Kingswood College is honoured to announce the establishment of The Michael Bandey Scholarship, a prestigious new scholarship made possible through the generous endowment of the WEM Foundation. This scholarship has been created to honour the legacy of Mr. Michael Bandey (OK 1961), a beloved alumnus, past educator, and true master of Kingswood College.
The relationship between Kingswood College and the WEM Foundation, founded by (the late) Mr Whitney and Mrs Betty MacMillan, began 25 years ago, thanks to the efforts of Mr. Mike Bandey. At the time, Mr. Bandey was Deputy Head of Kingswood Senior School and, during a visit by the MacMillan’s to Makhanda, he facilitated an introduction that would grow into a longstanding and impactful relationship. The MacMillan’s, known worldwide for their dedication to education and philanthropy, developed a special connection with Kingswood, visiting the school on several occasions over the years.
In late 2022, the WEM Foundation announced its decision to sunset the organisation by the end of 2023, marking the conclusion of its philanthropic journey. As part of its sunset plan, the Foundation made its single largest grant to Kingswood College in August 2023, amounting to $2 million, with a specific focus on supporting scholarships. In recognition of their friendship and Mr. Bandey’s enduring legacy at Kingswood, Betty MacMillan expressed a wish that one of these scholarships be named in his honour. Click here to read about the Foundation’s last visit to Kingwood in 2024.
The Michael Bandey Scholarship will stand as a lasting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the education and development of young minds at Kingswood. It will support future generations of pupils, enabling them to benefit from the same values of excellence, dedication, and compassion that Mr. Bandey embodied throughout his life and career.
Kingswood College extends its deepest gratitude to the WEM Foundation and the MacMillan family for their unwavering support and for making this meaningful scholarship possible. The Michael Bandey Scholarship will ensure that Mr. Bandey’s legacy continues to inspire and uplift pupils for years to come.
The Michael Bandey Scholarship
The Michael Bandey Scholarship at Kingswood College is established to honour the legacy of Mr. Michael Bandey by supporting pupils who embody the values and characteristics he cherished. This scholarship aims to provide opportunities to deserving pupils who demonstrate financial need, a connection to Kingswood’s history, display all-round excellence, and a commitment to contributing positively to the school community.
Scholarship details:
Coverage: Full scholarship covering 100% tuition and boarding fees
Eligibility: Open to Grade 5–10 applicants in 2026 who reside in the Eastern Cape and are South African citizens
Criteria:
- Be the child or grandchild of an alumnus (Old Kingswoodian)
- Financial need (parents/guardians must complete a financial needs assessment)
- Talented all-rounders, with priority given to those excelling academically or in official Kingswood sports codes
- Active participation in the school’s extracurricular programme
- Commitment to community involvement through Kingswood’s engagement programme
Click here to see the full list of scholarships or find out how to apply.
About Mr Michael Bandey
Michael Bandey, affectionately known as “Mop” due to his unruly mop of black hair, has left an indelible mark on Kingswood and beyond. Born into a family deeply rooted in service, his father, a Methodist minister, became an assistant chaplain and science teacher at Kingswood in 1944, setting the stage for Mike’s lifelong connection with the school.
Michael’s journey at Kingswood began in 1956 when he joined as a boarder in Jacques House. Initially nicknamed “Chipeye” due to an early eye injury, the name “Mop” soon took over, reflecting his characteristic hairstyle. His time at Kingswood was marked by close friendships and a shared love of athletics and academics. A keen gymnast and surfer, Mike’s enthusiasm for physical activity extended beyond the school grounds to Rhodes University, where he studied Physical Education and Geography, encouraged by his lifelong friend, Midge Hilton-Green.
In 1977, Mike took on the role of Housemaster of Chubb House, a position he held with distinction for 11 years. His influence extended far beyond the classroom and the house he led. As Head of Athletics for an impressive 32 years, he not only oversaw the development of countless athletes but also introduced gymnastics and drum majorettes to the school during the 1970s and 80s. His passion for physical education was evident in every aspect of his work, and his legacy continues through the Michael Bandey Athletics Trophy, awarded for the best athletic performance, perhaps in association with the prestigious Hirsch Shield.
