (Std 9)

“The highlight of our English year was undoubtedly the ‘Bard’s Birthday Bash’. This is held

every year, in commemoration of Shakespeare’s birthday. While watching... we held a typical

Shakespearian banquet (chips and coke)!

“The highlight of the third term was the ‘Big Knit’ held to raise funds for a new Student Centre.

This was held in the hall after the King Edward/Fairmont rugby match. (They beat us!).

“In addition, the teachers staged an excellent production - ‘A Day in the Life of a Fairmont

Pupil’.”

Nicola Davenport (Std 8)

“The return of the contentious Academic Reinforcement period from the mists of time was

greeted with mixed feelings. For those not involved it meant an early afternoon off, but why on

a Wednesday when a Friday would have given us an early start to our glorious weekends?

101

Cheerleaders - 1995

The Fairmont Carnival - 1995

102

“The biggest ‘sports’ event of the year turned out to be the Annual Durbanville Excursion. A

conspiracy of teachers managed to organise this even during the worst Cape Winter storms”.

Michelle Adams (Std 7)

The Fireworks Carnival

The first of a series of Fireworks/Carnivals organised under the leadership of Mr Michael

Ettish took place on 27 October and was “a resounding success with positive feedback from all

quarters”. The importance of the Carnival can be seen in this summary of 1995 fund-raising:

Parent Association

• Masked Dance R1 271.00

• Carnival R44 462.27

R45 733.27

Staff and Pupils

• Victory Race R7 055.25

• Small change forms R13 637.76

• Big Knit R8 126.88

• Big Walk R6 843.11

R35 663.11

TOTAL R81 396.88

The Parents’ Association also launched a 100 Club, an excellent means of creating spirit and

raising funds for the school.

During 1995 there was much controversy about school “right-sizing”, re-deployment of teach-

ers and voluntary severance packages. This was to continue into 1996. Right-sizing came

about as a result of agreements between education departments and teacher union representa-

tives on a new set of student-teacher ratios, thus implementing equity. The national Minister

said that the process was to effect equity in staff provisioning, not to decrease the number of

teachers, but to redeploy them. The process was to lead to Fairmont losing the services of

eighteen of the teachers by the end of 1996.

A huge teachers’ protest meeting was held in the Parow Civic Centre on 18 May.

Buildings and Grounds

An area adjacent to the pool, together with a roadway to the double garages, was tarred. Steps

were constructed on the field banks and the wooden huts were removed. Consideration was

given to the acquisition of a railway carriage to serve as a cafeteria, similar to that at DF

Malan High.

The Governing Body, after much deliberation, withdrew an offer to purchase the house at the

entrance to the school. The intention had been to provide a teaching venue, possibly for the

Music Department, and accommodation for teachers and those accompanying touring teams.

The first design for a proposed Sports Centre was considered. Security lights were installed

and a grand piano was acquired. A tennis shelter and a tuckshop shelter were constructed.

The Board also considered the possible acquisition of the piece of ground adjacent to the

tennis courts. This could not be used for any purpose other than for sport. Provision was made

for alterations to provide a new reception office, a door and steps from the ramp, and a stair-

case to the Memorial Quadrangle. Pupils would no longer use the main entrance.

103

The Governing Body - 1995

Speech Night 1995: Dr and Mrs I McCullum, Mr and Mrs R Williamson, Mr and Mrs C Wigg

104

The Triple A (AAA) for success programme was initiated. This was to recognise pupils for

outstanding attendance, attitude and achievement.

The name FAIRMONT was added to all sports tops and additional signs for the building were

provided. The new tie would be phased in from 1996.

AWARDSThe awards presented until 1994 were Honours/Merit/Team. These were shown on blazers

as follows:

Honours: Full school arms in cloth.

Merit: School badge in wire, plus scroll.

Team: Scroll.

In 1995 Colours Awards were introduced to provide a new category between Merit and

Honours.

Sporting Achievements

Danielle de Wet, in Std 9, as the top member of the Namibian rhythmic gymnastics team,

performed with distinction at the African Games. Thirty-five pupils were selected for provin-

cial teams, and Lee Russell was chosen for a SA Baseball team. Jason Wright and Alex Mion

were placed second in South Africa in the computer section of the National Expo Competition.

Staff members, Mrs Feltoe and Mrs Crofton, were in charge of the Adult Education Programme.

Saturday detention was introduced.

Rules

Representatives of teachers, prefects and matric council met on three occasions to propose

changes to school rules, and agreed that rules should incorporate a code of conduct for pupils

and that there should be a clear distinction between rules and procedures.

A matter handled by the Board of Governors over a number of months was the creation of a

system of staff awards, rewards and incentives.

An extract from the President’s Column in SATA newsletter number 5 of 1995 gives an indica-

tion of the morale of teachers:

“Over the past few months we have had to endure the debacle of the paltry salary increase,

financed from pension contributions, the Labour Relations Bill and its implications for teach-

ers, the Hunter report, and the lack of clarity with regard to new teacher-pupil ratios.”

It was decided, after representation from those in charge of issuing textbooks, to stop the levy

system, to sell the remaining textbooks and to require pupils to purchase books in future.

The Board wrote to the Department about the possible introduction of a post-matric class at the

school, up to three UNISA subjects being offered to pupils in addition to other subjects. The

reply included these words: “the envisaged project is a bold and exciting venture”.

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Academic Aces - 1995

Fairmont High School’s academics with their trophies for academic achievement: Nicholas Maunder,

Carly Steyn, Lisa Stockland and Samora Adams. ( Photograph by Pieter Van Der Vyver: Northland

News, November 1995)

The stairway to the Memorial Quad was provided in 1995

106

1996

In his first circular of the year to parents in January, the principal wrote, “1996 is going to be a

year of great challenges. The uncertainty about the new dispensation and reports about im-

pending regrading of posts and schools, retrenchments, early retirements and loss of promo-

tion posts have led to a degree of despondency and loss of morale and motivation in the profes-

sion. Already five of our teachers have accepted posts elsewhere.”

In October he reported, “Today we are faced with the knowledge that at least a further eight-

een of our staff will have left the school, and, in most cases, the profession, by 31 December.”

The situation was brought about by the right-sizing, redeployment and voluntary severance

process. Details of the Voluntary Severance Package were provided in the Department’s Cir-

cular 51/1996. Any educator could volunteer for a severance package.

The redeployment process did not function well in practice. There was at first an assumption

that voluntary service packages would be offered only to teachers who had been declared

redundant and for particular reasons could not be redeployed. The media and the ‘white’

teachers’ unions considered that the severance packages would be the main provision of right-

sizing. The High Court would effectively declare the redeployment process null and void in a

case brought by the Grove Primary governing body.

The National Education Policy Act of 1996 provided for the determination of national policy

for education; to amend the Act of 1984; to provide afresh for the determination of policy on

salaries and conditions of employment of educators; and to provide for related matters.

Education White Paper 2 on the ‘Organisation, governance and funding of schools’ was pub-

lished in February. The Board, at a meeting in March, established strategic planning and

redundancy committees. A meeting handling sections 13 - 17 of the Schools Bill was held at

Totius Primary. Initially, there was a great deal of anger and confrontation. A letter of protest was

sent to the Ministry mainly about the Board’s powers to appoint educators and non-educators.

A number of Fairmont teachers and pupils protested at the foot of Medway, displaying signs

such as ‘No teachers, no future” and ‘Education abuse, we refuse’.

The South African School Bill of August 1996 led to the South African Schools Act. This Act

was to provide a uniform system for the organisation, governance and funding of schools.

Model C schools, as such, were done away with and became Section 21 schools. The School

Act covered the funding, organisation and governance of schools. It stipulated that governing

bodies should be composed of representatives from the parents, the teaching staff, the student

body and the non-teaching staff. The first election of the governing body in accordance with

the Act would take place in July 1997, when the first Students’ Representative Council would

also be elected.

Examinations

The 1995 examination results were excellent. Every matric passed, and there were some ex-

ceptional subject averages, for example, 73% for History HG and 71% for Art HG. Three

pupils obtained over 90% for History. Four obtained an A aggregate, and a further seventy-

nine obtained matriculation exemption. Continuous assessment of pupils’ work became an

important feature. This meant that there was less emphasis on formal examinations as the

main means of evaluating pupils’ work.

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Sport

A number of pupils achieved with distinction in co-curricular activities. Those awarded coloursfor National junior teams were: Aniela Mojzis, ranked in the top five in the world in her age groupfor tennis, James Perry and Shaun du Plooy for cycling, Jonathan Greenfield for soccer and Michael

Dockerill for ice hockey. Michelle Dosson was selected for the WP Senior Swimming team.

Achievements

Kristy Munro and Susan Gustafson were prizewinners in the Typing Olympiad and MartinMeyer received a bronze medal at the National Science Expo. Nicole Klassen, the Head Girl,was selected as an exchange student to Austria. Exchange students from Denmark, Switzer-land and Germany were welcomed. Another feature of the international connection was theincreased number of touring teams from overseas - matches were played against teams from

Taunton, Downside, Down and Arnold Schools from England.

The draft constitution of the United School Sports Association (USSASA) was distributed in May.

The production of “The Happiest Days of Your Life” in April showed how well pupils, parents

and teachers could work together.

A group of students and teachers worked together to plan the Twentieth Anniversary celebra-

tions to take place in 1997.

PTAThe PTA launched its own newspaper, the Paperclip. The PTA dance, held in the school hall,was thoroughly enjoyed. The 100 Club, in its second year, continued to function very well. AFun Walk/Ride on the 13 September was a great success. The Carnival, on 2 November, wasagain a huge success. “What a wonderful day this was for our school. The thousands whocame to participate and help all experienced something which will live in the memory longafter the event. There was excitement and a dazzling display, but there was also a shared

recognition of how many different components can work together to form a great school.”

Here follows a brief list of the other matters receiving attention during the year:

• the shooting range site

• vending machines

• ramp surface

• the school e-mail address

• field names

• stage catwalk

• school scholarships

• PTSA

• prospectus cover photographs

• cheerleaders

• visit of Steve Hamilton (for a drugs presentation)

• strategic planning commissioned by the Board of Governors

• concept plans for a future Sports Centre

• door canopies

• possible roofing of a quadrangle

• job-shadowing

• Big Walk

• matric exit survey

• the AAA programme

• the prefects’ executive breakfast

• book sales.

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Protest - 1996

Hillary Hall - “The Happiest Days of Your Life” - 1996

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Staff Matters

The strategic planning report was presented to the governing body in August and was pre-

sented to the parents on 16 October. The title of the report was “Let the Teachers Teach”. The

intention was to bring about a new structure in which teachers would be relieved of a number

of their administrative duties so that they could concentrate more on academic and cocurricular

activities. The position of estate manager was abolished and new positions, those of adminis-

trative manager and co-curricular co-ordinator were created to commence in January 1997,

with Mr M King and Mr U Horsthemke being appointed to these positions.

Unfortunately, five outstanding members of the permanent staff left during 1996. Miss Leonie

Coetzer was a founder member and had been a Deputy Principal since 1990. Mr Hans van

Stormbroek, at the school since 1979, left as an internal Deputy and Head of Biology and Bible

Education. Mr Dereck Marnewick, Head of Department, taught at the school from 1984 to

1987 and again from 1989. Mr Brian van Wijk was a Deputy Principal from 1989, and was

Head of History. Mrs Nikki Smal, teacher-counsellor from 1989, was part of a very successful

counselling team.

The chairman presented the staffing structure proposal for 1997 at the meeting in October.

This was accepted with the suggestion that seven additional teachers should be appointed.

At the meeting in November, the Board again discussed staff incentive schemes and resolved

to award a bonus to teachers remaining at the school for their loyalty and service.

Revised implementation dates for the new national curriculum were announced in October. It

would commence in Grades 8 and 10 in 1999. During 1995 continuous assessment was intro-

duced. In February of 1996 a discussion document was distributed to schools. In circular 83/

1996, dated 4 September, the Western Cape Education Department informed schools year

marks would be used in the 1996 Senior Certificate Examination.

The previous proposals regarding a post matric course were again considered at a meeting in

November when a project to introduce an Accelerated Education Programme and A Levels was

approved subject to Heads of Agreement being drafted, and the budget in detail to be approved.

Top Five in Standard Ten: M Swart, A Lang, G Dreijer, J Brink, C Steyn - 1996

110

SPEECH NIGHT & GUEST SPEAKERS

1987 - Mr J X (Puggy) Munnik

1988 -Justice EL King

1989 - Mr M Whetmore

1990 - MR CD Adams

1991 - Dr R Dickson

1992 - Mrs J Stern-Hardie

1993 - Mr R Taylor

1994 - Prof J Thomson

1995 - Dr I McCullum

1996 - Prof S Ridge

DRAMATIC PRODUCTIONS

1988 - Alice in Wonderland

1989 - The Good, The Bad & The Ridiculous

Before Your Very Eyes

1990 - Grease

1991 - The Beeple

1992 - Fairmont Cabaret

1993 -

1994 -

1995 - Romeo & Juliet

1996 - The Happiest Days of Your Life

MATRIC FAREWELL THEMES

1988 - Moneytree Casino

1989 - Take a Chance

1990 - A Royal Ball

1991 - Some Enchanted Evening

1992 - Greece

1993 - Egyptian Splendour

1994 - Durbanville Derby

1995 - A Hobo’s Night in Paradise

1996 - A Night in Shining Armour

FOUNDERS DAY GUEST SPEAKERS

1990 - Mr E Fivaz

Mr T Moehl (HB 1979)

Mrs L Thompson (Windell) (HG 1979)

1991 - Mr M Steyn (HB 1981)

1992 - Ms K Davies (GF 1982)

1993 - Mrs J Thompson (Lambert) (HG 1983)

1994 - Mr A Hudson (HB 1984)

1995 - Ms C MacLeod (HG 1985)

1996 - Mr C Mullet (HB 1986)

*HB: Head Boy *HG: Head Girl * GF: Good Fellowship

1987 - 1996

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1997 - 2002ANNIVERSARIES, A LEVELS AND OBE

1997The Twentieth Anniversary Year was one of outstanding suc-

cess. Highlights included the Anniversary celebration week,

the school being listed as one of the Top 100 schools in South

Africa, the introduction of A Levels, another wonderful car-

nival, the election of the first governing body and the first

Students’ Representative Council under the new dispensa-

tion, and the first Matric Art Exhibition.

At the inter-schools athletics meeting the girls won the

trophy, three Fairmont athletes won individual trophies,

and the school won the coveted Spirit Trophy.

The description of the Twentieth Anniversary Celebrations

was published in the 1997 school magazine.

FAIRMONT’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY

The highlight of the year must certainly be the celebration of Fairmont High’s 20th Anniver-

sary. With the advent of 1997, Fairmont’s 20th year in existence, a committee of excited and

rather anxious teachers and pupils, under the Chairmanship of Mr Wigg, were able to put

their months of planning into action. The celebration week took place from 24 February to 1

March 1997 with the theme for the week being “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow”.

MONDAY 24 FEBRUARY: OPENING DAY

Tracey Kairuz (Head Girl 1980) officially opened the week’s celebration at the Opening

Ceremony, held on Hillcrest Field and she presented the 1997 Head Prefects with a time

capsule containing 20th Anniversary memorabilia. All the Fairmont pupils formed an

impressive “twenty” on the field and each pupil, armed with a helium-filled balloon, re-

leased it into the sky, to establish whose balloon would travel the furthest. A “humungous”

cake was baked for the occasion and each pupil received a piece of cake to share in the

birthday celebration.

In the evening, a superb formal dinner was held at La Verona Restaurant in Durbanville.

The guest speaker was Mr Brian O’Connell (Head of WCED). The evening included an

auction of selected artworks painted by Fairmont pupils, which were auctioned by the

entertaining and professional auctioneer, Mr Julius Buchinsky.

TUESDAY 25 FEBRUARY:

The day was characterised by a “Civvies Day” with the pupils dressing up to the theme of

“Yesterday”. The staff added to the spirit of the theme by dressing up as school pupils in

uniform. The Inter-House Plays were staged during school hours and anxious moments

awaited directors, Susan Gustafson (Innes), Jeanette Steynberg (Dale) and Claire O’Neill

(Muir). Innes House dominated the awards, winning the award for “Best Play”. The other

major awards were as follows:

Best Director: Claire O’Neill

Best Actor: Gary Rhoda

Best Actress: Clare Vernalls

The pupils enjoyed a picnic on the field during the extended break.

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A Proud Day - 1997

PTA Committee - 1997

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WEDNESDAY 26 FEBRUARY:

The theme for the “Civvies Day” was “Tomorrow” with many pupils dressing up in some

spectacular futuristic outfits. The day was characterised by the “Fun Olympics” com-

mencing with the traditional inter-class “Boeresport” competition, which proved to be

great fun. The highlight of the “Boeresport” was the Tug-O-War, with the staff team

stamping its authority on the feverishly determined Standard 10 team. The “Fun Athletics

Meeting” in the afternoon included some fun-filled and hilarious events. Another of the

highlights of the day was the Inter-Schools “Fun Gala” which included a pool noodle relay

race, a tube relay race and a piggy-back relay race. Needless to say Fairmont won the

Inter-Schools “Fun Gala” showing our neighbouring schools that we know how to have

fun.

THURSDAY 27 FEBRUARY:

One of the highlights of the week was certainly the Fairmont Fashion Show and the Mr

and Miss Fairmont Competition held on the Thursday evening. The finalists, chosen from

the Standard 8 to 10 pupils, were announced well in advance to enable sufficient practising

and to ensure that the Fairmont models were able to “strut their stuff” on the catwalk.

Modelling agencies assisted with the choreography, Mr Dill was the creator and designer

of the splendid set, the stunning outfits worn by the finalists were provided by leading

stores and the fabulous prizes “up for grabs”, all made this a spectacular occasion. The

evening culminated with the crowning of James Espin and Tegan Swart as Mr and Miss

Fairmont respectively.

FRIDAY 28 FEBRUARY:

The traditional Founders’ Day Assembly was held on Friday morning with Dr Clifton

Woods (Head Boy in 1987) addressing the Assembly. A number of special guests, previ-

ous head prefects and past pupils attended the Assembly, which was followed by a lunch

for the invited guests.

The 20th Anniversary Carnival commenced in the evening with a Fun Fair and a Pupils’

Dance. The Past Pupils’ Reunion was also held with many past pupils, particularly the

1987 Matrics, celebrating their 10th Reunion renewing old acquaintances in the beer tent

and at the spit-braai. Each standard spent the afternoon and evening frantically building

their respective floats, to the theme of “Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow” for the Float Proces-

sion the next morning.

SATURDAY 1 MARCH:

The day started with the Float Procession through Durbanville led by the stunning

“Drummies” and “Bummies”! The five floats, built by each standard, were most impres-

sive, with the Standard 9 float judged as the “Best Float”.

The Carnival atmosphere continued throughout the day with a number of Arena Events,

including a karate demonstration, roller-blading, drum majorettes, a synchronised swim-

ming display as well as folk-dancing. A “Gold Rush” was also held with many fabulous

prizes being won. A wide variety of stalls, including food stalls, were in operation throughout

the afternoon and evening. The evening’s entertainment included the Fun Fair for the kids

and the beer tent, which included a number of oom-pah bands that kept the adults in a

“swinging” mood. The celebrations came to a close with the Bandslam in the school hall

in which a number of pupil bands provided some “head banging” entertainment.

Finally, thank you to the 20th Anniversary committee for their commitment and hard work

which made this event the success that it was.

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A scene from “Grease” - 1997

20th Anniversary - the balloons are released - 1997

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A Levels

The A Levels programme was introduced after the Board of Governors agreed to an initiative

of Ms Barbara Elion, a former English teacher at Fairmont and co-ordinator of the school’s

GCE (Gifted Child Education) programme. Classrooms and an office on the top floor were

made available for specialised tuition in six subjects by outside tutors leading to examinations

under the auspices of the University of Cambridge’s Local Examinations Syndicate. The inde-

pendent programme, with Ms Elion as co-ordinator, attracted enormous interest from the press

and various radio stations. “Twenty-four excited and motivated Fairmont academic ‘guinea

pigs’ enrolled for various combinations of A level subjects.”

Top 100 Schools

The Sunday Times presented its Top 100 Schools supplement on 14 September. The panelists

had set out to look for schools that were making a difference in their context - schools that

were exceptional, whatever their disadvantage or privilege and that were worthy of emulation.

Three criteria were developed for identifying such schools: performance or achievement in

academic and extra-curricular activities; the ways in which the schools prepared pupils and

staff for a rapidly changing world, and the ways in which they adapted to increased autonomy;

and the creation of opportunities and conditions for learning. It was with great pride that the

Fairmont community heard that Fairmont had been listed as one of the Top 100 schools.

PTA

The PTA adopted a different approach for the quarterly meetings when it was decided “not to

get speakers, but to do it ourselves!” Two successful meetings involving teachers and parents

were “Air your views - share your feelings” in May, and “Working together works” in August.

The PTA Dance was again a most enjoyable occasion with Fay Davids and Michelle Vorster in

charge. The 100 Club continued to be a source of enrichment and social enjoyment.

A report in the Paperclip included this paragraph: “An elated, although exhausted chairman of

the PTA, Michael Ettish, reported that the 1997 Carnival and Fireworks Display netted the

school a tidy sum of R175 000. A sincere thank you to all those parents who so tirelessly

contributed their time, sweat, brain power, muscles, elbow grease and even their children and

parents to make this year’s event the success that it was.”

Pupil achievers deserving special mention included:

• Shawn du Plooy (cycling), James Perry (cycling), Martin le Roux (baseball) and

Aniela, Peter and Michelle Mojzis (tennis), who were selected for national teams.

• Vanessa Mayley, who won a R10 000 scholarship as first prize in the national round

of the United Nations Population Fund Art Competition.

• Jonathan Greenfield represented South Africa as captain of the national U14 soccer

team.

• Melissa Leader, who was placed ninth out of 4500 candidates in the National English

Olympiad and represented South Africa in a student exchange programme in Russia.

• Martin Meyer, who was awarded a gold medal at the Expo-Science International ’97.

• Kirstyn Harris, drum majorettes leader, won the SA title for mace duets with her

partner at the SA Indoor Championship.

116

20th Anniversary Celebration (aerial view) - 1997

A Levels:

J Watson, L Kohler, Ms B Elion, M Johannes, V van Vuuren (photo: The Argus) - 1997

117

The 1996 Matric results were excellent:

A aggregate 8

Matriculation exemption 97

Senior Certificate 69

Failures 0

Matters receiving attention during the year included a secondary staff room on the first floor,

shade-ports and/or shelter for cars and in the Junior Quad, a store next to the drama room, a

sign at the front entrance, a tour to Gauteng, the “Group of 80” contesting the Grove case, the

introduction of girls’ trousers and planning for the proposed Indoor Centre.

