St John’s College is proud to celebrate the outstanding academic achievements of the Class of 2024, who have excelled in their IEB final examinations. Meet our top achievers as they share their matric journey.
Zac Erasmus
Top Matriculant, Dux Scholar (95%, 9 distinctions)
Subjects: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, History, Information Technology and Physical Sciences, as well as further Studies English and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
Dux Scholar Zac Erasmus credits his success to simplicity in studying and maintaining balance. “I enjoyed reading textbooks and using flashcards for subjects like IT and Physics, and Music kept me focused during long sessions,” he said. His disciplined approach extended to starting projects early, such as the IT PAT, to ensure quality results.
Zac remained involved in extracurricular activities during his matric year, including playing Squash for the First Team, participating in various orchestras and bands and participating in prepared and unprepared public speaking teams. “These activities outside the classroom contributed to a fulfilling final year and helped prevent burnout,” he said.
He is preparing to study a BaccLLB at Stellenbosch while waiting to hear whether he has been accepted into the University of Cambridge's Law programme. "I am excited to pursue a career in international law, which brings together my passions for language, history, public speaking, and social justice.”
Zac fondly remembers his time at St John’s and its traditions like Saturday rugby and war cries. "Winning the Dux Scholar Award and earning two Golden Eagle Awards were standout moments for me. I'm also incredibly proud of being placed in the top 20 for English and Afrikaans Olympiads and completing over 150 hours of community service.”
Greg Pryce
92%, 8 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, Information Technology, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
Greg Pryce balanced academics, sports, and his duties as Head of Fleming House with meticulous organisation in his matric year. “I prioritised tasks based on urgency and importance and focused on deadlines,” he said. Greg’s structured study approach—detailed notes, colour coding, and strategic time management—helped him excel in all his subjects.
As a talented water polo player, Greg represented South Africa at the U16 and U18 World Championships and the Men’s World Cup during his school career. “These experiences were incredible honours that taught me discipline and perseverance,” he shared.
Greg’s proudest achievements include receiving the Subject Prize for Physical Sciences, and earning the Sir Henry Strakosch Scholarship for Excellence in Mathematics and Science.
Planning to study Mechanical Engineering at UCT, Greg dreams of working in the automotive or aerospace industries, designing for companies like Porsche or NASA. To current students, he advised: “Consistency is key. Work hard throughout the year, and exams will feel manageable.”
Liam Jung
92%, 8 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, French Second Additional Language, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
Liam faced the challenge of balancing leadership as Head of Clarke with academics, overcoming it with structured planning and support from his teachers. He used the Pomodoro technique and plenty of past papers to stay on top of demanding subjects like Physical Sciences.
Beyond academics, his participation in extra-curricular activities enriched his final year. “Public speaking was a new venture for me, and competing in an interschool competition boosted my confidence,” he said. His involvement in Maths and English Olympiads further honed his skills, helped him excel academically.
Liam’s proudest moments include being offered a fellowship at The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation and winning the OJs OJ Award at Speech Day for embodying the school’s values of Lux Vita Caritas.
He credits his parents and teachers for their guidance and encouragement, which made balancing responsibilities more manageable. “My parents were my biggest supporters, and my teachers always made time to help, shaping my academic journey,” he said. “Their support made all the difference.”
Liam plans to study Chemical Engineering at Stellenbosch or UCT. Though uncertain about a specific career path, he is confident that his degree will provide a broad skill set for future opportunities.
Rahul Fakira
91%, 8 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, Geography, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
Rahul embraced discipline and routine to tackle the pressures of Matric. “Setting timers and focusing on past papers helped me manage my time effectively,” he explains. Chemistry posed the greatest challenge, but consistent practice reinforced his understanding and allowed him to master the subject.
Golf became Rahul’s escape, offering relaxation amidst the intensity of exams. His fondest memory of St John’s was braving a storm on top of a mountain with his friends at Wilderness School. "It was a true test of resilience and camaraderie, and it’s a moment I’ll treasure forever," he said.
He is also particularly proud of his contributions to various Community Service projects during his College career.
