Science, Technology and a Limited Planet
G. Myburgh
In a topic of this nature, it is essential, I believe, to be objective. Writing as an individual human being, it is inevitable that one will be influenced by personal sentiment and the sentiment of others. This often blinds one from reality. We, as humans, were born into a modern technological world and we therefore, having never known it any other way, take the world as it is for granted. As a result, the true significance and seriousness of our situation is often not appreciated. It is far better to approach the subject as an outsider, free of all sentiment, looking down onto the world and human race from afar.
To see today’s technological world in the right perspective, it is essential to reconstruct what the world was like before. We know that man, whatever anyone may like to believe, had very humble origins. Homo sapiens evolved like all other plants and animals from simple organisms. This process took countless millions of years and he appeared in his present form only 2 million years ago. In early times, he was totally dependent on nature for his survival. He was, in fact, part of nature, just one of numerous species struggling to survive, that fitted into the world’s ecology. Nature was in perfect balance and all the world’s resources were constantly recycled so that nothing was ever lost. Then man gradually began to develop an awareness of his own self and an intelligence, greater than any other animal. As a result, he became very successful as a species and his numbers grew.
Then man reached a stage where he became ashamed of his origins. He refused to accept that he was just another species of animal and he chose to forget his part in nature. He covered his body, the body that nature had given him, with clothes and what is more, reminded him of his humble origins, such as sex and excretion, he became ashamed of. He eventually came to believe that he was totally above nature, convincing himself that the world had been created by a divine being and that, he himself had been placed on it with a special purpose. In other words, the earth and all that was on it, had been made specifically for him and his pleasure. He could do what he wanted with it. It was thus, that he began to plunder the earth’s resources, choosing to ignore all the natural laws that had dictated to him and all other species on the planet for so long.
And so came the era of science and technology. Man discovered immense new sources of power and he invented engines, electricity, machines, tools and numerous other things. Spurred on by his success, he became obsessed with his inventions and strove to discover more and more. Huge factories and industries came into being and man needed natural resources to feed his ambitions. These he plundered from the earth, snatching away vast quantities of coal, oil and timber. He took more and more but never bothered to put anything back and resources which had seemed limitless, rapidly dwindled. All natural laws he ignored and the delicate balances of nature, balances which had existed for millions of years, were shattered. But man did not see it. His obsession blinded him and drove him on. As he became more and more successful, he became more convinced of his superiority over all other species.
Man began to achieve his wildest dreams. He gained the power of flight and even managed to walk on the moon. He invented new warfare weapons, weapons which could destroy whole populations. He discovered medicine which could prolong human life so that everyone had the chance to suffer the indignities of old age – and man clapped his hands in glee and said proudly that he was bettering the quality of life, and as he said it, the world’s population soared and poverty, suffering and hunger increased to staggering proportions. As the population grew, man’s cities spread out; huge grotesque worlds of concrete and steel which devoured everything in its path, including natural ecosystems which had taken millions of years to develop. Pollution levels also rose as man pumped deadly chemicals into the atmosphere, soiled the rivers with his filth and the sea with his oil.
Then some individuals opened their eyes. They saw how man was ignoring all natural laws, how he was destroying the balances of nature which had to be maintained for the survival of all species. They saw how he was devouring the earth’s precious resources and how his population was rising – and they realized that he was approaching disaster. They cried out in warning and asked him to consider the future, if not for himself, then for his children – but he was too concerned with his own ambitions. Many did in fact, express concern, but they allowed themselves to forget and they did nothing. Some also believed that it was not their problem and that when man did pay the consequences for his actions, they would be in the safety of their graves. Many simply did not appreciate the seriousness of the situation and others still, believed that after the world had been so badly misused as to be rendered inhabitable, a supreme, loving God would step in to save them from all peril.