The production of ‘Grease’, which ran to packed houses for three nights, and the very success-

ful Art Exhibition proved that there was tremendous talent and potential among the pupils.

The staff enjoyed a weekend of team-building at the Tygerberg Nature Reserve. This was

followed by a weekend at Mount Fleur for the senior staff and subject heads. This staff devel-

opment exercise was conducted by Mr Hilton Calder, who also addressed the matrics later in

the year.

Proposed Indoor Centre

Planning for the proposed Indoor Centre/Students’ Centre was initiated. There was a great

deal of discussion as to siting. Various positions on the netball and basketball courts, the

matric lawn in front of the hall, and the parking area adjacent to the pool were all considered.

Plans were prepared by a number of construction companies, all to include spectator seating

and other facilities. Budgetry constraints would eventually determine the size, position and

nature of the multi-purpose building.

Staff

Tony Marshall left after almost nine years as Head of the English Department to take up the

position of Deputy Principal at Strand High. Others who left were Kaeli Albertyn, a past pupil

and previous Head Girl of the school, and Liezel Kühlcke, who had been a popular teacher-

counsellor for five years and had been actively involved in many spheres of school life. Liz

Müller was promoted to Deputy Principal after a number of years as Head of the Mathematics

Department. Following an approach by an occupational therapist, Mrs E Bretteny, it was

proposed that facilities be provided on the school premises so as to have a team approach to

counselling, necessary after the demise of the school clinics.

A new governing body was elected. This included two pupil representatives, who had “full

voting rights except where contracts are concerned or in decisions which force a legal liability

on a third party”.

A “Conditions of Service Adjustment Package for Educators” was finally agreed to in August,

but only by the State and the majority employee party, SADTU. It would, however, be ex-

tended to all educators. The South African Teachers’ Association announced this as “SALA-

RIES - finality, but no victory”.

The school, as a member of the “Group of 80 Schools”, joined those who “were committed to

raising the necessary funds to finance opposition to the Minister’s Appeal against the Grove

decision. (The Minister had been ordered to pay the costs of the High Court case).

In October, the final draft of the marketing plan for the school was approved.

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Standards

The changes to the way in which marks were allocated and distinctions and symbols were

awarded, especially in matric, led to much public comment and speculation in the press about

lowering of standards. This led to the principal’s comment in his annual report that “I believe

that if we fulfil our mission of striving for excellence, it will not be the A in the matric exam that

becomes important but that the pupil who obtained the A did so at Fairmont. We can make of

any syllabus what we will, and we should aim for the highest standard which we ourselves can

set.”

The Students’ Representative Council - 1998

The Student Centre - building progress - 1998

119

1998The failure of the redeployment process had led to a huge budget crisis in 1997 as it became

clear that Departments would have to spend far more on teachers’ salaries than anticipated.

Thousands of new teachers had to be employed to fill new posts at understaffed schools. Teachers

declared in excess remained at schools and many who had taken the severance package were

still on the payroll.

At the start of 1998, there was great tension as the National Department initially declared that

approximately 20 000 temporary teachers would be re-hired. Following a three-day strike by

thousands of teachers in mid-1998, a new agreement was reached. The national minister would

set student-teacher ratios, and Provincial Departments could determine the number of teach-

ers, according to their budgets.

Curriculum

The phasing in of the new curriculum started in January 1998. A six-day cycle timetable was

introduced with school hours being 08:00 until 13:45.

The reduction in staff unfortunately meant that physical education classes had to be discontin-

ued. A number of teachers attended weekend training seminars, including one on Outcomes

Based Education. Many staff members began experimenting with OBE. Mr Wigg attended

the Convention of the National Association of Secondary School Principals of the USA in San

Diego. He reported back at an open meeting in April on Changes in Education. The most

important current topics were those which would also soon become the focus of attention in

South African education:

• The development of flexible timetabling.

• The technological revolution - equal in effect and importance to the Industrial

Revolution.

• Assessment methods.

• Student-centred learning, rather than teacher-based instruction.

• Reality based, market related, career orientated curriculum.

• Integrated curriculum.

He suggested that the school give attention to, among other factors, training of teachers in the

applied use of computers, additional computer facilities, rooms assigned for group work, a

students’ centre with, if possible, a cafeteria, and various assessment and instructional methods.

Buildings

The staffing and strategic planning sub-committee proposed to the Board in June that the

project having priority should be an “additional computer room, together with all extensions,

furniture and equipment, the necessary teacher training, and including upgrading of the Lec-

ture Theatre (sound system, acoustics, curtains, ventilation and seating)”.

Fortunately, the chairman of the Board of Governors was in a position to report in October that

“we have implemented two of our most ambitious projects to date by equipping two class-

rooms with comprehensive computer equipment, which may become a model for the future.

We also commenced with the construction of a Student Centre (due for completion in the first

quarter of 1999) to accommodate indoor basketball, netball, five-a-side soccer, drum majorettes

and a multitude of other sporting and cultural activities.

A wonderful donation was received from a parent for a digital internet connection.

120

Administrative Staff: Mr M King (Administration Manager),

Mr U Horsthemke (Co-curricular Co-odinator) - 1998

Administrative Staff: Mrs H Tatley, Mrs A Jacobs, Mrs J Moreland, Mrs P Retief - 1998

121

PTA

The PTA enjoyed a successful and productive year. The annual dance, with the theme “Afri-

can”, was a resounding success as was the excellent Carnival and the 100 Club. Sub-commit-

tees were - tuckshop under Mrs Gessner, the kiosk run by Mrs Page and Mrs Bosch, and the

clothing bank run by Mrs Dijkshoorn. The proposal to change the name to PTSA could only

be ratified at the 1999 AGM, but pupils Lauren Young and Kim Brown joined the committee as

observers. A cultural committee comprising staff, parents and pupils was formed. Another

group bringing comfort and support to many was Mothers Who Care, a group of mothers who

met regularly at the school.

A new member of staff, Leigh-Ann Littleton, in a remarkably short time, produced Lust, De-

ceit and Folly, which proved to be “undoubtedly a brilliant display of untapped talent”. An-

other show which was very well received was the variety show Showbuzz.

A group of “young, dynamic 1997 matriculants” reinstated the Past Pupils’ Association at the

initiative of Sean Loots. Building on the success of the 1997 Mr and Miss Fairmont pageant,

they set about organising their first major event. Twenty finalists appeared before three pro-

fessional judges modelling clothes from a number of stores. Included in the programme were

other items including “the sensational voice of Tracey Murray”. Winners of the Mr and Miss

Fairmont titles were Gary Swart and Samantha Jones.

New developments were the changes to a fixed, timetabled Societies period for all, and the

introduction of soccer for girls.

The school hosted three exchange students - Laura Perichon from Belgium, Mette Jensen from

Denmark and Camilo Benitez-Aldana from Paraguay.

Matric ResultsThe matric results of 1997 were again excellent:

Matriculation Endorsement 94

Senior Certificate 68

Failures 0

Total 162

Twelve pupils obtained A aggregates.

Grades

1998 marked a change from Standards to Grades. Pupils in all grades who obtained A aggre-

gates in both December of the previous year and June of the current year were invited to the

annual Honours Dinner, held at the Bloemhof restaurant. The guest speaker, Adv. Liesl Fichardt,

had a powerful, motivating message for the top pupils.

Another function enjoying wide support was the exhibition of work by the thirty-six matric art

students. Sarah Goddard received international recognition when one of her works was cho-

sen for the International Touring Exhibition.

The SRC, under the direction of Mrs Esmeraldo, had a busy and successful year. Members

attended a number of leadership seminars and represented the pupils on many committees and

sub-committees.

The success of the A levels programme was illustrated by the outstanding success of Neil

Yorke. He wrote thirteen papers in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry, this in addition to the

normal school examinations! He passed all, obtaining an A for Mathematics (with 100% in

Pure Mathematics) and a B in Physics.

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Achievements

Other outstanding pupil achievements included those of Michelle Mojzis, the current SA U14

tennis champion, who represented SA in tournaments in a number of countries, Sharon

Stanbridge, the first Fairmont drum majorette to be awarded SADMA (national) colours, Susan

Gustafson, who won the typing speed, senior section of the Cape College Typing Olympiad

and cyclist Shawn du Plooy, who was again selected for a national team. Renate van Dijk’s

poem Release was published in an anthology entitled Mirror Images.

Bereavements

The school was saddened by the death of pupil Giselle Pappada and staff member Kallie du

Plessis, who suffered a heart attack at the school. Kallie had been a loyal worker for twenty years.

Staff

Mr Chris Bester left the school and the country after nearly twelve years as Head of Geogra-

phy, Head of Department and Grade Coordinator. Ms Elmarie Kitshoff left in June after being

a member of the Afrikaans Department since 1981.

Overseas Tour

1998 ended on a high note when the first historic overseas tour was undertaken, that of the

rugby squad, which toured in the United Kingdom from 4 to 18 December. Mr Mike Rosewell,

chairman of the fund-raising committee and his supporters, including Messrs Barry Evans,

Russell Smedly and Louis van Schalkwyk, had worked wonders in order to make the tour a

reality. The excellent tour booklet included messages from President Mandela, the British

High Commissioner, Nick Mallet and Gary Teichmann.

Mr S Engelbrecht (Caretaker) and general assistants - 1998

123

Mr Steve Hamilton - drugs awareness

presentation - 1998Mr and Mrs Michael Ettish - 1998

Valedictory Day - the matric farewell song

124

1999

Familiar terms at the start of 1999 were appraisal, quality assurance, multiple intelligences and

the guardian system.

In WCED circular 34/99 schools were informed that “The Minister of Education

has...determined the date from which the governing bodies of ordinary public schools must

function in terms of the above-mentioned Act (The South African Schools Act, 1996), as at 1

January 1999.”

The Governing Body had visited indoor centres at Stellenberg, Settlers and the Edgemead

Community Centre when finalising plans for the Students’ Centre. The floor of the Centre

now received attention and Pinelands High was visited. Other matters discussed were the

provision of chairs, access to the Centre, curtains, carpets, prospectus folders, school scholar-

ships, parking for the Centre and computers for the Typing Room. One scholarship for tertiary

study would be offered each year. A teaching position at Fairmont would be guaranteed. This

would be available to current and past pupils.

Examination Results

Matric 1998

190 candidates - all passed

20 A aggregates

56 B aggregates

71% Matriculation exemption.

(fourth consecutive year in which all passed)

There were sweeping changes to the way in which matric results were announced. These

included the announcement of the top three candidates in each subject, listing of schools with

100% pass rates and those which had improved, and indication of subject distinctions.

The Matric class of 1998 presented the school with a hand-crafted replica of the school coat of

arms, carved by Bellville artist Marie von Willich. This was hung in the school hall.

Thirty-five Grade 11’s wrote the subject Small Business Management as a seventh subject.

Twenty-seven obtained A’s.

A brief list of staff meetings for the school term illustrates important issues of the time.

14 May: School Management Team (all in promotion posts) to

meet. This group has previously been known as the

Leadership Team.

17 May: Subject Groups. Staff Development Team (SDT) for

appraisal to meet from 16:00 to 18:00.

24 May: SDT presentation to staff 14:30 TO 17:15.

25 May: PTSA Forum. All staff.

31 May: Reports on teachers’ union professional growth seminars.

A new official staff appraisal system was implemented, and the official Development Planning

system started in July.

The Head Prefects of 1989, Dr Elize Kleyn and Dr Roderick Ross, flew from England to attend

the Founders’ Day celebrations in February.

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Opening of the Students’ Centre

The Students’ Centre was opened on 21 May - undoubtedly a highlight of the year. Here

follow extracts from the report in the school magazine:

“Nearly fifteen years after first considering the building of an indoor centre, we celebrated

the official opening. The original initiative came from the school’s sports coaches. Over the

years various schemes were considered, including a building on the old shooting range site

and a hall (with seating in the length) and clubhouse in front of the existing school hall, but

these were abandoned for the present site.

“The first test holes were eventually dug on 9 October last year, and the building was com-

pleted by Raciti Builders.

“Funds were raised mainly through the annual Carnival. The main fund-raising...started

about four years ago, and the building of the Centre can be attributed to the success of the

Carnivals convened by Mike Ettish. Speaking at the opening ceremony, ex-mayor, school

committee chairman and current chairman of the Tygerberg Sports Control Board, Eddie Fivaz,

told pupils he was proud to see this ‘tremendous facility’.”

Other highlights of 1999 were:

• The Carnival on 29 and 30 October.

• The production of “Midsummer Nights” on 13 to 16 April.

• The Mr and Mrs Fairmont Fashion Show and Design Competition on 13 August.

THE FAIRMONT CARNIVALS

Mr Michael Ettish organised a series of remarkably successful carnivals from 1995 to

1999.

His enthusiasm and drive ensured that substantial amounts were raised for the construc-

tion of an indoor centre for sport, examinations and functions.

Thousands attended the carnivals and the fireworks displays, which were the talk of the

Tygerberg for this period.

Other schools and organisations soon attempted to emulate the success of the Fairmont

Carnivals.

PTSA

The AGM saw the adoption of the change from a Parent Teachers’ Association (PTA) to a

Parent Teacher Students’ Association (PTSA), thereby formalising the active involvement of

students. Undoubtedly, the highlights of the year were the Bingo evening in May and the

PTSA dance in September, both of which focused on ‘fun-raising’ as well as fund-raising.

The Bingo evening was the first major function in the new Students’ Centre. 390 attended and

R10000 was raised after a donation of R3000 to Mothers Who Care. The success was an

indication that this would become an annual event.

In December 1998 the rugby team experienced a most rewarding and worthwhile tour of the

United Kingdom. One memorable occasion was the meeting with the Lord Mayor of Swan-

sea, including a visit to St Helens Club.

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The cast of Midsummer Nights - 1999

Mothers Who Care - 1999

127

In addition to the traditional Valentine’s Week, Settlers Contact, Derby Days, Homecoming

Dance, the Polar Bears Club, Sports Awards Functions, civvies days, Honours Dinner, Inter-

School Athletics, Matric Day and Matric Awards, prefects’ final assembly, Matric Farewell

Dance and the Valedictory Assembly, there were memorable subject excursions, a group at-

tended the Grahamstown Festival, the school participated in the Co-Ed Schools Tournament at

Westering High in Port Elizabeth and two pupils, Andrew Wiley and Hayley Wren, travelled to

Scotland on an exchange programme, together with the mayor of Cape Town.

The girls’ basketball team received an invitation out of the blue to attend a schools’ tournament

in Mexico. There was a flurry of excitement and fund-raising plans were made but, unfortu-

nately, the trip did not prove feasible.

Fifty-four pupils appeared in the photograph of the achievers of the year. They included nine-

teen who had been selected for national teams or obtained national recognition, and thirty-five

others who had been selected for Western Province teams.

Girls’ trousers were introduced after long deliberation about style and fabric. For the first time

every pupil would receive a copy of the school magazine.

The Matric Farewell was held in the Students’ Centre for the first time. The Centre was trans-

formed into a “warm, inviting Night on the Town, with beautiful skyscraper backdrops and a

swinging band”. Mrs Kingwill and Mrs Aston, in charge, had worked wonders.

Mrs Julie Moreland, a loyal and popular member of the administrative personnel, moved to

Gauteng. Other popular members who left were Mrs Louise van Zyl, who had been at the

school for eleven years, and Mr Stuart Collier, Head of Department and Head of History, who

had been at the school for fourteen years.

Staff Matters

In 1999 the majority of Fairmont teachers were members of the National Union of Educators,

affiliated to NAPTOSA. A copy of a letter from the National President of the NUE was sent to

all parents with school circular 14 of 1999. This explained the current situation relating to

salaries and conditions of service in the profession. Parents were informed that Fairmont

teachers would support the rejection of the State’s final offer in two ways - fourteen would

participate in the solidarity march under one banner by all Public Service Unions in the centre

of Cape Town, and a number of others would withdraw from cocurricular activities on the

same day.

National Qualifications Framework

Information was also given on the phasing in of Curriculum 2005 and the General Education

Band (for Grades 1 to 9). The following is an extract from Lindaba, a publication of the

WCED, in April 1999: “The present Senior Certificate has been criticised as being too nar-

row, abstract and ‘academic’ and not relevant enough to either further study or the world of

work. Remedying these defects is one of the aims of South Africa’s new National Qualifica-

tions Framework, in which the Further Education and Training Certificate (the FETC, replac-

ing the Senior Certificate) will offer learners a wider range of more relevant options aimed at

helping them find rewarding work and/or study further with success.”

(The term “learners” was introduced in the SA Schools Act, which subsequently also led to the

official term for Students Representative Councils being changed to Representative Councils

of Learners).

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The school was, unfortunately, compelled to cease responsibility for the A level programme

after 1999, mainly because of financial constraints.

Buildings

Room 7 was converted to a laboratory. Two classrooms were combined to form a laboratory/

lecture area for biology and physiology classes, a room was furnished for Computyping and all

the toilets were painted in colours chosen by the student body. A new clothing store was

created on the top floor.

PTSA - 1999

A Grade 8 Camp Scene - 1999

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Worthy gift:

Fairmont High School’s matric class of 1998 presented their alma mater with an exquisite gift - a hand-carved

replica of the badge by Bellville artist Marie van Willich, second from left. At hand to receive the work of art were

principal Clive Wigg, deputy principal (academic) Liz Müller and financial head, Mike King.

(Courtesy: the Tygerburger 1998)

Marita Engel with, from left, Joanne de la Cornillére, Ben van Stormbroek and Colleen Saunders

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2000

In the Education Department newsletter in January, Minister Helen Zille listed the six priori-

ties of the Department and the criteria by which all schools would be evaluated in 2000 stating

“this blue sheet (the criteria) will be one of the most important documents of the next few

years.”

The school development plan, developed by staff, parents and pupils, had four main sections

requiring appropriate action:

• Attitudes

• Leadership

• Teamwork

• Recognition

The events of 2000 can be summarised by listing the highlights of the different groups - pupils,

past pupils, staff and parents.

The SRC programme included Valentine’s Week, with its ‘Tunnel of Love’, auction and dance,

the Easter Egg tunnel, Duens collect-a-bag competition, teachers’ birthday teas, announcing

pupils’ birthdays, announcing team of the week, visits to Green Pastures Old Age Home and

the Stikland Kinderhuis, assistance at SANCCOB and collection of blankets, clothes and food

for the homeless.

The prefects organised civvies days, the honours dinner, assemblies, the Contact Week with

Settlers, dances and Valentine’s Week jointly with the SRC.

“During the first week in August, Fairmont was taken on a musical journey ‘Through the

Decades’ by a stunning cabaret production including music, song, mime and dance”. This

proved to be a resounding success.

Past Pupils’ Association

The Past Pupils’ Association had great fun “bringing back to life” the Past Pupils’ Sports Day

in the third term. The annual Mr and Miss Fairmont Fashion Show organised by Sean Loots

and fifteen students was again a great success. Over fifty designs were entered in The De-

signer Competition, won by Clare Lyddon. Lee van der Bergh and Donné Pienaar were crowned

Mr and Miss Fairmont..

The Matric Class of 1980 enjoyed a very successful twenty-year reunion, organised by Jacqui

de Villiers and Barbara de Villiers.

Nicola Meyer, Head Girl of 1990, “enchanted the audience with her inspiring and enlighten-

ing speech on Founders’ Day”. Long-service awards were presented to nineteen staff mem-

bers, four of whom - Mr Long, Mr Horsthemke, Mrs Arendse and Mr Engelbrecht - received

gold awards for twenty years’ service to the school.

Staff

Six teachers attended National Union of Educators training seminars during the course of the

year, and the principal attended a principals’ convention in Texas. It was resolved by the Board

that a Fairmont delegate should be sent to the NASSP Convention every second year. The

teacher responsible for the academic portfolio should attend the convention in Atlanta in 2002.

Teachers who left the school included Mr Peter-Jon Prince, Miss Joanna Rayner and Mrs

Therese Roux, senior teacher-counsellor.

131

Mrs Oosthuizen and first-aiders

One Act plays - Best of the best - 2000

132

Buildings

The Board of Governors continued with the development of the campus, and the road at the

rear of the school, next to the Students’ Centre, was completed in September. Construction of

a storeroom for the Students’ Centre commenced. The formation of a user-friendly trust for

the school was investigated.

Marketing Strategy

Parents were informed of the results of the 1999 Marketing Plan survey at an information

meeting in April. Groups were formed to rectify shortcomings and to develop a marketing

strategy for the school.

PTSA

PTSA highlights were the Bingo Evening, the Theatre Evening, the Dance and the Engen

Fairmont Fun Ride in which almost a thousand cyclists participated. Three forums were held.

Parents, teachers and students discussed matters of mutual interest. School circulars were

added to the school website and subject reports were included in the school magazine for the

first time. The magazine was prepared by a student staff with Shelley Manford as editor.

Subjects

Significant subject successes and developments included:

• The twenty-seven A symbols in Afrikaans.

• The Grade 9 “Multi-Experiential Camp”.

• The first Grade 8 Market Day.

• First Computer Studies SG Grade 12 examination.

• First Computyping class.

• Eleven A’s for Senior Certificate English.

• The audio-visual presentation to matrics by the celebrated South African poet,

Chris Mann.

• The job-shadowing programme.

• The Education Department Library Service selected Fairmont as a pilot school to run

the PALS system.

• The conversion of a classroom to a modern laboratory designed for group work, and

the introduction of Somerset micro-chemistry kits and programmes.

• The introduction of Xhosa.

• Jennifer Poole and Fidelia van der Linde were chosen to attend a

Gebruiksafrikaansweek in Pretoria.

• Liza Stockland obtained the highest marks for History in the Western Cape in the

1999 Senior Certificate Examination.

Jennifer Poole, in particular, achieved success in Olympiads, obtaining a gold award in the

English Olympiad, and was placed joint sixth in the Gebruiksafrikaans Olimpiade.

Matric Results 1999:

A aggregates 12

B aggregates 41

VALEDICTORY DAYA day of tears, laughter and, above all, heartfelt good-byes to those people who have influ-

enced our lives in countless way, our beloved Matrics.