“My parents’ encouragement and my teachers’ guidance were instrumental in my success,” he said Rahul. This year, he will study Actuarial Science at WITS. He is keen to pursue a career in the financial world, a field that aligns with his strength in mathematics.
To the Matric Class of 2025: "If you identify any gaps in your knowledge, don’t wait until the last minute to address them. Seek help as early as possible to ensure you’re fully prepared for your exams."
Dominic Wrigley
91%, 8 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, Dramatic Arts, History, Physical Sciences, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
Dominic’s Matric year was also a balancing act like many of his peers, as he managed his academics while actively participating in drama and sports.
“Planning ahead was critical to managing everything,” he shared. "Having a strong support system both at home and at school made all the difference. Whenever I needed guidance, I had people I could rely on."
Physics and Afrikaans were his toughest subjects, and Drama, English, and Chemistry were the most difficult exams he wrote. He earned distinctions in all eight of his subjects, including an impressive 99% for Drama.
Dominic’s proudest school achievements included captaining the First XI Football Team, winning FEDA in 2023, and receiving the prestigious Walter Andrewes Prize for excellence in cultural activities, sports and academics. He will never forget the war cries and camaraderie.
He will attend Stellenbosch University this year before heading to CityU in Hong Kong for the next phase of his studies. “I’m not exactly sure what career I’ll pursue yet, but it will definitely involve business and mathematics. And Drama will always be part of my life,” he shared.
Ronaldo Teixeira
91%, 8 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, Geography, Information Technology, Physical Sciences, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
“Finding the motivation to sit down and study for long hours was very tough for me,” admits Ronaldo Teixeira. So, to stay on track, he embraced collaborative learning, teaming up with friends in a similar situation. “Together, we were able to motivate one another to stay focused and work hard,” he reflects.
Basketball and hockey were also great stress relievers, and Ronaldo credits his family and teachers for their continuous support. “My family made sure I had what I needed, and my teachers went above and beyond to guide me,” he says.
Among his many accomplishments, Ronaldo is most proud of his Subject Prizes for Further Studies Physics and Geography and scoring 98% in his final Further Studies Mathematics core paper.
He says he will always cherish his memories of the school spirit at St John's, including the night war cries during matric and sharing these moments with friends.
He plans to study Actuarial Science at Stellenbosch, aspiring to become an actuary and hopefully to achieve a Fellowship with the Actuarial Society of South Africa. “One memory that stands out is getting into trouble in Remove with all the Nash guys—though it wasn’t fun at the time, it’s something I’ve carried with me throughout my College journey.”
Ronaldo will be studying Actuarial Science at Stellenbosch University this year, aspiring to become an actuary and eventually achieve a Fellowship with the Actuarial Society of South Africa.
Muhammad Moosa
90%, 8 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, French Second Additional Language, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
Muhammad faced the intense demands of Matric head-on. “The workload was overwhelming, especially during prelims, but I stayed consistent, working through each subject section by section,” he explained. Past papers were a central part of his preparation, particularly for challenging languages like French, Afrikaans, and English.
Physical activity played a significant role in maintaining his balance and focus. “Although some people put physical activity on hold during exams, I felt it was an essential part of my academic success.,” he says. Football, tennis, and padel provided moments that allowed him to take a break from the pressures of school.
Muhammad credits his parents and teachers for their support. “My parents were my biggest support system, not just in Matric but throughout my school years,” he shared. "My teachers also played a significant role, especially by guiding me through tough situations."
Now that his exams are behind him, Muhammad is preparing for the future. "I’ll be studying at the University of the Witwatersrand, but I haven’t decided yet whether to pursue medicine or engineering."
Tristan Rhodes
90%, 8 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, History, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
Tristan’s Matric year was one of strategic focus. “Instead of managing time, I focused on strategic allocation, ensuring each subject got the attention it needed,” he says. Active recall and past papers were key to mastering content-heavy subjects.
Physical Sciences was Tristan’s most challenging subject, but he persevered, tackling the notoriously tricky Chemistry final exam with determination.
Extracurriculars, including hockey and cricket, provided Tristan with balance and mental respite. “Sports taught me teamwork, resilience, and the ability to handle pressure—skills that directly supported my academics,” he reflected.