In conclusion, we are compelled to ask the question, “What is the solution?” That we cannot say however we can step in the right direction. First we have to realize that, as humans, we are solely responsible for our problems and it is ultimately we who must pay the consequences. We also have to stop denying that anything is wrong with our planet. Unless we acknowledge that the problem exists, we cannot solve it. We must also curb our arrogance and cease feeling superior to nature. There is no denying we are part of it and it is in this field that our main responsibilities lie. Responsibilities which we have shirked for far too long. Ignoring nature’s basic and logical principles and laws is, I believe, our ultimate failure. We must conserve what we have, not just for our children but also for the human race as a whole and for all the other species which share our limited planet.
Life Trove
9 September 1988
8 September 1988
School Reports
Vista Nova
Graeme has settled down exceptionally well at Vista Mara. He is a very hardworking conscientious pupil. His work is always beautifully done. He enjoys stories and remembers them well. It is a great pleasure to teach him. / J.A. Robson
Teacher’s Report:
Graeme has done excellent work throughout the year. He has been a delightful pupil to teach. I wish him well at his new school next year. / J.A. Robson
St George’s Grammar School
Sub B – 1978 Term 1
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme has settled into Sub. B very well. He seems to prefer being on his own in ‘free’ activity periods, either drawing or reading but happily integrates when he feels the need for company. He is a very neat worker and sets a high standard for himself. His arithmetic and story writing are good as is his reading which has improved considerably. He puts a lot of effort into his sporting activities always trying to do better. I am very pleased with Graeme’s progress. / S.A. Allen
Sub B – 1978 Term 2
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme must be admired for the way in which he has worked in spite of his problems with his legs in plaster and his wheelchair. He has worked with the minimum of fuss and has maintained his high standard in all subjects. Well done Graeme! S.A. Allen.
Principal’s comments:
I’m most impressed with Graeme’s mature attitude. He remains quiet and conscientious with a good inspiration. He is able to mix easily with others. This has been good progress for Graeme. C. Hodge
General Report:
Graeme is a mature, quiet boy with a good sense of responsibility. He is always helpful and polite and he communicates well with adults. He has shown great strength of character over his handicap this term. He has shown the minimum of fuss and has continued in as normal manner as he is able. Well done! Because he has a good organizing ability, he sometimes tends to organize others. He must watch this habit. He is an asset to Shaw House. / Jenny Mallett.
Sub B – 1978. Term 3
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme continues to work to the best of his ability and with the minimum of fuss. His reading, story writing and arithmetic are all of a very high standard and he is always keen to do more to improve them still further. He has become a little withdrawn this term and has preferred being on his own. Perhaps when he is able to take part in sporting activities once again, he will start mixing more readily with the other boys. S.A. Allen.
Sub B – 1978. Term 4
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme is a quiet, neat, conscientious worker and is content with nothing but the best. He prefers his own company and this is happily accepted by the other boys who respect him for it. He has twice been elected Vice Captain and has coped quietly and efficiently with his duties. Well done Graeme. S.A. Allen.
General Report:
Graeme has done extremely well considering he was virtually out of action for a term with both legs in plaster. Graeme is a quiet, polite boy who is as happy working on his own as in groups. He tries his hardest at sport and he never complains. He throws and catches a ball very well. He has good hand eye co-ordination and he bats well. He seems to tire easily in the swimming bath and although he can manage all 4 strokes, he struggles with the style. I look forward to seeing him in more Shaw House activities next year. Jenny Mallett.
Graeme has had a fine year and is now ready to leave the kindergarten and enter Std. 1 where I hope that he will continue to give of his best. J.A. Dods.
Std. 1 – 1979. Term 1
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme settled down quickly and easily to a new and longer routine.
He is a steady worker who always produces work of a high standard. His hand control is good and his handwriting is well formed and beautifully neat. It is a pleasure marking his books.
I am pleased with all Graeme’s work. His reading continues to be fluent and his stories are interesting and well written. He must take care with punctuation.
Graeme is attentive and co-operative. He finds new work a challenge and becomes totally absorbed in work which interests him.
