Tom Naudé inaugurates new RCL and Help Council for 2026
Pride filled the hall as HTS Tom Naudé inducted its 2026 RCL and Help Council, with parents pinning badges on new leaders.
POLOKWANE – HTS Tom Naudé proudly hosted its annual Representative Council of Learners (RCL) Inauguration and Help Council Ceremony for 2026 in the school hall on Thursday evening, with family, friends and school staff in attendance.
The evening began with a prayer and words of encouragement from Sean Roberts, 2025 deputy head for academics.
As the names of the new RCL members were announced, parents were invited to come forward and pin badges onto their children’s blazers, shirts or ties in a moment filled with pride and symbolism.
Former head girl of 2025, Annabelle Oldewage, extended her best wishes to the new leaders, while former head boy, Fortune Sehlabane, inspired the audience with his message: “Leadership is not just a title, it’s about the impact you make in the school and towards your fellow schoolmates. Through hard work, perseverance and teamwork, we have done it, and that prepares us for the future”.
Principal Vanessa Kachelhoffer praised the outgoing 2025 RCL members for their dedication. “You were all amazing at your work. Thank you for the impressive work you’ve done and for setting a tremendous example. You empowered learners to be proud Tommies, and we salute you.”
Turning her attention to the newly elected RCL of 2026, Kachelhoffer encouraged them to embrace the responsibility that comes with leadership:
“You were chosen by your peers because they believed in you. Remember, being chosen means being in the spotlight, make 2026 count like never before. May the trust of all our learners empower you to do your best each and every day.”
The ceremony included a candle-lit handover from the 2025 to the 2026 RCL members, symbolising new beginnings. The Help Council for 2026 was also officially announced and appointed.
The evening closed with Oldewage and Sehlabane leading the new RCLs in their official declaration pledge, recited in both English and Afrikaans, affirming their commitment to serve their school and peers with integrity.
Head RCL members 2026
Head girl and head boy:
• Unakho Monama and Tiaan Haasbroek.
Deputy culture heads:
• Erandi Cilliers and Oagile Mokgokolo.
Deputy heads for academics:
• Nashwin Nagel and Jean-Marie Swartz.
Deputy heads for sport:
• Olubanzi Mlangeni and Mahlatse Kekana.
Deputy heads for learner well-being:
• Lu-han Pieterse and Lesiba Mabotha.
