The first assembly of the school year was a significant experience for pupils, educators and the Student Council alike. Held on 15 January 2025, the day marked the start of a new academic year full of opportunities, obstacles and achievements, for it provides an open platform to set the tone for the months ahead, empower school spirit, and align everyone with the goals and objectives for the 2025 school year. This assembly was not just a formality but also a reflection and motivation.
The assembly commenced with the heart-warming welcome of the Class of 2029; the applause highlighted the spirit of harmony and togetherness that Fourways High School encompasses. The Student Council President, Kian Naicker, and Deputy President Liqawe Baduza opened with the traditional reading and prayer, with the President highlighting the concept of intention and integrity from the Bhagavad Gita – “The intention behind the action is what matters. Those who are driven only by the desire for the fruits of the actions are miserable, for they are anxious about the result of their actions”. As the voices of the student body sang the national anthem and the school song, they reiterated that concept of “ngiyaziqenya”, as each student sang every lyric of each song with precision and absolute pride.
The assembly followed up with Mr Holliday, establishing the tone for the upcoming school, one of determination. In the Headmaster’s riveting speech, he addressed the student body and staff, where he outlined the retrospective of the previous academic year. He highlighted the successful performance of the Class of 2024, a 98.6% overall pass rate, which consisted of a 75.7% Bachelor’s pass rate and 127 distinctions. An exceptional performance from the 2024 matriculants, thus to the Class of 2025, a higher expectation was hinted. The assembly served as an opportunity to reignite enthusiasm among the overall student body and staff. Mr Holliday followed up by introducing the school to the new staff members that Fourways High School welcomed with an enthusiastic applause: Mrs Katabua, Ms Santangelo (Mathematics Department), Mr Mobe (Physical Science Department) and Mrs Crighton (Legends Locker).
The assembly concluded with the discord of the beats from Fourways Call, pulsing through airwaves mingling with the uproar of the voices clamouring for attention as the students sang “shoulder to shoulder” with one another. This being a highlight for the Class of 2025, of the importance of enjoying the moment. As the school sang, that sense of belonging and camaraderie among one another was enforced, reminding everyone present at the assembly of the collective mission ahead.
It is crucial to state that the assembly served as a pivotal moment to set the stage for the year ahead. From revising past performances, setting new objectives and fostering team spirit, this assembly allowed the school collective to come together, reflect and prepare for the future and a significant moment of alignment that will determine the momentum of 2025: The year that will be.
“The golden principle is: respect all things and all people.” – Mr Holliday.