Std. 1 – 1979. Term 2
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme is an industrious worker, always giving of his best in whatever work he does. He is very quiet and settles down easily to work. Graeme uses his spare time constructively and no amount you ask him to do is too much. I am very pleased with his results which reflect hard work and effort. It is a pleasure having Graeme in my class. A.G. Basson.
Graeme continues to make good progress both in and out of the classroom. G. Dods.
General Report:
Graeme is an extremely hard working boy. He tries hard in the classroom and on the sports field. He is a capable youngster and he is a popular member of the Std 1 class. He is quiet and he still prefers playing in small groups. He is always polite and helpful. Graeme has a fine sense of humour which bubbles out most satisfyingly! He has been a regular member of the Barefoot League where he always gives of his best. He runs hard and tackles well. Jenny Mallett.
Std. 1 – 1979. Term 4
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme has had an excellent six months academically. I was especially pleased with his outstanding maths and science papers.
His new cursive handwriting is neat and well formed and he takes care to maintain this high standard not only in the writing lessons but in all his written work.
Congratulations on an excellent report. I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching such a conscientious youngster. A.G. Basson.
This has been a first class year and he so richly deserved the Industry Award. Well done. J.A. Dods.
General Report:
Graeme has taken part in both swimming and cricket. His greatest asset is his constant striving to better himself and to improve in whatever he is taking part in. Well done Graeme. In swimming, he has worked hard and his crawl style has improved one a width. He tends to lose all style when racing over a length but this will come with more practice. He is an enthusiastic cricketer with a good eye for the ball and he is always awake in the field. I am delighted with Graeme’s progress and he has had an extremely successfully year. Jenny Mallett.
Std. 2 – 1980. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme’s interests cover a large spectrum. He is an extremely conscientious worker in the classroom, he plays hard on the rugby field and once he is confidence of his position, he enjoys it. He is enjoying his singing in the choir and he enjoys his Art and Drama lessons. Graeme is a responsible youngster and he is always polite and helpful. He has done well to keep his place in the U10 rugby team as there are many enthusiastic youngsters longing for a game. He drives well in rugby and he is learning to get the ball back to his backline. He must learn to be a little quicker to the loose ball so that St Georges wins the ball and not the opposition! Graeme has had a good half year. Jenny Mallett.
Graeme continues to make very good progress in all aspects of school life. Well done. G.A. Dods.
Std. 2 – 1980. Term 4
General Report:
Graeme is a mature polite and reliable boy. He needs to do well and he still becomes anxious if he feels he is letting anyone down. However, he is learning to control his natural nervousness and he is now able to look on the light side as well as the serious. He has had a very full year. He is a member of the choir and he has thoroughly enjoyed the involvement. He has played cricket and squash. He has chosen to go to extra cricket coaching with Mr Leary. We hope to reap the benefit of this experience in the U11 cricket squad next term. He is a beginner at squash. He has learned the basics and is thoroughly enjoying the competition and the exercise. Graeme has had a very successful year in Std 2 and I have enjoyed teaching him. Jenny Mallett.
Graeme is to be commended for an excellent term’s work. He is a credit to his school. Graeme has been promoted to Standard three. S. Anderson.
Std. 3 – 1981. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme is a well adjusted, hard working, amiable boy with an enquiring mind and a sensible disposition. Everything he does he does well. His behaviour is always good and when given responsibility he has taken it seriously and carried it out intelligently. In short, Graeme is a pleasure to work with.
His contribution to the choir is to be commended. He has shown himself to be an enthusiastic, loyal and hard working member and he is to be congratulated on his excellent performance in the recent Eisteddfod.
On the sports field, Graeme has done well. He has proved to have a keen sense of competition within the confines of a good sense of sportsmanship. His swimming and athletics performances were more than pleasing. He will have to work hard at perfecting his high jump technique so as to enable him to break the record next year. It is certainly well within his capabilities. His rugby is also pleasing. In the opinion of his coach he is one of the top three players in his team.