Mike’s commitment to service extended beyond Kingswood. A dedicated Rotarian, he served as District Governor, demonstrating the same quiet confidence and leadership that defined his career in education. His personal life, marked by both joy and sorrow, was a testament to his resilience and strength. He was a loving father to three sons, David, John, and Gavin, and a devoted husband. His first wife, Anne, with whom he shared a deep bond, passed away after a 14-year battle with cancer. Anne’s memory lives on, fondly recalled through her famous “Anne’s Fudge.” Mike later found love and companionship with his now wife, Jeanie (nee Main), a long-time friend who he has shared this special chapter of his life with.
Outside of his professional life, Mike was an individual of diverse interests. He taught himself to play the clarinet and harmonica, no easy feat. He also developed a passion for wildlife, camping, and birding, often embarking on trips to distant game parks. His personal attraction was his patient and sincere interest in others, coupled with his remarkable ability to listen and empathize with everyone he encountered.
Those who knew Mike Bandey remember him as a man of quiet determination, unwavering kindness, and a remarkable sense of humour. As his lifelong friend, Midge Hilton-Green, Past Headmaster of Kingswood Junior, fondly recalled, “He was always the friend one dreams of having—wise in his words, always encouraging, and ready to respond in any way needed at the drop of a hat.” Another memory from their school days paints a vivid picture of Mike’s character: “He was a quietly logical, confident person—a great one to approach for advice; he was also quick to laugh and had a great sense of humour.”
Mike’s legacy at Kingswood and in the wider community is one of dedication, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The Michael Bandey Scholarship, established through an endowment by the WEM Foundation, stands as a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to the school and its pupils. His memory will continue to inspire future generations of Kingswoodians to strive for greatness, just as he did throughout his life.
Comments from the Kingswood community on Facebook following the announcement:
Rowan Stretton
Best biology teacher ever
Trevor Cohen
Rowan Stretton lesson number one. How do you make a hormone
Mushota Katayi
Legendary
Christopher David Hobson
Well deserved recognition
Donné Bandey
So proud of you Pops and all you’ve done for the scholars and the school. What a remarkable legacy
Helen Lloyd Purdon
Incredible man, well deserved
Candice Ford Manning
Fantastic, well deserved honour
Lauren Leask
What an amazing testament Mr Bandey—a very special man indeed
Shirley Fletcher
Congratulations Mop, a well-deserved recognition of your dedication to and love of Kingswood
Diana Hornby
A fitting gesture to an extraordinary teacher and mentor who made such an impact on my life. Congratulations, Mike, and thank you to Mr. and Mrs. MacMillan for your immense generosity to Kingswood
Gary Mahlangu
Legit
Gregg Rippon
A wonderful and fitting tribute to a man who dedicated so much of his life to Kingswood, whose impact made the difference to so many pupils
Monique Olivier
My most favorite teacher, so deserving of this! Love you Mr. Bandey
Mark Dryzie
Outstanding, special man
Ian William Cooper
I cannot think of a more apt person to have the scholarship named after. Mop was more a father figure and mentor to me than a housemaster, teacher, or coach. Congrats Mike
Angela van Zyl
Oh this is absolutely incredible
Aubin De Gruchy
This is brilliant and a wonderful legacy. Well done KC and congratulations Mike
Shelley Garratt
I remember Mop’s handwritten exam questionnaires and legendary notes during biology exams. What a legend
Elmarie Retief
This was a relationship nurtured so well by Mike Bandey. So many personal handwritten faxes and notes. A deserving recognition
Birgit Bosch
Mr. Mike Bandey has always been one of my favorite teachers. You taught me to be strong and fight for my abilities in life. Because of you, I am where I am today. Thank you for being part of my life
Midge Hilton-Green
Brilliant recognition Banjo—well deserved
Mary Clare Tracey Craigen
This is brilliant, just like Mr. Bandey. His science classes were legendary
Sue Dowdle
So much goodness in one amazing human being. Congratulations, Mop
Tango Gatya
What a legacy! Speaks volumes of the man and the impact he has had on scholars, peers, and colleagues. A well-deserved tribute. Go Chubb House
Margaret Victor
Congratulations to Kingswood College on the establishment of The Michael Bandey Scholarship
Lawrence Schäfer
This is a richly deserved accolade for someone who gave his whole career to Kingswood. It’s a great initiative—well done Kingswood
Val Carey
Congratulations, Mike. Thank you for everything you have done for so many
Rob Benyon
Fantastic legacy to a man who is a positive inspiration and role model. I’ll never forget him catching me on the trampoline and scaring me with jail threats!
