An insatiable quest for knowledge and a thirst for discovery is why Jared Fairweather is the top matriculant of TuksSport High School in 2024.
The 18-year-old obtained seven distinctions and boasts an average percentage of 88.57. Fairweather achieved 90% and above in three of his subjects. This is the first time in three years that a TuksSport High School pupil has achieved seven distinctions.
It should be no surprise that Fairweather has decided to study veterinary medicine at the University of Pretoria.
“Ever since I can remember, I have loved animals. I have had dogs, cats, snakes, spiders and guinea pigs as pets. Dogs are definitely my favourite animal due to their nature. At the moment, I have a 17-year-old Golden Retriever.”
However, thinking that Fairweather is the eternal student would be a mistake. The one goal he has set for himself is to swim for South Africa.
“If my times are any indication, it’s possible that I could represent South Africa this year or next year. The 100m butterfly is probably my best event. It’s exciting to see my times keep improving.”
When asked what he considers his strength as a swimmer, Fairweather said he is at his fastest in the final metres.
“One thing I definitely need to improve is my underwater technique. A race can be won or lost from the moment you dive in. My turns are definitely not what they should be yet.”
Why swim?
“I see sports as a way to maintain a balance in your life. When I’m done swimming, it feels like my mind is clearer. During my studies, I struggled to understand certain things. Say, for example, in physics. Then I go swimming. When I swim, I try not to think about my studies, but still, unconsciously, the mind works out the problems while I exercise.”
To a question about what it takes to be a good student, Fairweather’s answer is, “I don’t think there’s anything specific. I think one has to be purposeful when studying. A lot of people think longer hours are better. That’s not me. I believe in quality and not quantity when I study. When I study, it’s crucial that every minute counts.
“I must confess that I struggle to get started with my studies. But once I get into the flow, I don’t find that I can do much material.”
To relax, Fairweather likes to read, but not just any books.
“I enjoy reading philosophical books. Books about intelligent and remarkable people. Right now, I’m reading Fyodor Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov. I’ve also learned a lot about Friedrich Nietzsche in conversations with my father.
“My father is one of my role models because he’s so hardworking. So is my grandfather for altruism. It’s all the Olympic swimmers I train within the pool.”
As has almost become customary, a 100% pass rate was achieved by TuksSport High School’s matriculants. Equally impressive is that the 55 matriculants achieved 73 distinctions and 73 B symbols together. In 2023, the matriculants achieved 38 distinctions and 74 B symbols.
For the first time since 2022, three matriculants have an average percentage of 85% or more. Jared Fairweather is the top matriculant of 2024. He achieved seven distinctions and boasts an overall average of 88.57%. He achieved 90% and above in four of his subjects.
Edrich Rouwerd achieved six distinctions and boasts an average percentage of 88%. Juan Beukes also has six distinctions and an average rate of 85%.