VP Newsletter 13 June 2025
Message from the office
I sneaked into the hall to watch a few of the auditions this week and I am so excited for our VP’s Got Talent show as the calibre was most impressive. I am so proud of each one of our girls for being brave enough to stand on stage and give it a bash. Even if they didn’t get selected to perform in the final show, they can be immensely chuffed with themselves!
I know I’ve said this often but the confidence that our girls display on a daily basis at school, continues to amaze me. I am so very proud of how confident our girls are! Research says that girls’ confidence generally takes a dive from around age 8 as they become more aware of themselves and others. Although this is not the case for everyone, and no one is confident all the time in every setting, I see the opposite happening in many of our girls. I love that our girls grasp opportunities offered at school and feel safe to try.
The quote below, which refers to girls’ confidence, and stated by the author of the book; “The Confidence Code for Girls” is so important for us to note, because as parents to young girls, we often want to protect them from failure, when their experiences regardless of the outcome, can be a positive personal formative journey for them.
‘Confidence hinges on action. It’s the quality that literally turns our thoughts into action, taking them from random mental impulses to actual deeds. And that process, which usually involves some struggle and failure as well, is what creates more confidence. When girls try NEW things, hard things, their confidence grows. If they play it safe and only do the things that they are good at doing, they won’t grow in confidence.
It’s impossible to build confidence staying in a comfort zone, only doing what you are already good at doing.’’
Well done to our Confidence Growers for auditioning this week! We’re incredibly proud of the courage and enthusiasm you’ve shown.
If you haven’t yet bought a ticket, please don’t wait too long as I have no doubt we will be sold out before the final show.
VP’s Got Talent
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We would like to thank all the girls that entered into the VP’s Got Talent contest. There were some incredible performances and we certainly have talented young ladies at our school. Congratulations to the finalists who will be performing on Thursday, 19 June at 17:30 in the Glennie Hall.
VP’s Got Talent Finalists
- Libby Everton – Dance
- Chikhulupiriro Mitochi – Dance
- Isla Orsmond & Lunje Tshiki – Dance
- Asante Tetani – Dance
- Lamela & Lucan Funani – Dance
- Emihle & Sibabalwe Kulati – Dance
- Lulo Dyantyi, Oyithando Sinam, Awethu Tshisani, Siyasisanda Nene, Zintle Magongo, Unakho Fetsha, Uminathi Kate & Aligugu Makeba – Dance
- Isabella Tladi & Uzosule Kanana – Dance
- Christelle & Grace Ruwanza, Mukundi & Anopa Thondhlana – Dance
- Rose Jordaan – Musical instrument
- Annabelle Olivier & Nicole Joka – Dance
- Riley-Anne Knott-Craig – Singing
- Isabella Tladi – Singing
- Mila McConnachie – Singing
- Sambesiwe Dyantyi – Singing
- Teia van Rooyen & Halle Orsmond – Singing
- Lashante Rama, Mila McConnachie, Iminathi Mgwebi & Kelly Doyle – Singing
- Ababalwe Ngwetsheni – Poetry
- Iminathi Mgwebi – Singing
- Lashante Rama & Mila McConnachie – Singing
- Chikhulupiriro Mitochi – Musical instrument
- Amy Mlambo – Magic
- Kazlin de Maar – Contortion
All Artworks submitted will be displayed and adjudicated on the 19 June in the Glennie Hall Foyer.
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- Tickets for the show can be bought from the office at R30 a ticket. Please pre-order your boerewors rolls from your daughter’s class teacher for R30 each by Tuesday, 17 June @ 10:00. These will be served prior to the start of the show from 16:30.
- A tuckshop will be open from 16:30 (including tea/coffee/hot chocolate and cupcakes). Girls may wear their civvies clothes to the event. If you are not attending with your daughter please make sure you fetch her from the Beaufort Street entrance by 19:30. Entrance and exit will be from Beaufort Street. Huntley Street will not be open.
Worker of the Week
Well done to Balelihle Jadi for her lovely Term 3 page for NS. Keep up the good work, Balelihle.
Indlulamthi Badges
Congratulations to Chloe Jeggels and Mukundi Thondhlana who were presented their badges this week. We are so proud of both of you!
Merit Achievers
The following girls have received over 250 merits so far this year: Alexis Killian, Lelona Manyati, Owami Shabalala, Mbalentle Dyaloyi, Misha Potts, Lusenathi Ntoyanto, Olothando Kanyiwe, Madison Conroy, Libby Everton, Leah Doyle, Tessanne Arries, Milisa Limba, Siarra Appolis, Gabriella Cervati and Caitlyn Bodill. Keep it up, girls!
K-Day
If your daughter is supporting K-Day this weekend, she is expected to be in full school uniform (with a blazer from Grade 4-7).
