“No era exists in isolation. The past directly influences the present. Traditions help me gain a better understanding of the world I live in and help me form an identity.” – Neo Leseilane, Roedean Class of 2024.
On February 28th, Roedean School (SA) marked 122 years of history with a grand Foundation Day celebration, a moment where the past and present intertwined. From the iconic 22 bell chimes to old-school customs that still hold meaning today, students and alumni reflected on the essence of what it means to be a Roedeanian.
Echoes of the Past: The Bell That Rings Through Time
For over a century, Roedean has upheld a symbolic tradition—ringing the school bell 22 times at the start and end of each day, a tribute to the school’s first intake in 1903. It’s more than just a sound; it’s a reminder of the institution’s legacy, its resilience, and its commitment to education.
Ita Collins, the current head student, finds deep meaning in these traditions, as they connect her to her sister, who attended Roedean 14 years ago. “I’ve always been close to her, but there is something special in knowing she wore the same blazer as me and sang the same songs,” she reflects.
Her personal favourite? Singing the school songs. “It’s not just about the melody; it’s the sense of unity and history that binds us all together,” she adds.
Stories of Mischief and Mayhem: A Tradition of Memories
Neo Leseilane, Roedean’s Class of 2024 Dux student, now pursuing Computational and Applied Mathematics at Wits University, holds Foundation Day close to her heart. “I loved hearing stories of mischief and mayhem from Old Roedeanians. The school’s birthday was always a celebration, a tribute to the history that we, as Roedeanians, have the privilege of being a part of.”
Zhuoyi Wu, a fellow 2024 graduate now studying BCom Accounting at the University of Pretoria, echoes this sentiment. She sees Foundation Day as a reaffirmation of the school’s core values—values that stand strong in a rapidly evolving world. “Walking across Bears Lawn [a privilege granted to matrics], sitting in Founders’ Hall, and speaking with Old Roedean girls filled me with immense pride. The traditions aren’t just about the past; they evolve with each new generation.”
Unity Through Custom: A Lasting Bond
For Romy Day, now a BSc Physiotherapy student at Wits, one of the most thrilling traditions was running across Bears Lawn. “It gave us a sense of unity as we neared the end of our school years,” she shares. More than just a school, Roedean represents a legacy of empowered women who have lived lives of significance.
Nicola Burger, from Roedean’s Class of 1994, believes the founders’ vision still guides the institution. “One of the things the founders left behind was a guideline on how Roedean should operate, ensuring sustainability through the decades. Change was inevitable, but the values—truth, honour, freedom, and honesty—remain unchanged.”
An Anchor of Identity: The Power of Tradition
Zhuoyi Wu, having grown up between South Africa and China, found that Roedean’s customs anchored her in a place of belonging. “By embracing Roedean’s heritage, I’ve also embraced my identity, finding strength in both my cultural roots and the deep pride of being a Roedeanian.”
Neo, a scholarship student, initially feared she wouldn’t fit in at Roedean. However, the traditions proved otherwise. “Despite our different backgrounds, Roedean students of the past, present, and future share a common identity. These customs form a strong cultural foundation, giving every student a sense of belonging.”
The Fascinating Traditions of Roedean
Roedean’s customs aren’t just historical footnotes; they’re alive, evolving, and filled with meaning. Some of the most unique include:
- Curtseying upon receiving an award – A nod to elegance and respect.
- The youngest pupil cutting the Foundation Day cake – A symbol of continuity and fresh beginnings.
- The head girl opening the matric dance with a waltz – A moment of grace and leadership.
- Touching the copper frogs on the bell for good luck – A quirky yet beloved tradition.
More Than Just Rituals: A Living Legacy
Roedean’s traditions are more than ceremonial acts—they are threads that weave generations together, giving every student a sense of pride, unity, and history. As the school moves forward, it carries the wisdom of the past, ensuring that while times may change, the spirit of Roedean remains timeless.
