Message from the office

I trust that you all had a wonderful long weekend and if you celebrate Easter that you had a blessed time with your families and didn’t eat too much chocolate! These special times that we get to slow down and spend time with our children should be cherished and appreciated.

As C.S Lewis said, ‘Çhildren are not a distraction from important work. They are the most important work’. The legacy that matters won’t be built in the world. It will be who you raised and whether they felt safe, seen, and loved in your presence. 

I hope that this upcoming week off is another opportunity to bond with your daughters and build into their lives – it is after all the most important job you will ever do.

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PTA Easter Raffle

Thank you to all our VP families for supporting our Easter Raffle. A special congratulations to Maham Rizvi in Grade 6P who sold 26 sheets and Kelsey Coetzee in Grade 00 who sold 24 sheets. Well done to Grade 6P who was the class who sold the most tickets. They sold a total of 85 sheets. Well done, girls!

We are pleased to announce the winners of our hampers: Limekaya Peter, Selunathi Maphela, Ovayo Sambo, Funiwe Ntabeni and Cisero Tarentaal. Congratulations!

We raised a total of R29 845 from this fundraiser. Well done to everyone involved!

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Worker of the Week

Well done to Iminathi Mgwebi for her wonderful work in Life Orientation which depicts Human Rights.

 Merit Acheivers

Siphesihle Chrisjan, Olothando Sityata, Likhona Klei, Tando Ketwa, Esethu Stamper and Uzosule Kanana have received over 250 merits so far this year! Keep up the hard work, girls!

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PTA 75th VP Recipe Book

We are delighted that our special 75th birthday edition recipe book has been compiled and contains a wonderful array of recipes for any occasion. We will be pre- ordering this special edition at R150. A big thank you to everyone who contributed their family favourites and to Mrs Louwna Coetzee who compiled it so beautifully for us.  Please complete the order form attached and send it to your child’s class teacher with the cash, credit card receipt or POP attached. If you make an EFT please also ensure you reference the payment with surname/grade/recipe book. Deadline for orders is 6 June 2025. We have a sample book at the office for your perusal..

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VP’s Got Talent

After last year’s great success, we are excited to be having our second VP’s Got Talent in 2025. We encourage all girls who may be interested to enter to audition. Entry forms can be obtained from the school office. Start practising!!!!

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PTA Teddies

All our teddies have sold out. We have placed a second order for a limited number. You may still place an order and pay for it until we reach the total ordered.

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Assembly 

Grade 5K will present their assembly on Monday, 5 May at 10:15. Parents are welcome to join us.

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PTA Donations

We will be hosting a number of Saturday fixtures this season and the PTA will be running a tuckshop. To reduce our costs we request any donations of the following: tomato sauce, mustard, flour, sugar, salt, serviettes. These donations can be dropped off at the school office. Our first home fixture is on 10 May against Erica Primary. We would appreciate donations of eggs, bacon, cheddar cheese, onions and butter closer to this date.

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Winter Uniform

Please note that the girls will start wearing their winter uniform from Monday, 5 May on their return from the week break. Girls may wear their skirts or navy-blue pants, with long sleeved white shirts. They may also opt to wear their knee-length navy blue socks or navy blue stockings. Please note that girls may not wear short sleeved white shirts or white socks with their winter uniform.

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Astroquiz results

Well done to all the Grade 7s who participated in the first round of the SAASTA Astroquiz. Congratulations to the following girls who will go through to participate in Round 2 on Thursday, 15 May: Aliyah Bezuidenhout, Avethandwa Hambaze, Iviwe Jakavula, Christelle Ruwanza, Alibongwe Mthembu, Nakweziphi Mthetho, Lelethu Mlisa and Eila Chirombo.

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Sarah Baartman Netball Trials

Good luck to Silubonile Royi, Nakwesiphi Mthetho and Liyabona Benyane who will be playing in the Sarah Baartman Trials in Jeffrey’s Bay today. We wish them all the best!

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Makhana Chess Trials

We are proud to share that the final leg of the Makhana Chess Trials will take place on Saturday, 26 April at Nombulelo Secondary School. Our ten dedicated players will be competing for a chance to qualify for the Invitational Final Trials in Graaff-Reinet this May.

All participants are required to arrive by 08:00 on Saturday. This is an exciting and important opportunity, and we know our girls will give it their all.

We wish them the very best of luck and are holding thumbs as we await the final results.

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Slipper Day – 30 May

Girls can purchase a sticker for R20 from Mrs Mgogo and will then be allowed to wear slippers at school on Friday, 30 May!  If you would like to bring slippers to school to wear for the day without buying a sticker you may do so for a R10 donation. All proceeds will go towards Reach for a Dream, an organisation that strives to fulfil the dreams of children who are suffering from life threatening illnesses. Please support the Kind Club’s efforts to raise funds for the Reach for a Dream Slipper Day.

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Birthday wishes

We wish the following staff and girls who celebrate their birthdays during this and next week a very happy birthday: Mrs Olivier, Aliyah Bezuidenhout, Oyintando Sinam, Uzugcinabazalibakho Gongqoba, Lithalethu Hulu, Milisa Limba, Ahlumile Njovane, Buchulebenkosi Qeqe, Uthando Dyantyi, Kwahlelwa Nyikilana, Silubonile Royi, Kolo Sikhwivhilu, Ania Nelson, Lusenathi Tunzi, Chloe Jeggels, Likuwe Mhlauli, Angela Ndhlovu, Kayleigh Scheepers, Saairah Govender, Lunje Manzana, Iphemna Nzwana, Lubeluhle Peteni, Unako Sigwinta, Esihle Xulu, Lulolodwa Siko and Alumindawo Xibiya.

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

 Exam Timetable
Monday, 26 May: English Creative Writing (Grade 4-7)
Tuesday, 27 May:  English Creative Writing & FAL Creative Writing (Grade 4-7)
Wednesday, 28 May:  FAL Language and Comprehension (Grade 6&7)
English Language & Comprehension (Grade 4&5)
Life Orientation (Grade 7)
Thursday, 29 May:  FAL Language and Comprehension (Grade 4&5)
English Language and Comprehension (Grade 6&7)
SS Geography (Grade 4-7)

Friday, 30 May:  Art (Grade 4-6)
Maths Paper 1 (Grade 4-7)
Technology (Grade 7)
Monday, 2 June:  Maths Paper 2 (Grade 4-7)
EMS (Grade 7)
Tuesday, 3 June:  Natural Sciences (Grade 4-7)
Art (Grade 7)
LSPA Theory (Grade 7)
Wednesday, 4 June:  LSPA Practical (Grade 7)
SS History (Grade 4- 7)
Thursday, 5 June:  Life Skills Grade 4-6

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday 25/04	Sarah Baartman Netball Trials
Saturday 26/04	Hostel closes Chess Trials #3@Nombulelo
Monday 28/04-Friday 2/05 school closed
Monday 5/05	Winter uniform Assembly 5K
Saturday 10/05	Erica Derby Day@VP
Sunday 11/05	Luden Tennis Cup@DSG

 

_________________________________________________________________________

VP Recipe Book Order:

Please can I order VP’s 75th Recipe Book for R150

Name: _________________________________________ Grade :_____________

Payment: Cash / EFT / Credit card (please attach POP or receipt)

Signed:                                                           

Message from the office

A warm welcome back to our second term and I hope you had a good break. This term is rather disjointed with so many long weekends and public holidays coming up but we will endeavour to keep the work rhythm going. As this is an examination term for our Grade 4-7s, we encourage our girls to set up a study programme early on and to start revising and practising and making notes, every day – and maybe a bit more on the days off.  This will also give them the opportunity to ask for help if they are struggling with certain concepts before the start of the examinations on the 26^th of May. I also encourage each pupil from Grade 00-7 to read as many books as possible as the academic benefits from reading can never be underestimated. Let’s use the time we have wisely and effectively because a little bit today will make a big difference later. As we learnt at Monday’s assembly the only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.

There will be no newsletter next week Friday,18 April. 

Please note the following: 

• Friday, 18 April (Good Friday) no school
• Monday, 21 April (Family Day) no school
• Monday, 28 April – Friday, 2 May no school.