In short, Graeme has worked hard, played hard and is a pleasure to work with. An excellent report. Graeme is a credit to his school.
Std. 4 – 1982. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme is a mature reliable pupil but he still gets into a panic when things don’t run smoothly, but he is learning how to cope with this. He produced an excellent performance in the high jump in the athletics meeting winning the U12 section with a record jump. It seems that whatever sport he participates in, he always gives of his best – in swimming, athletics, squash or rugby.
He is erratic at squash, sometimes everything goes right for him but occasionally he doesn’t get his feet into the correct position. He has done well to play in the U13 rugby team and has developed into a good No. 2 line-out jumper. An enthusiastic choir member –as one can see he participates fully in all aspects of school life. Hopkins (House Master)
Graeme is to be congratulated on some excellent academic results. I note with pleasure the “A” aggregate for both term and exam results. He is a very interested pupil who strives for efficiency. Well done. S. Anderson.
Std. 5 – 1983. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme’s main sport in the first term was swimming, but he had to compete in the U14 age group in the gala which he found difficult. He enjoyed the competition of the Gordon’s Gala in Newlands although the distance was too much for him. He is always a conscientious swimmer and trains hard at practices.
He has had a very good athletics season, concentrating mainly on the high jump and long jump and he won both events in the school athletics tournament. Again the hard work and effort he put into it and the help he gave others is very praiseworthy indeed!
He has been a good counselor and a regular member of the school choir and he recently won a diploma in the Eisteddfod for singing. Very well done! K.M. Hopkins.
An excellent academic report. Well done! Graeme is a credit to his school. S. Anderson
Std. 5 – 1983. Term 4
General Report:
Graeme has had an excellent year all round. He has done very well as a counselor and he gained rugby, academic and athletics colours. He played the main lead as “Huck Finn” in Tom Sawyer last term and did extremely well in a role that was very unlike his natural character. (I hope he hasn’t taken up the art of smoking)!
He has been swimming this term and although he tries very hard, he tires easily. He must practice his breast-stroke for the inter-house gala next term.
He has been a prominent member of the school choir this year and made an excellent prepared speech in the speech competition. Congratulations also on winning the award for the “Most Determined Rugby Player in the Prep School”. We are delighted to hear he is staying at St George’s and we wish him every success in his senior school career. K.M. Hopkins
An excellent academic report. Well done Graeme! He has been promoted to Standard Six. S. Anderson.
Std. 6 – 1984. Term 4
General Report:
Graeme is a very intense and determined young man in everything that he does. During the year in the sports arena he has played tennis and water polo.
He also represented his house in a number of the track and field events of sports day. On the rugby field he was a most tenacious flank.
He is making good progress as a swimmer particularly at breast-stroke.
He entered the Mini Maths Olympiad earlier this year and is a keen hamster breeder and stamp collector. S. Howard.
His examination results are most satisfactory. He is very near the top of this very able and highly competitive class.
Std. 7 – 1985. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme displays an impressive array of talents over a wide spectrum – athletics (high jump, long jump), plays rugby, has received academic commendations and is involved in cultural affairs. All very good.
He is a personable and likeable young fellow who has many things in store for him. An asset to Shaw House and the School. B. Sneddon (House Master).
This is a most satisfactory report. He has worked and played as hard as he is able and has achieved considerable success in a number of areas. C. Connor (Headmaster)
Std. 8 – 1986. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme is a good example of an all-rounder. It is very pleasing to note his sporting attributes (U16 high jump record), his rugby, his participation in the Maths Olympiad, Eisteddfod and his success in gaining commendations for every half term so far. A credit to Shaw House. B. Sneddon (House Master)
Excellent examination results which reflect both his ability and effort. He has performed most creditably. In every way, an asset to the school. C. Cannon (Headmaster)
Std. 8 – 1986. Term 4
General Report:
Another pleasing year for Graeme with sound indications of a wide involvement in many facets of the school life.
