Two talented Gqeberha rugby players, Joandre van Jaarsveld and Silindezihle Ntshokoma, both learners at Grey High School, have been selected to participate in a prestigious international exchange programme with Hurstpierpoint College in the United Kingdom.
Joining Van Jaarsveld and Ntshokoma on this international opportunity is Akhumzi Masoka (17), another Grey High School learner who hails from Humansdorp.
Robbi Kempson, Head of Rugby at Grey High School, announced the selection with pride.
“These young men have been selected by the Grey High School Rugby Club to go on a student exchange to Hurstpierpoint College in the United Kingdom,” said Kempson.
He said that they will be accommodated at the school’s boarding house on Hurstpierpoint College Lane for the duration of their exchange, under the pastoral care of Fred Pierrepont, the Head of Rugby for Hurst.
The exchange will run from August 24 to December 7, offering the learners a unique opportunity to experience both academic and sporting life in the UK.
Van Jaarsveld expressed his gratitude for being chosen.
“I feel privileged that I was selected,” said Van Jaarsveld.
“I’m excited about the whole experience. I have never been outside of South Africa, so this is a whole new life experience.”
Van Jaarsveld further said that he is looking forward to experiencing a school and culture in a different country.
For Ntshokoma, the sporting aspect holds particular appeal.
“I’m very excited. This is a great opportunity to play rugby in a new environment,” said Ntshokoma.
“It is also exciting to be at a different school, one that is a co-ed school.”
Kempson further emphasised the broader educational value of the programme.
“The reciprocity has been afforded between the two schools for young scholars to engage in each other’s programmes, both scholastic and on the sporting front,” said Kempson.
“The impact that this experience can have on their maturity, independence, social skills, and cultural awareness is invaluable.”
Kempson said that the exchange, now in its second year, has already proven successful.
“We have three boys from Hurst arriving with us later this month, and the exchange is in its second year, after having three boys at Grey High in 2024,” said Kempson.
He further said that the exchange, although in its infancy, has been a huge success, and a firm bond has formed between the schools and players.
Kempson said that academic continuity has been carefully considered.
“The tests and exams for third and fourth terms will be written under supervision at Hurst, so they will need to attend class and ensure their academics are not neglected,” said Kempson.
The opportunity, however, comes with significant costs, including international flights ranging from R15 000 to R23 000, short-term visitor visa fees of approximately R3 000, and passport application expenses.
To raise the necessary funds, both Van Jaarsveld and Ntshokoma have established BackaBuddy campaigns to help fund their journey.
“The parents of the Hurst boys that came over are willing to help with most, if not all other costs associated with the UK side; however, financial support is still needed for flights and administrative costs,” said Kempson.
He said that they look forward to building the relationship between the two schools and affording these young men the best possible opportunities to flourish through the exchange programme.
To support Van Jaarsveld and Ntshokoma, visit their BackaBuddy campaigns:
• For Joandre van Jaarsveld
• For Silindezihle Ntshokoma.
You must be logged in to post a comment.