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Staff News

We are delighted to announce that Mr Wynne is now officially Dr Wynne as he graduated last weekend. Dr Wynne completed his doctorate on Productive piano pedagogy: towards a productive approach to piano lessons in a South African primary school in Makhanda, Eastern Cape. His thesis explores how composition can be used as a teaching tool in piano lessons, not as an isolated pursuit, but as a mechanism for creating a learning environment that privileges student autonomy. This environment allows students to learn about music by creating it themselves.

Aren’t our girls privileged to have such a learned music teacher? Congratulations, Dr Don!

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Report Discussions

The Grade 4-7 teachers will be available for report discussions in the school hall on Tuesday, 15 April from 16:30 -17:45. The Grade 3 teachers will be available in their classrooms at the same time. Please limit your talk to five minutes as there will be many parents waiting to meet with the teachers. If you feel your discussion will need more time, please make arrangements to meet with the relevant teacher for another time.

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Worker of the Week

Well done to Libby Everton for her lovely Term 2 theme page in Afrikaans. Well done, Libby

 Sportsmanship Trophy

Congratulations to Isla Orsmond who was nominated for the Sportmanship Trophy for overcoming an obstacle and being brave in the swimming pool.

Merit Achievers

Well done Imanathi Mcophele, Liyabona Benyane and Lelethu Mlisa who have received over 250 merits so far this year.

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Easter Egg Raffle

Thank you to those who have already sold their Easter Egg Raffle sheets. All sheets need to be returned by Monday, 14 April, so please use this weekend to sell to family and friends if you haven’t already – we do expect each child to sell at least one sheet to support our PTA fundraiser. On Wednesday we will be doing our draw where our hamper winners will be drawn. The class and pupil who sold the most sheets are also up for a prize!

Monday is also the last day for the Easter Egg donations – the more we get the bigger the hampers – so please still send. Thank you so much to those who have donated already!

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PTA Meeting

Please note that we will have a PTA meeting on Wednesday, 16 April at 17:15 in the school hall.

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Assemblies

The Grade 5s will be presenting their assemblies on the following days:

Grade 5M on Monday, 14 April and Grade 5K on Monday, 5 May. Both assemblies will start at 10:15. Parents are most welcome to join us.

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Netball 

1st Match (U10 – 13, A & B)

The  match that was scheduled for this weekend has been postponed to Wednesday, 23 April. We will send a letter with the fixtures soon.

Change of practice times:

Netball (U13 A and B):

There is a slight change of times to our netball practices as follows:

– Tuesdays – 14h15 – 15h30

– Wednesdays – 14h00 – 15h00

– Thursdays – 14h15 – 15h30

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Exam Timetable:

Date	Exam	Grade
Monday, 26 May	English Creative Writing	Grade 4-7
Tuesday, 27 May	English Creative Writing & FAL Creative Writing	Grade 4-7
Wednesday, 28 May	FAL Language and Comprehension English Language & Comprehension Life Orientation	Grade 6&7 Grade 4&5 Grade 7
Thursday, 29 May	FAL Language and Comprehension English Language and Comprehension SS Geography	Grade 4&5 Grade 6&7 Grade 4-7
Friday, 30 May	Art Maths Paper 1 Technology	Grade 4-6 Grade 4-7 Grade 7
Monday, 2 June	Maths Paper 2 EMS	Grade 4-7 Grade 7
Tuesday, 3 June	Natural Sciences Art LSPA Theory	Grade 4-7 Grade 7 Grade 7
Wednesday, 4 June	LSPA Practical SS History	Grade 7 Grade 4-7
Thursday, 5 June	Life Skills	Grade 4-6

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Slipper Day – 30 May

Girls can purchase a sticker for R20 from Mrs Mgogo and will then be allowed to wear slippers at school on Friday, 30 May!  If you would like to bring slippers to school to wear for the day without buying a sticker you may do so for a R10 donation. All proceeds will go towards Reach for a Dream, an organisation that strives to fulfil the dreams of children who are suffering from life threatening illnesses. Please support the Kind Clubs efforts to raise funds for the Reach for a Dream Slipper Day.

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Birthday wishes

We wish the following staff and girls who celebrate their birthdays during this and next week a very happy birthday: Mrs Barrow, Carla Frazer, Lulo Kota, Phumelela Macetyana, Alexis Killian,Zizo Ngoyiya, Sivuze Xamleko, Sahlulo Kutase, Zenazi Gqeke, Uyathandwa Macanda, Luminjalo Nelani, Chikhulupiriro Mithochi, Grace Kretzmann, Uminathi Solani, Skylar Haywood, Iminathi Khomo, Unakho Maxhaulana and Esisiphiweyo Pinyana.

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

 UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday 11/04	Grade 7 Committee meetings Hearing Screening
Monday 14/04	Applications for 2026 open Assembly 5M 10:15 Extramurals start Closing date for Easter Raffle
Tuesday 15/04	Hearing Screening Report discussion 16:30-17:45
Wednesday 16/04	Easter Raffle draw PTA Meeting 17:15
Thursday 17/04	No extramurals Boarders’ Leave Out
Friday 18/04	Public holiday
Monday 21/04	Public holiday Boarders return
Friday 25 April	Sarah Baartman Netball Trials
Saturday 26/04	Hostel closes Chess Trials #3@SAC
Monday 28/04-Friday 2/05 school closed
Monday 5/05	Winter uniform Assembly 5K
Saturday 10/05	Erica Derby Day (H)
Sunday 11/05	Luden Tennis Cup

 

Message from the office

We have come to the end of a very busy term and I know the girls and staff are looking forward to a much-needed rest. I hope you were able to watch our Mulan Production! I congratulate our girls and the staff who have worked tirelessly this term rehearsing and preparing the costumes and stage for this amazing production. A special mention and thanks to Ms Knott-Craig, Mr Wynne, Mr Florence, Mr Buka, Mrs Olivier and Ms Vongo who have shared their talents and passion to inspire our girls to create this wonderful production. Thanks to Ms Delport for her stunning backdrop and Mr Nell and his team for building the set. A big thank you to the PTA who arranged and sold the refreshments at our production. We also thank Mrs McConnachie for assisting with the make-up before each performance, Mrs Knott-Craig (Senior) for assisting with sewing of costumes and Mrs Chirombo for perfoming with the orchestra. What a show!

Please take the time to go through your daughter’s report with her and read her teacher’s comments closely. Please praise her for her efforts and work together to put measures in place to address any concerns that have been highlighted. We have report discussions scheduled on the 15 April from 16:30-17:45 for Grade 3-7 next term so please make an effort to attend to meet with your daughter’s teachers and touch base with her progress. Alternatively, please don’t hesitate to email her teacher to make an appointment if you’d like a more private setting to chat. Remember your daughter’s progress is reliant on a cohesive partnership between you and her teachers.

We received a delightful email from Ms Morgan White who attended the Commemoration Church service this past Sunday. Ms White, who also happens to be a teacher at our brother school, Graeme College, wrote the following:

Dear Mrs Rafferty,

I wanted to email you to congratulate your VP boarders on their exemplary behaviour at Commem Methodist Church yesterday morning.

They were friendly and polite, uniform on point, hair and general appearance were perfect. They made an excellent impression!

These young ladies were a credit to themselves and their school. The staff that attended with them can be very proud.

Sincerely,

Morgan White

Why keep such a lovely email to myself? Well done to our hostel girls and staff. Thank you for being wonderful representatives of VP within our community!

Have a wonderful holiday and keep safe! We look forward to seeing you all back on Tuesday, 8 April.

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Greetings from the SGB’s Desk: End of Term 1, 2025

Dear VP Family (Parents, Guardians, Staff, and most importantly, our Girls – yes, you all belong!),

It is incredible to think that the first term of 2025 has already come to an end. It feels like just yesterday that we were preparing for the start of the school year—fresh notebooks in hand, lunchboxes packed with the best of intentions (though some may now be missing a lid or two!). As we take this moment to pause, we celebrate a term filled with learning, growth, and achievements, big and small.

This year, our theme, You Belong, has been more than just a phrase; it has been our guiding commitment. Every child at VP is seen, valued, and loved. Our school is a vibrant community where different backgrounds, talents, and dreams come together to create something truly special. It is this diversity that makes our school such a wonderful place. Every single contribution, whether from a student, parent, teacher, or staff member, helps shape an environment where each child feels at home.