He swims, has gained many commendations, took part in the Maths afternoon at UCT and did well in athletics and took a leading role in one of the school plays.
Many congratulations on his industry and acting prizes and keep up the good work. B. Sneddon (House Master)
This is a very good report in every way, both academically and extramurally, he is to be congratulated on his effort and commitment. He is an asset to the school. S. Canoon (Headmaster)
Std. 9 – 1987. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme gives of his best in all that he does here at school and this half year has been no exception.
It has been edifying to see him excel at sport (athletics), drama, integrated studies and of course his school work.
He is always courteous and well mannered and is an asset to St George’s. B. Sneddon House Master
One or two of his examination percentages were unusually low for him. He is intelligent enough to know what went wrong and will, I am sure, rectify the situation by the end of the year. In all other ways, he has had a good half year. S. Cannon (Head Master)
Std. 9 – 1987. Term 4
General Report:
Another good year for him. He has made steady progress in his school work, achieving a commendable 73% aggregate in the end of year exams. He did exceptionally well in his favourite sport, high jumping.
I trust that 1988 will bring him many rewards for all his efforts. B. Sneddon (House Master)
His academic results have again been most satisfactory and reflect his tremendous commitment to hard work. The small “sets” in the matriculation class next year will increase his chances of gaining excellent symbols at the end of the year. C. Cannon Head Master
Std. 10 – 1988. Term 4
General Report:
Graeme was called upon very early in the year to shoulder the load of House Prefect. I shall not forget his unhesitating acceptance of the position and his sincere dedication to the task. My sincere thanks to him.
He has above all been the kind of young man who really has pitched in to a lot of what this school offers. He has shone however, as an athlete using his springy legs to good effect is the high jump year by year.
His academic work has been impressive through the years I’ve known him. He has a wide ranging ability and I rejoice that he gained the Special Latin Prize. Good luck and God speed for the years ahead. B. Sneddon (House Master)
The way he stepped into the breach and became Head of Shaw and his work as one of the School Prefects gained him the admiration of all.
As a person this year, he was articulate and thoughtful, amusing and concerned about the welfare of others. I have greatly enjoyed working with him and thank him for his contribution to school life. He leaves with my very good wishes for the future. S. Connor (Head Master)
Graeme has settled down exceptionally well at Vista Mara. He is a very hardworking conscientious pupil. His work is always beautifully done. He enjoys stories and remembers them well. It is a great pleasure to teach him. / J.A. Robson
Teacher’s Report:
Graeme has done excellent work throughout the year. He has been a delightful pupil to teach. I wish him well at his new school next year. / J.A. Robson
St George’s Grammar School
Sub B – 1978 Term 1
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme has settled into Sub. B very well. He seems to prefer being on his own in ‘free’ activity periods, either drawing or reading but happily integrates when he feels the need for company. He is a very neat worker and sets a high standard for himself. His arithmetic and story writing are good as is his reading which has improved considerably. He puts a lot of effort into his sporting activities always trying to do better. I am very pleased with Graeme’s progress. / S.A. Allen
Sub B – 1978 Term 2
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme must be admired for the way in which he has worked in spite of his problems with his legs in plaster and his wheelchair. He has worked with the minimum of fuss and has maintained his high standard in all subjects. Well done Graeme! S.A. Allen.
Principal’s comments:
I’m most impressed with Graeme’s mature attitude. He remains quiet and conscientious with a good inspiration. He is able to mix easily with others. This has been good progress for Graeme. C. Hodge
General Report:
Graeme is a mature, quiet boy with a good sense of responsibility. He is always helpful and polite and he communicates well with adults. He has shown great strength of character over his handicap this term. He has shown the minimum of fuss and has continued in as normal manner as he is able. Well done! Because he has a good organizing ability, he sometimes tends to organize others. He must watch this habit. He is an asset to Shaw House. / Jenny Mallett.