Bridie Garrard
Absolutely wonderful. Well done Mr. Bandey
Jinty Knott
The mop is now silver, but the legacy is gold. Congratulations, Mike
Nomkhitha Gysman
To the Bandey family, congrats, and well done to the brains behind this!
Trevor Davies
A wonderful tribute to an amazing man
Lyn Bosman
Congratulations, Mr. Bandey—so well deserved. What a gentleman and extraordinary teacher
Sally MacLachlan
Wow, well done. I have huge respect for Mike. Always giving time for everyone. This is so awesome
Mary Clare Tracey Craigen
This is brilliant, just like Mr. Bandey! His science classes were legendary!
Sue Dowdle
So much goodness in one amazing human being. Congratulations, Mop.
Tango Gatya
What a legacy! A well-deserved tribute. The Bandey family should be proud. GO CHUBB HOUSE!
Margaret Victor
Congratulations to Kingswood College on the establishment of The Michael Bandey Scholarship.
Lawrence Schäfer
A richly deserved accolade for someone who gave his whole career to Kingswood.
Val Carey
Congratulations, Mike, thank you for everything you’ve done for so many.
Rob Benyon
Fantastic legacy to a man who is a positive inspiration. I’ll never forget him catching me illegally bouncing on the trampoline!
Bridie Garrard
Absolutely wonderful! Well done, Mr. Bandey! Well deserved.
Jinty Knott
The mop is now silver, but the legacy is gold! Congratulations, Mike.
Nomkhitha Gysman
To the Bandey family, congrats! Well done!
Trevor Davies
A wonderful tribute to an amazing man.
Lyn Bosman
Congratulations, Mr. Bandey. What a gentleman and extraordinary teacher.
Sally MacLachlan
Wow and well done! I have huge respect for Mike. Such a legend.
Trevor Cohen
Awesome. Such a great legacy to leave. Thank you, Mr. Bandey.
Wendy Dold
This is fantastic and so well deserved. Well done, Kingswood!
Natale Bodine Bayly
Great legacy… how wonderful. Congratulations, KC & Mop.
Sonja Campbell
What a brilliant tribute to a remarkable man known as “Mop” in my day.
Sharon Futter
Lovely! Well done, Mr. Bandey, the best athletics coach ever!
Penny Haworth
Such a well-deserved acknowledgment! Congratulations, Mike and Kingswood.
Sandy MacLachlan
Congratulations, Mike! A wonderful & worthy recognition!
Paul Caiger
Excellent. Well done, Mop. Thoroughly deserved.
Elspeth Whitfield
Worthy recognition. Congrats, Mike!
Sue Smailes
Fantastic—our dear “Mop” Bandey.
Belinda Cohen
Such wonderful news. So well deserved and an appropriate honor. Congratulations!
Yvonne Scheepers
Congratulations, Mike! A great tribute for great service to education.
Paul Kaplan
Fantastic and so well deserved! Congrats, Mike!
Penny Kay
Huge congratulations, Mike! That is amazing and so well deserved.
Jean Rodgerson
This is fabulous news and so well deserved. Congratulations, Mike. You are a legend and a true gentleman.