To our amazing girls; we are incredibly proud of you! Every lesson learned, every challenge overcome, and every milestone reached is worth celebrating. To our parents; we see you, and we appreciate you! We know the journey of parenting is not always easy, but your love, encouragement, and commitment to your daughters’ education mean everything. Let us continue working together, parents, teachers, and the school, to raise confident, kind, and empowered young girls who know, without a doubt, that they belong.

A heartfelt thank you to our principal, teachers, and support staff, you are the heartbeat of this school. To my fellow SGB members, I appreciate your unwavering dedication. And to our parents, thank you for showing up, supporting your daughters, and yes, keeping up with those school fees (because even belonging comes with a little admin!).

As we head into this well-deserved short break, I encourage you to take this time to:

• Rest – Slow down, recharge, and enjoy precious moments with your loved ones.
• Reflect – Look back on Term 1, celebrate progress, identify blind spots to work on and use these as a stepping stone for Term 2.
• Reignite – Return refreshed, motivated, and ready to embrace the next chapter with renewed energy!

Enjoy the break, and let’s keep working together to make VP a place where every child knows: You belong!  Warmest regards, Mrs. Qeqe, SGB Chairperson

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On Monday we announced our 2025 Committee Heads and our Head Girl and Deputy Head Girl. Congratulations to the following girls who were elected in to the following portfolios:

Committee Heads

Discipline: Mila Nongubo

Sport: Junaid Williams

Community Outreach: Imanathi Mcophele

Media and Marketing: Tandolwetu Ketwa

Environmental: Uminathi Kate

Culture and Music: Iminathi Mgwebi

 House Captains

Aloe: Liyabona Benyane

Arum: Isabella Tladi

Disa: Iminathi Mgwebi

Fern: Uzosule Kanana

Choir and Orchestra Captains

Choir: Esethu Stamper

Orchestra: Chikhulupiriro Mitochi

Sport Captains

Tennis: Marizaan Boucher

Swimming: Chikhulupiriro Mitochi

Hockey: Avethandwa Hambaze

Netball: Uzosule Kanana

Athletics: Nakweziphi Mthetho

 Head Girl:   Uzosule Kanana

Deputy Head Girl:  Mila Nongubo

I am certain that these girls will serve and represent VP to the best of their ability this year and that the Grade 7s as whole will continue to work well together to the benefit of the Victoria Primary School community.

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Academic Top 10

Congratulations to the following Grade 4-7 girls who were the Top Ten academic achievers in their grades.

 

Grade 4

Luhle Songongo

Zingce Pilisani

Luniko Hulushe

Andisiwe Mraji

Anovuyo Nkohla

Onika Jimmy

Rebecca Phillip

Anna Malamis

Chloé de Beer

Lulama Joe

Chanelle Musarurwa.

 Grade 5

Azoma Magopeni

Libby Everton

Isla Orsmond

Misha Potts

Emihle Kulati,

Cayden Strauss

Zenkosi Mati

Amyoli Loli

Okuhle Smile

Madison Conroy

Kendra Chrisjan

Grade 6

Haset Sintayehu

Makatendeka Chakona

Yusrah Suleman

Ababalwe Ngwetsheni

Owekhethelo Gongqa

Maham Rizvi

Ella Radovic

Gabriella Cervati

Siphesihle Chrisjan

Olothando Sityata

 Grade 7

Uzosule Kanana

Eila Chirombo

Nakweziphi Mthetho

Mila Nongubo

Esethu Stamper

Imanathi Mcophele

Sibonokuhle Benge

Sairaah Govender

Isabella Tladi

Alibongwe Mthembu

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Worker of the Week

Well done to Tshiamo Moleko for her wonderful work in isiXhosa. Keep it up, Tshiamo!

Merit Achievers

Well done to Kendra Chrisjan, Nazley Gabriel, Emihle Kulati, Azoma Magopeni, Zenkosi Mati, Cayden Strauss, Ababalwe Ngwethsheni and Bridget Akpeng who have received over 250 merits so far this year. Keep up the hard work, girls!

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75th Bertha Birthday Teddies

We have received delivery of our birthday teddies and they are delightful! Their special VP skirts are now being made and we are hoping to be able to present them to the girls who ordered, on our return next term.

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Easter Hamper Raffle

Please continue to sell the raffle tickets and remember that additional forms can be requested from your daughter’s class teacher. Thank you for the Easter Egg donations we have already received and please continue to donate Easter Eggs to make our lovely large hampers. The closing date for sheets to be returned on is Friday, 11 April. We will draw the lucky winners’ names on Monday, 16 April.

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Art Exhibitors Bathurst Show

The following girls have had artworks selected for the Bathurst Show art exhibition:  T. Thomas, Onika Jimmy, Grace Kretzmann, Ivakele Teyi, Lulama Joe, Asante Sankqela, Rebecca Phillip, Isipho Nelana, Chanelle Musaruwa, Anna Malamis, Ophilayo Same, Alexis Killian, Misha Potts, Kelly Doyle, Lunje Tshiki, Iminayhi Bawuti, Sesisipho Mbaba, Emihle Kulati, Kendra Chrisjan, Zinathi Mabunda, Bridget Akpeng, Iviwe Jakavula and Chiku Mitochi. The show runs from the 3-6 April in Bathurst.

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Conquesta 2025

Should you wish for your child to participate in Conquesta 2025, entry forms are available from Mrs Sauls or the front office. Conquesta is only open to Grades 4-6. Please complete the entry form and return it to school in an envelope, marked “Conquesta” with the relevant entry fee and your child’s name and class. Closing date for entries is Wednesday, 9 April.

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Message from VGHS to Grade 7 Parents

Dear Grade 7 Parent/Guardian

Your daughter/ward has received an Application Book for Victoria Girls’ High School.  The closing date for applications is 30 July 14:00 at the offices of Victoria Girls’ High.  All relevant information about the process and what documents are required, appear in the book received.  Please note that entry into the school is not automatic and that the Admissions’ Criteria is applied. Applicants from VP are given first consideration. Families will receive a phone call and a follow up letter will be emailed by 18 September.

To have your daughter’s name added to the 2026 class, you need to meet the deadline of 16 October 14:00 – details will be given in the email correspondence. In order to be fair on everyone applying from the broader community, a VP learner’s space will not be reserved should this deadline not be adhered to. The available space created will be made available to the next Grade 7 on the waiting list. We will not be reserving a place for your daughter if you miss the deadline.

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Birthday wishes

We wish the following staff member and girls who celebrate their birthday this week and during the holiday a very happy birthday: Ms Ntabeni, Elethu-Ibhongo Makeleni, Nozibusiso Maseko, Azingce Gwarubana, Yhwh-Rapha Matiwana, Siyasisanda Nene, Kaylee Vosloo, Anovuyo Nkohla, Oluthando Tube, Laraa Andriantiana, Kenzeigh Scear, Khanide Diko, Hlumelo Piti, Kayleah Evans, Lude Hashe and Annabelle Olivier.

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

Friday 28/03	·       Final Assembly 08:30 ·       Reports handed out in classrooms ·       School ends at 10:30 No Aftercare
Monday 7/04	·       Hostel opens
Tuesday 8/04	·       School opens. ·       Summer uniform

 

Message from the office

On Tuesday afternoon I enjoyed the Progress Music concert with our music teachers in the Orchestra Room, and as I walked slowly back to my office, I marveled at all the amazing activities that were happening all around our campus. It never ceases to amaze me how our small staff provide so many opportunities. From the happy parents hugging their girls as they walk back to the cars, proud of their daughter’s music performances, the aftercare girls joyfully playing on the playground screeching in delight, the tennis girls playing it out on the court, the Mulan girls practising a set piece over and over on the playground being confidently guided by a Grade 7 girl, the rest of the cast going through the motions in the hall, a group of girls discussing their next chess move and debating what was allowed, those jigging in excitement as they dive to save the ball in four square,  to those contentedly chatting away on the garden benches – not to mention those who stop what they are doing to say hello, wave or even run to come give me a hug! It really is a happy place! It has been an extremely busy term but I know that the experiences and the sanctuary our school provides our girls will have a life-long impact. It is indeed a pleasure to be part of this special place.