Sub B – 1978. Term 3
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme continues to work to the best of his ability and with the minimum of fuss. His reading, story writing and arithmetic are all of a very high standard and he is always keen to do more to improve them still further. He has become a little withdrawn this term and has preferred being on his own. Perhaps when he is able to take part in sporting activities once again, he will start mixing more readily with the other boys. S.A. Allen.
Sub B – 1978. Term 4
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme is a quiet, neat, conscientious worker and is content with nothing but the best. He prefers his own company and this is happily accepted by the other boys who respect him for it. He has twice been elected Vice Captain and has coped quietly and efficiently with his duties. Well done Graeme. S.A. Allen.
General Report:
Graeme has done extremely well considering he was virtually out of action for a term with both legs in plaster. Graeme is a quiet, polite boy who is as happy working on his own as in groups. He tries his hardest at sport and he never complains. He throws and catches a ball very well. He has good hand eye co-ordination and he bats well. He seems to tire easily in the swimming bath and although he can manage all 4 strokes, he struggles with the style. I look forward to seeing him in more Shaw House activities next year. Jenny Mallett.
Graeme has had a fine year and is now ready to leave the kindergarten and enter Std. 1 where I hope that he will continue to give of his best. J.A. Dods.
Std. 1 – 1979. Term 1
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme settled down quickly and easily to a new and longer routine.
He is a steady worker who always produces work of a high standard. His hand control is good and his handwriting is well formed and beautifully neat. It is a pleasure marking his books.
I am pleased with all Graeme’s work. His reading continues to be fluent and his stories are interesting and well written. He must take care with punctuation.
Graeme is attentive and co-operative. He finds new work a challenge and becomes totally absorbed in work which interests him.
Std. 1 – 1979. Term 2
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme is an industrious worker, always giving of his best in whatever work he does. He is very quiet and settles down easily to work. Graeme uses his spare time constructively and no amount you ask him to do is too much. I am very pleased with his results which reflect hard work and effort. It is a pleasure having Graeme in my class. A.G. Basson.
Graeme continues to make good progress both in and out of the classroom. G. Dods.
General Report:
Graeme is an extremely hard working boy. He tries hard in the classroom and on the sports field. He is a capable youngster and he is a popular member of the Std 1 class. He is quiet and he still prefers playing in small groups. He is always polite and helpful. Graeme has a fine sense of humour which bubbles out most satisfyingly! He has been a regular member of the Barefoot League where he always gives of his best. He runs hard and tackles well. Jenny Mallett.
Std. 1 – 1979. Term 4
Teacher’s comments:
Graeme has had an excellent six months academically. I was especially pleased with his outstanding maths and science papers.
His new cursive handwriting is neat and well formed and he takes care to maintain this high standard not only in the writing lessons but in all his written work.
Congratulations on an excellent report. I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching such a conscientious youngster. A.G. Basson.
This has been a first class year and he so richly deserved the Industry Award. Well done. J.A. Dods.
General Report:
Graeme has taken part in both swimming and cricket. His greatest asset is his constant striving to better himself and to improve in whatever he is taking part in. Well done Graeme. In swimming, he has worked hard and his crawl style has improved one a width. He tends to lose all style when racing over a length but this will come with more practice. He is an enthusiastic cricketer with a good eye for the ball and he is always awake in the field. I am delighted with Graeme’s progress and he has had an extremely successfully year. Jenny Mallett.
Std. 2 – 1980. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme’s interests cover a large spectrum. He is an extremely conscientious worker in the classroom, he plays hard on the rugby field and once he is confidence of his position, he enjoys it. He is enjoying his singing in the choir and he enjoys his Art and Drama lessons. Graeme is a responsible youngster and he is always polite and helpful. He has done well to keep his place in the U10 rugby team as there are many enthusiastic youngsters longing for a game. He drives well in rugby and he is learning to get the ball back to his backline. He must learn to be a little quicker to the loose ball so that St Georges wins the ball and not the opposition! Graeme has had a good half year. Jenny Mallett.