Cross-Country
We had a fun day of running this morning. Thank you to all our parents for their support. The results will be in next week’s newsletter.
Interhouse Singing
Our girls have been hard at work practising their songs. The girls will compete against each other in their houses next week Wednesday from 13:00-14:00 in the hall. Parents are welcome to support. Please note that the school day will end at 14:00.
Academic Assembly
We have our Academic Assembly on Friday, 20 June at 08:30. Parents are welcome to join us. Girls who are receiving an academic certificate will receive letters.
Grade 4 Fundraiser
Next week, Wednesday and Thursday, the Grade 4s will be selling toasted cheese sandwiches and hot
chocolate as their grade fundraiser. R30 for the combo or R20 for hot chocolate and R20 for a toasted sandwich.
Please note that 16th June is a public Holiday (Youth Day) and school will be closed.
End of Term arrangements
Please note that as per our term calendar, the last day of term for our girls is Wednesday, 25 June as our campus will be taken over by the National Arts Festival. The school day will end at 13:00 for FP (Grade 1-3) and at 13:45 for IP (Grade 4-7). Aftercare will still be open on this day. Reports will be handed out to the girls on this day. Please DO NOT come to the office to collect your daughter’s report as the office will not have the reports prior to 14:30 on this day and teachers will NOT be interrupted during lessons. Your daughter should be at school to collect her report.
Our next newsletter will be the final one for the term and will be included in the report envelope on Wednesday, 25 June and sent out electronically.
Hockey vs Union on Saturday, 21 June
Please note that transporting our girls to fixtures is a great expense to our school. We have appealed to parents that if they are going to Graaff-Reinet themselves that they are to please take their daughter with them. If for whatever reason, you are now able to take your daughter yourself, please let Ms Christian know asap so that we can then take more staff. If your daughter goes to Union on the bus, she will be expected to return on the bus.
It will be an early start on Saturday morning. Girls going on the bus must be dropped off at the Huntley Street Gate by 04:00. We will be taking register before leaving and on departure from Union for our girls’ safety. All girls involved have received letters.
If you are traveling there yourself please ensure that your daughter arrives at least 30 minutes before the start of her game. We expect to be back at the HOSTEL ENTRANCE in Hill Street by 16:30. We will keep parents updated on the Whatsapp group.
The fixtures vs Union are as follows:
| Union Prep Astro | Union High School Astro | ||
| Time: | Team | Time | Team |
| 09h00 | U10B | 10h00 | U13C |
| 09h30 | U8B | 11h00 | U13B |
| 10h00 | U9B | 12h00 | U13A |
| 10h30 | U8A | ||
| 11h00 | U9A | ||
| 11h30 | U10A | ||
St Andrew’s Prep Hockey & Netball festival – Friday, 20 June
Good luck to the U9 hockey and netball girls involved in the Prep festival on Friday, 20 June. Girls involved have received a letter. We will leave VP at 12:45 and girls are to be picked up from Prep at 15:00. Fixtures vs Prep are as follows:
| Time | Hockey | Netball | ||
| Field 1 | Field 2 | Field 1 | Field 2 | |
| 13:00-13:12 | – | – | VP A vs PA A | VP B vs BCC B |
| 13:20-13:32 | BCC A vs VP A | – | – | – |
| 13:40-13:52 | – | PA B vs VP B | – | – |
| 14:00-14:12 | Oat A vs VP A | Prep B vs VP B | – | – |
| 14:20-14:32 | – | – | Prep A vs VP A | – |
| 14:40-14:52 | VP A vs Prep A | VP B vs BCC B | – | – |
Sports Results
Hockey vs Gill: U13B drew 2-2; U13A drew 0-0
Netball vs Westering: U10A won 10-0; U11A won 2-0; U12B won 9-0; U12A won 7-3; U13B won 15-3; U13A won 13-1
Hockey vs Westering: U8B drew 0-0; U8A lost 0-6; U9B won 2-1; U9A won 4-0; U10B lost 3-0; U10A won 3-1; U13B lost 1-0; U13A lost 2-0
Well done to everyone involved and thank you to our parents for their support on the day.
Birthday wishes
We wish the following staff members and girls who celebrated their birthdays this week a very happy birthday: Ms Casling, Mr Buka, Siphesihle Lande, Iyizwile Nomkonwana, Lundanele Tyhali, Elizabeth Wicks, Mercy Mooya, Bridget Akpeng, Asali Dude and Sitha Mkolo. Last week Esona Mali celebrated her birthday but she was left off the newsletter – we hope you had a very special birthday, Esona.