I trust that you all have a blessed Human Rights Day and a much-needed rest this long weekend before we come back for our final week that will be highlighted by our Mulan Production. I hope that you have bought your tickets! I have no doubt it will be exceptional!

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Induction Assembly

On Monday we will have our Induction Assembly at 08:00 where we will announce our Committee Heads and our Deputy Head Girl and Head Girl for 2025, after which our entire Grade 7 group will say the leadership pledge. All girls Grade 4-7 must be dressed in school uniform and blazers. Parents are welcome to join us.

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Report Collection and Final Assembly

We will have our final Academic Assembly on Friday, 28 March at 08:30. Our Top Ten academic achievers in Grade 4-7 will receive a certificate. Parents are welcome to attend. Reports will be handed out to the girls at 10:30 before they leave for their holiday. Please note that no report will be handed out before this. The girls are expected to attend school on Friday to attend our final assembly and collect their reports. Girls must be dressed in full school uniform with their blazers (Grade 4-7).

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Worker of the Week

Congratulation to Luné Coetzee for her lovely weekend news. Well done, Luné!

Sportsmanship Trophy

Well done to Anna Malamis and Chanelle Musarurwa who shared the Sportsmanship Trophy at Monday’s assembly for their wonderful camaraderie displayed at the interhouse gala.

South African Maths Challenge

We congratulate the following girls who have gone through to the second round which will take place in May.

Grade 4: Anna Malamis, Isipho Nelana and Amvuyela Sakata.

Grade 6: Makatendeka Chakona, Owekhethelo Gongqa and Yusrah Suleman.

Grade 7: Imanathi Mcophele and Nakweziphi Mthetho.

Well done and best of luck for the next round!

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Extramurals

Please note there will be no extra murals next week except for the morning Senior and Chamber choir practices.

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Easter Hamper Raffle

Please continue to sell the raffle tickets for an Easter Hamper. More raffle sheets are available from class teachers. Thank you for the Easter Egg donations we have already received and please continue to donate Easter Eggs to make our lovely large hampers. The closing date for sheets to be returned is 11 April. We will draw the lucky winners’ names on Monday, 16 April.

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The Legend of Mulan.

We have 3 evening performances running from the 25-27 March. Tickets cost R50 and can be purchased from the office. There will be a tuckshop before the show.

 Please note that the doors will be closed at 18:00 and for the safety of our performers will not be opened until the end of the performance. PLEASE BE SEATED BY 17:50

Mulan performances will be as follows:

Monday, 24 March:

Cushion Show (School Performances)

Tuesday, 25 March:

Cushion Show (School Performances)

Evening Performances

Tuesday, 25 March: 18:00

Wednesday, 26 March: 18:00

Thursday, 27 March: 18:00 Final Performance

Our show is shaping up to be amazing; our staff and girls have worked so hard to create an incredible performance! Tickets are limited so please buy now to avoid disappointment!

In keeping with our Mulan theme, we will have a Tuckshop running from our Playbox/Staffroom window with the following items for sale:

Egg Fried Rice- R40

Spring Rolls- R 20 for 2

Egg Fried Rice and x2 Spring Rolls R 50

Tea and Coffee R15 each

Hot Chocolates R20.

Cooldrinks R15.00

Water R10.00

Cupcake R15 each

Hot Beverage and a cupcake R30

Please support this PTA initiative.

A card machine will be available. 

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 Gala results

Our swimming season came to an end yesterday with the Splash gala. Well done to all the girls who participated.

The total points for Splash gala were –

Aloe – 283

Arum – 262

Disa – 174

Fern – 272

The total points for the Main gala were –

Aloe – 58

Arum – 86

Disa – 200

Fern – 125

The total Interhouse gala results for 2025 are –

1^st Fern – 397

2^nd Disa – 374

3^rd Aloe – 341

4^th Arum – 338

Congratulations to the swimmers at the Splash Gala who received trophies for the most improved swimmer in their Colour group:

Gold – Musa Jojo

Light Pink – Lunoxolo Mogobo

Pink – Silubonile Royi

Purple – Emihle Kulati

Yellow – Glennis Chakurungama

Orange – Alibongwe Mthembu

Well done!

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Music

Mr. Wynne’s composition students will perform their original works on Friday, 28 March at their Music Party. This will give our young composers an opportunity to learn from each other and share their creative ideas. All participants are to please bring some snacks to share (chips/sweets).

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Netball

On the 14th and 15th, the netball 1st team travelled to Gqeberha to play in the Lorraine Winter Festival. While the B team, in the same weekend, played in the Frans Erasmus Tournament at PJ Olivier. Both events were tough, however, the intensity and passion displayed by our girls were nothing short of inspiring. From the very first whistle, the girls demonstrated remarkable teamwork, resilience and

determination, showcasing just how hard they had been training and the drive they possess to succeed. A special thanks to our coaches, Mr Buka and Ms McNamara, and all the parents, guardians and friends for their continued support and cheering on the girls!

Makana Trials

The U12s and U13s netball teams recently participated in the highly competitive Makana Trials on the 17th March 2025, and we are thrilled to announce that three of our talented players have made it through to the next round of the Sarah Baartman Trials!

They impressed both the coaches and selectors with their performance. We  couldn’t be more proud of their hard work and commitment.

A huge congratulations to the following three players who will now continue their journey at the Sarah Baartman Trials in Humansdorp:

U/12 – Silubonile Royi

U/13 – Nakweziphi Mthetho & Liyabona Benyana

We wish them the best of luck!

Well done to all players who participated, and a big thank you to the coaches and parents for their continued support.

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 Hockey

On Friday, 14 March the U13A hockey team traveled to Gqeberha to play in the Lorraine hockey/ netball festival. For many of our girls it was their first game playing full field hockey and they did their best. We lost our second game 4-0, but our girls played so well and defended their hearts out. We then drove to Uitenhage as our accommodation was at Daniel Piennaar. After a good night’s rest, it was off to Gqeberha for our next two games. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on our side but we can be proud of our girls. They played as a team, never gave up and had team spirit. Thank you to Ms Christian and Mr Daniels for accompanying the girls. Remember girls, it’s not about the score, but about how much fun you had at the end of the game.

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Chess

On 15 March, 16 of our chess players competed in the second round of trials at PJ Olivier. Starting at 08:30 and ending at 16:00, the competition was not for the faint-hearted. Our girls represented the school with impeccable sportsmanship, even in defeat. We are very proud to announce that Ella Radovic secured third place in the U14 category. Our players have been competing against top opponents, and this has been a valuable learning experience. Thank you Ms Miskin for accompanying the girls.

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Level 1 gala

Well done to Halle Orsmond, Teia van Rooyen, Lilani Wolmarans, Libby Everton and Isla Orsmond for competing at the Level 1 Gala in Gqeberha this last weekend. It was a very competitive gala. Well done to Isla for coming 3rd in 50m Breaststroke.

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Conquesta 2025

Should you wish for your child to participate in Conquesta 2025, entry forms are available from Mrs Sauls or the front office. Conquesta is only open to Grades 4-6. Please complete the entry

form and return it to school in an envelope, marked “Conquesta” with the relevant entry fee and your child’s name and class. Closing date for entries is 9 April.

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Birthday wishes

We wish the following girls who celebrate their birthday this week a very happy birthday: Silindokuhle Demele, Elihle Velem, Luhle Songongo and Onika Jimmy.

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

 Upcoming events 

Thursday 20/03	·       No extramurals ·       Mulan rehearsal 14:00-17:00
Friday 21/03	·       Human Rights Day (Public holiday)
Monday 24/03	·       No extramurals ·       Mulan Cushion Show
Tuesday 25/03	·       Mulan Cushion Show ·       No extramurals ·       Mulan performance 18:00
Wednesday 26/03	·       No extramurals ·       Mulan performance 18:00
Thursday 27/03	·       No extramurals ·       Mulan performance ·       18:00
Friday 28/03	·       Final Assembly 09:00 ·       Reports handed out in classrooms ·       School ends at 10:30 ·       No Aftercare

 

 

 

 

 

Message from the office

I would like to thank everyone who was involved in our Founders’ Day celebrations. We had such a wonderful time celebrating and participating in all the activities that were so lovingly prepared by our dedicated teachers. I am sure your girls came home very excited about their eventful day, last week.