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It was a culmination of all the hardships they’ve endured, the loves they’ve lost and the

friendships they’ve shared and it was only fitting that they started it on a high note with

the people who have guided them through all of these times, their teachers, at an early

breakfast function. Suddenly, it was time for the Matric plays and, as usual, we shuffled

into the Hall like sheep awaiting the slaughter. Boy, were we mistaken! The gymnastic

dazzle of Steven Harmer, David-Jon’s gyrating hips, Mr Veldman’s hilarious antics and

Michael Cannone’s interesting impression of Tom Cruise will never be forgotten, and

Mia and Cherie’s rendition of “The Blair Witch Project” and Britney Spears will always

live on as fond memories of Fairmont 2000.

But all good things must come to an end, and we all left the Hall for break while the

Matrics went to tea, complete with cakes and other delicacies provided by a handful of

dedicated Grade 11’s. Then it was on to the Valedictory Assembly, highlighted by the

presentation of certificates to the Matrics, the announcement of the 2001 Prefect Execu-

tive and who can forget the Graduation Song, sung by Bridgette and Abigail, two of

Fairmont’s very own, upcoming singing talents and the choir.

It was finally time to say our last tearful good-byes, and the Matrics took their last jour-

ney down the corridor, flanked by hordes of uniformed pupils. Forgotten friendships were

rekindled, past acquaintances remembered and for just one, fleeting moment in time, we

were all unified in the hope that their success in the future will be just as profound as the

impact that they’ve had on us in the past.

Leighann Nelson : Grade 11

SCHOOL CONTACTS2000 marked the 20th anniversary of the first Settlers Contact Week.

A highlight was the victory of the first rugby team - for the first time in fifteen years!

The Derby Days against Bergvliet and Milnerton High Schools had also become impor-

tant annual events.

The previous inter-schools athletics rivalry with Fairbairn High had lasted from 1978 to

1992

Achievements

Fourteen pupils were selected for SA teams. Tamaryn Schultz, especially, achieved great

success in gymnastics at international and local competitions.

Tarryn Bright represented Western Province at the SA Senior Athletics Championships, and

was placed fifth in the javelin event.

Michael Dunn was chosen for the WP U19A cricket team, a feat not equalled by a Fairmont

player for a number of years.

Indoor hockey was introduced. The first league match was played in the Students’ Centre in

February.

There was friendly rivalry between the “Bulldogs”, the first rugby team, and the “Wildcats”,

the first soccer team. Four Fairmont rugby players joined the Tetbury Rugby Club in the UK

at the end of the year, same of their players having being hosted at Fairmont.

Nineteen societies functioned successfully throughout the year, ranging from Aviation to

Wargaming.

Co-curricular commitments were taken into account in a revised staff incentive and reward

system. Honours badges and braid were introduced, but there was no response to an appeal for

sponsorship of staff jackets and ties.

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Mr and Miss Fairmont Competition winners: A Mullins, L van der Berg, D Pienaar, B Theron,

T Carlson, E Copley

Congratulations and Happy Birthday - Happy Celebrations of Mr Wigg’s Sixtieth Birthday - 2000

135

Students also took a wonderful lead at various camps and excursions, and in preparation for

such major events as the Face of Fairmont and Designer Competition and the Matric Farewell

Dance, held away from the school for the first time. A cheerleading team of nineteen, led by

Justine Vorster, added colour to sports events.

Achievements

Taryn Boonzaier (drum majorettes), Tarryn Bright (hockey), Tamaryn Schultz (gymnastics)

and Blake Solomon (baseball) were selected for national teams.

Past pupil Olivia Villet’s book Chester’s Big Surprise, was “snapped up by scores of book-

stores in the United Kingdom alone”.

USA Visit

During the first term Steve Myers, principal, and a number of students from a school in Denver,

USA visited Fairmont. This was to lead to a successful and enjoyable exchange visit when Mr

Peter le Roux led a group of Fairmont pupils to Orlando and Amherst in the USA, Mr Steve

Myers having moved as principal to Amherst.

The Governing Body Foundation expressed disquiet about a number of clauses in the Educa-

tion Laws Amendment Bill of 2001, especially “this council (the Representative Council of

Learners) must be the only recognised student body at the school” and the exclusion, in Sec-

tion 3, of school fund money from trusts and the prevention of governing bodies from collect-

ing contributions from parents for trusts.

There was concern about the position of prefects and other school groups.

The question of trusts remained on the Board’s agenda.

Unfortunately, for a second successive year, there were protracted negotiations about teachers’

salaries and the threat of a strike.

In his report, Mr M Ettish, governing body chairman, wrote, “we...have had to weather an-

other very trying year on the education front, due to policies and continuing changes taking

place in education”.

OBE

Outcomes Based Education was finally introduced in Grade 8. In order to encourage more

pupils to offer the matric exemption course, subjects in Grade 10 were offered on the Higher

2001The theme for the year was “Dream it, Believe, Achieve it” - a challenge offered to students to

accept more responsibility personally and to take a greater lead in the school.

The Matric class of 2000 achieved excellent results.

Candidates 179

A aggregates 18

Matriculation endorsement 100.

Cherie Salomon (for Mathematics SG) and Michael Thacker (for Technical Drawing HG)

were placed in the top three in the province. A special assembly was held in January to honour

those who had performed with distinction in the examination.

History was made when the annual dramatic production Wh@t was written and directed by

Geri Olwagen, a matric student.

136

Grade only, except for Mathematics and subjects available only on the Standard Grade.

A number of teachers attended professional growth seminars organised by the National Union

of Educators. The staff were allocated to a number of commitees which included pupil repre-

sentatives. The chairmen of these committees then formed the CC or committee of chairmen.

This was to enable all to participate in decision-making and team-building. The staff incentive

scheme was again revised to provide for academic performance, co-curricular involvement

and administrative duties.

Board of Governors

A proposal to level the Fairview and Vineyard fields to make one field to accommodate a full-

size cricket oval, two rugby fields and an athletics track was discussed by the Board of Gover-

nors in March. It was decided that this project would become part of a five-year plan.

In September the Board of Governors accepted a quotation for glass fibre coating of the Pool

and approved the replacement of the filtration plant. A capital projects survey was undertaken.

The results were analysed and the following plan of action was proposed:

Year 1 (2002): Access steps, caretaker’s room, staff toilets.

Year 2 (2003): Security fencing.

Year 3 (2004): Seating on banks, cafeteria.

It was emphasised that this plan of action did not mean that the other projects would not be

considered. It was felt that innovative funding would be a requirement of other projects. It

was further agreed that a Clubhouse fund-raising committee be launched, but that this would

be a separate project. (BOG Minutes 25 September 2001).

In October the Board considered a proposal to enclose and heat the pool. The organisation

concerned would have to provide a financial plan. The Amenities Committee was asked to

investigate further.

PTSA

PTSA functions included a Barn Dance and the annual Bingo Evening - again very successful.

The Drug Educational Council “delivered some hard hitting facts on teenage drug abuse” at a

meeting in July. This was followed by a lively discussion in October amongst parents, teach-

ers and students on the Fairmont Code of Conduct.

The increase in the number of applications for admission to the school, especially from outside

the natural feeder area, led to the Board decision in May to restrict the number admitted to

Grade 8 to 200. This was to prevent future overcrowding in terms of the number which the

building could officially accommodate.

It was resolved that pupils purchase name tags and carry school identity cards.

OFFICES

By 2001 all original peg areas for blazers and bags had been converted into offices: for

a clothing store and Standard Heads on the top floor, for Mrs Bretteny, the occupational

therapist, prefects and Standard Heads on the middle floor, and for laboratory assist-

ants, printer and, first for a Deputy Principal and then for the reception secretary on the

ground floor.

The original reception office became that of the financial assistant. The book room,

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Matric A students 2000 Examination

The Polar Bear Club - 2001

138

opposite it, became an office for a Deputy and one for interviews. The caretaker’s room

was changed into a sick bay.

The extension to the principal’s office, added in 1994 and known as the “fishbowl”, was

changed into an office for the principal’s secretary.

The original medical rooms were use as offices for the cocurricular co-ordinator and the

administration manager.

The caretaker occupied the original library office next to the Seminar Room (it being the

original library).

Classroom 57 had been changed into offices, reception area and store for the counsellors.

Founders’ Day again took place in the third term. The assembly was preceded by a breakfast

for invited guests and staff. Bonnie du Plessis (van der Walt), the winner of the Good Fellow-

ship Prize in 1981, was the guest speaker.

An excellent twentieth anniversary reunion of the 1981 class, organised by Noela Huysamen

(Horn), Jeanette van Kraayenburg (McEvoy) and Antonio Texeira, followed on Saturday 1

September, when the traditional matches between past pupil and school teams were played.

In November a police drugs search was undertaken. This was in line with the drugs policy of

the school.

Staff

Sadly, two long-serving members of the administrative staff left the school. Mrs Liefie Jacobs

was redeployed to Durbanville Primary School in March and Mrs Janet Hall, laboratory assist-

ant and administrative assistant, resigned. Mrs Therese Roux, who had helped in a part-time

capacity, left to further her studies, and Mrs Jenan Kingwill left after five years at Fairmont.

Mrs D du Plessis was appointed as the principal’s secretary.

The matrics ‘graduated’ at the Valedictory Assembly, meaningful words from the song “Gradu-

ation” also appearing on their programmes:

“As we go on, we remember

All the times we had together.

And as our lives change

Come whatever,

We will still be friends forever.”

PUPIL LEADERSHIP

1979 - 1981: Prefects, plus Student Council (prefects and elected Std 7, 8 ad 9

representatives) and Std 9 monitors (each for one term).

1982 - Matric Representative Council, known later as the Matric Council.

1997 - Students’ Representative Council (elected in terms of the Schools Act).

Prefects were appointed annually (with a voting component). The SRC was elected

annually.

The Matric Council had taken various forms. For example, in 2000, it was a prefect

portfolio.

The SRC matric members had also served as the executive of the Matric Council.

139

2002

Best of the Best

In January, the 25th Anniversary of the founding of the school was celebrated with the news

that Fairmont had again been listed under the heading “The Best of the Best” based on the

2001 Western Cape Matric results. Thirty-four matrics obtained A aggregates and the pass rate

was again 100%. The top eight students obtained averages above 90%. Tamara Courchay was

placed first in the province for French, and Dominique Oebell was placed second in Computer

Studies SG. The Matric results over a number of years were a good indication of the excellent

teaching in the school. Other excellent academic results in 2002 were those of Wendy Stone,

Erin Smith and Clayton Heroldt, who were placed tenth, eleventh and thirteenth in the country

in the Gebruiksafrikaans Olimpiade.

Building and Grounds

The Board of Governors continued with the development of the campus. The year saw major

upgrading and redevelopment of the swimming pool, as well as extensive upgrading and de-

velopment of the computer facilities. The process of extending the network to Subject Heads’

rooms was started,

Planning for perimeter security fences and for security cameras was initiated. At the budget

presentation meeting in October R5520 was accepted as the school fee for 2003. This would

include funds to address the security plan of cameras and fencing.

The Council was thanked for the provision of parking bays and the erection of retaining struc-

tures in Reservoir Road, and bollards at the Oval.

Further improvements were the erection of a new room for the caretaker and the start of con-

versions to provide more cloakroom facilities for female staff.

The parking area adjacent to Medway would finally be included in the school grounds after

years of negotiation.

In November the Board agreed to improvements and alterations to the Seminar Room. Re-

moval of the ‘temporary’ partition in the principal’s office would be delayed until the appoint-

ment of the new principal.

At a meeting on 2 December, a draft plan for a hall extension was tabled. It was reaffirmed that

the PTSA Committee was the fund-raising co-ordination sub-committee. “It was decided that

the Clubhouse Hall extension would be the project for which the Fund-raising Committee

would raise funds. This would be a separate project over and above annual minor capital

projects. The intention was to display the plan tabled at the start of 2003 so that everyone

could be made aware of the nature of the project.”

The appeal to past pupils for contributions to a Clubhouse Fund had been largely unsuccess-

ful. There was a realisation that accurate records of and better communication with past pupils

was essential. Mrs Caron Nightingale (Jackson - 1981) was appointed to trace past pupils and

record their details.

Staff Matters

Terms which became familiar to staff were progressive discipline, appraisal and staff develop-

ment. Thirty teachers experienced a Franklin Covey course on The Seven Habits of Highly

Effective People in April. The intention was for the remainder to attend the course in 2003.

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Fairmont Idols - 2002

Mark Shuttleworth presentation - 2002

141

Mrs Müller attended the convention in Atlanta, as agreed in 2000. Mrs Hazel Tatley retired in

June after twelve years as financial administrator. Mrs Tatley had been a staunch supporter of

the school for many years - for the PTA and in the office. Mrs Marie-Louise Nel relocated to

Gauteng after nearly ten years at Fairmont. Among other activities, Mrs Nel promoted the

successful Grade 8 Market Days.

The prefects and the SRC attended a combined leadership camp in the first term, and worked

well together throughout the year. They claimed a world record for the biggest hug on Valen-

tine’s Day. Everyone at the school participated. The SRC organised an Aids Week and also

held a successful Band Evening. Spirit Week, including the Settlers Contact and the Home-

coming Dance, organised by the prefects, was also a great success.

The Mark Shuttleworth Road Show visited the school in September and the Hip2b2 banner

presented to the school was hung with the House and Best School banners in the Students’

Centre. A giant chess board and set was used in the Memorial Quadrangle and the WP Chess

trials were held in the Students’ Centre in May. Funds were raised for the boys’ hockey tour to

Holland in 2003. A tour group from Wolverhampton was the biggest yet to visit the school.

Fashion Week

The Fashion Week, incorporating the Face of Fairmont and Student Fashion Designer Compe-

titions was very successful and enjoyable. Professional judges and the presence of contestants

from various schools contributed to the excellence of the occasion. Coralee Long won the

Designer Competition. The Faces of Fairmont were Dan Kadima and Megan Lenz.

Pop Idol

Fairmont’s own Pop Idol competition added interest and enjoyment to a series of assemblies

until Brigette Greybe was finally declared the winner.

Grade 11 Camp

A new innovation was the Grade 11 Achievers Camp for all Grade 11’s. This, like the Grade 8

and Grade 9 Camps and excursions, proved to me of significant benefit and value to those

involved.

The principal was informed that the school had been selected to participate in a South African/

French teacher and pupil exchange with Reunion.

Two important productions were Get the Colour Right and Blithe Spirit. The former was a

significant contribution to improving relationships.

The Board declared in May that a copy of the drugs policy of the school should be sent to every

family and should be given to newcomers.

Founders’ Day

The 25th Anniversary Founders’ Day was celebrated on 30 August. A number of past and present

committee members and friends of the school joined the staff for breakfast in the Seminar Room,

followed by the assembly, addressed by Lisa Arries (Luddit), deputy head girl of 1990.

Drum Majorettes 25th Anniversary

The drum majorettes celebrated their 25th Anniversary at a breakfast function in the school

hall. Fairmont drum majorettes, perhaps more than any other group, had ensured that the name

Fairmont was well known throughout the country. Their history and their outstanding suc-

142

Civvies Day - Pyjama Day - 2002

Hockey players’ vs Wolverhampton - 2002

143

cesses were described in a special pamphlet. The school qualified to compete in the SA Na-

tional Championships for the first time in 1985, when Debbie Heyns was the trainer, and, apart

from 1986, had qualified fifteen times until 2001, an achievement unequalled by any other

Western Province team. The team was placed fourth in the country in 1989 and 1998. Indi-

viduals were placed first in the competitions in 1991 and 1997. Three girls, Sharon Stanbridge

(1998), Taryn Boonzaier (2001) and Lauren Nortje (2002) were selected for national teams.

Achievements

Pupils achieving national recognition in other sports, and whose successes were described in

the yearbook were Leigh Bierman (hockey), Lauryn Fabian and Nici Gouws (aerobics), Lisa

Loynes (pentathlon), Alexander Nikiforou (wrestling), Alida Schoonenberg (goju ryu) and

Tamaryn Schultz (gymnastics).

Retirements

Mr Clive Wigg (principal) and Mr Alastair Frost (senior deputy) gave notice during the year

that they would retire in December. Unfortunately, the Education Department delayed adver-

tising the posts, which meant that the appointment of a new principal and deputy would be

delayed until midway through 2003.

The school bade farewell to Mr Wigg, the founder principal, and Mr Frost, who had been at the

school since April 1985, at the final assembly of the year. A farewell function for parents, past

pupils and friends of the school was held in the school hall on the preceding Friday.

1997 - 2002

SPEECH NIGHT GUEST SPEAKERS1997 - Prof RL Christie

1998 - Mr P van Vuuren

1999 - Prof N Kok

2000 - Dr Pat Gorvalla

2001 - Dr L Vermaak

2002 - Mr N Andrews

DRAMATIC PRODUCTIONS1997 - Grease

1998 - Lust, Deceit and Folly

1999 - Midsummer Nights

2000 - Cabaret Through the Decades

2001 - Wh@t

2002 - Blithe Spirit

FOUNDERS’ DAY GUEST SPEAKERS1997 - Dr C Woods (HB 1987)

1998 - Ms C de Villiers (1988)

1999 - Dr R Ross (HB 1989)

2000 - Ms N Meyer (HG 1990)

2001 - Mrs B du Plessis (van der Walt)

( GF 1981)

2002 - Mrs L Arries (Luddit) (DHG 1990)

HB: Head Boy HG: Head Girl GF: Good

Fellowship Prize DHG: Deputy Head Girl

MR AND MISS FAIRMONT1997 - James Espin/Teegan Swart

1998 - Gary Swart/Samantha Jones

1999 - Dennis de Wet/Eula Boltman

2000 - Lee van der Berg/Donné Pienaar

FACES OF FAIRMONT2001 - Edward Copley/Laura D’Amore

2002 - Dan Kadima/Megan Lenz

MATRIC FAREWELL THEMES1997 - The Academy Awards

1998 - Ice Palace

1999 - Night on the Town

2000 - Cosmos

2001 - Reflections

2002 - Xanadu

144

Matric results happiness: Tarryn Tiedemann, Jackie Preston, Sharryn Zinn - 2002

In his address at this function, Mr Wigg said, “I thank you, all my present and past colleagues

and members of various committees and groups for your friendship and support. I thank Lyn,

my wife, and my family, for their support and loyalty.

A number of people have made a difference in my life. Many are here today. I thank them for

contributing in one way or another to my happiness and my career, and for sharing my joys and

sorrows”

In his last newsletter to parents, he wrote: “It has been a wonderful privilege to be principal of

this fine school. I will always retain rich memories of the people and the events of the past

twenty-six tears.

I am particularly proud of the many excellent achievements of our past and present pupils. I

hope that as the years go by they will become more and more involved in the life and the

development of the School and their communities.

As the School enters a new phase, may the staff be blessed with the wisdom and resilience, and

may the students both present and future always maintain a spirit of honour and loyalty, mak-

ing true integrity a very real feature of the fabric of their lives.

My very best wishes go with you all.”

145

Fairmont Scientists were first in South Africa in the 1981 solar energy

competition of the SA Institute of Mechanical Engineers

Mr Wigg flanked by the 1992 Head Prefects, S Ward

and J Reeves, retired in 2002Mr Alastair Frost, Senior Deputy Principal,

retired in 2002

Mrs L Müller at Mont Fleur -

1995

146

2003 - 2007A NEW BEGINNING

2003

The motto for 2003 was A NEW BEGINNING, which was enthusiastically accepted by staff

and pupils alike. Mrs Liz Müller requested that the staff work as a team and tighten up on

aspects such as discipline.

The year began with Liz Müller as acting principal from 1 January to 31 March and Mr B.

Elgie and Mr R. Long acting deputies after bidding farewell to Mr Wigg and Mr Frost at the

end of 2002.

The school was informed by the Department that the number of staff had to be reduced from

thirty-four to thirty-one and one post level 2 post would be lost.

NEW BEGINNINGS

“Begin to be now what you will be hereafter...”

Saint Jerome (Latin Scholar)

On 1 July Mrs Müller was officially appointed as Fairmont’s Principal. She had been Head of

the Mathematics Department since 1985, was appointed Deputy Principal in 1999 and had

initially taken over the Principal’s seat in an acting capacity. She was known as a perfectionist

who, in spite of a hectic workload, found time to display a wicked sense of humour.

“I have had several calls from prospective parents asking whether I was the secretary and

telling me that they wanted to speak to the headmaster,” she said with a twinkle in her eye.

“The seat as principal of a co-ed school has not been taken by a female too often in the past which

makes the challenge so much bigger. It shows that Fairmont does not back off from change.”

Mrs Müller managed to take over the reins of Fairmont in a firm yet compassionate manner

and imparted a sense of unity, pride and enthusiasm and hard work to everyone within the

Fairmont community.

ANOTHER NEW BEGINNING

Mr Ron Dingley, an ex-Durbanite, joined the staff in the third term when he accepted the post

as Deputy Principal, bringing his own inimitable style of calm and respect. He graduated with

a B.Sc, HED and B.Ed from Natal University and taught at Durban High School and Northwood

in Durban for a total of twenty-five years.

He is married to Marian and has two daughters, Sarah and Vanessa.

Mr Dingley has travelled widely including Britain, various parts of Europe, Turkey, Hong

Kong, Australia and New Zealand and South America.

HATS OFF TO OUTGOING BOARD

Mr Michael Ettish retired as Chairman of the Board of Governors since it was his last year as

a parent of a learner at the school. He was responsible for organizing highly successful carni-

vals, firstly as chairman of the PTSA and then as chairman of the Board of Governors. During

his term of office the appearance of the entrance to the school was enhanced and the princi-

pal’s office was upgraded.

147

Mrs Liz Müller - Principal 2003 - 2006

148

Many other projects were undertaken.

• The caretaker’s room was completed.

• The existing staff toilets were upgraded.

• Additional toilets for the female staff were built

• The seminar room was re-carpeted

• The previous caretaker’s room was incorporated into the seminar room as a serving area.

Mr Niel Spheres was elected the new Chairman of the Governing Body.

School fees were increased to accommodate a security fence and surveillance cameras to en-

sure the safety of pupils and to curb vandalism. The Amenities Committee addressed this issue

and a palisade fence and an effective camera system were approved and installed.

Mr Phillip Botha was elected chairman of the PTSA, the main objective of which was to improve

the percentage of parent and pupil involvement in the extra-mural activities of the school. The

increasing involvement in derby and contact days, the good turnout at the food festival and the

successful post-matric dance held for the first time in three years were mainly owing to their

efforts.

The running of the tuckshop was taken over by Amanda de Reuck at the beginning of 2003 with

great enthusiasm and the intent of offering pupils something different. There was a fund-raising

drive to continue raising funds towards a clubhouse/ cafeteria at the school. R25 000 was raised.