Regards
Mrs Rafferty
PRINCIPAL
Upcoming events:
| Monday
16/06 |
Youth Day – public holiday |
| Tuesday
17/06 |
Last boerewors roll orders must be in today @10:00 |
| Wed
18/06 |
Interhouse Singing 13:00-14:00. Parents welcome. School day ends at 14:00. |
| Thursday
19/06 |
VP’s Got Talent final show 17:30-19:30 |
| Friday
20/06 |
Academic Assembly @08:30
Grade 7 Committee meetings 13:00-13:30 Hostel closes |
| Saturday
21/06 |
Hockey vs Union @Union |
| Monday
23/06 |
No extramurals this week. |
| Wed
25/06 |
Last day of term
Reports handed out in class School finishes at usual time: FP – 13:00 IP – 13:45 Aftercare will be open until 17:00 |
| Thursday
26/06 |
National Arts Festival begins |
| Friday
27/06 |
U13A Hockey team leaves for the Anne Beagley Hockey tournament in Graaff-Reinet |
| Monday
30/06 |
U13A Hockey team return to Makhanda |
VP Newsletter 6 June 2025
Message from the office
Exams are over!! I am certain that you are just as relieved as your daughters are. No more tiptoeing around the house! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend full of fun and lazy activities. You all deserve it!
This past week Ms Knott-Craig, Mrs Orsmond and I attended the South African All Girls Schools’ Association (SAGSA) Conference here in Makhanda hosted by DSG.
One of the dynamic presenters was a psychologist and speaker named Naomi Holdt. She spoke about working with a purpose and ‘knowing your why’ – why do we get up each morning and do what we do? This certainly resonated with us.
She spoke about us being intentional in how we connect and make others (particularly our girls) feel seen, heard and feel significant in order to increase their self worth by showing compassion and cultivating a sense of belonging and sense of family. This echoes our theme for the year, ‘You Belong’. But this is certainly something that can be nurtured at home too!
Here are 5 Tips to Help Your Daughter Feel Seen, Heard, and Supported
(Extracted from https://c-suitenetwork.com/articles/5-tips-to-help-your-child-feel-seen-heard-and-supported/)
- Apologise
Apologies are powerful catalysts for healing. Even though you didn’t mean to make your daughter feel ignored or neglected, let her know how sorry you are that her feelings are hurt.
- Stop what you’re doing and listen
The next time your daughter demands your attention, step back and observe your reaction. Are you tapping your foot or looking at your phone? Did you even look up from your computer screen and make eye contact? Give your girls at least a minute or two of your undivided attention when they need something. And if you’re just too busy at that particular moment, schedule a “Mommy and Me” time later in the day.
- Acknowledge what she’s saying
Problem-solving is certainly one of our most valuable skills as parents, but don’t be so quick to find a solution that you dismiss what your child is trying to say.Validate how she feels: “Are you feeling sad? Do you want to tell me why? Is there anything I can do to make it better?”
Raising self-assured children begins with teaching them that it’s important to acknowledge whatever emotion they’re feeling – so they can let it go when they’re ready.
- Set reasonable boundaries
As important as it is for children to acknowledge their feelings, it’s equally essential for them to connect their feelings to their underlying unmet needs. Now is when they can learn that they don’t need to be overwhelmed by their emotions and can be with them rather than be overwhelmed by them. It’s never too early to teach children that negative feelings don’t have to translate into bad behaviour.
- Put yourself in your child’s shoes
Let’s be honest: sometimes it’s hard to understand why a child could get so upset over being asked to shower or make their bed for example. The next time your daughter is upset, practice empathy to understand where she’s really coming from.
Staff News
We wish Mrs Dewey all the best as she leaves to go on her maternity leave today. We will miss her and are eagerly awaiting news of the arrival of her precious second child. We welcome Ms Trollip who is filling in for her. Ms Trollip taught at VP a number of years ago and has recently returned to Makhanda to study. We are most fortunate to have her back – I know that Grade 3D has already bonded with her!
Worker of the Week
Congratulations to Lebogang Mogale for the lovely sentences she made in English and the delightful pictures she drew! Keep up the good work, Lebo!
Assembly
On Monday, 9 June Grade 4D will present their assembly. Parents are welcome to join us. Assembly will start at 10:15.
VP’s Got Talent
Next week our girls will be auditioning for the final VP’s Got Talent show that is taking place on 19 June at 17:30.
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AUDITIONS
Girls who entered will need to audition on the following days:
Monday, 9 June: Dance
Tuesday, 10 June: Music (singing, musical instruments and poetry)
Wednesday, 11 June: Open for any individual/group who did not get to audition on Monday or Tuesday.
Auditions will take place from 14:00-16:00 on each afternoon. Girls must come prepared (clothes, instruments, music etc.). If they have an extramural that must take priority and girls can audition before or after their extramurals.
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Tickets will be on sale at R30 from the office as from Monday. Please buy your tickets sooner rather than later as we don’t want to have to turn people away at the door like we did last year.
