Boarding: Termly Reflection

As the sun sets on another vibrant term at Clifton Notties, the corridors usually echoing with the "vibrant and joyful buzz", laughter and spelling games have begun to quieten. Looking back, it has been a journey defined by "happy moments, special memories, and wonderful experiences" that have woven themselves into the very fabric of our boarding family.

The term began with an energy that even the unpredictable Midlands weather could not dampen. We watched our boarders embrace every challenge, from the grit required on the tactical obstacle course to the simple, sun-drenched joy of "tree cricket," which remains a firm favourite on the lawns. There were magical night discos under the stars,  and the smokey, sweet scent of toasted marshmallows during relaxed braais at the Lapha. Whether it was the thrill of watching the T20 World Cup Final, or the creative focus of crafting lavender room fresheners from the school gardens, the children have shown an admirable ability to find delight in both the high-octane marathons and the quiet, slow movie mornings.

Even when the mist rolled in and the cricket matches were "washed out due to rain," the spirit of the dorms remained unbreakable. We saw hilarious Saturday afternoons spent attempting to cut slabs of chocolate while wearing bulky oven gloves, and "Minute to Win It" challenges where chopsticks and ping-pong balls became the tools of intense, albeit silly, competitions. Through every scrumptious brunch and every scenic walk up to the Beacon, our children have grown in resilience and heart.

However, as we celebrate these milestones, this end of term carries a particularly poignant weight. We find ourselves preparing to say goodbye to a pillar of our community, Mr Linda Sibiya. For the last six years, Linda has been an integral part of the Clifton Notties journey. To witness his growth over more than half a decade has been a privilege for all who call this school home. Linda’s impact on the lives of our children is immeasurable; he has been a steady hand and a kind heart in the "heart of the school".

We often see the "extra mile" Linda goes, the visible enthusiasm that, much like the spirit of our weekends, is truly contagious. Yet, it is perhaps the "unseen" extra miles that define him most: the quiet words of encouragement, the behind-the-scenes care for a homesick boarder, and the tireless dedication to ensuring every child feels seen and valued. He has played a transformative role in the lives of so many young Notties children, helping them navigate their own journeys from "Inside the Dorm" with grace and wisdom.

Linda, you will be sorely missed. You leave behind a legacy of kindness and a standard of excellence that will continue to inspire us. As you move on to your next chapter, we look forward with excitement to seeing where your path leads, knowing that whatever you touch will undoubtedly flourish.

Goodbye, thank you, and may the road ahead be as bright as the smiles you’ve put on our children's faces.