Stirling High marked its 41st Founders’ celebrations with a vibrant weekend that honoured the school’s proud history while celebrating its present and looking firmly towards the future.
The festivities brought together current pupils, staff, special guests, and past pupils from various reunion years, creating a memorable opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the enduring Stirling community.
Highlights across the programme included a collaborative Founders’ Music Evening alongside Cambridge High School, a special staff sporting tradition, and a full lineup of activities centred on the spirit and heritage of the school.
The weekend culminated in the highly anticipated annual Cambridge Derby, where Stirling and Cambridge pupils competed across hockey, netball, and rugby.
Old Boys’ and Old Girls’ fixtures added a special intergenerational element to the traditional rivalry, bringing generations of alumni back onto the fields.
For Stirling’s matric cohort, the Derby carried deep emotional weight as pupils took to the fields and courts for their final clash against Cambridge, representing their school with immense pride and true Stirlite Spirit.
The sporting fixtures also served as the backdrop for two major individual milestones:
Netball 1st team captain: Amyoli Mgibe earned her 50th cap during the weekend’s fixtures.
Rugby 1st team captain: Joshua Pickering celebrated his 50th cap before a home crowd.
Both captains were lauded for their outstanding contributions to Stirling sport and the lasting legacy they leave for future generations of athletes.
Special honours were also conferred during the official proceedings.
Stirling extended its congratulations to Shaun Welsh, who was named the recipient of the prestigious Founders’ Award.
Furthermore, Michelle Hubbard (née de Beer), head girl of the Class of 2016, returned to her alma mater as the keynote guest speaker for the celebrations.
School management extended their gratitude to all staff, pupils, alumni, and community members who contributed to making the 41st Founders’ Weekend a resounding success.