The prefect body had a training seminar and a three-day camp river-rafting on the Breede

River at the beginning of the year. They organized Valentine’s Week and Spirit Week, and

various other activities as well as Prefect Assemblies. Spirit Week included the highly antici-

pated Fairmont/Settlers Contact. There were a number of prefect exchanges with The Settlers,

Durbanville High, Belville High and Westerford.

The SRC organized a number of activities, including a Grade 8 Bring and Braai, a Civvies Day

Pyjama Day to donate funds to underprivileged schools and the Inter-Schools Cheerleaders

Fund, a Chowdown Competition, “Make-Yourself- Noticed” Civvies Day, quick-selling hot

cross buns scheme and encouraging the entire school to participate in the Easter Eggs Hunt.

They also designed a new school cap and began the Team of the Week Award. Various Student

Exchanges took place with Stellenberg, The Settlers, Abbots and Guguhletu, and during Aids

Week pamphlets were handed out and donations given to various Aid Organizations.

A number of firsts in the academic field were:

• the introduction of a mini-exam in the first term

• the presentation of Art History in power-point format

• simulated Business Enterprise based on real transactions

• the first Grade 11 class taking Computer Studies HG as a 7th subject, previously

taught only at Durbanville High School

• Geography excursions along the Table Bay coastline, and along the coast up to Kleinmond

• Music excursions to Stellenbosch Conservatoire

• Natasha Otero took part in the Johann Vos Piano Competition

• Jane Lindhorst achieved as top Physiology student in the Western Cape

• Technical Drawing had a project to draw a perspective view of the clubhouse.

The annual production , “New Rock City”, was written by two of Fairmont’s English teachers

and began a new cultural revival since Fairmont had its own stage crew, propmasters and

make-up artists. The Designer and Face of Fairmont competition was organized by Sean

Loots, a past pupil. A Chamber ensemble was established at the beginning of the third term

and thirteen artworks were entered in an Eistedfodd. Eleven awards were received for these.

149

A warm welcome for Mrs Müller on the annoucement of her principalship - 2003

Jean-Pierre Catto - Special

Award: Student Leader and

Principal’s prize - 2003

Prefect Exectutive - J Clark (Deputy Head Girl) J Catto (Head Boy),

Mrs E Müller (Principal), T Blackwood (Head Girl) and G Staffen

(Deputy Head Boy) - 2003

Some Personalities of 2003

Claudia Cole - Good Fellowship Warren Kent - Past Pupils’ Award Ryan Hultzer - School Dux Geoffrey Schlee - 2nd in Class

Stephanie Zietsman - 3rd in Class Lisa Loynes - 4th in Class Alexa Helm - 5th in Class Walechia Vraagom - SA Swimming

150

The Egyptology and Classical Civilization Society focused on Tutankhamen, Cleopatra and

ancient mythology. A wargaming society was also an interesting club.

2003 was the year in which the saying “Innes House Rules” became a reality. Innes House won

the Inter-House athletics and Spirit Trophies. It also won the swimming gala and the Inter-House

competition.

As far as sport was concerned, 2003 was the most successful year in the history of Fairmont

rugby. Seven teams were fielded and all teams were undefeated for 75% of their matches.

They proved Gary Player’s words: “The more you practise, the luckier you get.” The Player

of the Year was Warren Kent. The girls’ badminton team beat The Settlers for the first time in

five years and the netball team won their league.

During the March holidays, Mr Elgie and Mr Horsthemke accompanied sixteen hockey play-

ers on a successful tour to Belgium and Holland.

In swimming, a new Grade 8 learner, Wilechia Vraagom, took part in the African Games held

in Luanda in August and won five gold and two silver medals. She also represented South

Africa in Brazil at the end of September.

There were a number of sportsmen who received Western Province colours for various sports,

namely Kyle Kokott, Joshua West, Jason Soloman and Bruce Mcmullen (hockey); Coralie

Steenkamp (rhythmic gymnastics); Grant Snyman (baseball); Shamiz Allen (rugby); Wilechia

Vraagom (swimming); and Wietske Rubow (aerobics),

At the annual speech night a Special Award for a True Gentleman, in the form of a painting of

the school, was given to Mr Clive Wigg, former principal, for his contribution to the school

facilities, the school song, motto, uniform, The Settlers Contact and various other events.

The school obtained thirt-six A aggregates in the final examinations - the most ever at this

stage at Fairmont!

Ryan Hultzer, the school Dux, obtained 101,7%, having obtained 100% for Mathematics HG

and being placed first in Computer Studies HG in the province.

A photograph of the painting of the school presented to Mr Wigg.

151

TOGETHER WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE2004

In 2004 the Board of Governors decided to see the year as a consolidation year, concentrating

on school matters, policies, staff selection, budget control, parent/pupil/teacher communica-

tion and planning for the school’s future growth.

The school had a staff of thirty state-employed teachers and a budget for twenty-seven addi-

tional teachers. Five educators resigned, namely Mrs Te Roller (birth of child), Ms Cromhout

and Mr Montague-Fryer (joined private sector), Mrs Greeff and Mrs Wilbraham (retired) and

Mrs Tracey (husband relocated to Australia.)

In the spirit of the theme “Together we make a difference”, parents, pupils and teachers partici-

pated in a number of activities throughout the year.

The Board of Governors authorized the purchase of fifty-five new computers, the upgrading of

the electrical supply, lighting and the new school reception area, shade parking for the teach-

ers’ as well as planning for the upgrade of the six prefabs, the creation of three additional

classrooms and a lecture room from existing facilities.

Approval of parents was obtained to plan for a multi-purpose facility with construction begin-

ning in 2005.

PTSA

The PTSA tried to involve the parent body in their efforts of fundraising to contribute to school

funds.

• The tuckshop raised R25 000 under the leadership of Amanda de Reuck.

• The Food Fair was predominantly a social event run by Ross Odendaal and team.

• The raffle co-ordinated by Wendy Grimm raised R72 000.

• A Valentine’s Dance was a social event which raised R5 800.

The prefects and SRC truly succeeded in achieving new levels of co-operation. The prefects

had a very successful Grade 8 orientation day and Grade 8 athletics meeting. They also had a

team-building camp on the Breede River.

The SRC organized a number of annual events such as the SRC Chowdown, assemblies, teachers’

teas and civvies days as well as a Fairmont Phat Jam, Valentine’s Week, Bands for Charity

Campaign (which raised R 3 000 for the Guide Dog Association for the Blind), a mass visit to

old age homes and shelters for abused women and children, Aids Week, and managed to pro-

vide music at breaks.

The Grade 8’s went to Simonsberg Christian Centre in Stellenbosch for their annual camp

because of the large numbers of pupils, and had their first Grade 8 gala, initiated by Mr Dingley.

On the cultural front the Interact Society organized an inter-class sandwich competition while

the Debating Society, a choir of Thirty-six members, and the Egyptology and Classical Civili-

zations Club were very active throughout the year.

The annual dramatic production “Clue” was based on the Parker Brothers’ board game, Cluedo,

and was greatly enjoyed by all whodunit fans. This very funny production takes place against

152

Valedictory Ceremony - 2004

Valedictory 2004 - Mrs Müller, Head Boy Jade Köhler, Head Girl Monique Huysamen,

Deputy Head Boy Sean Hulley and Deputy Head Girl Lauren Hambides

153

the backdrop of 1950’s Washington D>C. and the MacCarthy Witch trials. Six unsuspecting

people are invited by a mysterious Mr Boddy to Hill House, where the staff all seem to have

hidden agendas. Add the arrival of a stranded motorist, an off-duty policeman and a singing

telegram girl and you have a rollicking play.

The Inter-House plays were very entertaining with productions by Dale (A Bed full of Foreign-

ers), Muir (4 Shizzle Dizzle) and Innes (Word of Word). Innes was successful in winning the

Best Play Award. Other winners were Dean van Heerden (Director and Best Actor), Fiona

Tanner (Best Actress), Dean Louw (Best Supporting Actor), all from Innes, and Cara-Jean

Petersen (Muir) and Tyren McNamara (Dale) as Best Supporting Actresses.

The Face of Fairmont competition was organized by Past Pupils’ Award Winner Claire Allen.

The 6th Annual Fashion Week included The Student Designer and Face of Fairmont competi-

tion. Leanne Williams performed “My Immortal”. The winners were Karryn Jones and Michael

Williams (1st), Shannon Jones and Kerry Deaconas (2nd) and Rori Fortuin and Damian Whatley

(3rd). Andrew Davenport and Lauren Ter Morshuizen were awarded the prize for most photo-

genic male and female, respectively.

The first prize-winner of the Student Designer Competition, which took place on the same

evening, was Micah Chrisholm, while second prize went to Janet Phillips and Jenna Fowlie,

and third to Samantha Murray.

On the sporting front, Innes, under the leadership of Mr Piet Cronje, won the Inter-Schools athlet-

ics and swimming gala again. The school decided on the theme “All that Jazz” from the current

“Chicago” and won the Cheerleading Cup at the Annual Inter-Schools Athletics meeting.

There were a number of sporting achievements throughout the year.

• Fairmont was recognized as the top swimming school in the Northern Suburbs.

• Kim Bonney (U 19) received W.P. USSASA Colours for swimming and captained

the USSASA team.

• Wilechia Vraagom, Lauren Vogel (U 16), and Caley van Hoeslin and Guinevere

Rogers (U 14) also received swimming colours.

• Caley and Guinevere were also selected for the W.P. Life-saving Team.

• Wilechia Vraagom also obtained S.A. Colours and represented South Africa in Brazil

in September where she received three medals - two gold and one silver.

• Our Softball team were runners-up in the A League.

• Mr Long was selected as a Manager Coach of the W.P. U 16 Softball team which took

part during December 2003 and was placed second in South Africa by the end of the

tournament.

• Steve Smith was officially ranked twentieth best U 18 tennis player.

• The soccer first team won their final match against Milnerton, which made them the

top team of the Atlantic Zone.

• Bianca Smyth, Zikhana Jonas, Jody Hopley, Sue-Al Collins and Lizaan Brand formed

part of the Regional Soccer team which went to Port Elizabeth in September.

• Fairmont won a trophy at an Indoor Soccer Tournament arranged by the German

School.

• Leanne Beattie, Candice Johnson and Tarryn Mutch made the SA National Drum

Majorettes team while Melissa De Lange, Angelique Mills and Julia Taylor were

awarded WP colours.

• Vaughan Wise was selected for the SA National U 19 team and the U 19 SA

Volleyball team.

• Coralie Steenkamp received WP colours for Rhythmic Gymnastics.

154

The reception area was upgraded - 2004

Fairmont Rugby Squads visit Argentina - 2004 The Annual Production “Clue” - 2004

155

Fairmont Rugby went Latino as thirt-one players and 3 staff members, Mr Cronje, Mr Free-

man and Mr Dingley, together with Mr and Mrs Speres and Mrs Dingley, spent eleven days in

Argentina.

Warrick Wyngaard ended his report of the tour as follows: “All in all, it was a tour never to be

forgotten. As they say “friends made on the sports field are friends for life and the memories

you share with them will never be forgotten”... “Pro amore Ludi”: “for the love of the Game.”

At a special Academic Achievement Assembly in the first term, the 36 A candidates of 2003

were honoured.

The Dux of 2003, Ryan Hultzer, addressed the pupils. His speech was both relevant to the

current pupils and future pupils.

The following is an abridged version of that message:

“I have been asked to speak to you this morning about achievements and how I achieved

academically.

Well firstly, you need to have some sort of goals. For me, it was ensuring that I set the highest

possible standard of work. I set longer term goals, such as achieving a high final aggregate,

but the only way to achieve this was to set smaller goals for each test, exam and project. And

for certain tests and exams, my goal wasn’t just to get an “A”. I was aiming much higher. I

think that as soon as you limit your goals, you are limiting your result. So, for your next test,

don’t try to get only 10 or 20 percent more; try to get a superbly high result.”

I suppose you want to know how to achieve the goals you set. Well, there is no guaranteed

method of achieving extremely high results, but here’s what I think is needed to achieve your

best results.

1. A comfortable studying environment.

2. Put lots of effort in all of your work.

3. Don’t be scared to ask for corrections.

4. Do subjects that interest you.

5. Be healthy - especially when studying.

6. Avoid missing lessons or not concentrating during lessons.

7. Don’t overwork yourself.

But, what if you try all this and still can’t achieve? Well, don’t give up. You will later discover

how important a good Matric pass is when you are looking for a job or planning to study

further.

To finish off, I must just say work hard this year and be proud of any achievements you make.

Remember - it’s not the knowledge you gain at school that is important, but the way of thinking

to which you become accustomed.”

The final words of the Head prefect, Jade Kohler (who led the prefect body with Monique

Huysamen) echoed the sentiments of many matrics as their year at Fairmont ended.

“I’ll never forget Fairmont High School, my second home and family”.

The matriculants of 2004 did not disappoint us and 27 A aggregates, 44 B and 59 C aggregates

were obtained at the end of the year. Gannie Tzoneva achieved 106,1 %.

156

Ferry crossing from Buenos Aires to Montevideo - 2004

The Faces of Fairmont - 2004

157

2005

The year started with 1200 pupils, thirty-one state-employed teachers and twenty-nine addi-

tional teachers. There were eleven new teachers. Parents of Grade 9 pupils were informed of

the new subjects at a special Grade 9 subject choice meeting since the new FET curriculum

would begin in 2006. Teachers attended special courses in the July and September holidays.

The Board of Governors under the chairmanship of Mr Mike de Villiers focused on maintain-

ing the balance between academics, cultural and sporting activities. It attempted to spread the

budget equitably across these disciplines.

The following decisions were made:

• four additional Board-appointed posts were created

• substantial funds were to be allocated to upgrade the prefabs, corridors and lighting

• the budget for outside coaches to assist coaching of sport was to be increased

• the replacement of key equipment would take place

• the facilitating of Fairmont being part of the new astro turf hockey field planning at

the old stadium, alongside Voortrekker Road in Bellville would be a priority

• the first impression of the proposed Multi-purpose Centre would be shown

A MESSAGE FOR THE MATRICS WITH PERMISSION FROM THE AUTHOR, MRNORMAN NEL, FROM HIS BOOK, ‘WOULD YOU PLEASE SAY A FEW WORDS’.

One of the members of the Board of Governors and a matric parent, Niel Speres, gave

the following contribution on behalf of the all the matric parents representing the class

of 2005.

“ The chaplain’s advice to a matric pupil on graduation

day: ‘I am giving you the ball, and naming you the scrum-

half for your team in the game of life. I am your coach,

so I’ll give it to you straight.

“There is only one game to play. It lasts all your life,

with no time out and no substitutions. You play the whole

game all your life. You’ll have a great backline and full

back. You are calling the signals, but the other six fel-

lows in the backline with you have great reputations. They

are named Faith, Hope, Charity, Love, Peace and Com-

mitment.

You’ll work behind a truly powerful pack of forwards.

End to end they consist of Honesty, Loyalty, Devotion to

Duty, Self Respect, Sturdy Cleanliness, Good Behaviour,

Courage and Enthusiasm.

The goal posts are the gates of Heaven. God is the referee and the sole official. He makes

all the rules, and there is no appeal from them. There are ten rules. You know them as the

Ten Commandments and you play them strictly in accordance with your own religion.

There is only one important ground rule It is: ‘As ye would that men should do to you,

do ye also to them likewise.’

Here is the ball. It is your immortal soul! Hold onto it.”

158

Fairmont won the Inter-Schools’ Cheerleading Trophy - 2005

The Fairmont Annual Production -

“At The Hop” - 2005

Gina Louw and Lloyd Rhodes

“At The Hop” - 2005

159

PTSAThe PTSA was successful in contributing approximately R110 000 towards the Governing

Body funds despite difficult times in respect of fund-raising.

The tuckshop was open for extra-mural events at school, the raffle raised approximately R80

000 and it was decided to continue with the raffle as an annual event. The carnival on 29

October was successfully co-ordinated by Amanda de Reuck.

As usual Fairmont made a number of contributions to the community, namely to the Reach for

a Dream Organization and the SPCA. The school assisted Rotary in purchasing wheelchairs

for the needy as well as donating school stationery for the needy in Lesotho. The matrics also

treated the elderly to a Senior Citizens Tea Party.

The prefects and the SRC had a very busy year.

The prefects organized the Grade 8 orientation day and spent the day teaching the Grade 8’s

what it meant to be a “Monty”, and held the traditional Grade 8 sports day. They organized a

Song Competition and a number of Civvies Days. They spent a weekend away at High Africa

Camping Resort with Mr Dill and Ms Piek rock-climbing, swimming, playing soccer and

going for walks.

In the second term a school dance was held, and there were prefect exchanges with Table View

High School, Durbanville High and Stellenberg High School, while in the third term Spirit

Week was celebrated with walls being decorated, motivational posters and baby photos being

plastered everywhere and a Hug-a-Prefect competition being held. A themed Civvies Day

“Monties on a Mission” was held for the upcoming Settlers Contact. The prefects and SRC’s

from both schools met for discussion and dinner at The Settlers High School and both plays by

the respective prefects dazzled the audience. The prefects also organized the annual Academic

Dinner held at Anica Restaurant in Durbanville.

The prefects of 2005 proved to be a multi-talented group. They participated in the Inter-House plays, the

Annual Production, Fashion Week, the Senior Debating Team, Monty Bears, Inter-School athletics and

every imaginable sports team, and many achieved outstanding academic results.

The SRC camped at Kleinbaai to put their plans into place for the busy year of planning assem-

blies, choosing Team of the Month and Teacher of the Month Awards as well as for a student

Dance - the SRC Shakedown - for which a guest DJ was hired. A Valentine’s Day celebration

was organized - “A Tunnel of Lurv” - and the Animal Welfare Centre in Bellville was visited.

A donation of R2500 was given from Civvies Day’s Funds.

As far as the Houses were concerned, 2005 was a year which was good for every house. Innes

House beat Muir by one point in the Inter-House athletics. Dale House won the Academic

Shield and Muir won the co-curricular trophy, awarded at Speech Night.

Innes did, however, win the swimming and one-act play competitions. Muir and Innes shared the spirit

trophy. And, yet, another tradition was started with the Barney song “I love you - you love me” becom-

ing a part of Innes House with Mr Piet Cronje in mind, who encouraged Innes House with the words:

“To the world you might be one person, but to one person you might be the world!”

Inter-Schools were held at the University of the Western Cape campus. Fairmont was to present

the most complex cheer to date. The excitement had reached fever pitch at the Big Brag and

the theme ‘Boogie Wonderland” would capture the imagination of all those present. The cheer-

leaders spent the night before the big event at D’Aria guesthouse in Durbanville, waking up at

4.30 to eat a hurried breakfast before going to the stadium to prepare the finishing touches.

Fairmont brought the spirit trophy home after four years, and we were placed second overall.

160

The Annual Talent Show was introduced in 2004

Fairmont performed well at Inter-Schools 2004 and won the Spirit Trophy

One-Act Play Winners - Alex de Villiers, Candice Harding, Gavin Cook and Fiona Tanner - 2005

161

The Settlers Contact in July, the Bergvliet Derby in May and the Milnerton Derby in August were

enjoyed by all. The rugby team was especially successful, winning all three derbies and against three

touring sides.

The girls’ hockey team went to Argentina. Fourteen girls, Mrs Jacobs and Miss Milne left on

Easter Sunday from Cape Town. Nine hours later they landed at Ezeiza International. They

experienced the sights of Buenos Aires and the tango at the magical town La Bocca. They also

met the world number one rated women’s hockey player. Then they travelled to Tandile,

where they played their first game on a gravel pitch. They did a lot of shopping and exploring

and met up with other South African touring sides. They spent a night out in the trendy town of

Ricoeletta and then visited the Fiesta Gaucha Ranch, which was one of the highlights of the

tour. Here they experienced the cowboy way of life - horseriding and enjoying the local danc-

ing. The team returned on 7 April with many memories of a very enjoyable tour.

The school was also very honoured to have Shaun Pollock share breakfast with us as well as

Mr P. Levi, who was the guest speaker at our sport awards evening in October. The top achiev-

ers of our teams were congratulated on their achievements.

Top achievers who represented South Africa were:

•Samantha de Villiers and Colette Janssen (aerobics) at the Fisaf junior world Aerobics

and Fitness Championships in Moscow, Russia in November 2005. Lauren Cannone

was selected for the Rhapsody team to take part at the same venue.

•Shannon Ekermans (baseball) was selected as a member of the S.A. u.18 Baseball

Team.

•Ciaran Liedeman (chess) won the Africa Amateur u.21 title in June 2005.

•Kenneth Ketterer was awarded S.A. Team Colours for Track Cycling and Road Cycling.

•Brendon High and Garth High received S.A. Junior Colours for (Bass) Angling.

•Richard Murray was the u.17 All African Triathlon Champion for 2005 which

qualified him to be a member of the S.A. Triathlon Team.

On the cultural side events such as The Designer and Face of Fairmont (organized by Claire

Allen), One-Act Plays (won by Innes House), the Talent Show (organized by Mrs Kurt) and

the annual production (produced by Ms Bleeker) took place.

About 500 pupils and parents attended the One-Act play competition to see Innes garner six of

the awards. Fiona Tanner won the director, scriptwriter and lead actress prizes. Gavin Cook

was the best actor.

The annual production “At the Hop the heart and soul of rock ‘n’ roll” had the oldies tapping

their feet. It is the Summer of 1958 in Spartenburg, South Carolina. Four close friends have

one last fling together before going to university and being married - a summer of adventure,

romance and unlimited freedom. The local diner, The Hop, is the backdrop of their adventure.

An heir to a hotel fortune, brings his friends to his family’s holiday home and so the two groups

meet for an unforgettable summer of bobbysocks, ducktails and kiss curls, drive-ins and Elvis.

A real trip down memory lane!

Interact continued their contact with Rosehaven Old Age Home, the Children’s ward at Tygerberg

Hospital and provided sandwiches for the less fortunate.

The concert band played at the annual Speech Night and the choir of thirty performed at the

Ascension Day service and matric Valedictory Service.The Talent Show held with Idol con-

testant Ezra Langeveldt as MC was a great success, ane the debating teams continued to repre-

sent the school well in their league.

As usual the matric farewell was an evening of sheer magic as the young gentlemen and ladies

showed off their finery.

162

A number of academic highlights can be mentioned.

• four Grade 12’s, namely Zoe Blaauw, Yanni Yang, Jevan van Vuuren and Kyle

Martin, participated in the Accounting Olympiad and they averaged highest out of

the fourty-six schools taking part in the first round.

• Pupils could now choose Art HG, Art SG, Graphics SG, Drawing SG, Painting SG,

Sculpture SG or Design SG.