Tristan’s proudest achievements at St John's included earning Academic Honours, receiving the Headmaster’s Trophy, and debuting for the First XI Hockey team. His fondest memories remain war cries in Remove, the brotherhood of boarding life, and the emotional Valedictory Mass Service.
He is grateful to his family, especially his brother, for their support and mentorship. He also thanked his teachers, who provided guidance, motivation and resources essential to his achievements.
Tristan plans to study Human Life Sciences or Medicine at Stellenbosch University this year and hopes to become a doctor.
Daniel Bruwer
90%, 7 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, Dramatic Arts, French Second Additional Language, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
Time management was Daniel's biggest hurdle during his matric year as he juggled academic, sports and cultural activities. "Keeping track of commitments and communicating with teachers and teammates helped me stay on top of things,” he said.
Of all his subjects, Physical Sciences – particularly Chemistry – proved the most challenging, and Daniel recalls spending time reviewing his work. His proudest academic achievement was scoring 90% on his Further Studies Mathematics paper.
A well-rounded student, Daniel participated in many extracurricular activities. He was part of the senior impromptu public speaking team and performed in the school’s major production. A personal highlight was directing the play Firehouse, which won FEDA in 2023.
He also played for the First XI Cricket and 2nd XV rugby teams. “These activities helped me with my academics as they forced me to be disciplined and efficient in my learning and were a way to take a breath and distance myself from academic pressure,” he said.
Daniel is grateful for the support of his family and teachers, who have played a role in his success both academically and personally.
With plans to study Global Business in Hong Kong, Daniel is eager to explore opportunities in business and finance. He takes with him treasured memories of war cries, Remove camp, and a last-minute try that sealed a rugby victory in his final season.
Matthew Venter-Clelland
89%, 9 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, isiZulu First Additional Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, History, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Further Studies English, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended.
As Custos, Matthew balanced academic, sporting, and leadership responsibilities with methodical planning, earning himself a full house of nine distinctions. “I broke tasks into smaller, manageable pieces and used Anki flashcards to master large amounts of material,” he explains. His innovative approach allowed him to excel in subjects like History and Further Studies English.
While Chemistry was a humbling experience for him, Matthew admits that isiZulu Paper 1 was the most challenging of all his final exams.
Matthew’s extracurricular activities provided balance and enrichment to his school life. From orienteering and cricket to public speaking and rugby, Matthew found these pursuits rewarding and grounding. "Public speaking massively boosted my confidence and taught me to think on my feet—a skill that’s been incredibly useful," he noted.
Among his proudest achievements are being elected Custos (the prefect responsible for preserving the school’s traditions), winning the Chilvers Impromptu Speaking Cup and the Subject Prize for History.
He hopes to study entrepreneurship at CityU in Hong Kong. "I’m interested in a career that allows for a high degree of independence,” he said. “What that might be, I do not know yet."
Jordan Cooper
89%, 7 distinctions
Subjects: English Home Language, Mathematics, Life Orientation, Information Technology, Physical Sciences, Further Studies Mathematics Extended, and Further Studies Physical Sciences.
Jordan’s disciplined approach to Matric involved eliminating distractions like social media, which allowed him to focus on his studies in the evenings, even if it meant “burning the midnight oil.”
His study method focused on “practising by doing,” particularly in Maths, IT, and Physical Sciences, where trial and error deepened his understanding.
Sports and cultural activities played an integral role in his life at the College. Jordan learned valuable time management skills as a member of the First XI Hockey Team and the Backstage Crew in Drama. “These activities gave me breaks that refreshed my mind for academics,” he explains.
Jordan is grateful to his teachers and family for their support throughout his Matric year. “The teachers at St John’s go above and beyond for their students,” he shares.
His proudest moment was winning the Walter Andrewes Prize, for excellence in cultural activities, sports and academics and he will always remember his first hymn practice in Remove (Grade 8).
One of Jordan’s fondest memories was his first hymn practice in Remove (Grade 8). Singing hymns like Blue 122 and raising the Chapel roof always bring such joy. His first derby fixture for the Blues hockey team with the support of this school behind him is another memory he will always cherish.
Jordan plans to study Statistics and Economics in the US, with a future in finance.