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PLEASE NOTE: There will be NO Strength Training on Tuesday as the hall is being used for auditions.
Grade 4 History outing
Please note that this has been moved to Thursday, 12 June. The outing will take place in Makhanda and we expect to be back at school by 14:30.
*Please note that there will be no U10 Hockey practice on this afternoon.
Interhouse Cross Country
On Friday, 13 June we will have our annual Interhouse Cross Country event. Parents are welcome to attend.
The Pre-Primary, Grade 1&2s will be running on Fergusson Field from 12:00- 12:45.
Pre-Primary – 12:00-12:15
Grade 1 – 12:15-12:30
Grade 2 – 12:30-12:45
We kindly request that all PP&FP parents enter through the Beaufort Street office entrance as the Huntley Street entrance will be locked and will not be opened.
The Grade 3-7 girls will walk to the Botanical Gardens and start running at
10:30. First off will be the Grade 3s, followed by Grade 4&5s and finally Grade 6&7s. Girls can be collected from school at 13:00 as usual.
Pre-Primary girls must wear a shirt in their house colour and black shorts, socks and takkies.
The Grade 1-7 girls must come to school dressed in their house shirt, black shorts, white socks, and takkies.
Please also send a bottle of water, sunscreen and her VP hat/peak.
House shirts can be bought from Extreme Embroidery or Heinen Embroidery. Only official house shirts may be worn. If your daughter does not have an official house shirt she must wear her VP navy blue golf shirt.
Interhouse singing
Our Interhouse Singing competition will take place on Wednesday, 18 June from 13:00-14:00. Parents are most welcome!
Upcoming fixtures
Hockey vs Gill
The U13A and B hockey teams will be playing a hockey match vs Gill at Victoria Primary School today.
The U13B match will start at 12:30 and U13A match will start at 13:15. Good luck, girls!
Netball vs Westering Saturday, 7 June @VP
| Netball | ||
| Court A | Court B | |
| 09:00 | U13A | U12A |
| 09:30 | U13B | U12B |
| 10:00 | U11A | U10A |
Hockey vs Westering Saturday, 7 June @VP
| Top field A | Top field B | Top field C | |||
| 09:00 | U10B | 09:00 | U9B | 09:00 | U8B |
| 09:30 | U10A | 09:30 | U9A | 09:30 | U8A |
| Fergusson field: bottom field | |||||
| 10:00-10:45 | U13B | ||||
| 10:50-11:35 | U13A | ||||
Girls participating have all received letters. Please make sure that your daughter is dropped off at least 30 minutes before the start of her game. All girls must be fetched by 11:45. We will have a tuckshop available and will be selling pancakes and boerewors rolls. Please support our PTA. Major Frazer’s Barista will be selling coffee. Access can be made either via the Huntley Street gate or the Pre-primary gate in Beaufort Street. Please park cars in the street.
Birthday wishes
We wish the following staff member and girls who celebrated their birthdays this week a very happy birthday: Ms Knott-Craig, Lulo Dyantyi, Asante Sankqela, Mihle Mgwebi, Zenkosi Mati and Indiphile Mdlalana.
Regards
Mrs Rafferty
PRINCIPAL
Upcoming events:
| Friday
06/06 |
U13A&B Hockey vs Gill @VP |
| Saturday
07/06 |
Hockey & Netball vs Westering @VP |
| Monday
9/06 |
Assembly presented by 4D at 10:15. Parents welcome
Auditions: Dance 14:00-16:00 |
| Tuesday
10/06 |
Auditions: Music (singing, musical instruments & poetry) 14:00-16:00 |
| Wed
11/06 |
Auditions: Overflow 14:00-16:00 |
| Thursday
12/06 |
Grade 4 History outing
No U10 hockey practice |
| Friday
13/06 |
Interhouse Cross Country |
| Wed
18/06 |
Interhouse Singing 13:00-14:00. Parents welcome. |
| Thursday
19/06 |
VP’s Got Talent final show |
VP Newsletter 30 June 2025
Message from the office
As the only primary school that was invited to sing at the DSG/St Andrew’s Music Festival’s final gala event on
Thursday night last week, our Chamber Choir made us so proud. The talent that was on display at the concert was phenomenal and certainly showcased what amazing work is happening at all the schools in Makhanda. We were so proud to be part of it. Well done to all our music girls and choirs who participated in the festival. Many of our old VP girls were part of numerous final shows from the various schools both playing instruments and singing. This is a testament to our dedicated music teachers who nurture our girls’ talents with much passion and enthusiasm. I noted a number of our VP parents at the various evenings, and we thank them for their support.