• Biology had a number of excursions. The Grade 9 biology camp was at Mizpah

while the Grade 10’s visited Dalebrook. The Grade 11’s visited the World of Birds at

Hout Bay and made a trip to Seal Island. The Grade 12’s visited museums and the

dissecting rooms of the University of Stellenbosch at Tygerberg Hospital.

• English pupils attended a production of HAMLET at UCT.

• The history pupils undertook excursions to Robben Island and the Holocaust Centre.

• Home Economics prepared food for the Matric Farewell and the matric breakfast.

• The Grade 9’s did a traffic study in Durbanville and the Grade 8’s went to

Froggy Pond.

• The annual excursion of Physiology pupils to the Tygerberg Hospital Anatomy

Department was undertaken without anybody fainting at the sight of cadavers and

“body bits” in jars.

• 120 Grade 10’s visited the MTN Science Centre at Canal Walk to attend the show

“Imaging Einstein” to commemorate the centenary of the birth of Albert Einstein.

• The Grade 11’s spent an afternoon at “Phenomenal Physics” at UCT.

• Pupils participated in the Equal Water Distribution System Competition.

• Grade 8 learners made accessories in Technology classes to be sold during the Soccer World

Cup.

It should also be mentioned that Mr Elgie received a Long Service Award from the WCED for

thirty years of service.

At Speech Night special awards were given to Mrs A de Reuck, Mrs L. du Toit, Mrs A.

Langeveldt, Mr N. Speres, Mrs A. Stone, Mr G. and Mrs J. Vlok. The Honours summa cum

laude award was presented to Yanni Yang for the highest percent in all exams from Grade 10 to

Grade 12. The Principal’s Award was presented to Michelle Kilfoil.

The Dux of 2004 shared her tips on success as follows:

• good self-discipline

• good study methods

• understanding your work

• summarizing and testing yourself

• regular breaks and being active

• interests whether sport of cultural

23 pupils obtained A aggregates, 44 obtained B’s and 53 obtained C’s, which meant that 119 of

the 200 matrics that wrote had aggregates above 60% - a record to be very proud of indeed.

163

The school was honoured to have Shaun Pollock as guest at a special breakfast. Mr Du Toit of the

Governing Body and Shaun pose for a photograph..

Fairmont pupil Edward Ndopu and spectators at the Gala - 2005

164

A brief overview of Mrs Müller’s role was given in the two services held at school to accom-

modate both pupils and parents as well as the many people in the education field who wanted

to pay respects.

Elizabeth Irene Müller was born in Wellington, Cape and matriculated at Huguenot High School.

She graduated with a BSc,HDE and BEd from the University of Stellenbosch and Unisa. In

1976 she married Helgard Müller and had two beautiful daughters, Nina and Bianca.She started

her teaching career in 1977 at Ysterplaat High School. In 1985 Mrs Müller was appointed as

Head of the Mathematics Department at Fairmont High School and subsequently became Deputy

Principal in 1997.

On 1 July 2003 she was officially appointed as the new principal of Fairmont High School and

was warmly welcomed by the staff, pupils and community alike. She set out passionately to

take over the reins at Fairmont in a firm yet compassionate manner. In no time, as principal,

she made her mark.

As an educator, Mrs Müller showed a keen interest in educational affairs by attending numer-

ous conferences, seminars and workshops. Change was not something she backed off from

but instead enthusiastically explored. She made many positive contributions towards educa-

tion.

Mrs Müller was a perfectionist in everything that she did and as a result consistently delivered

work of a high quality. Her strength and the enthusiasm with which she tackled her day-to-day

tasks were greatly admired by all. She managed to establish and maintain an amicable and

respectful relationship with her staff, pupils and parents. All who knew her certainly appreci-

ated her quick wit and sense of humour. Despite her outstanding achievements, she remained

humble and grateful for the opportunities awarded her.

Mrs Müller had a very heavy workload, yet insisted on teaching. She felt that it was necessary

to be aware of the pupils’ needs first hand and so it was back to the classroom for her. Her

extraordinary people skills and understanding of children allowed her to make a difference in

the lives of many of the pupils. The pupils looked up to her as a role model because she always

led by example. They were filled with great respect and admiration for Mrs Müller because as

principal she had a vision for the school which was to strive for excellence by seeking oppor-

tunities for all to realize their unique potential through self-discipline in a trusting, enjoyable

and caring atmosphere of mutual respect.

Mrs Müller fulfilled so many roles. She was not merely a principal and educator but to many

she was a mentor and loyal friend, a mother-figure filled with compassion, a confidante and a

motivator. Her door was always open and one was met by a woman who would listen. So

A SORROWFUL YEAR - FAIRMONT SALUTESLIZ MÜLLER

2006

2006 was certainly a very sorrowful year for Fairmont with the death of the principal, Liz Mü

ller as well as that of Mark Holroyd, a dedicated English teacher and much admired Head of

Department. We also experienced the death of a young Grade 10 pupil, Graham Page.

165

2006 was a sorrowful year with the passing away

of Principal Mrs L Müller

Mr Mark Holroyd, a dedicated English

teacher and much admired Head of

Department, passed away in 2006

Mrs Müller placing the first brick of the

Multipurpose Centre 2006

Mrs Müller in a light-hearted moment in 1994

166

many have had precious moments shared with her in which she comforted, advised and sup-

ported.

A week before the June holidays, Mrs Müller was taken ill and after a battery of tests, diag-

nosed with cancer. She remained positive. She underwent extensive surgeries and received

therapy treatment for her condition. Though eventually frail in body, Mrs Muller was excep-

tionally strong in spirit and it was the fighting spirit which inspired so many around her. On 10

August at 10:30, after a courageous battle, she sadly passed away.

The Fairmont High School staff, pupils and parents will always remember her for the truly

remarkable lady that she was. In her honour we shall continue to build on the very solid

foundation that she lay and memory will be kept alive.

Fairmont was also very saddened by the sudden death of Mark Holroyd, who was considered

by many to be one of the best English teachers. In August he was diagnosed with an aggressive

cancer of the liver, and after a short but noble battle, he sadly passed away on Thursday 21

August.

The year had started with 1290 pupils, which was an increase of 109 pupils from 2005. The

pupil/teacher ratio was still a priority so the staff consisted of thirty-one governing body posts

and twenty-nine state-employed teachers.Twelve new teachers joined the staff.

Construction of the multi-purpose centre began. There is a lovely photograph of Mrs Muller

laying the first brick on 14 January.

Two additional classrooms were made by sub-dividing the lecture room, and a fourth compu-

ter room was commissioned to cope with the growing demand for the subject. Cricket nets

were refurbished, a discus throwing circle was constructed and additional security fencing was

installed around the tennis court areas.

Power outages caused many problems for our server was damaged and the security gates did

not work. There were also problems associated with not having a bell to indicate the end of

breaks.

The chairman of the PTSA John Lucas, recorded that the raffle raised R62 000. Other contribu-

tions were from advertisements, the clothing bank and the tuckshop. The annual festival was

held on 28 October. It was decided that once the Multi-purpose Centre was completed, the

PTSA would be tasked with raising funds to purchase all crockery, cutlery, multi-media equip-

ment, stoves and fridges, unless willing parents are prepared to donate the funds to the school

for the purchase of this equipment.

The Board of Governors had a seminar on Good Governance in terms of Documents, Policies

and Procedures, conducted by Mr Clive Roos, an educational policy advisor.

As a result, the Board of Governors embarked on an audit of good governance practices as a

Board of Governors in consultation with other schools and hope to have this on CD as well as

on our website for the entire Fairmont Community. This will include all policies and proce-

dures, which will allow parents and pupils to be aware of these, especially the code of conduct

as the Board of Governors strive to uphold and improve upon the standards of Fairmont.

In Mrs Müller’s first circular of the year, she stated: “ To make Fairmont a success and to

ensure that we deliver the best, it takes all of us to be committed, and so the theme for 2006 is

‘Striving for excellence’.”

In striving for excellence, therefore, Fairmont was once again very busy throughout the year.

The prefect body was led by Jamie Rossouw and Jayde Dunlop, and had a team-building camp

on the Breede River. The prefects and the SRC organized annual events such as the Grade 8

167

The Governing Body - 2006: Seated, Mr M de Villiers (Chairman), Mrs A Lourens, Mrs L Fuller

(Vice-Chairman), Ms L van Aswegen, Mrs M Kropman. Standing, Mrs B Norman, Mr R Dingley,

Mr A Kokott, Mr A du Toit, Mr L Liederman. Absent, Mr B Dill and Mr P Lester

The Governing Body Chairman, Mike de Villiers and Mrs Liz Müller - 2006

168

orientation day, the Grade 8 athletics meeting, civvies days, and the chowdown competition.

The first SRC Student Awards evening took place with entertainment provided in the form of

singing, dancing and stand-up comedy.

As usual, many donations were made to various charities such as the SPCA, Reach for a

Dream, R5 000 to the Red Cross Children’s Hospital, the Safe House for orphans in Joostenberg,

the Tygerberg hospital childrens’ ward, as well as continuing to provide sandwiches for a local

primary school.

Fairmont participated in the Durbanville Bicentenary Celebrations by presenting a profile of

the school for the Tygerburger newspaper, taking part in a street procession through Durbanville,

attending a church service and witnessing the unveiling of a plaque at the Town Hall by the

mayor of Cape Town, Mrs Helen Zille.

On 1 May Sean Loots launched FRESH 2006, a designer competition. A donation was given

from the proceeds to the Reach for a Dream Foundation and awards were given for Interior

Design, 2D work and wearable art.

On 5 May the Face of Fairmont, affectionately known as FOF, was held. Tickets were sold out

a week before the event and it was a “talked-about-for-days-afterwards” event. Neil Sneyd

and Jo-Dee Swart were announced the “Faces of Fairmont”.

The Inter-House one act plays once more had a winning play by Innes. The best actress was

Nicole Bosch and the best actor, Thomas Mitchell, both of Dale House. Other winners were

Best supporting actor: Bruce McMullen of Innes House; Best Director: Robyn Rawlings and

Tracy-Lee de Villiers, also of Dale House.

Many of our children took part in the Tygerberg Eisteddfod and achieved very good results.

Top achievers who received Highest Honours were Ondela Matsha (poetry), Diedre Ellis (crea-

tive writing), You Na Park (piano), Ania Barma (creative writing), Juliana Nardone (dance),

Emily Kempton-Jones and Juliana Nardone (ballet duet), Chane Bunning and Juliana Nardone

(funk dance duet) and Emily Kempton-Jones (poetry).

Other achievements were obtained by You Na Park who submitted an essay entitled “Is Rapid

Urbanization the best Solution to Human Survival in Africa?” and was awarded a distinction

and R1 500 in prize money.

Nicole Janse van Rensburg played the Grade 5 Royal School’s oboe examination and received

87%. She was also rewarded with the first ever Liz Müller Music Trophy for the highest result

in an external examination.

The annual production “Fallen Angel” was exceptional. The school received many letters of

congratulation from people who attended the show. It was a story of intrigue and pulsating

rhythms which thrilled the audience with a soundtrack which contained songs from such greats

as Kenny Loggins, Phil Collins, Elton John, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Status Quo, Starship,

Huey Lewis and the News, Cher and the Eurythmics, with the title song “Fallen Angel” by

Poison.

2006 also welcomed back the ever-popular Talent Show, which proved to be a great success.

The evening was hosted by Big Brother South Africa’s very own Ferdinand Rabie, who kept

everyone in high spirits.

An exciting new event in the form of the Makeover Evening included learners as well as staff.

All participants were magnificently transformed but prizes were finally awarded to Miss Kirby

for the Best Teacher Makeover and Terri Evans for the Best Student Makeover.

FIND was started to benefit not only the pupils but also the teachers. It was previously the

169

Members of the Cast of “Fallen Angel” - 2006

Prefects - 2006

170

SCA of the school, but it decided on this name because of the members’ wish that all people

find God, find answers to their questions and find their purpose in life. They started with a

membership of twenty, but this quickly increased to more than a 100 and have become a very

active part of Fairmont.

Other cultural societies such as the Debating Society and Interact continued with the excellent

work and achievements of the past years.

The highlight of the first term on the sporting front was definitely our performance on 10

February at the Bellville Stadium, where we lost by only eighteen points after losing by 183

points in 2005. Fairmont won the Spirit Trophy and the girls won the Best Girls’ Team trophy.

In the Inter-House competition, Dale House came first overall and Innes House second since

the winter Inter-House sports were also included.

The annual Bergvliet Derby, Milnerton Derby and Settlers Contact were enjoyed by all, and on

26 August a Past Pupils’ Sportsday was held.

The school had a full sporting programme with learners achieving Western Province colours

in Aerobatic Dance, angling, badminton, baseball, chess, cricket, cycling, drum-majorettes,

gymnastics, hockey, Irish dancing, karate, netball, rugby, soccer, squash, swimming, Scouts

Sport aerobics and fitness, and Tri- and Duathlon.

Danielle van Niekerk was selected for the South African Girls u16 squash team to tour Scot-

land and England in December.

The Boys’ Hockey team consisting of fifteen players and three staff members arrived at Heathrow

Airport in London on 25 March on an overseas tour. They had many adventures and

misadventures shopping in Picadilly, taking a bus tour of London, taking the barge down the

Thames and walking to Greenwich as well as getting back to Barking.

They drew one game 0 - 0 and won 4 - 1 against the Buckinghamshire champions. They then

left for Holland, where they played against a men’s team and lost 1 - 3. All the games in

Holland were played at night. They lost one game very badly, but then went on to win the next

six games. The best game of the tour was played against the Dutch u18 team, which they lost

1 - 3. The tour of eleven days was filled with games and visits to many places.

One of the highlights for the first rugby team was their tour to East London for the Cambridge

Sport Festival held during the first weekend of the June school holidays. The first team also

had the chance to play against three touring sides, namely Hilton College, Gelofte School and

Whitgift School.

The end of the year functions including Speech Night, the Matric Farewell and the Valedictory

service were filled with a mixture of celebration and sadness since the loss of those dear to us

during the year was felt most poignantly at these times.

Special Awards were given to Rosalind Odendall, Jenny Martin and Marian Dingley; Honours

summa cum laude to Laura van Laeren for the highest percentage from Grade 10 to Grade12; the

Good Fellowship Prize to Sita Smit and the Principal’s Award to Janine Janssen. It only seems

fitting to end the year of 2006 with an extract from the words of Mr N. Veldman, said at the annual

Remembrance Day Service, which was held on 23 November at the Memorial Stone.

“The way you live today will determine how you will be rememberd by others and how you will

be judged by God. What you do now does matter. Every act of our lives strikes some chord that

will vibrate in eternity.”

Those we had lost in 2006 certainly will always be remembered as an integral part of the

history of Fairmont.

171

The Fairmont community - pupils, staff and parents - united in their sorrow would echo the

words of the chairman of the Board of Governors when he quoted from James1 verse 1:4.

“My brothers and sisters, consider yourselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come your

way, for you know that when your faith succeeds in facing such trials, the result is the ability to

endure. Make sure your endurance carries you all the way without failing, so that you may be

perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”

Fairmont endured a difficult year, but remained united and strengthened.

Cheerleaders - 2006

172

SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE: 30 YEARS!2007

The year started with the report of the academic results of 2006, which were most pleasing.

The top candidate, Laura van Laeren, had obtained an aggregate of 102,67%. There were 24 A

aggregates, 33 B aggregates, and 46 C aggregates.

Mr Ron Dingley was Acting-Principal and Mrs A. Lourens Acting Deputy . Mr Dingley was

later promoted to the post of Principal of Fairmont High School. Seven new teachers were

welcomed and certain changes were made concerning school times. A Tuesday test timetable

was introduced.

The first term had a number of events such as the Grade 8 Orientation day, the Grade 8 Fun

Day, a Parents’ Welcome Evening, a blood donation day, InterHouse athletics, a matric theme

day, the Inter-House gala, the English Olympiad, the Mr and Miss Fairmont competition and

the Summer Sports Awards. The Grade 8 camps with the Prefects and SRC also took place.

Parents were informed of the new cell phone policy which restricted the use of cell phones and

explained clearly the consequences: first offence - the cell phone would be confiscated and

parents would be required to retrieve it from school; second offence - cell phone would be

confiscated and parents would be required to retrieve if from the school after paying a fine of

R200, and third offence - cell phone would be confiscated and pupil would be required to

attend a disciplinary hearing.

Parents were invited to form a Garden Club voluntarily to meet once a week to further enhance

and beautify the surroundings of the school.

The new parents were addressed by various role-players where a number of key issues were

discussed such as the focus on academics, the Tuesday test series, the discipline system, the

role of the PTSA and the Board of Governors. They were also addressed by the Mothers Who

Care, and the Head Boy and Head Girl.

The Fairmont Inter-House athletics competition was held for the first time at the Bellville

Velodrome and was a great success. Innes won the trophy for Cheerleaders, Muir won the

Spirit Trophy and Dale was the winning House.

ATHLETICS; INTER-SCHOOLS WIN FOR FAIRMONT!

We could not have asked for a better start to celebrate our thirtieth anniversary. It was

indeed a proud moment for the school when our athletics captains, Guinevere Rogers and

Lucienne Vogel, raised the trophy at the announcement of Fairmont’s win. The Inter-

Schools meeting was dedicated to the memory of Mrs Liz Müller, and her husband, Mr

Helgard Müller, was present to hand out the trophies. The theme of “Swinging Sophiatown”

was once again a hit with wonderful rhythms and music such as Meadowlands and Pata

Pata. As a reward, pupils were given a shortened day on 8 February.

The Inter-House one act plays took place in the school hall and a number of pupils and parents

attended. Muir was the winning House. Best actor was Lucienne Vogel and best actress was

Colette Janssen.

Guinivere Rogers and Andrzej Lipowski were selected for the W.P. Life-saving team to com-

pete at the SA National Championship in Pretoria in March. Lynette Morgan and Siobhan

Loots, two athletes, obtained their WP colours and competed at the Belville Velodrome, where

Lynette received a bronze medal in the 400m and Siobhan received a gold medal in the 100m

173

Mr Ron Dingley - Current Principal 2007

174

and bronze in the 200m. They later competed in the National Championships in Port Eliza-

beth. Bradley Barnes (cricket) was selected to represent WP in his age group at the Western

Cape Games at the Tygerberg Cricket Club.

Melanie von Gunten took part in the SA Action Netball Championships in Johannesburg. Her

team won a silver medal.

Bruce McMullen was selected as one of the eight members of the u18 WP golf team

The Mr and Miss Fairmont 2007 replaced the Face of Fairmont function this year in celebra-

tion of Fairmont’s 30th Anniversary. Twelve Matric finalists displayed their talents to an

enthusiastic audience. Mr Fairmont was Lucienne Vogel and Coralie Valentyn was chosen as

Miss Fairmont. Neil Vermeulen was chosen as Mr Personality and Danielle Waugh as Miss

Personality.

The summer sports awards ceremony took place with guest speaker, Bruce McClelland, giving

an inspirational talk on how to focus on achieving in sport.

Two publications by pupils were revived, namely the Grapevine and the Quarter Pounder.

The Multi-purpose Centre was officially opened in the second term by Mr Barry Volschenk,

director of the EMDC North, Western Cape Education Department. This coincided with the

Art Festival with many artworks on view and a coffee shop for visitors. The highlight of this

festival was the celebration music concert with guest guitarist and past pupil, James Grace, and

Myles Roberts. Some of Fairmont’s pupils also performed as well as other invited artists.

On 26 April a special 30th Anniversary Assembly was held as part of celebrating the history of

the school. Reverend Brent Russell, a past pupil, prayed for the school at the assembly and

each pupil received a piece of cake and a colddrink after the assembly. A brief history of the

school was given by the Head Boy, JJ Odendaal, followed by a musical item by Jonathan

Otero. Mr Horsthemke reminisced about the early years at Fairmont as well.

A Grade 8 forum evening was held for the first time in the hall. It was a fun evening and an

opportunity for pupils to voice their opinions and show their speaking talents. There were

twelve teams and a best speaker was chosen in each team. A best chairman award was given to

Michelle van Sittert to be shared with Siviwe Dlikilili. A Toastmasters’ Course was also started

and was hosted by Mr Lionel Bourtious of the Bellville Toastmasters. The pupils who at-

tended enjoyed it immensely and will continue the course in the third term.

The Fabulous Fairmont Show was one of the highlights of this year. Pupils, staff and parents

participated to make this a truly memorable evening. Edward Ndopu, one of our Grade 10

pupils, opened the show with a poem written by him. This is the poem:

FABULOUS FAIRMONT

We’ve laughed with her

We’ve cried with her

We’ve triumphed with her

We’ve shared with her

Her spirited active life

Her path to glory is still a strife

Her change is constant

Her excellence is potent

175

Richard Murray Matric 2007, became World Champion in his Duathlon U19 event in Hungary

Birthday cake for all - Kelly Mealor handing out cake at our Anniversary assembly

176

Her vision for greatness

Her efforts inspire togetherness

At times we go by and not notice what

An intricate part she plays in our lives

She’s been around for quite some time...

Oh yes!

Indeed you know who she is; we all do

She has for long been succeeding.

She’s perfected the art of leading

She’s thirty, flirty and outright fun

She’s left her mark but she’s not quite done

We are therefore certain and can emphatically

Say that ‘she’ is, Fabulous Fairmont.

Edward Ndopu

2007 witnessed a dispute between the State and the Public Service Unions, which culminated

in strike action. The school was not affected by this action although a number of staff did

exercise their right to strike.

Mrs Esmeraldo was promoted to the post of HOD at Fairmont and Ms Barnardt joined the

school as HOD in the IT department.

Millicent Gulwa of grade twelve was selected as a presenter for the Kfm Youth Day Experi-

ence on 16 June and we ended the term with the good news that Shameegh Allen of Grade 12

had been selected for the Western Province Schools rugby team. He was congratulated on this

achievement by being the first Fairmont player in the history of Fairmont Rugby to be selected

for the Western Province Craven Team.

After saying a sad farewell to Miss Shirly Milne, a Fairmont past pupiI, teacher and special

member of our staff who left to travel overseas, we welcomed in the third term four teachers to

our staff: Mr Edwards, Mrs Friedenthal, Mrs Hansen and our HOD Mrs Barnardt.

The Drummies returned from the National competition in Durban with some very good results .

It was with heavy hearts that we said farewell to one of Fairmont’s leading citizens, Mr Brian

Dill, who left Fairmont at the end of July to enter the private sector. We thank him for the many

years he enriched our school.