I noted this in an article and it certainly rang true for our celebrations on Friday and echoes our theme of ‘You Belong!’ so beautifully:

Celebrations bring people together. They foster community pride and contribute to the beliefs and feelings of belongingness and togetherness. Thus, celebrations are a significant time for children to connect with extended families, neighbours, and community members. Children learn the importance of unity and solidarity when they actively participate and contribute to making the celebration successful. Ergo, they start believing in the power of existing as a unified bunch and understand the significance of sharing and bonding. (https://kidsinfinitelearning.com/importance-of-festivals-in-childrens-lives/)

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Worker of the Week

Well done to Emihle Vongo who created her very own sentences for the first time. Clever girl!

 Personality/ies of the Week

Congratulations to our three recipients of POW this week. Well done to Nakhane Klei for Caring for our Environment, Alunamda Yapi for Honesty and Asali Dude for Bravery. We are so proud of all three of you!

Merit Achievers

Well done to Makatendeka Chakona who has already received over 250 merits this year. Keep it up, Maka!

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Grade 6G assembly 

On Monday, 10 March, Grade 6G will be presenting their assembly. Parents are most welcome to join us. The assembly starts at 10:15.

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 75^th Recipe Book

Thank you for the lovely recipes we have received already. Please don’t forget to send your family’s favourite so that it can feature in this special VP recipe book. Closing date is Friday, 14 March.

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Easter Egg Hamper

Please donate Easter Eggs for our hampers that will be raffled off in time for the winners to have a very chocolaty Easter.

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 Cake Raffle

The Culture and Music Committee members are selling raffle tickets for R5, and there are three cakes to be won. All proceeds will go towards their fund-raising project, which aims to start a marimba band at VP. The draw will take place on Friday, 14 March.

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Mulan Rehearsals

Saturday 8 March 2025

08:00 – 08:45 – Warm ups

08:45 – 10:30 – Run Through

10:30 -11:30  – Break

11:30 – 13:00 – Run Through

Please use the Beaufort Street gate for the drop off and pick up.

Next week Mulan rehearsals are as follows:

Monday, 10 March:(15:00 – 16:30)

Scene 1-6

Tuesday, 11 March: (15:00 – 16:30)

Scene 7-12

Wednesday, 12 March: (16:00 – 16:30) Scene 1-6

Thursday, 13 March: (15:00 – 16:30) Scene 7-12

Friday, 14 March: (14:30-15:30)

Full Rehearsals

Saturday, 15 March: (08:00 – 13:00)

Full cast and Musicians

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Progress Concert

All our beginners and Initial-level musicians will perform at the annual Progress Concert, which will take place in the orchestra room on Tuesday, 18 March at 14:15. Parents are welcome to attend in support of our budding performers.

Mini Maestros

We are pleased to announce that the South African Society of Music Teachers (SASMT) has once again organised a Makhanda chapter of the annual Mini Maestros Competition, on 16 May. Eligible pupils received their letters last week. Please ensure that reply slips are completed and returned to the music teachers by Friday 14 March.

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Chess

The second set of chess trials will take place on 15 March at PJ Olivier. Good luck, girls!

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Winter sports trials

Please note that the winter sports trials will start on Monday, 10 March and run until the 19 March.  An updated extramural programme accompanied the printed newsletter, please discuss winter sports with your daughter and update collection times from school, accordingly. Orchestra and Choir practices will continue as usual. All other extramurals are discontinued.

All girls Grade 4-7 must participate in either netball or hockey practices. U10 & U11 age groups can do both netball and hockey; U12-U14 must choose netball or hockey as their winter sport.

 Please note that there will be no Orange Dot tennis practice on Monday due to the winter trials.

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FP Open Swimming Lesson

Foundation Phase Parents are invited to join us to see what the girls are learning at swimming and marvel at how much progress they have made!

Grade 3 – join us on Monday, 10 March at 13:00.

Grade 2 – join us on Tuesday, 11 March at 13:00.

Grade 1 – join us on Wednesday, 12 March at 13:00

Please enter through the Beaufort Street office entrance.

Interdistricts Gala

Congratulations to Lilani Wolmarans and Isla Orsmond who represented Sarah Baartman at the Interdistricts gala on Wednesday. Isla came first in the breaststroke (new record) and second in backstroke. Lilani came first in freestyle and second in backstroke. Well done girls and thank you for flying the VP flag high!

 Top 8 Gala

Teia van Rooyen, Lilani Wolmarans and Isla Orsmond have made it into the Top 8 Gala in Gqeberha which is taking place on Wednesday evening, 12 March.  Well done, girls! Swim well!

Level 1 Gala 

The Level 1 Gala will happen in Gqeberha on Saturday 15 March. Teia van Rooyen, Halle Orsmond, Isla Orsmond, Lilani Wolmarans and Libby Everton are all taking part. Swim well, girls!

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Lorraine Festival

The U13A hockey and netball girls will be travelling to Gqeberha for the Lorraine Festival on Friday, 14 March. This is a wonderful start to the winter season. We are certain you will learn a lot. Have fun, girls!

 Frans Erasmus Tournament

Our U13B netball team will take part in the Frans Erasmus Tournament on the 14^th and 15^th of March. We wish them all the best!

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Colour Splash Gala

Our Colour Splash Gala will be held on Wednesday, 19 March from 13:00 -15:00. Please note that it is compulsory for all girls in Grade 4 – 7 to attend the entire duration of the gala.

Parents are welcome to attend and must please enter through the Beaufort Street gate. All girls can be collected from the Beaufort Street office gate at 15:00.

Grade 4-7 girls are required to come to school dressed in their house shirts, black shorts and takkies or VP flip flops for the day. Swimming caps and towels are essential for girls participating in the gala, please also ensure that she has a black speedo costume, which is the correct size and that the material is not perished.

We will be running a tuckshop at the gala.

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Conquesta 2025

Should you wish for your child to participate in Conquesta 2025, entry forms are available from Mrs Sauls or the front office. Conquesta is only open to Grades 4-6. Please complete the entry

form and return it to school in an envelope, marked “Conquesta” with the relevant entry fee and your child’s name and class. Closing date for entries is 9 April.

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 Lost Property

Please ensure that all clothing and sports items are labelled so that lost items can be returned. We currently have a large amount of unclaimed lost property. Parents who wish to check the lost property will be assisted by office staff to do so, but please encourage your daughter to check herself in an effort to help her take responsibility for her belongings.

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Birthday wishes

We wish the following staff and girls who celebrate their birthday this week a very happy birthday: Mr Wynne, Anna Malamis, Michaela Swanepoel, Kgotlelelo Thathe, Ubulumko Dunywa, Mvelo-Entle Ntlanjeni, Kefilwe Racoco, Lilitha Kulati, Sinqobile Mbeyane, Ndalo Mvula, Ziviwe Mteto, Mila Nongubo, Leane Boucher and Asante Tetani. Have a lovely day!

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

UPCOMING EVENTS

 

Friday 7/03	·       Interhouse Gala 13:00-15:00
Saturday 8/03	·       Mulan rehearsal 08:00-13:00
Monday 10/03	·       Assembly 6G @10:15 ·       Grade 3 Open Swimming Lesson
Tuesday 11/03	·       Grade 2 Open Swimming Lesson
Wednesday 12/03	·       Grade 1 Open Swimming Lesson ·       Top 8 Gala in Gqeberha
Friday 14/03	·       Lorraine U13 Hockey & Netball Festival (U13A) ·       Frans Erasmus tournament at PJ Olivier (U13B netball) ·       Cake raffle draw ·       Grade 7 Committee meetings
Saturday 15/03	·       Lorraine U13 Hockey & Netball Festival ·       Frans Erasmus tournament at PJ Olivier (U13B netball) ·       Chess trials at PJ Olivier ·       Level One Gala in Gqeberha
Sunday 16/03	·       Mini Maestros Competition
Tuesday 18/03	·       Progress concert
Wednesday 19/03	·       Colour Splash Gala Grade 4-7 13:00-15:00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Message from the office

What special Founders’ Day celebrations we have had this week! During the course of the week our girls did a walk-about our school campus while completing a booklet that helped them discover and learn about the History of VP. Included in this walk-about was the opportunity to view our display of memorabilia in the hall foyer. I hope you too got the chance to view it!