Our cultural and arts programme, whether it be Music, Dance or Drama, driven by incredibly talented teachers, is certainly a strength at VP. Events as small as our class assemblies, our Grade 7 LSPA practicals to our Mulan production, to mention a few, continue to amaze me. The confidence that these activities instill in our girls and the talent that it cultivates is exceptional. I am looking forward to VP’s Got Talent at the end of the term and to the Victoria in Concert early next term – I am sure these will be further showcases of our girls’ talents and the wonderful work that has been done at VP.
Worker of the Week
Well done to Olibango Ngabaza for coming to see me twice this week – for English and isiXhosa. Well done! Keep up the good work!!
Teddies
We only have 11 VP teddies left who are looking for loving homes and warm cuddles at night. Adoption fee is R100.
Exams
We move into our second week of exams and we encourage continued focus and discipline – keep at it girls! You can do it! 
Exam Timetable
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)
School Times
School will continue with exam times from Monday, 2 June until Friday, 6 June ie. the academic school day will end at 13:00 and the extramural programme will run from 13:00-14:00, to accommodate the writing of examinations by Grade 4-7 and to ensure that girls still remain active.
Please ensure that arrangements have been made for your daughter to go home promptly at 14:00 (or 13:00 if she is not doing extramurals) every day to prepare for her next exam.
Please note this change is only for Grade 4-7. Grade 1-3 will continue with extramurals until 14:00, as usual -except for interventions which end at 14:30.
Visit to Amazwi
The Grade 3s and the Grade 5s enjoyed an Interactive Reading of “Popcorn” by Naomi Holdt on Wednesday at Amazwi. The girls enjoyed discussing the story and answering questions. The story reminded them to always remain hopeful.
Interhouse Cross Country
On Friday, 13 June we will have our annual Interhouse Cross Country event. Parents are welcome to attend.
The Pre-Primary, Grade 1&2s will be running on Fergusson Field from 12:00- 12:45.
Pre-Primary – 12:00-12:15
Grade 1 – 12:15-12:30
Grade 2 – 12:30-12:45
We kindly request that all PP&FP parents enter through the Beaufort Street office entrance as the Huntley Street entrance will be locked and will not be opened.
The Grade 3-7 girls will walk to the Botanical Gardens and start running at 10:30. First off will be the Grade 3s, followed by Grade 4&5s and finally Grade 6&7s. Girls can be collected from school at 13:00 as usual. Pre-Primary girls must wear a shirt in their house colour and black shorts, socks and takkies. The Grade 1-7 girls must come to school dressed in their house shirt, black shorts, white socks, and takkies. Please also send a bottle of water, sunscreen and her VP hat/peak. House shirts can be bought from Extreme Embroidery or Heinen Embroidery. Only official house shirts may be worn.
Results
Tennis
Our team tennis girls played in the Rising Stars Tennis tournament at DSG on the 25th of May. The competition was tough, the games were fun and the learning experience was epic. Well done to all of you!
Netball
On Monday, 26 May, the U12 (at VP) and 13A (at PJ) played in the last round of Makana Round Robbin and the results were as follows:
U12A: VP vs Tantyi Lower won 7-1; VP vs Oatlands won 5-2
U13A: VP vs PJ won 3-2; VP vs Oatlands lost 1-5
On Wednesday, 28 May, we played a mini netball home match against St Andrew’s Prep at VP. The scores were as follows:
U8A lost 3-0; U9A won 7-5; U9B won 6-1
Thank you so much to everyone for the continued support. Well done to our players and coaches!
Upcoming fixtures
Hockey vs Gill
Friday, 6 June the U13A and B hockey teams will be playing a hockey match vs Gill at Victoria Primary School.
The U13B match will start at 12:30 and U13A match will start at 13:15. Good luck, girls!
Netball vs Westering Saturday, 7 June @VP
Girls participating have received a letter.
| Netball | ||
| Court A | Court B | |
| 09:00 | U13A | U12A |
| 09:30 | U13B | U12B |
| 10:00 | U11A | U10A |
Hockey vs Westering Saturday, 7 June @VP
Girls participating have received a letter.
| Top field A | Top field B | Top field C | |||
| 09:00 | U10B | 09:00 | U9B | 09:00 | U8B |
| 09:30 | U10A | 09:30 | U9A | 09:30 | U8A |
| Fergusson field: bottom field | |||||
| 10:00-10:45 | U13B | ||||
| 10:50-11:35 | U13A | ||||
PTA 75th VP Recipe Book
Don’t forget to order your recipe book before the 6th of June. The cost is R150 and you can order via your daughter’s teacher.
Birthday wishes
We wish the following staff and girls who celebrated their birthdays this week a very happy birthday: Mr Majiba, Alwaba Ndawuni, Leah Doyle, Lihle Balintulo, Chloe de Beer, Azizipho Ngindana, Kelly Doyle, Chanelle Musarurwa, Emily Doyle and Olubanzi Zabo.
Regards
Mrs Rafferty
PRINCIPAL
Upcoming Events
| Monday
02/06 |
Exams:
· Maths Paper 2 (Grade 4-7) · EMS (Grade 7) |
| Tuesday
03/06 |
Exams:
· Natural Sciences (Grade 4-7) · Art (Grade 7) · LSPA Theory (Grade 7) |
| Wednesday
04/06 |
Exams:
· LSPA Practical (Grade 7) · SS History (Grade 4-7) |
| Thursday
05/06 |
Exam: Life Skills (Grade 4-6) |
| Friday
06/06 |
U13A&B Hockey vs Gill @VP |
| Saturday
07/06 |
Hockey & Netball vs Westering @VP |
VP Newsletter 23 May 2025
Message from the office
Exams start on Monday for Grade 4-7 and I am sure that your daughters have already started making her notes and begun revising. I appeal to you to make your home a place that is conducive to learning and limit the distractions for the next two weeks so that your daughter can be provided with a space that will help her focus while studying. Please limit the noise level (especially TV) and take all technology away for the next few weeks. Limit visitors and make sure that your next two weekends are not too hectic. 
Breaks are essential as is keeping active during this time. That is why we are still continuing with our extramural programme from 13:00-14:00. Please read the exam extramural program closely with your daughter to make sure that she knows when her extramural is scheduled for during exam time. It is compulsory for your daughter to attend her extramural sessions. She will only be at school an extra 15 minutes more than she would be on a normal school day and exercise will help boost her energy levels and reduces stress. It is a good, healthy break for her. We request that all girls be fetched by 14:00 during exams so that they can go home to study.
The best thing we can do to assist our girls is to show our support in every way we can and that includes making a few sacrifices ourselves. Be encouraging and supportive. Don’t put excessive pressure on your daughters to perform well as this can create anxiety. Let them know you love them and that you are in this together!
Exam Timetable
Monday, 26 May:
- English & FAL Creative Writing (Grade 4-7)
Tuesday, 27 May:
- English & FAL Creative Writing (Grade 4-7)
Wednesday, 28 May:
- FAL Language & Comprehension (Grade 6&7)
- English Language & Comprehension (Grade 4&5)
- Life Orientation (Grade 7)
Thursday, 29 May:
- FAL Language & Comprehension (Grade 4&5)
- English Language and Comprehension (Grade 6&7)
- SS Geography (Grade 4-7)
Friday, 30 May:
- Art & LSPA (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)
School Times
As from Monday, 25 May until Friday, 6 June the academic school day will end at 13:00 and the extramural programme will run from 13:00-14:00, to accommodate the writing of
examinations by Grade 4-7 and to ensure that girls still remain active.
Please ensure that arrangements have been made for your daughter to go home promptly at 14:00 (or 13:00 if she is not doing extramurals) every day to prepare for her next exam. The revised extramural programme for these two weeks accompanies this newsletter.
Please note this change is only for Grade 4-7. Grade 1-3 will continue with extramurals until 14:00, as usual -except for interventions which end at 14:30.
Astroquiz results
Congratulations to the Victoria Meteors (Aliyah Bezuidenhout, Avethandwa Hambaze, Iviwe Jakavula and Christelle
Ruwanza) for making it through to the 3rd (provincial) round of the SAASTA Astroquiz to take place on 14 August. You girls are stars!
Worker of the Week
Well done to Taylyn Thomas for her excellent work in Maths. Keep it up, Taylyn!
Indlulamthi Badge
We congratulate Imanathi Mcophele for being one of our first recipients for our Honours Ndlulamthi Badge. Well done, Iminathi. Thank you for the positive contribution you make towards VP.
ABRSM exams
Girls who are eligible for these practical exams received their letters last week. Kindly note that the entries close on 30 May, and please forward entry confirmation to Dr. Wynne.
Mini Maestros
Seventeen of our young musicians participated in this music competition last Friday, and we are so proud of each of these girls for so bravely managing their nerves and performing so well. Congratulations to Isla Orsmond and Lulama Joe, who each received medals in their categories. The adjudicator gave the performers some valuable feedback and made special mention of Riley-Anne Knott-Craig and Amyoli Loli, whose performances were “highly commended”. Well done, girls!
DSG/SAC Music Festival
Our choirs, orchestra and soloists had a busy week, performing in the SAC/DSG Music Festival that showcases the amazing talent being developed in our schools. We are immensely proud of them for performing for mixed audiences from the broader Makhanda schools community. Congratulations to our Chamber Choir, who were invited to perform at the Gala Concert last night, which celebrated the week’s highlights. We are super proud of our girls and we thank Dr Wynne and Mr Florence for the amazing work they do in our Music Department.