The third term highlight on our calendar, the Settlers Derby, was held at The Settlers School.

We thank them for their hospitality and friendship.

The Milnerton Derby was interrupted by rain, but we managed to complete most of our fix-

tures by organizing mid-week games.

Lynette Morgan represented the Western Cape Youth team at the South African Youth games in

Bloemfontein. Adrean Rebelo achieved world champion status by coming first in the continu-

ous fighting division at the international karate event in Orlando USA. Our 1st Badminton

team was selected to participate in the National School Competition in Durban.

Mrs Vermeulen and the cast of “A Celebration of Music and Dance” put on a wonderful an-

nual production show, and we were again amazed at the talent of the school.

177

Mr and Miss FHS Winners, Seated: Lucien Vogel (Mr

FHS) Coralie Valentyn (Miss FHS). Standing: Neil

Vermeulen (Mr Personality) and Danielle Waugh (Miss

Personality)

James Grace, pupil at Fairmont in 1992, stud-

ied guitar with Carlos Bonell at the Royal Col-

lege of Music in London and became the first

guitarist in the history of the College to receive

the Tagore Gold Medal. James has recorded

his first solo CD and is currently Head of Clas-

sical Guitar at the University of Cape Town.

James appeared at the Fairmont Music Con-

cert Celebration in April 2007

The Tuckshop was upgraded in 2007

Bruce McMullen represented the U18 WP

golf team

178

We acknowledged our academic honours achievers at a special dinner at the Piatto Restaurant,

where Eric Symons gave our pupils a special message on achieving in life.

Miss Pienaar, one of our Fairmont staff members was congratulated on her selection to the WP

Peninsula Hockey team.

Our PTSA was very active during the year and one of the many events on their calendar was

the Andy Marinos Breakfast, a successful and informative event enjoyed by 100 guests.

Other events hosted and organised by the PTSA were the successful 30th Anniversary Dance

Bash, a fun evening of dance to the live music of Back on Track, and the Annual Fairmont

Community Festival which raised R80 000.00.

The Past Pupils’ Sports Day took place on 1 September and the Matric Class of 1987 held a

well supported reunion. They donated R5 500 towards the furnishing of the boardroom, an

addition to the donation of a boardroom table and chairs from the Teare family.

Twelve of our girls qualified to represent SA in the 2007 senior and junior World Fitness

Aerobics Championships held in Serbia during October.

Toks van der Linde was the guest speaker at the Winter Sports Awards. His message was that one

should believe in one’s own abilities, have passion for what one does and do it with determination.

On Friday 22 September, the big event of the year, the Matric Farewell Dance, with the theme,

Atlantis, took place.

The new library is established and will be commissioned in the first part of 2008. Plans for a

technology centre were tabled.

Parents at the annual budget meeting voted in favour of a R50.00 per month levy towards a

sport project fund to improve the sport facilities at the school. The first project to be tackled is

the construction of an Astroturf hockey field, which should be constructed in the first part of

2008. Other projects on the list include a gym, improved cricket facilities, rugby terraces and

deepening the pool for water polo, to mention but a few.

How rewarding it was to receive the Matric results of 2007 and witness the best academic

performance in the history of the school. Well done to the Class of 2007 on their outstanding

results and for making us all proud to be part of the Fairmont academic institution.

A summary of the results is as follows:

Number of candidates: 219

A Aggregates: 47

B Aggregates: 39

C Aggregates: 58

D Aggregates: 55

E Aggregates: 15

Total scoring above 60%: 143

Total number of subject distinctions: 212

Total number of subject ‘B’s’; 217

Total number of subject ‘C’s’: 311

We congratulated Mrs M Esmeraldo and Mrs M Schnehage, who were both nominated as

acting deputy principals at Fairmont in 2007.

179

SPEECH NIGHT GUEST SPEAKERS2003 Mr C Roos

2004 Ds J van Rensburg

2005 Mrs M du Preez

2006 Rev. B Russell

2007 Mr C Wigg

DRAMATIC PRODUCTIONS2003 New Rock City

2004 Clue

2005 At the Hop

2006 Fallen Angel

2007 30 Years of Fairmont: A Celebration of Music and Dance

MR AND MISS FAIRMONT2006 Neil Sneyd and Jo-Lee Swart

2007 Lucien Vogel and Coralee Valentyn

FACE OF FAIRMONT2003 Nici Gouws and Robert Starke

2004 Kerryn Jones and Michael Williams

2005 Bianca Rudman and Luke Bunding

MATRIC FAREWELL THEMES2003 Eastern Mosaic

2004 Moonstruck

2005 A Night at the Opera

2006 Chicago

2007 Atlantis

2003 - 2007

Cast members of ‘At the Hop’

180

Mr Barry Volschenk, Director of the EMDC North, Western Cape Education Department, cuts the

ribbon at the opening ceremony of the Multi-purpose Centre, Wednesday 18 April 2007

The PTSA of 2007. Back: Mrs J Hoenck, Mrs H Kempton-Jones, Mrs F Higgins, Mrs J Hunt,Mrs J Martin, Mrs M Janssen, Mrs A Dolpire, Mrs R Odendaal, Mrs S de Villiers.

Seated: Mr P Cronje, Mrs C Robinson, Mr B Pearce, mrs J Cooper, Mrs M Hlozek, Mr R DingleyAbsent Mrs A de Reuck

181

A celebration of

Music and Dance

Fairmont 30 years

Cast membersduring a lightermoment at theschoolproduction “Acelebration ofMusic andDance”

Mr Schalk Engelbrecht, caretaker at Fairmont High School, retired in 2007

after 30 years service to the school.

182

Reflecting back on what has been written in this publication fills one with pride to be associ-

ated with such a unique school, - a school with a personality of its own, a place where young

people can develop in the security of an enriched academic environment. The school continues

to receive accolades from the top Cape Town universities, singing the praises of our pupils

who go on to study at these tertiary institutions, for their ability to cope and achieve in de-

manding academic circumstances.

It is our vision to continue to make Fairmont a place for all to flourish as individuals in a safe and

caring environment based on a sound code of good behaviour where we all respect one another’s

rights to be happy at school and grow in a responsible way as individuals and good citizens.

Fairmont owes a deep gratitude to all the teachers over the past thirty years who have given

unselfishly to the school to develop that special “Monty” spirit and to parents alike who have

made it possible through their financial contributions and moral support to make the school the

great institution it is today.

In a nutshell, the six key words in the mission statement are central to the continuation of the

reality of Fairmont: Excellence, Opportunity, Uniqueness, Self-discipline, Trust and Respect.

May Fairmont grow from strength to strength - at thirty years of age we salute all the pupils

who have gone through the Fairmont ranks in the knowledge that it is all about them and what

they have achieved these three decades.

Fairmont we are proud of you!

A number of our Fairmont Girls participated at the World Fitness and Aerobic event. Back row: Tarryn

Willemse, Jade Levy, Manya Schut, Niki Gartrell, Colette Janssen and Chané Bunning

front row; Samantha De Villiers, Liezel Killian, Jessica Keytel, Amber Carstens, Nicole Peper and

Natalie Teuchert

183

The new library will be commissioned in 2008

The new Multi-purpose centre

184

APPENDICES

1. Reflections

2. Documents

3. Governing Body Chairmen

4. PTA/PTSA Chairmen

5. Head Prefects

6. SRC Chairmen

7. Honours Summa Cum Laude

8. School Dux

9. ‘A’ Aggregates

10. Good Fellowship Prize

11. Principal’s Prize

12. Past Pupils’ Award

13. Fairmont Awards

14. First Team Captains

15. Personalia

16 Staff Present during Anniversary year

17. References

185

APPENDIX 1

REFLECTIONS

Memories of a “Montie”

In 1976 I was in Std 5 at Durbanville Primary School, and had always presumed that I would

be going to Durbanville High School, until we heard that they were building a new English-

medium high school. I lived down the road from the new school site, which was a vineyard at

the time, and I remember watching the building process of my “new school”. In 1977 Fairmont

High School (first called Eversdal High English Medium) opened its doors for the first time to

Std 6’s, 7’s and 8’s. I started in Std 6 and I recall feeling both overwhelmed and excited.

Coming from a primary school atmosphere that was old, dark and dismal, I recall walking into

this brand new beautiful building and thinking “wow”! The builders were still in the process

of construction and the smell of new paint greeted me. Everything was brand new. New

classrooms, desks, books, and new science/home economics equipment - everything was shiny

and modern. But best of all - we had no school uniform! For the first year of high school, we

could wear civvies!

Emotions were divided. I felt very grown up and excited going to high school for the first

time, but at the same time I was scared - as I think we all were. After being the top dogs in

Primary School, our bubble burst when we got to Std 6 and realised we were once again at the

bottom of the food chain. But there was an upside to being in high school - the older boys

looked very attractive to us girls - we were at school with men!

It was strange being in a different school with new teachers - most of whom were younger than

we are now; and after having predominantly women as school principals, we now had a male,

by the name of Mr Wigg. We were frightened out of our wits by this man who said he had a

cane in his office! We all vowed never to visit his side of the school building (of course most

of us ended up having a meeting with him at some time or another).

That first year went by in haze of new activities. We had no school hall or sports fields, but we

played at other venues, and slowly the school spirit grew. We acquired a school flag, a school

motto “Stand Fast”, and a school song. Then the dreaded school uniform arrived in 1978. It

was inspired by a classmate, who one day wore a brown and white checked dress. Most of us

hated brown - what an “uncool” colour! For the next four years this poor classmate (who was

very dear to us) was not very popular! But, eventually we accepted the uniform and became

proud to wear it. We now had an identity, we were a group, and we were a school that people

now recognised - we were “Monties”.

A school magazine, “The Grapevine” was started. It was first published by the pupils them-

selves. I remember spending hours typing my fingers to the bone and then hours stapling the

pages together. We charged 5c a copy. In 1979, the first official Fairmont High School Year-

book was published.

Various clubs and societies were started, e.g. choir, drum majorettes, photographic, drama,

debating, etc, which were all fun. Mr Wigg also introduced “The Gardening Club”. This was

our detention activity, usually held on a Friday afternoon. Many of us spent hours digging,

weeding, planting and cleaning the school’s garden. I now often drive past the school and look

at the fruits of our labours of so many years ago.

New sports fields were eventually built, which were sometimes used at break times for a quick

“puff”. Pupils who came to school early in the mornings always met on the front steps of the

hall and had sandwiches and chats, and quickly completed unfinished homework (sometimes

186

copying from our friends). During breaks the girls used the quad areas to tan our legs, much to

the consternation of Miss Coetzer whose repeated “put your socks and shoes on girls” always

went unheard. Noticeably, “The Gardening Club” had many more members in the summer

months. The tuckshop was also a novelty, as the moms served hot soup during winter. Queues

were always long, with pupils buying sweets and chips to munch on later in class, also leading

to another get-together with the “Gardening Club”.

Inter-House (Dale, Innes and Muir) and inter-school sports days were a favourite amongst the

pupils. It meant a day away from the school books and the confines of the classroom. Inter-

House gave us the chance to watch the teachers’ races, which were always hilarious. For the

inter-schools meet, we were bussed to Bellville Athletics Club and screamed and sang our

lungs out, only to come home hot, tired and hoarse, but oh so proud!

The first matric class graduated in 1979, which was a very proud first milestone in Fairmont’s

history. I graduated in 1981 and I remember the Valedictory Service that last day of school.

Where had the five years gone? I was now leaving the comfort of familiarity and facing a new

chapter of my life. We all cried many tears that day. Tears of sadness for leaving our friends

mixed with tears of happiness at the thought of being “free”.

In 2001 I was fortunate enough to help organise our 20th Reunion, and was invited to attend a

school assembly the day before. I remember walking through the school gates and entering

the school. I took a walk through the school. What a nostalgic moment. So much had changed

and yet it was still the same. All the memories came flooding back. Good memories, but at the

same time I felt infinitely sad. Sad, because on a day twenty years ago I wanted to be free of

the constraints of school, and now as an adult, I wanted to recapture that innocence of youth. I

realised then that I was actually “free” at school, but because life is what it is, we never appre-

ciate something until we don’t have it anymore. I then ventured into the school hall for the

assembly and sat at the back gazing across at the field of brown school uniforms. I hoped

fervently that these pupils would one day look back and be proud of the fact that they had

attended a remarkable school. I stood and sang the school song with the rest of the school. The

words came back instinctively and a lump formed in my throat. I was and always will be a

“Montie”

Jeanette van Kraayenburg (McEvoy, 1981)

1976 - My first impressions of the unfinished building before I applied for the post - beautiful

location and structure with magnificent view.

The first year the pupils had no uniform. Everybody had to wear something blue to create a

form of similarity. As the Senior Lady Teacher, I was involved with much of the planning,

together with Clive Wigg and Don Gibbon. One of our missions was to visit many of the

uniform outlets. We were very proud of the brown colour, which was different from the nor-

mal greens and blues of the time. The colour also matched the building.

The seventeen staff members in 1977 were lost in the huge staff room. During breaks we all

sat together in the corner closest to the staff kitchen, on pupils’ chairs.

Everybody knew where the Bookroom was. From here not only were textbooks issued, but it

served as an office too. The star of the bookroom was Anne-Marie Hettasch, who assisted

from her Std 6 to her Std 10 year.

(She did not only assist with the books, but organized my life too - nog steeds dankie Anne-Marie)

For many years the Prize-giving function was my responsibility. The main fear was that some-

body would juggle the books, diplomas, trophies etc. after they had been set out for the evening

- and what about the evening when the main speaker asked for water and none was available!

187

As a team building exercise for staff, we tried a golf outing. After only five holes played and

darkness having descended, we moved to the 19th hole. Bowls became the better option, and

once a year the teachers showed a variety of skills regarding this game. Some of you will

remember the socials at homes on a Friday afternoon. (That was before the staff meetings on

a Friday afternoon started).

What an experience it was to strike in 19??. Not only did teachers march, but parents also

joined in. The train trip into Cape Town was part of the excitement. With tired bodies and feet

we returned, not knowing if it was worth our while.

In 1996 I decided to call it a day, and applied for the Voluntary Severance package. At this

stage I was a Deputy Principal. I had given to Fairmont of my best, and for 19+ years it was

my heart and soul.

Leonie Coetzer (ex-teacher January 1977 - September 1996).

We arrived on that first day, wearing the school uniform of the school that we had attended

previously, although some of the boys had had to buy just grey trousers and white shirts to start

with. Our standard was told, very often, that we were the seniors and as such had to remember

to set an example always, a sentence we came to hate, as we could never just be ourselves. The

hall had not been built and there was only one sports field. The rest was still untouched

farmland.

By the middle of the year, if I remember correctly, a uniform had been decided on: a brown and

white checked dress for the summer term for girls and a pinafore (beige-brown in colour) and

white shirt for winter, oh and a tie. At all times, white ankle socks! After hefty protest, we

were allowed to wear ordinary stockings as well! A brown jersey and, compulsory in winter, a

brown blazer. We were pleased with the uniform as it was very different from the many shades

of blue that were prevalent at the time.

We did lots of fund-raising to build tennis courts, netball courts and playing fields throughout

the three years I was there.

The school aimed for high scholastic standards, so we sat exams in June, September and No-

vember/December. I was lucky that I did not find exams too hard.

A system of monitors was introduced when we were halfway through Std 8, and it ran until

the first prefects were announced at the end of Std 9. When the first prefects were an-

nounced, we threw them into the showers, just as we’d seen our peers do at the schools we

came from! Boy, did we get into trouble!!! We were all called into the hall and given such

a scolding by Mr Gibbon, calling us all kinds of names! We were told that that kind of

behaviour would not be tolerated - ever!!!

On our last day of school in Std. 10, we wore civvies! What a novelty! I believe it went on to

become a tradition that the leaving Matrics did. We started with a breakfast before going to

class and then followed assembly where we performed a song for the school, singing Goodbye

to the Beatles melody of Girl! I don’t know who cried more, the teachers and other pupils or

us!

Merete Hipp (Hansen - 1979)

I am one of the first groups of students who traipsed through the doors in 1977. We were in a

sparkling new school, with everything from desks to doorframes unmarked, unblemished and,

with the colour coding, even quite cheerful (for a school, that is!) It was a privilege and a

challenge to be able to lay foundations and traditions starting way back in 1977.

188

That’s the beauty of school years - a group of diverse personalities with different ambitions,

talents and desires, many of which are still in formative stages, but who don’t even realise it at

the time. We had a wonderful group of teachers with the principal, Mr Wigg, encouraging new

ideas. He even agreed that the proposed winter uniform for girls really did not look very good

without socks (try it girls - those pink tunics with plain stockings and brown shoes...!)

It is sad to know that some of our classmates from those early years are no longer with us in

this world. Their contributions to the memories of our school days are still clear in our minds.

To those who now live far away from the green sports fields and facebrick buildings of Fairmont

High, this opportunity of getting in touch with ‘old mates’ is great! We are part of a school that

has sent many a young person out into the world equipped with enough knowledge and atti-

tude to more than ‘get by’. For me it was also having been part of something new.

To all those who were there with us in those early days - I hope life has been good to you. For

those who came after us, I hope you enjoyed your time at Fairmont as much as we early

‘pioneers’ did. For those currently at Fairmont, and for those who will come in the future,

“Stand Fast”. For it is only with roots that we learn to grow.

Tracy Kairuz (McCarthy - 1980)

In 1977 South Africa was in a different world. The townships were in turmoil, the Berlin Wall

still stood and the rand was worth more than the dollar. I had just entered my third year of

Primary School in Kenridge when Fairmont High School opened. On moving up to Fairmont

in 1982, I was excited for the new challenges ahead, but nervous about being just another kid

at the entry level of a larger school. Fairmont turned out to be a great life-changing experience,

and in my case this was due to the freedom to take responsibility. I was amazed at how

initiative was encouraged and rewarded at the school. We frequently pushed the boundaries of

what academic freedoms were possible (with each edition of the Grapevine being censored

while I was editor), and thrived in the doing of new things. We launched a radio station and

changed school rules in my Matric year, which had a fantastic class with a great group of

prefects. Since I matriculated from Fairmont in 1986, the world and especially South Africa

has changed again. I certainly hope that the education and values provided by Fairmont will

continue to inspire its students into the world of the future.

Craig Mullet (1986)

It’s an honour for me to be asked to write an article for the history of the school I went to for

one year (1993-1994) as a Rotary Exchange Student.

When my friends ask me to tell them something about my time in South Africa, particularly at

Fairmont, I always think of the school uniform (it still hangs in my cupboard). The school

uniform was a big issue for me, because I wasn’t used to wearing uniform in school, especially

not in those colours! (Excuse me for mentioning that, but at that time I was 16 and a girl!!!!) I

also remember several meetings with the Principal Mr Wigg, who patiently listened to me but

made me understand that girls had to wear skirts and not trousers.

Together with the uniform and other experiences, I learned that one has to fit in, may it be in a

class, school, town or country. What I also remember are friendly pupils who made one feel

welcome from the very first day, patient teachers who supported me and made me face chal-

lenges and my host families who tried very hard to make me feel at home.

What impressed me enormously was the fact that the pupils had the opportunity to participate

in school life: the prefects and the council, sports activities and matches - to mention only a

189

few. But even though school in

Durbanville was different from my

school in Wolfsburg, some things

were the same: teachers who “tor-

tured” us with “stuff’ we didn’t want

to know, pupils and their behaviour

and the breaks - the most important

platform for a teenager!

That was long time ago....

... and still I don’t seem to get enough

of school. After I finished school I

first went to Athens for a year to learn

Greek (and to make up my mind

whether I wanted to become a den-

tist or a goldsmith). Finally I stud-

ied German and English philology

and became a...teacher. I started last

summer to teach 11-17 year old teen-

agers - who may feel somehow simi-

lar to the way I did then...

My best wishes go to Fairmont’s

pupils and all the people who make

it possible that the youngsters can

learn!

Christine Adamis

Upon receiving the request for sub-

missions for the Fairmont history, I

began thinking about my years at

Fairmont and realised just how many

fond memories I actually have. I re-

member many times getting up for school and not wanting to go and my mom telling me that

I should appreciate those years as they would be my best. At the time I did not believe her but

I now realise just how right she was. In retrospect those really were great years.

So, what things do I particularly remember? It is the people I remember more than anything else,

and I made some of my closest friends in the time that I was at Fairmont. In particular, I think of

my good friend Charlene Williams (now Lopes). I think we have had the biggest impact on each

other’s lives to this day. While in high school she introduced me to my husband. And from that

introduction we introduced her to my husband’s best friend - who is now her husband! And they

now have a beautiful little daughter together ... a very special person in my life!

I also remember the privilege I was given to be made a prefect at the school - something which

resulted in a keen sense of camaraderie and belonging to a great group of people. We worked

hard but also had great fun - our Prefects’ Camp in Saldanha springs to mind. In general, I will

never forget the Fairmont traditions ... inter-house sports day; inter-schools ... and who could

forget the Polar Bear Club! I will also never forget the play which I was a part of in 1996,

“The Happiest Days of our Lives”, I think it was called. Also hard work but great fun...and

good to get to know our teachers better!

Christine Adamis

190

Academically I believe that Fairmont prepared me for my future. Going to university was made

easier by a solid academic base. I am most grateful for this as it has led to a relatively successful

career to date, as well as venturing into the entrepreneurial world as a business owner.

What else? Mr Le Roux’s antelope horn springs to mind; the prefects sleeping over at school

one night and ending up very afraid of ghosts (!); squashed, hot assemblies; school dances ...

there are too many things to count.

In short, Fairmont was a great school to have attended and there are so many wonderful memo-

ries for me. Wow ... 30 years! And I am proud to have been part of five of those!

Caroline Simoes (Thickett - 1997)

I arrived at Fairmont in 1996. Everything about the school seemed so large. The prefects looked

as if they were about thirty years old and the building was so big and confusing, I was con-

vinced that it would take me all five years at the school to figure out where my Maths class

was. As a Std 6 (Grade 8) student, you learned to work from one central point, the Junior Quad.

This is where you spend your breaks and have the Matrics looking at you through the windows

as if you were fish in a fish bowl.

Very quickly I learned to love my school. It was still so young when I arrived, but had already so

many lovely traditions. The thing that makes a school is not the buildings or facilities, the tradi-

tions or even the classrooms. Even though Fairmont has all of those, what makes a great school in

my eyes are the teachers. For the first time in my life I learned that teachers were also people.

