Fairbairn College

In 1977, Fairbairn College opened its doors to 356 eager students. Fairbairn College wasn’t always called “College”. It started as “Fairbairn High School”. The school was named after John Fairbairn, a man who was invited to the Cape by Thomas Pringle to establish a school for the children of the 1820 Settlers. Fairbairn College stands in Goodwood, near Cape Town. It was founded in 1976. The first headmaster, Mr. C.E. de Wet, and his deputy initially worked from the boardroom of the Parow School Board. They waited patiently for the completion of the administrative section of the college in January 1977. The official inauguration came a year later in February 1978. The school’s motto, “Veritas et Integritas” stands for truthfulness and integrity. These values have guided Fairbairn College through the years. Initially, the school committee chose the name “Fairbairn College”. However, this decision was overruled by the Parow School Board and the Cape Education Department. They opted for “Fairbairn High School” instead. It wasn’t until 1992, after Fairbairn became a Model C state-aided school, that the Governing Body reinstated the original name. The official records finally reflected the change to “Fairbairn College” in February 1993. Fairbairn College has a rich history of extracurricular activities and fundraising. The annual “Big Walk” has been instrumental in raising funds for school improvements. From a swimming pool and squash courts to a computer center and hockey AstroTurf, the Big Walk’s impact is visible throughout the campus. It also fosters school spirit and provides learners with valuable informal interactions with their teachers. In 2020, the Big Walk raised an impressive R554,082.05. Fairbairn College offers a wide range of learning areas. From languages like Afrikaans and English to sciences, mathematics, and business studies, the curriculum caters to diverse interests. Students can also participate in cultural activities like choir, dance, and drama, as well as various societies, from photography and debate to the Muslim Student Association and the Christian Youth Society. Fairbairn College’s commitment to holistic education extends beyond academics and extracurriculars. The school operates a house system – Grey, Somerset, and Napier – named after former British governors of the Cape Colony. This system encourages friendly competition and sportsmanship through various sporting and academic events, including the highlight of the year, the Interhouse Athletics Competition. Fairbairn College has a legacy of nurturing talent. Notable alumni like Ryan ten Doeschate, Karen van der Westhuizen, Ryan Canning, and Andre Petim have excelled in fields ranging from international cricket and squash to soccer. Fairbairn College continues to provide quality education and opportunities for learners in the Goodwood community.