This morning, our girls decorated their own birthday cupcakes. At our Founders’ Assembly, we listened to a wonderful speech by Mrs Kelly Long, we were delighted with our special surprise ‘Shout Out’ from Rachel Kolisi (an old VP and VGHS girl) and we were thrilled with the video of our entire school forming 75 on the field- which we filmed on Monday. Later in the day the girls each got a wooden giraffe to decorate which we will put on display on our campus to commemorate this special day. Many of our girls are wearing their VP wristbands and they look so lovely! It certainly has been a memorable week.

We have placed the orders for our special edition 75th Bertha Teddies, and we await their VP skirts to be made. We have ordered a few extra Berthas if anyone is still wanting to purchase one. There are also more wristbands for purchase.

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75^th Recipe Book

Thank you for the lovely recipes we have received already. Please don’t forget to send your family’s favourite so that it can feature in this special VP recipe book. Closing date is Friday, 14 March.  

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Easter Egg Hamper Time

Can you believe that it is nearly that time of the year again for our annual Easter Egg Hamper Raffle? We request donations of Easter Eggs to make our hampers. Thank you for your support of this PTA fundraiser!

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SGB By-Elections

We are delighted that Mr Chengetai Chakurungama (parent to Glennis in Grade 4) has been elected onto our SGB. Thank you for being prepared to serve our school, Mr Chakurungama!

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Assembly

On Monday, 3 March Grade 6P will be presenting their assembly. Parents are welcome to attend. The assembly will start at 10:15.

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Worker of the Week

Well done to Zelné Leach for being our WOW this week for her wonderful work in English but also for her biggest smile! Keep up the good work, Zelné!

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 Chess Results and upcoming tournaments

We entered 17 girls in the Chess Trials at Kingwood last week and they all played with determination and competitiveness. VP took 1^st and 3^rd place in the U14 category, out of 60 competitors!

Congratulations to Ella Radovic who came 1^st and Bridget Akpeng who came 3^rd in their category. Well done to the players, coaches and supporters!

Further Chess Trials will take place on 15 March and 26 April.

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Tennis Results

On Thursday, 27 our girls played matches against Port Alfred High at VP. Overall VP beat PA 39 games to 17.

Well done, girls!

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Interdistricts Gala

Best of luck to Isla Orsmond and Lilani Wolmarans who will be representing the Albany Team at the Interdistricts Gala next week Wednesday in Graaff-Reinet.

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Interhouse Gala

Our Interhouse Gala will be held on Friday, 7 March from 13:00 -15:00

Please note that it is be compulsory for all girls in Grade 3 – 7 to attend the entire duration of the gala. 

Gr 1-2s must be collected from the Pre-Primary gate in Beaufort Street at 13:00 as usual. Parents are welcome to attend and must please enter through the Beaufort Street gate.

All Grade 3-7 girls are required to come to school dressed in their house shirts, black shorts and takkies or VP flip flops for the day. Swimming caps and towels are

essential for girls participating in the gala, please also ensure that she has a black speedo costume (if not a team swimmer) which is the correct size and that the material is not perished.

The Media and Marketing Committee will be running a tuckshop at the gala.

 Please note that due to the Interhouse Gala there will be no morning or afternoon Team or Feeder swimming on Friday.

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Mulan Rehearsals

This weekend our rehearsals will be as follows:

Today – (13:00-20:00)

Please collect your daughter from the Beaufort Street gate at 20:00.

Saturday, 1 March (08:00-13:00)

Girls are to be dropped off and collected from the Beaufort Street gate.

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Birthday wishes

We wish the following girls who celebrate their birthday this week a very happy birthday: Ayomide Booi, Elizabeth Egunlusi, Khumoitsile Moleko, Azoma Magopeni, Mivuyo Nongxaza, Tasmine Thomas, Taylynne Thomas, Caryne Grobler, Wuve Ngqingli and Halle Orsmond. Have a lovely day!

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

UPCOMING EVENTS

Monday 3/03	Assembly 6P @10:15
Wednesday 5/03	Interdistricts Gala in Graaff-Reinet
Friday 7/03	Interhouse Gala 13:00-15:00

   

Message from the office

We have an exciting week of celebrations ahead to commemorate our 75th Birthday. On Friday we have our Founders’ Assembly at 09:00. Our special guest speaker at this assembly is an old VP girl, Mrs Kelly Long who has made a positive impact in Education in Makhanda while working at the Rhodes Education Department and GADRA. All parents and VP old girls are welcome to join us. Girls are to be dressed neatly in their full summer uniform and blazers (Grade 4-7).

Don’t forget to view our display of our VP History in the hall foyer before or after the assembly. If you would like to go down memory lane before then, it will be up for viewing from Monday. Please report at our office and we will show you down.

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Worker of the Week

Congratulations to Anathi Mbandlakazi for her good work in Life Skills. Well done, Anathi. Keep this up!

Albany Swim Team

Congratulations to Lilani Wolmarans and Isla Orsmond who were selected for the Albany swimming team. 

We are very proud of you!

 Sportsmanship Trophy

Congratulations to Lilani Wolmarans who was awarded our Sportsmanship Trophy at Monday’s assembly for determination and effort in the pool. You go, girl!

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75th Recipe Book

Thank you to the families who have already emailed their family favourite. We can’t wait to try them out! Please send your family’s favourite recipe to admin@victoriaprimary.co.za or to our Whatsapp number 0834682706 so that we can compile a cookbook of favourite VP family recipes- remember to add your family name and a special quote. Once these are compiled and printed, we will be selling this special edition. Please keep a lookout in our newsletter for the sales.  Deadline for all submissions is Friday, 14 March 2025.   

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Music

Music pupils are reminded that they will play their scales tests next week, and their Term 1 assessments the week after. Keep practising, girls!

Chickhulupiriro Mitochi, Aliyah Bezuidenhout and Kungothando Ngangani have been invited to play with the VGHS string ensemble at “Concert in the Park” next Friday. Please consider joining us for this event.

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Access to VP Grounds

A reminder that parents are requested to report to our school office. The side door is for our girls’ use only. This is for all our girls’ protection. Please respect this.

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Tennis

Our first team tennis girls will be playing a match next week against Port Alfred on Thursday, 27 February. We wish them all the best. Have fun and play well girls!

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Mulan Rehearsals

Saturday, 21 February 2025

(08:30 – 13:00) PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE TIME CHANGE

Full Cast is required to attend as we will be running through Scenes 1-6. Girls are to be dropped off at the Beaufort Street Gate. We are looking forward to another wonderful rehearsal. Don’t forget to pack in your healthy snacks and water, especially because it is a longer day.

Monday, 24 February:(16:00 – 16:30) Scene 7  (Blocking)

Tuesday, 25 February: (16:00 – 16:30) Scene 8  (Blocking)

Wednesday, 26 February:  (16:00 – 16:30) Scene 9  (Blocking)

Thursday, 27 February: (16:00 – 16:30) Scene 10  (Blocking)

Friday, 28 February: MULAN CAST CAMP Day 1 starts 14:00-20:00. Girls must be collected from the Beaufort Street Gate at 20:15.

Saturday, 1 March 2025: MULAN CAST CAMP Day 2: (08:00-13:00)

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Makhanda Chess Trials – Saturday, 22 February

Seventeen of our girls will be competing in the Makhanda Chess Trials at St Andrew’s College this Saturday. The first matches begin at 08:30 and will continue into the afternoon. As chess requires intense focus and strategic thinking, it’s important that the girls get a good night’s rest beforehand. Wishing the very best to:
Lunje Tshiki, Haset Sintayehu, Eila Chirombo, Esi Pinyana, Makatendeka Chakona, Zaya Dembaza, Alibongwe Mthembu, Ella Radovic, Bridget Akpeng, Alexis Killian, Asivuse Shumane, Simehlule Klass, Glennis Chakurungama, Balelihle Jadi, Libby Everton, Lusenathi Ntoyanto, Katherine Marias and Bubele Mvula. Give it your all, girls! Play with confidence, stay focused, and most importantly—enjoy the challenge. We’re cheering for you! 