In 1997, the teachers went on a march through Cape Town to hand over a document in parlia-

ment. I asked my step-dad if he would take me as I felt that what was happening to my teachers

was unfair. A teacher has the most important job in the world. They spend more time with a

child than their parents and I wanted to know that one day when my children go to school, they

have the best possible people teaching them. It was supposed to be a very sombre day but I had

the greatest time. I walked in my school uniform with my teachers and Principal and had a real

sense of achievement when I went home.

Fairmont always had something exciting happening. My favourite time of the year was the

annual Carnival and Fireworks display. To have rides and fireworks and stalls on our school

fields was great; to have people come from all over the Western Cape to YOUR school made

you proud. There were many times I was so proud of my school. When Fairmont had its 25th

birthday, when it was named one of the top 100 schools in South Africa and when many of the

students from Fairmont excelled in sport.

My favourite time at my school must have been in my Matric year. The year went so fast, but

was action-packed with activities. These would include diving into the pool on the coldest day

of the year dressed up in a silly outfit, 40 days, matric dance, tea parties etc.

One of my favourite memories of Mr Wigg was on 40 days, his 60th birthday. We organized a

civvies day and told him that the theme was “Wigg day”. He arrived at assembly wearing a

purple wig and everyone else had dressed up to the real theme: “red, white and blue”. Mr

Wigg loved to dress up. I have personally seen him in a bunny suit at Easter and a Father

Christmas suit at Christmas.

I left school six years ago. I studied accounting at Stellenbosch University and run a newspa-

per and have a promotions company in Stellenbosch. Every time I meet someone and they ask

me what school I went to, I feel proud to tell them I was at Fairmont.

Lauren Young

191

I look back upon my years at Fairmont High School with many fond memories. The opportu-

nities we had to excel at sport and to be involved on every different level were countless. For

this alone I owe the school a great deal.

When I was at Fairmont I involved myself in everything that the school had to offer.

One of the first memories I have of high school, was winning the Inter-Schools Spirit Trophy

in Std 6. This paved the way for what was to be an adventurous five years, with many ups and

downs, and culminating in a fitting farewell for our class of 2001, when we once again re-

claimed the Spirit Trophy in our matric year. I was part of Muir House in school, which leads

me to one of the personal highlights of my school career. We were normally the whipping boys

of Dale and Innes, but in our matric year we walked away with not only the Inter-House Plays

for the third year in a row, but also the Inter-House Athletics (last won ±12 years before) and

the Inter-House Swimming (last won ± 17 years before).

I still look back upon ‘the good old days’ and find it hard to believe that almost five years have

gone by. Many of my good school friends have become life-long friends, and therein lies my wish

for current and future pupils of Fairmont High School. Take advantage of the many great oppor-

tunities that the school has to offer, and may the friends that you make here, be friends for life.

Gavin Meinking (2001)

My eighteen years at Fairmont, culminating in retirement, were among the most enjoyable of

my forty-one years in teaching.

Arriving at Fairmont was something of a shock - over 1100 pupils, more than twice as numer-

ous as any other school that I had experienced. Getting to know pupils by name and personal-

ity was a very big challenge, and here I failed as I could never say that I knew all the pupils. I

would be reluctant to put a percentage to the number I knew! But I found that if I tried to be

fair and firm there was generally a positive response from even those I hardly knew.

I am reluctant to name any pupils that I remember clearly as either first class contributors to the

school (inevitably some would be ‘missed’), or to name some of the pupils who took up much

time because of negative behaviour... some may be in significant positions today!

Happy memories of time on the cricket field, of batting feats and bowling achievements and brilliant

fielding exploits come to mind, and time spent with parents who came to support the game.

Teaching Geography was, for me, more than a subject. It was an opportunity to talk about real

issues and developing life values.

I always appreciated the notes/letters received from pupils. Yes, many happy memories and

appreciation for the positive interactions that took place with so many colleagues, pupils and

parents. May God Bless Fairmont High

Alastair Frost

Remember when - Medway was just gravel - and some students were not quite togged out in

full uniform. New school - new order - what a nightmare. Just a few unfinished buildings to

accommodate the students. But dreams of a school with a great future did not deter those who

had faith in Fairmont. Still they attended Fairmont - despite the lack of luxuries.

I have watched Fairmont grow. I have watched Fairmont students over the years walk past my

parents’ house - in Medway. Never once did I notice a student that was not proud to be a

Fairmont pupil. Over the years I have observed Fairmont grow from strength to strength,

never losing faith in Fairmont - and watching the school grow from strength to strength.

Fairmont’s values are also of the highest standard. Granted, some teachers are tested by pu-

192

pils. What would a school be without these challenging pupils? This is what makes a school.

Just think how boring school would be if all the pupils were all the same.

I remember standing in my parents’ kitchen in Medway - heavily pregnant with my first child

- “my children will attend this school - I have good faith in Fairmont”. So they did. Megan

matriculated in 1999 and Andrew in 2000. Today they both speak highly of Fairmont.

Just a few words from a Mom that is always proud to tell parents that her children attended

Fairmont.

Maryanne Whiley

Congratulations to Fairmont High School on your 30th Anniversary.

We were privileged to teach Karate-Do at your school shortly after the school was founded.

Mr Keith Milford was a class teacher there. He was also one of our Black Belts at Kushido

Karate-Do and organized that Hanshi Denis St John Thomson (the chief Instructor of Karate-

Do) taught classes on Monday and Wednesday afternoons.

We started training in the quadrangle of the school. This proved too difficult (working on tar

or concrete) and so we were allowed to use the school hall. The classes proved very popular

and the student numbers grew to approximately 100 students. The Karate-Do training devel-

ops attributes of confidence, respect and increased learning capacity and of course the ability

to protect themselves. The teachers were impressed with the general improvement in the

students’ school work and their discipline.

On behalf of Kushido Karate Do we wish the school continuing success in all your endeavours

in the future.

Merelle Thomson (Secretary)

On behalf of the Kenridge dojo of Kushido Karate-Do, we congratulate Fairmont High School

on its 30th Anniversary.

The essence of a good school lies within the solid foundations of positive traditions. It is

tradition that upholds positive core values and Fairmont’s traditions have maintained the school’s

pride over the years up until present times, and we see the school excelling in both academic

and extra-mural pursuits. Indeed, our local karate school is also built on traditions that span

decades in the same neighbourhood, and our results mirror those of Fairmont.

From a karate perspective, Fairmont has produced many champions. Two recent examples are

ex-Fairmont student, Brian Jooste, who earned the title of National Grand Champion in 2004,

and new Black Belt Michael Woodland, who at eighteen years, was the youngest Black Belt

in our school.

May your school continue to excel in all honourable endeavours, and may your students stand

tall when they proudly say, “I am/was a Fairmont student.”

Brian Woodland

193

APPENDIX 2

DOCUMENTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS

1. Page 1 of first circular to parents.

2. First page of 1977 admissions register

3. First page of first School Committee minutes.

4. Attendance register - first PTA Committee meeting.

5. Official Opening programme.

6. Sports Complex appeal.

7. Recreation Centre opening.

8. 10th Anniversary Dinner 1987.

9. Academic Honours Dinner 2000

10. Students’ Centre opening 1999.

11. Carnival flyer/pamphlet.

12. Grapevine cover

13. Drama programme

14. The site of the Multipurpose Centre and Architect’s impression

15. Letter of congratulations from the Circuit Manager Mr A Appel

16. The 30th Anniversary Staff - 2007

194

Page 1 of first circular to parents - 1976

195

First page of 1977 admissions register

196

First page of first School Committee minutes

197

Attendance reister - first PTA Committee meeting - 1977

198

Official Opening programme - 1978

199

Sports Complex appeal - 1982

200

Official Opening of Recreation Centre

201

10th Anniversary Dinner - 1987

202

Academic Honours Dinner 2000

Jennifer Poole - School Dux 2000 Susan Wood - Honours Summa Cum Laude

2000

203

Opening of the Students’ Centre - 21 May 1999

204

Carnival Flyer

205

The Grapevine - 1987

206

“No No Nanette” - 1983

207

The site where the Multi-purpose Centre is constructed - originally known as the “Matric lawn”

Architect’s inpression of the Multi-purpose centre

208

Letter of congratulations from the Circuit Manager - Mr A Appel

209

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L J

ob

Fir

st r

ow

: L

Nee

thli

ng;

A B

ehre

ndt;

N V

eldm

an;

J A

ggen

bach

; J

Bote

s; G

Ste

mm

ett;

J K

ingw

ill;

N P

ool;

E B

rett

eny;

B N

el;

E v

an Z

yl;

H B

ruce

; B

Mcm

illa

n;

A F

ried

enth

al;

C V

erm

eule

n;

S S

wanep

oel

; L

Pie

naar;

L S

mit

sdorf

; M

Baden

hors

t-N

iew

oudt;

B V

ezasi

e

Sea

ted:

L v

an A

sweg

en;

B V

ors

ter;

C W

eert

s; S

Lam

pre

cht;

M B

arn

ard

; M

Esm

erald

o;

J D

emper

s; R

Din

gle

y; A

Loure

ns;

C K

urt

; M

Uys

; B

Elg

ie;

P V

egte

r;

U H

ors

them

ke;

V v

an N

ieke

rk;

C d

e K

ock

210

APPENDIX 3

GOVERNING BODY CHAIRMEN

1977 - 1985 Mr E Fivaz

1985 - 1988 Mr A Truter

1989 - 1991 Mr S Robinson

1992 - 1993 Mr R. Nelson

1990 - 1993 Mr S Robinson

1994 Mr L Huisamen

1995 - 1999 Mr R Williamson

2000 - 2003 Mr M Ettish

2003 - 2004 Mr N Speres

2005 - 2007 Mr M de Villiers

APPENDIX 4

PTA/PTSA CHAIRMAN

1977 - 1979 Mr D Stewart

1979 - 1980 Mr D Klazinga

1980 - 1981 Mr D Stewart

1981 - 1983 Mr B Isgar

1983 - 1984 Mr J Cammidge

1985 Mr A Truter

1986 Mr A Neumann

1987 Mr E Brymer

1988 Mr D Insley

1989 Mr A Young

1989 - 1990 Mrs S Visagie

1991 - 1993 Mr G Warburton

1994 Mrs D Robinson

1995 - 1997 Mr M Ettish

1999 - 2001 Mr R Crow

2002 - 2003 Mr P Botha

2004 - 2006 Mr J Lucas

2007 Mrs J Cooper

APPENDIX 5

HEAD PREFECTS

1979 Torsten Moehl Lesley Windell

1980 John Cranke Tracy McCarthy

1981 Mark Steyn Dorin Neckel

1982 Victor Hawken Alison Nardone

1983 Kevin Hawkins Janine Lambert

211

1984 Anthony Hudson Karen van Niekerk

1985 Graham Morton Carole MacLeod

1986 Craig Mullet Norma Oosthuizen

1987 Clifton Woods Vanda Fernandes

1988 Lawrence Ireland Roslin McComb

1989 Roderick Ross Elize Kleyn

1990 Trevor Rolfe Nichola Meyer

1991 Simon Morton Kaeli Albertyn

1992 Simon Ward Jacqui Reeves

1993 Steven Schmutz Bonny Robb

1994 Mark Maritz Natasha Bauermeister

1995 Brian Coldrey Nina Dewey

1996 Morné Swart Nicole Klassen

1997 Nicholas Higham Carrie-Anne Kropman

1998 Robert Gessner Sandra Mansell

1999 Ben van Stormbroek Joanne de la Cornillere

2000 Michael Dunn Lauren Young

2001 Shawn Thompson Kirsty van Stormbroek

2002 Mark Phillips Candice Lyons

2003 Jean-Pierre Catto Tarryn Blackwood

2004 Jade Köhler Monique Huysamen

2005 Lloyd Rhodes Michelle Kilfoil

2006 Jamie Roussouw Jayde Dunlop

2007 Jacques-Johann Odendaal Jaclyn van Greunen

APPENDIX 6

SRC CHAIRMEN

1997 Nicholas Higham

1998 Ben van Stormbroek

1999 Diane-Maree D’Aguiar

2000 David-Jon Friederichs

2001 Tanzi Davies

2002 Tarryn Blackwood

2003 Claudia Cole

2004 Warrick Wyngaard

2005 Tarryn Petersen

2006 Julia Taylor

2007 Coralie Valentyn

APPENDIX 7

HONOURS - SUMMA CUM LAUDE

1991 Rory McKinley

1992 Nicole Kok

1993 Steven Schmutz

1994 Dawn Durrbaum

1995 Lorna Maneveld

212

1996 Annette Lang

1997 Carrie-Anne Kropman

1998 Neil Yorke

1999 Lisa Stockland

2000 Susan Wood

2001 Tamsin Adams

2002 Jane Lindhorst

2003 Ryan Hultzer

2004 Gannie Tzoneva

2005 Yanni Yang

2006 Laura van Laeren

2007 Wietske Rubow

APPENDIX 8

SCHOOL DUX

1979 Roderick Leerkamp

1980 Tracy McCarthy

1981 Clem van der Riet

1982 Noel de Villiers

1983 Noel Gillespie

1984 Jimmy Donaldson

1985 Heather McGregor

1986 Craig Mullet

1987 Chantal Jeannot

1988 Glen Thomson

1989 Roderick Ross

1990 Nichola Meyer

1991 Rory McKinley

1992 Nicole Kok

1993 Steven Schmutz

1994 Rory Yorke

1995 Lorna Maneveld

1996 Annette Lang

1997 Carrie-Anne Kropman

1998 Neil Yorke

1999 Lisa Stockland

2000 Jennifer Poole

2001 Tamsin Adams

2002 Jane Lindhorst

2003 Ryan Hultzer

2004 Gannie Tzoneva

2005 Yanni Yang

2006 Laura van Laeren

2007 Wietske Rubow

213

APPENDIX 9

‘A’ AGGREGATES

1980 1988 1993 1998

J. de Villiers C. de Villiers A. Afonso M. AdamT. McCarthy K. Hare C. Broek S. Allison

L. Ireland R. Human M. de BruynG. Thomson A. Kropman K-M. Elgie

1981 G. Wilkinson D. Maritz J. Hirschi- G. O’Conner M-A. Johannes

1989 A. Rabe C. Kirby1982 S. Schmutz S. Mansell

M. Butler E. Visagie N. MaunderJ. Andreas L. Gray G. RodriguesN. de Villiers P. Jacoby 1994 C. RouxJ. Marais E. Kleyn T. SickelA. Nardine C. Lockett E. de Villiers J. SmitD. Wilkinson H. Pitcher R. Dreijer J. Steynberg

N. Puttergill D. Durrbaum D. Thomas1983 S. Quinn R. Durrbaum R. van Dijk

G. Rose J. Knowles V. van VuurenN. Gillespie R. Ross M. Maritz M. WestJ. Quine L. Wasson R. Yorke T-L. WilliamsC. Rabe K. Webb N. Yorke

J. Woods 19951984 1999

1990 K. BellJ. Donaldson N. Dewey L-A. BinghamS. Kluyts J. Calefato L. Maneveld C. CawoodG. Tredoux H. Hettasch A. Taylor C. Fourie

N. Meyer S. Giles1985 R. Oates 1996 C. Goodwin

T. Rolfe J. McMillanH. McGregor J. Brink K. Muirhead

1991 M. Butterly G. Muller1986 M. Kilian M. Oudejans

K. Albertyn A. Lang L. StocklandS McCall B. Eastes S. Mullett B. TaylorC. Menck R. Heideman S. Sickel L. van der MerweC. Mullet (10th) N. Lockett M. Swart B. van StormbroekN. Oosthuizen R. McKinley S. van der MerweE. Starke J. TurnerA. Tomkyns 1997

19921987 S. Adams

N. Kok S. BirchC. Jeannot S. Lourens A. BokelmanJ. Judelsohn C. Murphy N. CrowleyJ. le Roux A. Robinson M. DanielsenD. O’Conner N. HighamG. Robertson C-A. KropmanA. Sturdon M. Leader

M. MeyerD. MottersheadN. TaylorC-L. Vermoter

214

2000 2002 2003 2005

B. Bester L. Bartsch C. Raad C. LeschL. Bokelman C. Batchelor S. Redivo G. LouwC. Crosswell K. Bird J. Roberts L. MalanderD-M. D’Aguiar J. Danielsen G. Schlee Z. MalingaS. du Toit A. de Beer T. Schultz C. MartinC. Fischer R. de Villiers S. Sickel K. MartinA. Foxcroft Tanya Dennis C. Thomson B. McMillanN. Hayward Tracey Dennis L. Trollope A. MullerL. Jack M. Enslin A. Verkhovsky K. MwabaM. Kossmann C. Frey L-M. West N. SobotkerA. Lehner C. Gessner S. Zietsman J. van VuurenJ. Main R. Guise Y. YangA. Maunder A. Hsu 2004A. Miller J. Lindhorst 2006A Nicol S. Links L. BassonJ. Poole C. Lyons K. Bonney S. BatchelorS. Wood A. Main W. de Wit B. BeecroftC. Zietsman R. Marthinussen T. Eberhard N. Conradie

D. Moodley S. Evans G. Deacon2001 D. Mpye N. Gous M. de Lange

M. Niemand M. Grapendaal T-L. de VilliersB. Adams L. Philips A. Grimm N. EberhardT. Adams J. Rodriques L. Hambides L. FoxcroftW. Botha M. Stockland K. Kelly S. FrancisK. Calitz K. Sunkel T-M Kingwill L. HanekomC. Chowles R. Topp J. Kopec K. HelmL. Coetzee K. van der Merwe C. Long G. Janse van VeurenK. Collier C. Meissenheimer J. JanssenK. Coupar 2003 B. Miller F. LöndtM. de Groot J. Muirhead A. MillsC. Ebden A. Aldridge T. Purnell Y-N. ParkM. Fredericks R. Barlow E. Smith P. RokitaM. Grapendaal T. Blackwood V. Snyman S. SmitA. Hambides J-P. Catto R. Stemmett J-P. SteynV. Hsu J. Clark W. Stone L. van LaerenJ. Kingwill C. Cole G. Tzoneva T-L. VosJ. Klink A. Colyn L. Upsher A. WardT. Kretschmer C. Cookson L. van der Linde Z. WithersM. le Grange D-L. D’Aguiar D. van Heerden H. WoodheadL. Loots T. Foxcroft A. VerreynneJ. Macfarlane A. Gartrell L-A. Wood-PottleS. Manford A. HelmL. Mattheyse R. Hultzer 2005M. Mayley E. KhanG. Meinking G. Kiewitz J. BerryL. Nelson K. Lancaster Z. BlaauwD. Oebell N. Louw N. DaviesD. Pienaar J. Louwrens G. FlynnL. Robertson L. Loynes R. GartrellG. Rulfo S. Lubeck C. HardingT. Smith L. Malan M. HirstE. van der Linde L. Mallon M. KilfoilK. van Stormbroek A. Mohamed A. LampardG. Willow E. Mugabo L. LangeveldtM. Yiannakis L. Noach S-J. Laten

215

A fitting end to the 30th year celebrations were the Matric results of 2007, the best recorded at

Fairmont. Seen here are some of the 47 ‘A’ candidates celebrating their academic achievement.

2007

A. Afonso

A. Barma

B. Botha

L. Butler

N. Christy

A. Couchay

D. Croucher

M. Davidson

K. Emma-Iwuoha

M. Golden

A. Greyling

S. Harding

L. Horstmann

K. Jarvis

R. Kerr

R. Kotze

J. Krige

F. L’Abbate

H. Lee

C. Lombard

S. Matsolo

L. McGeorge

K. McKinley

K. Mealor

K. Morrissey

K. Mwaba

J. November

JJ. Odendaal

C. Petersen

K. Poovan

J. Rom

W. Rubow

E. Rusconi

R. Scott

N. Sneyd

N. Swanepoel

E. Taylor

A. Teare

B. Teare

R. Teuchert

N. Van der Touw

N. Van Rensburg

B. Van Sittert

W. Vraagom

J. West

S. Yang

Y. Yiannakis

216

APPENDIX 10

GOOD FELLOWSHIP PRIZE *

1979 Lesley Windell

1980 Tracy McCarthy

1981 Bonnie van der Walt

1982 Karen Davies

1983 Sanette van der Mescht

1984 Darlene Mynhardt / Ian Cloete

1985 Jane Hulatt

1986 Craig Cloete

1987 Jean-Pierre Rossouw

1988 Robyn Ferguson

1989 Judy Newham

1990 Martin Meyer

1991 Richard Friend

1992 Elton Neethling

1993 Catherine Broek

1994 Kym Pope-Ellis

1995 Lawrence Higham

1996 Gavin Hauck

1997 Sean Loots

1998 Keri-Lyn Dick

1999 Leanne Saffrey

2000 -

2001 Gavin Jones

2002 Kirstin van der Merwe

2003 Claudia Cole

2004 Wouter de Wit

2005 Warrick Wyngaard

2006 Sita Smit

2007 Robert Kotze

* 1979, 1980 chosen by staff, 1981 - 2007 chosen by matrics

APPENDIX 11

PRINCIPAL’S PRIZE

1981 Vanessa Radford-Hayden

1982 Derek Klazinga

1983 Bruce Low

1984 Glen McNair

1985 Heather McGregor

1986 John Money

1987 Diane O’Connor

1988 Terry Fowler

217

1989 Bryan Kelly

1990 Charlaine Coetzee

1991 Carel Theron

1992 Tanya Price

1993 Catherine Broek

1994 Dawn Durrbaum

1995 Nina Dewey

1996 Vaughn Jensen

1997 Carolyn Holland

1998 Sandra Mansell

1999 Leanne Saffrey

2000 David-Jon Friedrichs

2001 Taryn Boonzaaier / Tarryn Bright

2002 Carla Ancillotti

2003 Jean-Pierre Catto

2004 Xavier Millar

2005 Michelle Kilfoil

2006 Janine Janssen

2007 Jacques-Johann Odendaal

APPENDIX 12

PAST PUPILS’ AWARD

1990 Jeannine Herrington

1991 Sharon Roux

1992 Samantha Saunders

1993 Annemarie Kropman

1994 Schonette Coetzee

1995 Rene Fourie

1996 Antony Tolfts

1997 Nicola Taylor

1998 Samantha Jones

1999 Brynn Taylor

2000 Samantha Stampe

2001 Linda Mattheyse

2002 Andy Hsu

2003 Warren Kent

2004 Claire Allen

2005 Michelle Pheiffer

2006 Jaco Venter

2007 Nadine Swanepoel

218

APPENDIX 13

FAIRMONT AWARDS

The Fairmont Award was introduced in 1991.

In addition to the many who have served on committees and sub-committees, others who will

always be remembered for their special contribution to the school before 1991 include:

* Mrs Craddock, first PTA secretary and fête convener.