Moon Youth Theatre Company visit VP
On Thursday morning our girls were treated to a visit from the Ticket to the Moon Youth Theatre Company. The Pre-Primary and Foundation Phase saw Goldilocks and the Three Bears, with a 21st century twist and the Intersen Phase watched Billy Goat Gruff We were all thoroughly entertained!
Chess
We are delighted to share some fantastic news—the Sarah Baartman District Chess Committee has decided to include both an A Team and a B Team in this year’s competitions! This wonderful development allows even more talented players to showcase their skills on the board. We are proud to announce the following girls who will be representing the district in the upcoming matches:
U12 A Team
Lusenathi Ntoyanto
U14 A Team
Bridget Akpeng & Ella Radovic
U14 B Team
Alibongwe Mthembu, Katherine Marias & Makatendeka Chakona
Tennis results
Our tennis girls played a match against DSG on 20 May. We lost overall but good fun was had by all. Well done, girls!
Upcoming tennis fixture
On Sunday, 25 May, some of our tennis girls will be participating in the Rising Stars Tennis Tournament at DSG. All the best and play well girls!
Hockey vs St Dominics Priory
U9A won 7-0; U9B won 3-0; U9C drew 1-1; U10A lost 0-1; U10B won 1-0; U10C drew 1-1; U13C won 1-0; U13B lost 1-0;
U13A lost 1-0
Hockey vs SAC Prep
U8 won 3-2; U9A lost 0-5; U9B won 4-1
Netball Results
What a busy past two weeks it’s been:
On Friday, 13 May we played matches against Kingswood. The scores were:
U9B won 9–0; U9A won 5-3; U10B won 3–1; U10A won 6-1; U11B won 7–1; U11A lost 5-1
On Saturday, 14 May we welcomed Kenton-on-sea (KOS) and Kowie Foundation (KF) Primary School for a lovely morning of netball. The matches were a fantastic display of developing talent, played with plenty of heart and enthusiasm from everyone. The scores were: U8A vs KOS lost 7 – 1
U9B vs KF won 8 – 0; U9A vs KOS won 4 – 2; U10A vs KOS drew 4 – 4; U11B vs KF won 3 – 0;
U11A vs KOS lost 2 – 0; U12A vs KOS lost 4 – 3; U13B vs KF won 15 – 0; U13A vs KOS won 16 – 5
On Wednesday, 21 May, we played a match against St. Andrew’s Prep and DSG. The scores were as follows:
U8 won 3-2; U9A won 6-2; U9B lost 7-2; U10B drew 1-1; U10A lost 6-0; U11B drew 1-1; U11A lost 5-0
U12C won 5-1; U12B lost 4-3; U12A lost 16-4; U13D lost 4-3; U13C lost 13-1; U13B won 8-7; U13A lost 20-3
To all the players and coaches, you can pat yourself on the back – well done on this exceptional work!
Makana Round Robin
The U12A and U13A girls are participating in the last round of our Round Robins on Monday, 26 May. The U12s will be playing at VP and U13s at PJ. Your support would be highly appreciated. Letters have been sent to girls involved. Girls can be fetched after their last game.
PTA 75th VP Recipe Book
Don’t forget to order your recipe book before the 6th of June. The cost is R150 and you can order via your daughter’s teacher.
75th Teddies
We still have a handful of 75th teddies for sale (R100). They have been such a hit! Once these are sold there will be no more! Please purchase from the office before it is too late!
Slipper Day
Girls can still 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.
Birthday wishes
We wish the following staff and girls who celebrated their birthdays this week a very happy birthday: Ms Stirk, Misha Potts, Sibabalwe Hanisi, Kylleigh Williams, Rose Jordaan, Zingce Tanga, Riley-Anne Knott-Craig, Emihle Kulati, Riley-Jo Potts and Rose Chirombo.
Regards
Mrs Rafferty
PRINCIPAL
Upcoming Events
| Saturday
24/05 |
Compulsory Grade 7 Creative Arts workshop 08:45-12:00. Letters were sent home. |
| Monday
26/05 |
Exams begin for Grade 4-7
Exam: English & FAL Creative Writing (Gr 4-7) School finishes at 13:00. Extramurals finish at 14:00 Makana Round Robin @VP&PJ |
| Tuesday
27/05 |
Exam: English Creative Writing and FAL Creative Writing (Gr 4-7) |
| Wednesday
28/05 |
Exam: FAL Lang. & Comp. (Grade 6&7)
Exam: Eng. Lang. & Comp (Grade 4&5) Exam: Life Orientation (Gr 7) |
| Thursday
29/05 |
Exam: FAL Lang. & Comp. (Gr 4&5)
Exam: Eng. Lang. & Comp. (Gr 6&7) Exam: SS Geography (Gr 4-7) |
| Friday
30/05 |
Exam: Art & LSPA (Gr 4-6)
Exam: Maths P1 (Gr 4-7) Exam: Technology (Gr 7) |
_________________________________________________________________________
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:
VP Newsletter 16 May 2025
Message from the office
On Monday Grade 4KC presented a lovely assembly on Respect. Their message was on respecting yourself, others and your environment and this message was discussed at our morning lines too.
