Shane Friedrichs takes helm at Stanford Lake College

TZANEEN – After more than two decades in education, Shane Friedrichs has been appointed acting head of Stanford Lake College (SLC), marking an important milestone in a career defined by dedication to holistic education and learner development.

Having served the school for 15 years, Friedrichs stepped into the role with a deep understanding of the community he now leads.

Friedrichs’ career began at Cambridge High School in East London, where he taught from 2004 to 2007. He later joined Dale College Boys’ High School in King William’s Town (2008–2010).

At both schools, he combined classroom teaching with his love of sport, coaching cricket and hockey while teaching economic management sciences and business studies. These formative years shaped his belief that discipline, teamwork, and resilience are as vital as academic achievement.

In 2010, Friedrichs joined SLC as director of sport and assistant head of co-curricular and boarding. Over the years, his responsibilities steadily expanded. He went on to oversee boarding, discipline, pastoral care, and student wellness, areas that reflect his commitment to developing the whole child.

Most recently, in his role as senior deputy head, Friedrichs managed five boarding houses, led discipline structures for boys and girls, and coordinated pastoral initiatives designed to support student wellbeing. At the same time, he remained closely connected to learners in the classroom, teaching geography, and on the sports field, continuing to coach.

“Being appointed acting head is a privilege I embrace with gratitude,” said Friedrichs. “SLC is a community I know and cherish, and my vision is to strengthen its values of resilience, courage, and holistic growth.”

Beyond the school, Friedrichs has played a significant role in provincial cricket and hockey, serving as coach, convenor, and chairperson at various levels.

These roles reinforced his passion for nurturing talent and creating a culture of excellence. He has also invested in professional development, completing leadership training at Wits Business School along with several educational workshops that have equipped him for senior leadership.

Colleagues describe Friedrichs as a leader who brings both experience and heart to the role.

His leadership philosophy is shaped by years of balancing academic priorities with the needs of student life, whether on the sports field, in boarding, or in pastoral care.

“This appointment is not just the next step in my career, it is my chance to give back to a school that has given me so much,” he added.

In his new role, Friedrichs aims to build on the strong foundation laid by his predecessors, while guiding SLC learners to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

His journey, from the sports field to the head’s office, reflects a lifelong commitment to education that is both rigorous and compassionate.