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 Athletics

We have come to the end of our athletics training for term 1. Well done to all the girls who participated in the Zonal trials and Sarah Bartmaan trials in Gqeberha. Keep up with your running and be ready for Term 3 athletics day.

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Netball Trials

U12 netball trials will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 14:00-15:00 with Mrs Britz-Nel. Girls need to sign up and attend trials on the days they do not have tennis or swimming. Good luck, girls!

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Attention Grade 7 Parents

All Grade 7 students are required to attend their formal Technology assessment project this term on 28 February. During this session, they will be constructing a model of the Jaws of Life.  The assessment will take place from 13:20 to 16:00 in their respective classrooms. Please arrange to collect your daughters at 16:10 from the Pre-Primary gate entrance on Beaufort Street. Thank you for your support.

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Reminder of Change of Gala Dates

Please note the change of dates for our Interhouse Gala and Splash Gala The Interhouse Gala will be held on Friday, 7 March from 13:00 -15:00.  The Splash Gala will be held on Wednesday, 19 March from 13:00-15:00.  Please note that it will be compulsory for all girls in Grade 3 – 7 to attend the entire duration of both galas. 

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Birthday wishes

We wish the following staff and girls who celebrate their birthday this week a very happy birthday: Mrs Coetzee, Mivuyo Santi, Tori Coetzee, Kaya Jones, Kelsey Botha, Lunje Kota, Lumile Zani and Okuhle Smile. Have a lovely day!

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

UPCOMING EVENTS

 

Friday 21/02	Boarders’ Leave Out
Saturday 22/02	Mulan rehearsals 08:30-13:00
Sunday 23/02	Boarders return
Monday 24/02	Founders’ Week
Friday 28/02	Founders’ Assembly @09:00 Grade 7 Technology assessment 13:20-16:00

 

 

 

 

Message from the office

What a special day we have had celebrating Valentine’s Day! Our school was awash with red, pink and white. On this special day, it seems appropriate to discuss the topic of love.

Showing our daughters love is so critical to their sense of identity, emotional and mental health and for their sense of worth.  We all have our different love languages and show love in our own way, but we can never replace the value of showing our daughters our love by prioritizing having undivided special time with our girls. This is not just for moms but for the special men in their lives too, be it dads, uncles or grandfathers.

• Make sure you find time to have those deep meaningful heart-to-heart conversations to really know how your child is feeling and what makes her tick.
• Make sure she knows that your love is unconditional and does not hinge on her achievements and accomplishments.
• Physical affection is so important too, fill your child’s day with squeezes and cuddles, even if it doesn’t come naturally to you.
• Discipline with love and respect and in so doing always choose your words wisely.
• Show your daughter grace when she makes mistakes, avoid harsh impulsive words that can have a lasting impact and cause more damage than anything she may have done.

Let your daughter know that she is loved and cherished. Not just this Valentine’s Day but every day!

 

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Worker of the Week

Well done to Wuve Ngqingili for her wonderful work in isiXhosa this week! Usebenzile!

Personality of the Week

Congratulations to Leane Boucher, Isla Orsmond and Alexis Muller who all received their POW certificates at our assembly this week for taking responsibility and showing initiative. Thank you, girls!

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Assembly 7C

On Monday, Grade 7C will be presenting their assembly. Parents are welcome to join us for the assembly. It will start at 10:15.

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Important Foundation Phase notice

Please note that as of Monday, 17 February the Grade 1-3 (FP) drop-off and pick-ups will be at the PRE-PRIMARY GATE IN BEAUFORT STREET the usual times will apply. This is due to the Huntley Street gate being under construction. We will inform you when it is completed.

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Late collection in the afternoon

A reminder that our office closes at 16:30 (Monday-Thursday) and 15:00 on Friday. If children are still not collected by this time, they will be sent to Aftercare. They can be collected from the Aftercare facility which is accessed via the hostel entrance in Hill Street.

However, we have noticed that many parents now expect this as a free service between 16h30 -17h00. We will be charging you aftercare fees if your daughter is picked up late regularly. If you are unable to fetch your daughter on time you must enroll her in aftercare.

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VP Recipe Book

Please remember to send your favourite family recipe to admin@victoriaprimary.co.za or to our Whatsapp number 0834682706 so that we can compile a cookbook of favourite recipes- remember to add your family name and a special quote. Once these are compiled and printed, we will be selling this special edition. Please keep a lookout in our newsletter for the sales.

Buy a Bertha Bear!

We have named our VP 75 years commemorative Teddy Bear in honour of Miss Bertha Mingay who founder Acorn School for Girls. Over the years Acorn School would eventually evolve into Victoria Primary and Victoria Girls’ High school as we know them today!

Our Bertha Bear comes with a VP 75th T-shirt and a VP skirt for only R100.  We will also be selling customised silicone wristbands for R20, with the words ‘You Belong!’. The girls will be allowed to wear it to school this year.

Please complete the order slip at the end of the newsletter sent home and return to your daughter’s class teacher with it the correct amount of cash or POP (ref teddy/ wristband/surname) by Friday, 21 February to pre-order these items.

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Grade 3 Cricket Fun

On Saturday morning we will be having a mini cricket tournament for our Grade 3 parents and girls. Please enter through the Huntley Street gate. We hope you have a fun filled family morning!

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Mulan Rehearsals

The cast will be rehearsing Scene 10-12 on Saturday, 8 February from 9:00-12:00, and all girls involved in these scenes will be expected to attend. Girls are to be dropped off at the Beaufort Street gate. We are looking forward to another wonderful rehearsal. Don’t forget to pack in your healthy snacks and water.

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Swimming

Well done to all the girls who competed at the Graeme Relay Gala and to those who travelled to Gqeberha for the first B-League Gala of 2025. The girls swam very well and had lots of fun!

Congratulations to Anathi Mbandlakazi who has been selected to represent the Sarah Baartman district at the EC Schools trials taking place at the Newton Park Swimmimg Pool in Gqeberha next Saturday. Best of luck, Anathi!

Well done to all the team swimmers who battled it out at the Albany Trials Gala yesterday. We will announce the final results as soon as they have been shared.

 Change of Gala Dates

Please note the change of dates for our Interhouse Gala and Splash Gala

The Interhouse Gala will be held on Friday, 7 March from 13:00 -`15:00

The Splash Gala will be held on Wednesday, 19 March from 13:00-15:00.

Please note that it will be compulsory for all girls in Grade 3 – 7 to attend the entire duration of both galas.

Extramural update

Please note that Gold and Light Pink swimming will be cancelled next Wednesday, 19 February as VGHS will be using the pool for their gala.

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Tennis

On Wednesday, 12 February our girls travelled to Port Alfred and really enjoyed their very first tennis match against PAH. Overall VP beat PA 31 games to 21. Well done, girls!

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SGB by-election

We will have a by-election on Thursday, 20 February. Nomination forms and the voters roll are available at the office.

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Birthday wishes

We wish the following staff and girls who celebrate their birthday this week a very happy birthday: Ms Miskin, Kazlin de Maar, Shameega Khohliso, Neo Molefe, Amahle Mchunu, Libhongo Mase, Lusenathi Ntoyanto and Megan van Staden.

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday 14/02	Grade 7 Committee meetings 13:00-13:30
Saturday 15/02	Grade 3 Mini-Cricket fun day Mulan rehearsals
Thursday 20/02	SGB By-election 13:00
Friday 21/02	Hostel Leave Out
Sun 23/02	Boarders return to hostel

  

Message from the office

We had a wonderful time reading and exploring many books this week in celebration of World Read Aloud Day. We thank you for your support of the SPCA book sale which had a delightful assortment of books. We hope that your daughters had much joy reading them.

Celebrations

This year marks Victoria Primary School’s 75th birthday which will be celebrated on Friday, 28 February. 

We would like to turn our hall foyer into a display of things from VP’s past, if you are an old VP girl and you have any VP memorabilia; from photos, uniform, report cards, programmes etc, please share them with us. We will put up a display for the week of our birthday, 24-28 February for all to come and view. We will endeavour to make sure that they are well looked after and returned.  

To further commemorate this special birthday, and as part of our PTA fundraisers this year, we will be selling memorabilia for our birthday.

