Over the past three weeks, I have been mandated by the SGB to take the time to understand how the College operates. I stand before you not just as an observer, but as someone trying to grasp the heartbeat of the school. Thus far, I have been impressed by what I’ve seen—and, importantly, by the fact that things here work. Much of what I’ve observed ties in beautifully with this week’s theme: Care.
This is an incredibly busy place. The breadth and depth of what is achieved here on any given day is nothing short of extraordinary. From academic rigour in the classrooms to the sports fields, music rooms, clubs and societies, and—importantly—the outreach programmes, the standards set and achieved are, on the whole, excellent. What has struck me most is the level of commitment: commitment from you as boys, and from the staff who guide, teach, and mentor you. The energy, time, and pride invested in every activity are a testament to the strength of the College brotherhood.
In these first weeks, I’ve also been reminded of the importance of a healthy hierarchy—something central to what we do here. Note: I used the words healthy hierarchy. For this to be truly effective, leadership, respect, and care must be ever-present. Respect is the cornerstone of this hierarchy. But respect does not exist in isolation; it cannot survive without care and consideration.
I firmly believe that respect, gentlemen, is a two-way street. It must be both shown and earned. You cannot demand respect if you are unwilling to offer it. And offering it requires more than words—it requires action. Deliberate action aimed at making our school a better place.
Let me share an example. On Friday, a lady was walking through a shopping centre when a College boy passed her. He greeted her warmly, carrying himself with courtesy and pride. She was having a bad day, and this small act of respect and kindness changed it. She was so struck by the interaction that she took the time to email the school to tell us about it. A small gesture? Perhaps. But the impression it left was lasting. That young man’s actions spoke not only for himself, but for all of you—because he was wearing our colours.
It is often the small things that reveal the character of a person and of a school. Presenting ourselves neatly, ensuring our hair is cut, refraining from chewing gum in uniform, using appropriate language—these may seem like details, but they are the outward signs of inward discipline. They communicate respect: for yourself, for others, and for the badge you wear.
I must also speak plainly. I have been disappointed by the number of boys who have found themselves in disciplinary trouble in recent weeks. Every action you take has consequences—not only for you, but for those around you. Poor decisions ripple outward. They impact your family, your teammates, your peers, and the reputation of this school. I urge you to think carefully before you act. Ask yourself: Will this choice reflect the respect I owe myself, my brothers, and my school?
Gentlemen, my first impression of Maritzburg College is overwhelmingly positive. I see a school rich in tradition, drive, and opportunity. I see boys who are talented, ambitious, and proud to wear the red, black, and white. But I also see areas where we can improve—not because we are falling short, but because excellence is never a finished product. There is always another level to reach.
If we keep care at the centre—care for each other, for our standards, for the small disciplines—then we will not only maintain our standing as the top school in KwaZulu-Natal, but we will set our sights on being recognised as the top school in the country. That is not arrogance; that is aspiration. And aspiration is worthy when it is matched by hard work, humility, and respect for who we are, where we learn, and who we learn with.
So, as we move forward together, I ask you to remember:
Respect without care is hollow.
Discipline without care is harsh.
Ambition without care is dangerous.
Care is what gives all these qualities life and purpose. It’s what makes us human.
Let Maritzburg College be known not only for our victories, our traditions, and our standards, but for the way we treat each other, the pride we take in our appearance, and the manner in which we behave in the smallest moments.
Pro Aris et Focis
Mr Alan Redfern
Headmaster