Ferreira, who still turned out for the Cheetahs earlier in 2025, had already stepped into more of a player-coach role at the franchise. Now, however, he will be shifting his focus to the school – better known for producing top cricketers and squash players than rugby stars.

That said, Saints does have a rugby culture, albeit not on the scale of what Ferreira calls the “super schools” like Grey College or Paul Roos Gymnasium, where he was educated.

Schalk Ferreira. Photo: Morgan Piek

Ferreira, who has the distinction of being one of the oldest professional rugby players in the world when he finally hung up his boots, told OFM Sport that he is excited about the journey ahead – especially as the school’s values resonate deeply with him.

“That (his appointment) happened yesterday (Wednesday 20/8), and I’m stoked to be part of the St Andrew’s family,” Ferreira said.

“The reason I chose Saints is because of my boy, who is now in Grade 5. I could already see the fruits of what the school was doing. 

“The way it helped to shape him into the man he is going to be one day – things like his politeness, his manners, his body language on the field, whether he’s playing hockey, rugby or any other sport. How the kids communicate with each other – you know, those things are difficult to instil without a culture.”

Ferreira added that the school does have a rugby foundation in place, but the focus now will be on building it systematically.

“There is a rugby culture at Saints. It’s small and not on the scale of the super schools, but I believe we’re a sleeping giant. I’m very fortunate to be part of the process of steadily building up the rugby programme,” he explained.

“Rome wasn’t built in a day, but we can start from scratch, focus on the basics from Grade 1 upwards, and tap into the wealth of knowledge from my friends in the game. Whether it’s running, passing, or tackling, I know specialists in each of those areas who can add value. It’s about applying that wisdom at school level.”

Schalk Ferreira and St Andrew’s School’s headmaster, Roland Rudd. Photo: St Andrews’ School

For Ferreira, the school’s ethos is just as important as what happens on the field.

“One of the things I love about Saints is that Christ comes first, then academics, and then sport. I think they get that balance right. That’s one of the main reasons my boy is here – because they put Christ first, then academics, and then use sport to help mould good human beings.

“Rugby, for me, is a tool. It teaches courage, builds character, and requires grit. Those lessons help boys become good fathers one day, good leaders, and role models. That’s important to me.”

Schalk Ferreira against the Griquas in the Currie Cup. Photo: Morgan Piek

Having played rugby both in South Africa and France, Ferreira knows success won’t come overnight – but he believes the wins will follow once the foundations are right.

“Winning will come. But if you build the character of a boy first, you’ll see the fruits. Like I said, it’s not going to happen overnight, but I’m stoked to be part of it and excited to see what the future holds.”

Ferreira has a well-documented rugby career – one marked by trials and tribulations, and by overcoming adversity to enjoy more than 20 years as a professional. This makes him an ideal candidate to mould aspiring rugby stars.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs