A New Hill to Climb: Starting the Year Inspired by Nelson Mandela

by Anthony Wright

July 7, 2025

As we step into a brand-new school year, there is no better guide for reflection and inspiration than Nelson Mandela, the first Black President of South Africa. His life reminds us that every new beginning is built on the courage to grow, the discipline to do better, and the hope that tomorrow can be brighter than today.

On our first day back, students across the school listened to moving passages from Long Walk to Freedom, Mandela’s extraordinary autobiography. One particularly powerful quote reminded us:

“After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb.”

This idea, that each milestone is just one part of a longer journey, is especially meaningful as we begin a new academic year. Last year, students made progress: they developed their knowledge, improved their handwriting, presented on stage, played sports, made friends, and solved problems. But now it’s time to climb the next hill and reach even higher—academically and personally.

This year we welcome many new students who join the school as part of their academic journey. We discussed three key ideas from Mandela’s writing:

• Reflection: Taking a moment to look at how far we’ve come and how to show gratitude to those who help us on our journey, but not stopping where we are.
• Responsibility: Understanding that with every freedom and opportunity, we also carry a duty to do the right thing, even when nobody is watching.
• Unity: Knowing that what we say and do affects others. “Freedom is indivisible,” Mandela wrote, “the chains on any one of my people were the chains on all of them.”

These are not just ideas for national leaders. They are principles for every learner in our community where we are all leaders in our own ways—whether you are beginning Grade 1 or preparing for university in Grade 11.

This Year’s Climb: Our Shared Expectations

These are the challenges we have set for each and every one of our students, and we extend the hand of partnership to parents to reinforce these messages:

• Academic Progress: Challenge yourself. Set clear, ambitious goals. Reflect on where you are now and where you want to be. Every subject is a new opportunity to grow.
• Uniform with Pride: Wear your school uniform properly every day—with tie and blazer. PE kit should be worn only during sports. Our new changing rooms are ready for everyone to use.
• Attendance Matters: Attendance below 90% means missing nearly a month of learning. Be present, on time, and prepared.
• Inclusive Language: Use English in all learning spaces. It’s a small act that builds a stronger, more connected school community.
• Character is What You Do When Nobody is Watching: Whether in class, on the bus, or during break—make the right choices. Treat others kindly and show respect.

“We have, at last, achieved our political emancipation. We pledge ourselves to liberate all our people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination…” — Nelson Mandela

His words remind us that true freedom is not just about rights, it’s about responsibility. As students, you have the freedom to learn, speak, and express your ideas—but also the responsibility to help create an environment where everyone can do the same.

Let’s climb this new hill together. Let’s begin this school year not just hoping to do well, but determined to be better.

Here’s to a meaningful, motivated, and memorable year ahead!