An insatiable quest for knowledge and a thirst for discovery have earned Jared Fairweather the title of Top 2 Matriculant of TuksSport High School for 2024.

At just 18 years old and a TuksSwimming Academy graduate, Jared achieved an outstanding seven distinctions, boasting an average percentage of 88.57%. He excelled in three subjects, achieving 90% and above, marking a remarkable academic achievement. This is the first time in three years that a TuksSport High School pupil has attained seven distinctions.

Given his passion for learning, it comes as no surprise that Jared has chosen to pursue a Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences 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 learnt a lot about Friedrich Nietzsche in conversations with my father.

"My father is one of my role models because he's so hard-working. So is my grandfather for altruism. It's all the Olympic swimmers I train."

As has become almost customary, TuksSport High School proudly achieved a 100% pass rate for its matriculants. Equally impressive, the 54 matriculants collectively earned 73 distinctions and 73 B symbols. This marks a significant improvement from 2023, when the matriculants achieved 38 distinctions and 74 B symbols.

Notably, for the first time since 2022, three matriculants have achieved an average percentage of 85% or higher. Edrich Rouwerd is the top three achiever with six distinctions and an impressive average of 88%, while Juan Beukes also earned seven distinctions with an average of 89%.