Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.

Ashley Smith

The long-awaited summer rains reminded me of this quote. Life, and 2024, were no exceptions – they were full of beautiful memories. My wish for each of you is to never stop smelling the rain, feeling the wind, and chasing your dreams. We all find inspiration and energy from the early morning sun and the bright green life in nature that speaks to our being.

A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and install a love of learning.

Brad Henry

First, allow me to pause for a moment at the College’s unique, inspiring, hope-giving and caring staff. Thank you for trying to develop the learners’ full potential, wiping away tears, sharing in the joy of victories, as well as the sorrow of defeats in class, exams, on the sports field and in the cultural halls. This has often been at the expense of your own loved ones. May this Christmas holiday allow you all quality time with those dear to you. To every teacher who is leaving the College: Hamba kahle!

Furthermore, thank you to the parents who, with regular communication, quickly point out where we have erred. You keep us on our toes, and we can only engage with challenges of which we are aware. However, I am giving a big Christmas present to those of you who sometimes surprise us with a compliment; it is greatly appreciated. Thank you to every parent who throughout the year inspired, supported, and loved your child unconditionally.

I wish every learner a giant Christmas tree filled with faith, hope, love and grace. You are the heart of Midstream College. You make every sport, cultural and social event special. To the class of 2024 with Karla and Jahred at the forefront, you have already made us proud, and we cannot wait for your matric results. To the grade eights to elevens, enjoy the break – 2025 promises to be just as full of opportunities. Carpe diem!

During our last quad assembly this morning, we honoured our support staff for their huge contribution to the success of the College. Our world-class grounds and facilities are a testament to their hard work, and I am happy to salute every driver, craftsman, cleaner, gardener and supervisor.

Mr Armand van der Merwe and his financial team, who keep us on our toes and turn over every penny – Siyabonga kakulu.

To the four families whose vision culminated in the founding of the College, a special Christmas carol to honour you. Riaan, Jan, Johan and Qumi, thank you for being there and for your unconditional support. A special thank you for our second Astro hockey pitch that is progressing rapidly.

The year has been one that is close to my heart and we as a family have experienced the sweet and sour of life. I turned sixty, but we also lost both my parents-in-law during the year. We were again made aware of our Heavenly Father’s indescribable grace.

Silent night, holy night. Son of God, love’s pure light

Radiant beams from Thy holy face. With the dawn of redeeming grace

Jesus Lord, at Thy birth! Jesus Lord, at Thy birth!