Graeme continues to make very good progress in all aspects of school life. Well done. G.A. Dods.
Std. 2 – 1980. Term 4
General Report:
Graeme is a mature polite and reliable boy. He needs to do well and he still becomes anxious if he feels he is letting anyone down. However, he is learning to control his natural nervousness and he is now able to look on the light side as well as the serious. He has had a very full year. He is a member of the choir and he has thoroughly enjoyed the involvement. He has played cricket and squash. He has chosen to go to extra cricket coaching with Mr Leary. We hope to reap the benefit of this experience in the U11 cricket squad next term. He is a beginner at squash. He has learned the basics and is thoroughly enjoying the competition and the exercise. Graeme has had a very successful year in Std 2 and I have enjoyed teaching him. Jenny Mallett.
Graeme is to be commended for an excellent term’s work. He is a credit to his school. Graeme has been promoted to Standard three. S. Anderson.
Std. 3 – 1981. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme is a well adjusted, hard working, amiable boy with an enquiring mind and a sensible disposition. Everything he does he does well. His behaviour is always good and when given responsibility he has taken it seriously and carried it out intelligently. In short, Graeme is a pleasure to work with.
His contribution to the choir is to be commended. He has shown himself to be an enthusiastic, loyal and hard working member and he is to be congratulated on his excellent performance in the recent Eisteddfod.
On the sports field, Graeme has done well. He has proved to have a keen sense of competition within the confines of a good sense of sportsmanship. His swimming and athletics performances were more than pleasing. He will have to work hard at perfecting his high jump technique so as to enable him to break the record next year. It is certainly well within his capabilities. His rugby is also pleasing. In the opinion of his coach he is one of the top three players in his team.
In short, Graeme has worked hard, played hard and is a pleasure to work with. An excellent report. Graeme is a credit to his school.
Std. 4 – 1982. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme is a mature reliable pupil but he still gets into a panic when things don’t run smoothly, but he is learning how to cope with this. He produced an excellent performance in the high jump in the athletics meeting winning the U12 section with a record jump. It seems that whatever sport he participates in, he always gives of his best – in swimming, athletics, squash or rugby.
He is erratic at squash, sometimes everything goes right for him but occasionally he doesn’t get his feet into the correct position. He has done well to play in the U13 rugby team and has developed into a good No. 2 line-out jumper. An enthusiastic choir member –as one can see he participates fully in all aspects of school life. Hopkins (House Master)
Graeme is to be congratulated on some excellent academic results. I note with pleasure the “A” aggregate for both term and exam results. He is a very interested pupil who strives for efficiency. Well done. S. Anderson.
Std. 5 – 1983. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme’s main sport in the first term was swimming, but he had to compete in the U14 age group in the gala which he found difficult. He enjoyed the competition of the Gordon’s Gala in Newlands although the distance was too much for him. He is always a conscientious swimmer and trains hard at practices.
He has had a very good athletics season, concentrating mainly on the high jump and long jump and he won both events in the school athletics tournament. Again the hard work and effort he put into it and the help he gave others is very praiseworthy indeed!
He has been a good counselor and a regular member of the school choir and he recently won a diploma in the Eisteddfod for singing. Very well done! K.M. Hopkins.
An excellent academic report. Well done! Graeme is a credit to his school. S. Anderson
Std. 5 – 1983. Term 4
General Report:
Graeme has had an excellent year all round. He has done very well as a counselor and he gained rugby, academic and athletics colours. He played the main lead as “Huck Finn” in Tom Sawyer last term and did extremely well in a role that was very unlike his natural character. (I hope he hasn’t taken up the art of smoking)!
He has been swimming this term and although he tries very hard, he tires easily. He must practice his breast-stroke for the inter-house gala next term.
He has been a prominent member of the school choir this year and made an excellent prepared speech in the speech competition. Congratulations also on winning the award for the “Most Determined Rugby Player in the Prep School”. We are delighted to hear he is staying at St George’s and we wish him every success in his senior school career. K.M. Hopkins
An excellent academic report. Well done Graeme! He has been promoted to Standard Six. S. Anderson.
