Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal – The spirit of tradition, brotherhood and celebration was on full display at St Charles College on 26 October as the Class of 2026 participated in the College’s cherished Final Matric Walk.

Despite threatening grey skies, the weather held long enough for the Form 6 boys to make their symbolic journey from Pennefather House to the Coach House. The occasion was marked by a festive atmosphere. The St Charles community gathered to celebrate a major milestone in the matriculants’ lives. The school song echoed across campus before fellow students, staff, parents, and supporters enthusiastically cheered the boys on.

This year’s event held special significance as Form 1 boys and members of the Old Boys’ Association joined the celebration. It reinforced the strong intergenerational bonds that define the College’s unique culture.

Highlight of the ceremony

James Dickason continued a meaningful new tradition. Outgoing Head Boy James Dickason and his Deputies presented ties to the Form 1 boys. They will enter Middle School in 2027. The Form 6 learners then assisted the younger boys in putting on their ties, creating heartfelt moments that reflected the College’s enduring values of mentorship, respect and service. Particularly touching were the scenes of brothers helping one another, underscoring the deep sense of family and belonging nurtured within the St Charles community.

Addressing those gathered, James Dickason expressed gratitude to the educators, mentors, staff and parents who had supported the matric class throughout their educational journey. He also presented a gift on behalf of the Class of 2026 that will contribute to the continued enhancement of the Form 6 area, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of students.

The ceremony also featured a moving address by Ryan Lawler, Chairman of the Old Boys’ Association, who acknowledged and thanked Gill Sheppard for her many years of dedicated service to the Association. The Class of 2026 was thereafter formally welcomed into the ranks of the St Charles Old Boys and presented with their Old Boys’ ties, symbolising the next chapter of their lifelong connection to the College.

James Dickason

Adding a deeply personal dimension to the occasion, Andrew Dickason and James Dickason had the privilege of presenting Old Boys’ ties to their sons, creating memorable moments that celebrated both family and tradition.

The event concluded with the newly inducted Old Boys gathering on the Coach House steps for a commemorative photograph. As the Class of 2026 prepares to leave the College, the Final Matric Walk served as a powerful reminder that while their school journey may be ending, the friendships, values and bonds forged at St Charles College will endure for years to come. Issued by: Mrs Claire Beckedahl. Head of Form 6, St Charles College

https://stcharlescollege.co.za

Photos supplied