* Tuckshop convenors Mrs Windell, Mrs McCarthy, Mrs Keohane, Mrs Bosken,

Mrs Gouws.

* Mrs Woodhead, Mrs Howard and Mrs Crighton - clothing bank.

* Mrs Fivaz and Mrs Williams - fêtes and fund-raising.

* Mr Hardy and the matric examination invigilators.

* Mrs Duckitt, Mr Steynberg, Mr Collins, Mr De Vries, Mr Dewey, Mr Kingwill and

Mr Leader, who were responsible for school finances.

* Mrs M Wulfse and all who assisted with magazine advertisements.

* Mrs Ludditt and those who coached or assisted school teams.

* Mrs Lyn Wigg, who helped in so many ways throughout, but especially during the

founder years, in the clothing bank, with the provision of curtains in the hall, the

offices, staff room, library and Recreation Centre, and who organised the Valedictory

Day teas for a number of years.

* Mrs Yvonne van Wyk, first school secretary.

* Magazine editors.

* Dance convenors and organisers.

* Printers, laboratory assistants.

* Mr Engelbrecht, caretaker, and general assistants.

* Mr Frank Choice.

* Mr Clive Peck who, apart from being a committee member, ran dancing classes for many years

* Drum majorette mothers.

1991 Mrs S Johnston

1992 Mrs P Koning

Mrs V Helders

Mrs A Jones

Mr G Willet

1993 Mrs G Bull

Mrs J Davis

Mr B Machrell

Mr B Merryweather

1994 Mrs P Chapman

Mrs B Sheet

Mrs E Donachie

Mrs B Vermoter

Mr D Meyer

1995 Mrs J Brink

Mrs V Crighton

Mrs A Loynes

1996 Mrs A Bosch

Mrs L Coetzer

Mrs C Cowley

Mr F Ershine

1997 Mr M Ettish

1998 Mrs F Harvey

Mrs H Smit

1999 Mr R Aitken

Mrs H Isgar

Mrs M Oosthuizen

Mrs D Smedley

Mrs M Vorster

Mr B Williamson

2000 -

2001 -

2002 Mrs G Aldridge

Mr G Gatenby

Mrs C Schwartz

2003 -

2004 Mrs T Boonzaaier

Mrs R Killassy

2005 Mrs A de Reuck

Mrs L du Toit

Mrs A Langeveldt

Mr N Speres

Mrs A Stone

Mr G and Mrs J Vock

2006 Mrs R Odendaal

Mrs J Martin

Mrs M Dingley

2007 Mrs A Dolpire

Mr N Donachie

Mrs J Hunt

Mr A Kokott

Mrs M Kropman

219

1979

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

1980

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

1981

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Robin Craddock

Gavin Howard

Colleen Egan

Carol Partridge

Mark Radford-Hayden

Paul Bidder

Fern Hemy

Craig Paine,

Tammy Watermeyer

Fern Hemy

Gary le Seur

Grant Morton

Susan Bremner

Celeste Taylor

Mark Radford-Hayden

Derek Klazinga

Karen Axon

Tammy Watermeyer

Debby Coltman

Derek Klazinga

Justin Johnstone

Gillian Hand

Celeste Taylor

Norman Woods

Derek Klazinga

Cheryl Martin

Mark Hershaw

Melinda Wulfse

APPENDIX 14

FIRST TEAM CAPTAINS(We apologise to those captains whose names are not listed. Every effort was made to trace them)

1982

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

1983

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

1984

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

Derek Klazinga

Victor Hawken

Gillian Hand

Michele Viljoen

Benjamin Cranke

Stefan Janser

Michelle Botes

Benjamin Cranke

Melinda Wulfse

Dan Truter,

Ruth Grieve

André Swart

Shaun Bougard

Susan Hynes

Karen Thompson

Bruce Low

Roel Veenstra

Tracy Turner

M Nortje,

Janine Horne

Tracy Fraenkel

Patrick Day,

Gail Grobbelaar

Anthony Batchelor

Shaun Bougard

Rhondda Davies

Karen Thompson

John Dixon

Derek Hershaw

Tracy Turner

René Burbidge

Samantha Kotze

220

1985

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1986

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1987

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1988

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1989

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1990

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

Patrick Day,

Janine Quine

Craig Cloete

Andrew Donnelly

Dominique Veldhuis

Janice Röbeck

Craig Cloete

Douglas Thomson

Dominique Veldhuis

G King,

Sandy Puttergill

René Burbidge

René Lotz

Craig Cloete

Barry Chadburn

Penny Neumann

Terry Fowler

Craig Cloete

Allan Beverley

Judy Hynes

Carol-Anne Heibner

Haig Greenwood

Pamela Woolliscroft

James Fraser,

Bridget Laughton

Barry Chedburn

Barry Chedburn

Natalie Lloyd

Terry Fowler

Paul Prior

Allan Beverly

Laureen Fraser

Angus Gray,

Heike Longwitz

Carol-Anne Heibner

Billy Bishop

Terry Fowler

Graham Skelding,

Terry Fowler

Paul Prior

Quentin du Toit

Bronwyn Hudson

Terry Fowler

Paul Prior

Robert Northcote

Laureen Fraser

Jayne Cohen

Paul Prior

Janet Beverly

Roderick Ross,

Kim White

Morné de Wet

Quentin du Toit

Christine Forbes

Lisa Ludditt

Bruce Fairhurst

Michael White

Genevieve Steyn

Nikki Puttergill

Tania Hobbs

Wayne Parker

Carmen Truter

Neil Slabbert,

Jeannine Herrington

Brendan de Wet

Richard Friend

Charlaine Coetzee

Leanne Crooke

Benjamin Naude

Michael White

Bronwyn van Heerden

Trevor Rolfe,

Irene Ackermann

Tracy Stebbing

Martin Meyer

Justine Fowler

221

1991Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1992Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1993Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1994AthleticsCricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Girls’ Basketball

1995

Athletics

Badminton

Cricket

Cycling

Chess

Boys’ Cross Country

Girls’ Cross Country

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Table Tennis

Tennis and Golf

Girls’ Tennis

Drum Majorettes

Girls’ Basketball

1996

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Girls’ Basketball

Dino Steele

Schonette Coetzer

Claire Davis

Mark Maritz

Mark Koppel

Schonette Coetzer

Jason Render

Kelly Steenkamp

Nicole Luis

Michelle Uys

Greg Marshall,

Cara Kilgour

Scott O’Conner

Bernard Nel

Shaun du Plooy

David Smith

Antony Tolfts

Diane Thomas

P-J Loynes

Debbie Friend

Charlene Bronkhorst

Angus Tanner

Grant Croeser

Julie Hauck

Derrick Heiberg,

Kim Chambers

Peter Prinsloo

Sven Petersen

Diti Blias

Melanie Selman

Liezel Hackart

Heinrich Wicht,

Kerry Compton

Julian Calefato

Craig Baxter

Michelle Roux

Janine Wordon

Gavin Hauck

Grant Croeser

Leonard Beyers,

Michelle Dosson

Kirstyn Harris

Liezel Hackart

Neil Slabbert,

Elise de Vries

Richard Friend

Richard Friend

Bronwyn van Heerden

Lynn McGrath

Benjamin Naude

Simon Ward

Bronwyn van Heerden

Simon Morton,

Michelle v.d Meulen

Mandy Slabber

Kevin Dentener

Karen de Beer Smit

André Theron,

Elise de Vries

Gary Wallace

Darryl Muldoon

Theresa Pitcher

Tanya Price

Stuart Tanner

Simon Ward

Bronwyn van Heerden

Elton Neethling

Michelle Ladewig

Kevin Dentener

Karen de Beer Smit

Andre Theron

Louise Robinson

Gary Wallace

Darryl Muldoon

Bronwyn van Heerden

Claire Davies

Sheldon Smorenburg

Cowan Johnstone

Bronwyn van Heerden

Ryan Bidgood

Annemarie Kropman

Nicole Luis

Robert Chin

Claire Lotter

Adrian Wiehahn

Glen Seiler

222

1997Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1998Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer Girls

Soccer Boys

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

1999

Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer Girls

Soccer Boys

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

Angus Tanner,

Diane Thomas

Julian Calefato

Craig Turnbull

Pamela Johnston

Celeste Sameuls

James Espin

Dean Jardine

Natalie Ryke

Sean Loots,

Carrie-Anne Kropman

Kirstyn Harris

Sean Pye

Carolyn Holland

Diane Thomas

Justin v.d Merwe

Craig Turnbull

Heather Gauld

Celeste Sameuls

Luke Keyser

Tenille Jurd

Leigh Köhler

Natalie Ryke

André Montauban,

Diane Thomas

Lee-Ann Harvey

Garth Howell

Celeste Sameuls

Dennis de Wet,

Laurien Allison

Edward Knowles

Ben van Stormbroek

Michelle Moore

Nadia Smit

Luke Keyser

Amanda Denys

Ryan Lea

Linzi-Jane Kingwill

Mark Lambson,

Sarah O’Hanlon

Chantelle Ackerman

Marco Nucci

Jenny Mayley

2000Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer Girls

Soccer Boys

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

2001Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer Girls

Soccer Boys

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

2002Athletics

Cricket

Boys’ Hockey

Girls’ Hockey

Netball

Rugby

Soccer Girls

Soccer Boys

Softball

Swimming

Drum Majorettes

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball

Henry Thomas,

Tarryn West

Michael Dunn

Rhyno Swart

Lauren Mitchell

Samantha Stampe

Lee v d Berg

Joanne Merry

David-Jon Friedrichs

Lauren Mitchell

Jason Vorster,

Lauren Allison

Erin Killassy

David Chiang

Michelle Mayley

Stuart Klaassen,

Marika Yiannakis

Shawn Thompson

Lawrence Romburgh

Marika Yiannakis

Candice Henry

Wandile Nkula

Joanne Merry

Gavin Meinking

Benjamin vd Merwe,

Leigh-Anne Loots

Tarryn Boonzaaier

Bjorn Groenewald

Michelle Mayley

Troy Siebert,

Sarah Pope

L Brown

Mark Phillips

Leigh Bierman

Christina Gessner

Ryan Haste

Nicole Davies

Justin Davids

C Keyser

Benjamin vd Merwe,

Lisa Loynes

Daphne Storey

Bjorn Groenewald

L Booysen

223

2003Athletics Jason Annandale

Lisa Loynes

Cricket Greg Staffen

Boys’ Hockey Jean-Pierre Catto

Girls’ Hockey Leigh Bierman

Netball Jannice Annandale

Rugby Arthur Hewitt

Soccer Girls Tracey Robertson

Soccer Boys Justin Davids

Softball Ashleigh Haste

Swimming Leigh Bierman

Drum Majorettes Chloë Lyth

Boys’ Basketball Xavier Millar

Girls’ Basketball Michelle Hopley

Badminton Boys Wouter de Wit

Badminton Girls Sylcke Lübeck

Chess Martin Skeens

Cross Country Wouter de Wit

Squash Boys Aran Gatenby

Squash Girls Debbie McAlistair

Table Tennis Darren-Lee Dorman

Boys’ Tennis

Girls’ Tennis Shelly Crowther

Indoor Hockey Leigh Bierman

2004Athletics Xavier Millar

Rori FortuinCricket Sean HulleyBoys’ Hockey Richrd SclandersGirls’ Hockey Leanne LangeveldtNetball Cherise GriffinRugby Gareth JonesSoccer Girls Kay NortonSoccer Boys Damian WhatleySoftball Kay NortonSwimming Stacey-Lee la Bella

Tyron McNamaraDrum Majorettes Leanne BeattieBoys’ Basketball Xavier MillerGirls’ Basketball Alyssa CooksonBadminton Boys Wouter de WitBadminton Girls Ania BarmaChess Yun-Kuang ChengGolf Neil WhitehornSquash Boys Aran GatenbySquash Girls Jayde DunlopTable Tennis Darren-Lee DormanBoys’ Tennis Lloyd RhodesGirls’ Tennis Lisa UpsherIndoor Hockey Leanne Langeveldt

2005Athletics Matthew Speres

Rori Fortuin

Cricket Cheslin Tremble

Boys’ Hockey Lloyd Rhodes

Girls’ Hockey Leanne Langeveldt

Netball Rori Fortuin

Rugby Matthew Speres

Soccer Girls Taryn Vos

Soccer Boys Dean Gabriels

Softball

Swimming Jayde Dunlop

Sean Hunt

Drum Majorettes Candice Johnson

Boys’ Basketball Matthew Speres

Girls’ Basketball Alyssa Cookson

Badminton Boys Adrian de Vries

Badminton Girls Ania Barma

Chess Yun-Kuang Cheng

Golf Bruce McMullen

Squash Boys Tarquin Stapa

Squash Girls Jayde Dunlop

Table Tennis Cheslin Tremble

Boys’ Tennis Lloyd Rhodes

Girls’ Tennis Ingrid Crowther

Indoor Hockey Leanne Langeveldt

2006Athletics Ashley Smit

Jaclyn van Greunen

Cricket Nathan Kolbe

Boys’ Hockey Jamie Rossouw

Girls’ Hockey Sita Smit

Netball Janine Janssen

Rugby Ashley Smit

Soccer Girls Taryn Vos

Soccer Boys Yorgo Yiannakis

Softball

Swimming Jayde Dunlop

Sean Hunt

Drum Majorettes Andrea Stewart

Boys’ Basketball Michael Holliday

Girls’ Basketball Janine Janssen

Badminton Boys Adrian de Vries

Badminton Girls Kalyn de Vries

Chess Ciaran Liederman

Golf Hansol Lee

Squash Boys Marc Rafael

Squash Girls Nicole Bosch

Table Tennis Wesley van Huyssteen

224

Boys’ Tennis Niel Vermeulen

Girls’ Tennis Linda Jooste

Indoor Hockey Aimee Hill

2007Athletics Lucien Vogel

Guinivere Rogers

Cricket Steven Dembitzer

Boys’ Hockey Bruce McMullen

Girls’ Hockey Jaclyn van Greunen

Netball Chanel Neethling

Rugby Jarred le Roux

Soccer Girls Auberi Courchay

Soccer Boys Yorgo Yiannakis

Softball Chanel Neethling

Swimming Ettiene Rusconi

Marisia Lipowski

Drum Majorettes Ashton Warrington

Boys’ Basketball Michael Holliday

Girls’ Basketball Dominique Du Plooy

Badminton Boys Adrian de Vries

Badminton Girls Kalyn de Vries

Chess Ryan Janse van Rensburg

Golf Bruce McMullen

Squash Boys Thomas Ibbotsen

Squash Girls Nicole Bosch

Table Tennis Craig Bauer

Boys’ Tennis Luke Thorrold

Indoor Hockey Paula Lotter

APPENDIX 15

PERSONALIA

Mrs Maria Kropman - Longest serving

member of the Governing Body

Mrs Maria Kropman has been associated with

Fairmont as a mother for nineteen continuous

years. From January 1989 to the end of 2007

she has been parent to six children who have

passed through the corridors of our school.

She was a member of the old parent association

from 1993 to 1997 and a member of the School

Governing Body since 1997.

She held the office of Vice Chairperson from

2000 to 2006 serving on four main committees

namely: Discipline, Interviews, Uniform and

Academic.

She has served under the chairmanship of: Rob Williamson, Mike Ettish, Neil Speres, Mike de

Villiers and Andre du Toit as well as all three principals of Fairmont.

Maria Kropman’s input, interest and unselfish contributions throughout these years is nothing

short of outstanding.

As a longstanding member of the parent body, she provided a system of continuity in policy

and decision making.

Mrs Kropman continues to serve the school as a co-opted member of the Governing Body.

225

Mr Udo Horsthemke - Longest serving member of the Fairmont Staff

As Co-curricular Co-ordinator Udo

Horsthemke is almost synonymous with

Fairmont High School. Ask anyone about any

sport event involving Fairmont High School

and Udo will be mentioned. If the staff need to

organize transport, Udo is the person to call.

But, even more significant is Udo’s loyalty to

the school as one of the first staff members of

the school - a 30 years’ bond which makes him

a true blue Monty.

Udo, a UCT graduate, taught for 6 years in three

different Namibian schools before applying for

the post of German and Afrikaans teacher at

the then one year old Fairmont. (Udo

laughingly says that one can easily say that he

has grown “older” with Fairmont.)

Udo’s relationship with Fairmont began with the teaching of German (Standard 6 to Matric),

Afrikaans (Standard 6 and 7) and History (Std 6). He was asked to teach Bible Education,

Youth Preparedness, Music Appreciation and Geography also at various times before he left

teaching in 1996.

One can see clearly why Udo is so respected as Co-curricular Co-ordinator since he has

always been totally involved and interested in school activities. The fact that extra-mural

involvement was compulsory during his teaching years was certainly not a hardship for him.

He started a German Society in 1979 and kept it going until he retired. He was in charge and

coached Soccer for most of his teaching career and also enjoyed being in charge of Athletics

for three years, as well as managing tennis and cricket teams at various times.

During the first years of Fairmont High School, all teachers were asked to contribute to the

administrative duties and Udo was appointed Head of Stationery, Inventory, ordering and

control of school books (which was a huge ongoing task) and for sometime he was Head of

Acquisitions.

He was also Standard Head (now Grade Head) of all standards at various stages. He greatly

enjoyed the opportunity to work with some of the most enthusiastic pupils when he was in

charge of the matric farewell for four years. Other duties that he performed most efficiently

were: Matric Valedictory Services, School Drivers’ Education Programme ( which he claims

to have given him grey hair prematurely), the control and hiring of school lockers and transport

arrangements for staff and pupils. Certainly an illustrious teaching career.

In 1997, Udo was appointed Co-Curricular Co-ordinator. He still taught German privately to

pupils who were still interested to write the subject until the end of 2007.

In his capacity of Co-Curricular Co-ordinator, he is an integral part in the running of the

school’s extra-mural programme and is respected as someone who is always amiable and

courteous, highly organized and a true ambassador for the school.

Udo declares that although many may feel that thirty years at the same school may sound

boring, it has been thirty years of experiencing every day as different and working with great

people which has made this position a pleasure.

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APPENDIX 17

REFERENCES

1. The Making of Education Policies in South Africa - Ken Hartshorne Oxford 1999.

2. Managing Educational Change - Brahm D Fleisch Heinemann 2002

Academic Staff

Mrs Juanita AggenbachMrs Carol AstonMrs Marcel Badenhorst-NieuwoudtMrs M BarnardtMrs Alta BehrendtMs Nicolette BleekerMrs Estelle BrettennyMrs Heather BruceMr Pieter CronjeMr Johann DempersMr Ron DingleyMr Willie DowdMs Karien BredenkampMr Justin EdwardsMr Brian ElgieMrs Morna EsmeraldoMr Hendry FreemanMrs Anne FriedenthalMs Jessica HancockMrs Rinnie HansenMs Ingrid HodgeMr Udo HorsthemkeMrs Maria JacobsMrs Tanya Janse van RensburgMr Lance JobMr Gerhard JordaanMs Liska KassierMrs Jenan KingwillMs Nicola KirbyMrs Carla KurtMrs Sandra LamprechtMr Michael LeibbrandtMrs Antoinette LourensMr Stevan MaraisMrs Barbara McMillanMrs Clare MurphyMrs Portia NaidooMrs Lorraine NeethlingMrs Beatrix NelMrs Jeanne OosthuizenMs Oreada PiekMs L’nanda PienaarMrs Arlene Pietersen

Mrs Linette RousseauMrs Mari SchnehageMs Lynelle SmitsdorffMrs Janice SolomonsMrs Eleanor SplinterMrs Gillian StemmettMrs Shilo SwanepoelMrs Mattie UysMs Jeanette v.d. MerweMs Wendy van der MerweMs Verena van NiekerkMs Sunelle van WykMrs Elsabé van ZylMr Paul VegterMr Neville VeldmanMrs Christa VermeulenMrs Brenda VermoterMrs Beulah VezasieMrs Shirley VisserMrs Betsie VorsterMrs Christine Weerts

Administrative Staff

Mrs Bronwen BradshawMrs Lola De ClercqMrs Amanda de ReuckMrs Gonnie DijkshoornMrs René FinlayMrs Hildegard HomewoodMrs Liefie JacobsMrs Shelagh JohnstonMrs Nelly PoolMs Lesley van Aswegen

Support Staff

Mr Abraham Muller (Chucky)Mr Moses Allens (Pikkie)Mr John ApiesMrs Ann BonthuysMr Elario GeldenhuysMr Klaas JordaanMr Alfred MaxongoMr Andries Mekriega

APPENDIX 16

STAFF PRESENT DURING ANNIVERSARY YEAR - 2007

Fairmont High SchoolPrivate Bag X11 Durbanville 7551

Medway Durbell DurbanvilleTel: (021) 976-1147 Fax: (021) 976-8735

e-mail: postmaster@fairmont.co.zawww.fairmont.co.za

Fairmont High School, originally known as The Eversdal English Medium School, opened its doors in January 1977. The first Principal, Mr Clive Wigg, started the school with a staffing complement of seventeen teachers and three hundred and thirty pupils in a three-storey building which was far too big for the first intake. There were no sports fields, no memorial quad, the hall was still under construction and the pupils had no prescribed uniform. At the end of the first year, the school was renamed Fairmont High School. At that stage, the school was equipped with two tennis courts, two netball courts, two cricket nets, and a turf wicket in the centre of the only field. The pupils proudly wore their brown uniform – very different from all the surrounding schools.

In 1979 there were six hundred and sixty pupils. Three additional fields were completed and the first official cricket match took place against Bergvliet.

In 1983 the state provided forty-eight staff members and in 1986 there were fift-nine state-employed educators. By 2006, the state employed only thirty-three educators, while the Board of Governors of Fairmont employed thirty additional teachers.

It became apparent that the school built for 720 pupils, was far too small for the 1200 pupils it had to accommodate. Extensions to the main building were completed in 1994.

In December 2002 Mr Wigg retired from teaching, leaving behind a vibrant active school. Mrs Liz Müller, who had been teaching at Fairmont since 1985, took over as acting Principal in January 2003 and in July 2003 was appointed as Principal.

The theme “A New Beginning” seemed to be most appropriate for 2003 and gave everyone something new to strive for. Sadly, Mrs Müller, after a brief illness, passed away in 2006.

Today the school continues to grow on the foundations built by Mr Wigg and Mrs Müller. The Principal of Fairmont is Mr Ron Dingley. There is a staff contingent of seventy teachers, twenty administrative and support staff and one thousand two hundred and fifty pupils. Fairmont is the only English medium school between Durbanville and Stellenbosch.

This document is an account of the years 1977 to 2007.