Std. 6 – 1984. Term 4
General Report:
Graeme is a very intense and determined young man in everything that he does. During the year in the sports arena he has played tennis and water polo.
He also represented his house in a number of the track and field events of sports day. On the rugby field he was a most tenacious flank.
He is making good progress as a swimmer particularly at breast-stroke.
He entered the Mini Maths Olympiad earlier this year and is a keen hamster breeder and stamp collector. S. Howard.
His examination results are most satisfactory. He is very near the top of this very able and highly competitive class.
Std. 7 – 1985. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme displays an impressive array of talents over a wide spectrum – athletics (high jump, long jump), plays rugby, has received academic commendations and is involved in cultural affairs. All very good.
He is a personable and likeable young fellow who has many things in store for him. An asset to Shaw House and the School. B. Sneddon (House Master).
This is a most satisfactory report. He has worked and played as hard as he is able and has achieved considerable success in a number of areas. C. Connor (Headmaster)
Std. 8 – 1986. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme is a good example of an all-rounder. It is very pleasing to note his sporting attributes (U16 high jump record), his rugby, his participation in the Maths Olympiad, Eisteddfod and his success in gaining commendations for every half term so far. A credit to Shaw House. B. Sneddon (House Master)
Excellent examination results which reflect both his ability and effort. He has performed most creditably. In every way, an asset to the school. C. Cannon (Headmaster)
Std. 8 – 1986. Term 4
General Report:
Another pleasing year for Graeme with sound indications of a wide involvement in many facets of the school life.
He swims, has gained many commendations, took part in the Maths afternoon at UCT and did well in athletics and took a leading role in one of the school plays.
Many congratulations on his industry and acting prizes and keep up the good work. B. Sneddon (House Master)
This is a very good report in every way, both academically and extramurally, he is to be congratulated on his effort and commitment. He is an asset to the school. S. Canoon (Headmaster)
Std. 9 – 1987. Term 2
General Report:
Graeme gives of his best in all that he does here at school and this half year has been no exception.
It has been edifying to see him excel at sport (athletics), drama, integrated studies and of course his school work.
He is always courteous and well mannered and is an asset to St George’s. B. Sneddon House Master
One or two of his examination percentages were unusually low for him. He is intelligent enough to know what went wrong and will, I am sure, rectify the situation by the end of the year. In all other ways, he has had a good half year. S. Cannon (Head Master)
Std. 9 – 1987. Term 4
General Report:
Another good year for him. He has made steady progress in his school work, achieving a commendable 73% aggregate in the end of year exams. He did exceptionally well in his favourite sport, high jumping.
I trust that 1988 will bring him many rewards for all his efforts. B. Sneddon (House Master)
His academic results have again been most satisfactory and reflect his tremendous commitment to hard work. The small “sets” in the matriculation class next year will increase his chances of gaining excellent symbols at the end of the year. C. Cannon Head Master
Std. 10 – 1988. Term 4
General Report:
Graeme was called upon very early in the year to shoulder the load of House Prefect. I shall not forget his unhesitating acceptance of the position and his sincere dedication to the task. My sincere thanks to him.
He has above all been the kind of young man who really has pitched in to a lot of what this school offers. He has shone however, as an athlete using his springy legs to good effect is the high jump year by year.
His academic work has been impressive through the years I’ve known him. He has a wide ranging ability and I rejoice that he gained the Special Latin Prize. Good luck and God speed for the years ahead. B. Sneddon (House Master)
The way he stepped into the breach and became Head of Shaw and his work as one of the School Prefects gained him the admiration of all.
As a person this year, he was articulate and thoughtful, amusing and concerned about the welfare of others. I have greatly enjoyed working with him and thank him for his contribution to school life. He leaves with my very good wishes for the future. S. Connor (Head Master)
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