The first initiative is a VP Recipe Book. All VP families are invited to send us their family’s favourite recipe to admin@victoriaprimary.co.za so that we can compile a cookbook of favourite recipes- remember to add your family name and a special quote. Once these are compiled and printed, we will be selling this special edition. Please keep a lookout in our newsletter for the sales.

We are also very excited to announce the selling of our limited-edition VP 75th Teddy Bear – she comes with a VP 75th T-shirt and a VP skirt for only R100.  We will also be selling customised silicone wristbands for R20, with the words ‘You Belong!’. The girls will be allowed to wear it to school this year. 

Please complete the order slip at the end of the newsletter sent home today and return to your daughter’s class teacher with it the correct amount of cash or POP (ref teddy/ wristband/surname) by Friday, 21 February.

Worker of the Week 

Well done to Carla Frazer for her excellent work in Music this week. Keep it up!

Thank you!

A very heartfelt thanks to the VP community from the Grahamstown SPCA. Our book sale on Wednesday raised a wonderful R4355. The generous donation of books to enhance our available stock as well as allowing the girls ample opportunity to browse and shop made it a bumper sale. The SPCA relies heavily on the generosity of donors and shoppers alike. Your ongoing support means a great deal to us.

 Mulan rehearsals

The cast will be rehearsing Scene 7-9 on Saturday, 8 February from 9:00-12:00, and all girls involved in these scenes will be expected to attend. Girls are to be dropped off at the Beaufort Street Gate. We are looking forward to another wonderful rehearsal. Don’t forget to pack in your healthy snacks and water.

 GC relay gala 

Our team swimmers will be participating in the Graeme College Relay gala this afternoon. All girls involved have received a letter with more details. Swim well, girls!

Please note, due to the gala, swimming training is cancelled this afternoon.

B-League Gala

Good luck to our girls participating in the B-League gala in Gqeberha tomorrow. Swim well, girls!

Athletics 

Congratulations to Nalu Mfiki, Esona Makabe and Micarlin Daniels who have qualified to represent Sarah Baartman tomorrow in Gqeberha. Good luck and safe travels!

 Tennis

Our first team tennis girls are playing their first match in Port Alfred on Wednesday, 12 February. All the best, girls!

The tennis matches vs Hangklip that were scheduled for this afternoon have been cancelled.

Valentine’s Day

Please return the order form by Monday, 10 February to get goodies on Valentine’s Day. We will also have a civvies day on Valentine’s Day, for a payment of R10 girls can dress in red, white and/or pink civvies!

Assembly 7V

Grade 7V will present assembly on Monday. Parents are welcome to support. The assembly will start at 10:15.

 HPV Vaccinations

Our Grade 5 girls have all received permission slips to be completed in order for them to have the HPV vaccination on Wednesday, 12 February. Please ensure that you have ticked off the relevant section, signed and return it by Monday. Please send your daughter’s clinic card on Wednesday so that the vaccination can be noted on her card.

SGB by-election

We will have a by-election on Thursday, 20 February. Nomination forms and the voters roll are available at the office.

 Birthday wishes

We wish the following staff and girls who celebrate their birthday this week a very happy birthday: Mrs Makeba-Mgogo,  Hlumisa Piti, Luniko Hulushe, Nakhane Klei, Zingce Pilisani, Inam Toll, Onwaba Hoyi, Mizaan Marcus, Christelle Ruwanza, Esethu Stamper, Gabriella Cervati, Zizo Mcophele and Tamera Ngwalase.

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday 7/02	GC Relay Gala @Graeme
Saturday 8/02	Mulan Rehearsal 09:00-12:00 Athletics in Gqeberha B-League Gala in Gqeberha
Monday 10/02	Assembly 7V @10:15
Wednesday 12/02	Grade 5 HPV vacinations Tennis vs PAHS@PAHS SGB meeting @16:30
Thursday 13/02	Albany Trials Gala
Friday 14/02	Valentine’s Day – Civvies Day Grade 7 Committee meetings 13:00-13:30

 

Message from the office

Wednesday, 5 February, is World Read Aloud Day (WRAD). We have planned a week of activities for next week that celebrate and promote reading. We hope that you too celebrate the joy of reading in your homes. We encourage you as families to continue the theme of celebrating and discovering the love of reading in your homes with your daughters next week: 

• Choose a special book for WRAD; a family favourite, ask your children to choose their favourite book/s, take a book out the library or surprise the family with a new book.
• Create a cosy, comfy reading corner for the whole family to read together.
• Discuss the book, pictures, plot and characters as you go, and get everyone involved. 
• Share your reading time with us, send a family photo to admin@victoriaprimary.co.za so that we can share them on our Facebook Page and/or our next newsletter.  

We hope that you have such a lovely time and that this will become a weekly or even daily event for your family!

Our plans at VP for next week: 

Monday, 3 February:  Assembly at 09:00.  Guest speaker Dr Hellemann will present an assembly on ‘telling your own story’.
Wednesday, 5 February:  Story Time with Mrs Rafferty 07:30- 08:00. SPCA Children’s Book sale from 10:45-14:30 in hall foyer (Please bring cash and buy a book! Credit card facilities will be available.)
Thursday, 6 February:  Paired reading for the whole school. Girls will be paired with different grades and will read to each other
Friday, 7 February:  Dress up (no cost). Come dressed as your favourite book character (If possible bring the book to school and tell your class all about him/her).

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PTA Meeting

A reminder about our PTA meeting to be held on Tuesday at 17:15. Enter the hall from Beaufort Street, we will be discussing and planning some exciting 75th birthday fundraisers. 

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Personality of the Week

Well done to Thorin Prince who was our first POW this week for Honesty. She handed in a large amount of money which she found. We are proud of you, Thorin. 

Worker of the Week 

Our Worker of the Week is Leah Fox for her wonderful work in Maths. Well done, Leah!

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Mulan rehearsals

The cast will be rehearsing Scene 4-6 on Saturday, 1 February from 09:00-12:00, and all girls involved in these scenes will be expected to attend. Girls are to be dropped off at the Beaufort Street gate. We are looking forward to another wonderful rehearsal. Don’t forget to pack in your healthy snacks and water.

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 GC relay gala 

Our team swimmers will be participating in the Graeme College Relay gala next Friday. More details will be sent to parents next week. Please note, due to the gala, Friday training next week will be cancelled.

 Kingswood Shortcourse gala

Thank you to all our team swimmers who braved the rain on Tuesday and swam beautifully in their first gala of the year. You made VP very proud!

Tennis vs Hangklip

Good luck to our first team tennis girls playing their first match against Hangklip on Friday, 7 February. Have fun and play well girls!

Athletics 

The Zone 1 Athletics event was scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the field events did not take place. However, on Thursday, 17 of our athletes participated in the track events, giving their absolute best despite the challenges.

We are incredibly proud of every single one of them for their dedication and perseverance. A huge thank you to all our athletes for their hard work and commitment! 

We await the results to see if any athletes have qualified to represent Sarah Baartman on Saturday, 8 February in Gqeberha. Stay tuned!

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Valentine’s day

We have some exciting ideas for Valentine’s Day. Please see the order form on the back page of the newsletter sent home today. All funds raised will go towards our Sports and Cultural and Music Committees’ fundraising.

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SGB by-election 

One of the parent members of our SGB left at the end of 2024 and we will have a By-election on Thursday, 20 February. Please see the notice in the newsletter sent home today for more information.

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Birthday wishes

We wish the following staff and girls who celebrate their birthday this week a very happy birthday: Mrs Sauls, Ms Jamela, Ms Purdon, Lilani Wolmarans, Rebecca Berriman, Marabel Kuja, Oyintando Gumenge, Sesona Mnqinana, Tshiamo Moleko, Kailani Mcuba, Iviwe Jakavula, Ngcwalisa Mbambo and Iminathi Mgwebi.

Regards

Mrs Rafferty

PRINCIPAL

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday 01/02	Mulan rehearsal 09:00-12:00
Monday 03/02	Read Aloud Day Assembly Guest speaker Dr Hellemann
Tuesday 04/02	PTA meeting @17:15
Wednesday 05/02	SPCA Children’s Book Sale (cash or card payments)
Friday 07/02	Dress up as your favourite book character. Graeme College Relay gala Tennis vs Hangklip