The Old Boys of PBHS form a proud and influential network of alumni who carry forward the school’s values and traditions.
Many boys have gone on to achieve distinction in various fields, from business and politics to sports and the arts. Known for their loyalty, camaraderie, and dedication, Old Boys often return to support the school, mentoring current students and contributing to the school’s legacy.
This network exemplifies the lifelong connections and enduring spirit of brotherhood that Pretoria Boys High instils in its students.
Establishment of the PBHS Old Boys’ Association
On 6 December, 1919, sixty former students responded to an invitation from the school and gathered for a day of cricket, followed by the first Old Boys Dinner held in the school hall. Subsequently, a meeting was convened, and it was unanimously resolved to form an Old Boys’ Association. Carson Cross was elected as the first Chairman, with Albert Meester as his secretary. Albert Meester, a teacher, was a driving force in the formation of the Old Boys’ Association.
On December 20, 1948, the Pretoria High School Old Boys Association was established as a Registered Limited Company, not for gain. The Articles and Memorandum of the Association were signed in Solomon House, witnessed by Mrs Francois Brooks, the wife of Bill Brooks.
Forming a company enabled the Association to purchase a piece of property from Frank Struben in what is now the suburb of Lynnwood. This area is known as Hofmeyr Park and the home of the Pretoria High School Old Boys’ Club.
Joining the PBHS Old Boys’ Association
All former students of Pretoria Boys High School are eligible to join the Pretoria Boys High School Old Boys’ Association. Life Membership of the Association is voluntary and requires only a once-off joining fee.
Benefits of being a Life Member of the Association
Membership to the Association includes:
- Connection with the school and its activities.
- Preferential and often discounted bookings at Old Boy events.
- Lifetime access to electronic newsletters and information about regular events.
- Eligibility to purchase and wear Old Boys’ regalia such as ties, rugby jerseys, t-shirts, caps, etc.
- Access to the PBHSOB Association AlumNet portal for networking opportunities.
- Membership of an exclusive Old Boys’ group on LinkedIn.
Annual Old Boys’ Events
The Pretoria Boys High School’s Old Boys Association presents six reunions every year, including the 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 Years-On reunions. At each reunion, former students from across the globe return to the school to reunite with their classmates.
There is also an annual Old Boys’ Summer Sports Day every January and an annual Old Boys’ Dinner on the first Saturday in June each year. Additionally, the Headmaster, together with a member of the Association’s Board of Directors, visits several provincial branches during the year to hold reunion events and update members on developments at the school.
Notable Alumni
Pretoria Boys High School has numerous successful alumni across various sectors, such as the judicial system, business, sports, arts, and culture. Most notably, the school has produced 19 Rhodes Scholars and two Nobel Prize winners amongst our alumni which is an outstanding record for any school.
Please contact: Mrs S de Beer for further information: info@pbhsob.com
