CNR e-News Term 1

23 January 2026

Dear Parents,

This week has been one that reminds us, in many quiet and meaningful ways, what it is to belong to Clifton.

Grade 7 returned from their Wagendrift Dam camp brimming with spirit and armed with wonderfully entertaining stories, the kind that will no doubt be retold many times over.

read the full article here...

As I write, our Grade 6s are enjoying their own adventure at All Out Adventures. Oh, to be a child at Clifton Notties, where days are filled with challenge, laughter and memories in the making.

Our Grade 7 Induction and Tie Ceremony was a particularly special moment. Steeped in tradition, it carried with it that wonderful weight of expectation, responsibility and duty that marks the transition into leadership. As our Grade 7s received their ties, they were invited not only to wear a symbol of their role, but to make their mark. To contribute to the ongoing story of the school and, in doing so, to cement their own place in its legacy.

read the full article here...

I am delighted to report that the new Grade 4 classroom build is progressing at pace. In addition, we have received confirmation that the refurbishment of Usher House, along with the new Library, IT and staff room builds, will begin in early February. The impact of these developments on our children, staff and wider community will be immeasurable, creating an environment that allows both current and future Clifton children to grow and flourish in a truly first-class setting.

As tradition dictates, our boarders are invited to the Headmaster’s house for dinner over the course of the year, and Mrs Brown and I thoroughly enjoyed hosting the Grade 7 boys this week. Thank you to them for their good manners, their willingness to engage, and their easy conversation. We were informed that the boarders have christened their current accommodation “Úsherville”! One of many delightful titbits that made for an evening filled with banter, laughter and genuine enjoyment.

We are now firmly into our stride for the term, and I am deeply grateful for the positive energy and endeavour evident across the school. Long may this continue.

Interns

Over the next few weeks, we will be introducing you to our new Interns who have joined the Clifton family to inspire personal bests, and nurture growth while never compromising the sanctity of childhood.

Meet Wian Pretorius

Wian was born and raised in Ballito, where an active, outdoor lifestyle and a love for sport shaped much of who he is today. Growing up in a sporting environment taught him early lessons in commitment, teamwork, and resilience, values that continue to guide his approach to both teaching and learning.

Cricket has played a central role in Wian’s journey, but his passion extends across all sport. He is happiest when there’s a ball involved, whether it’s on the cricket field, soccer pitch, or during a casual game of touch rugby after school. He believes sport builds confidence, creates connection, and plays a powerful role in developing disciplined, well-rounded young people, both in and out of the classroom.

Wian holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from North-West University and is currently completing his Postgraduate Certificate in Education. He also spent several years working in the corporate sector in Dubai, where he developed strong communication and leadership skills and discovered a passion for mentoring, a realisation that ultimately led him back to South Africa and into education. He believes this is where he can make the most meaningful and lasting impact.

In and out of the classroom, Wian strives to create a supportive and motivating environment where children feel confident to grow. Outside of school, he enjoys training at the gym, running, and unwinding with a good series, currently Yellowstone.

He lives by the quote, “If you can change your mind, you can change your life,” and believes that real progress in learning begins when a child believes in their ability to grow and is open to facing challenges with a positive mindset. The same is true in sport, where a strong mindset can transform performance.

Wian looks forward to contributing his energy, commitment, and enthusiasm to the Clifton school community, both academically and on the sports field.