Cathy Braans
Congrats, Mike—richly deserved! Such a wonderful gesture from Mrs. MacMillan.
Richard Argent
Such an amazing testament to an amazing man.
Ashley Whitfield
Congratulations to all involved. Mike, you have had a great influence on many of our lives.
Tim Dold
Congrats, Mike. Well-deserved recognition.
Stan Reed
Fantastic and well deserved. What a gentleman. Congratulations, Mop!
Sam Goose Karam
So proud to call you my uncle. Well done!
Shaun Fitzhenry
Brilliant! Congratulations, Mike!
Derek Braans
Wonderful and so deserved.
Debbie Handley Kent
Wow! This is fantastic! So well deserved!
Simon Matthews
Great accolade. Richly deserved!
David Wilkinson
A very worthy honor, Mike!
Lydea Horn
Mr. Bandey played such an important part in my life. He inspired me to achieve full colors in athletics. What a legend.
Susan Skipper
Fantastic! Such a worthy recognition. Mike Bandey!
Gilbert Popkiss
Congratulations, Mike. What a legend.
Arthur Collett
This is one very special gentleman!
Jane Du Toit
What a beautiful legacy. It was a privilege to know him.
Dianne Zeelie van Heerden
What an honor, Mike, and what a legacy. Congratulations!
Hans Botha
Well deserved.
Nikki Anderson
Congratulations, Mike! Wow!
Kim Williams
What a legacy! Well deserved.
Kath Lowe
What a remarkable legacy, Mop! Congratulations!
Wayne Rathbone
Well deserved. His teaching style inspired me.
Angela Mitchell
I remember Mop Bandey fondly. He made the world a better place for all.
Phumza Mawela
Well done, Mr. Bandey!
David Holmes
Proud to have been Michael’s schoolmate!
Alistair-John Collier
The accolades just keep pouring in. Wonderful.
Jacqui Taylor Bunyard
What a wonderful tribute—congratulations, Mop!
Marilyn North Willows
Fantastic! So deserved.
Anuj Mathur
Well done and well deserved, Mr. Bandey. Congrats.
Warona Phenyo Maakwe
Wonderful! Mr. Bandey is a legend.
Wendy Wrench Hattingh
Fantastic! Congratulations!
George Euvrard
Just wonderful… and appropriate.
Mark Stuart Fletcher
Fantastic! A well-deserved honor. Congratulations, Mike!
Jacky Whitfield
Deserved recognition of a great stalwart of Kingswood College.
Anne Stone
Congratulations!
AnaZi Piper
A true honor indeed.
Natasha Nathan
Amazing! Mr. Bandey, you are an absolute legend.
Charmaine King
Well deserved—a legend to many of us!
John Gardner
Thoroughly well-deserved, Mop!
Gregory Bunyard
Congratulations, Mop!
Anncarol Hyam
What an opportunity. I knew his late wife Ann (Marquard) from Kenton Days.
Kiran Ranchhod
Well deserved!
Ron Joseph
Congrats!
Elaine De Lange
Well done, Mr. B.
David Rodgerson
Well deserved, Mike.
Lynette Goldie
Fabulous!
Alexandra Kim Macgregor
The kindest person—and how he loved athletics training.
Menzi Obi Wan Dlamini
That’s amazing! What a legend.
Nici Fife
Well deserved!
Marie Hobson
Congratulations!
Natalie Sterk
Brilliant!
Deanne Brett Bouwer
Awesome!
Cindy Mati
Amazing!
Kerry Holmes
A worthy accolade for a fine teacher and a wonderful man.
Ruud Faber
Fantastic!
Susan Hobson
So wonderful!
Wilna Pittaway
Mike, this is fantastic news. You are a legend and a true gentleman.
Rob Glynis Moss
Congratulations. Well-deserved recognition.
John Roderick
What an honor, Mop.
Barbara Burger
So nice!
Kate Arnold
Awesome!
Beryl Ross
Awesome!
Jayne Euvrard
Fabulous!