Respecting (and being kind) to ourselves is often a challenge for young girls and even grown women. It is important as parents to guide and encourage self-love and acceptance in our girls especially with social pressure and media bombarding us daily to behave and look a certain way.
It is critical for us to nurture self-respect and self-love and acceptance in our daughters from a young age and to highlight to our daughters that their uniqueness is what makes them special.
A reminder of all we can do to build confident and happy girls:
(https://mindfulstl.com/teaching-your-tween-girl-self-confidence/)
- Model body positivity
- Teach boundaries (and how to say no)
- Balance the type of compliments you give (don’t only give superficial compliments)
- Praise effort rather than outcome
- Encourage new opportunities
- Model positive self-talk
- Model confidence
Newsletter Survey
In an effort to reduce our paper and printing costs we wish to ascertain what format would best suit our parent body to receive the newsletter each week. We also want to make sure that we do not exclude anyone from getting all the information that we share. We request that you complete the questionnaire at the end of this newsletter as a survey. It is imperative that all parents complete this. We thank you for your assistance.
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!!!!
PTA 75th VP Recipe Book
Don’t forget to order your recipe book before the 6th of June. The cost is R150 and you can order via your daughter’s teacher.
75th Teddies
We still have a handful of 75th teddies for sale (R100). They have been such a hit! Once these are sold there will be no more! Please purchase from the office before it is too late!
Worker of the Week
There were just so many wonderful Grade 4 projects on the Water Cycle that this week’s WOW was a tough one! Well done to Carla Frazer for her amazing 3D water cycle box. I am certain all the Grade 4s will know their Water Cycle by heart for exams!
Merit Achievers
Mila Nongubo, Amyoli Loli, Owekhethelo Gongqa and Amari Funani have received over 250 merits so far this year. Well done!
Music
Final DSG/SAC reminder
Please take note of the final arrangements for next week’s music festival:
- Solo categories: Monday, 19 May (08:30). Girls will travel in the school bus.
- Choir festival: Monday, 19 May (16:00). Compulsory for all choirs. We’ll meet in the quad at 15:00 and walk to the Centenary Hall together. Please collect your daughter at the Centenary Hall at 18:30.
- Orchestra festival: Wednesday, 21 May (18:30). Orchestra members must arrive at the Centenary Hall by 18:00. Please collect your daughter at 20:00.
- Gala evening: Thursday, 22 May (18:30). Individuals/groups will be selected from the week’s performances to participate.
PLEASE NOTE: There will be no extramurals for Grade 3-7 on Monday afternoon (as the majority of our girls are involved in the St Andrew’s Music Festival on Monday afternoon). If your daughter is not involved please arrange to fetch your daughter after her school day at 13:45.
Music Assessments
All music pupils will play their Term 2 music assessments next week. Keep up the good work, girls and GOOD LUCK!
Chess
Congratulations to all the girls who travelled to Graaff-Reinet last weekend.
They showed incredible resilience and determination, competing in some tough and mentally taxing matches. Well done to Ella Radovic and Bridget Akpeng on their selection to represent the Sarah Baartman District team – a well-deserved achievement!
Highland dancing
On Saturday, 10 May Libby Everton competed in the Border Highland Dancing Festival in East London. Libby danced in the Novice All Ages section and was awarded two gold medals, two silver medals and a 4th place. As a result, she was runner up for both the Highland and National sections of the competition. Well done, Libby!
Gymnastics
Congratulations to Mary-Kate Februarie who received two bronze and a silver medal and Lulu Qeqe who received a bronze medal at the Rhythmic Gymnastics Competition in Port Alfred. We are proud of you!
Hockey results vs Erica
U13A won 1-0; U13B lost 3-2; U13C drew 0-0
U10A lost 4-0
U9A 1-1; U9B won 1-0
Hockey results vs Kingswood
U13A lost 4-0; U13B lost 3-0; U13C drew 0-0
U10A lost 8-0; U10 B lost 6-0
U9A drew 2-2; U9B lost 1-0
Well done to all our hockey teams!
Hockey & Netball fixture
On Saturday, 17 May VP will be hosting Kenton Primary, Kowie Foundation and St Dominics Priory for fun filled hockey and netball fixtures. All girls involved have received letters.
Please note that access to our campus on Saturday morning can be made at Huntley Street or the Pre-Primary entrance on Saturday. You may then park in either Huntley Street or in Beaufort Street.
The PTA will have a tuckshop available on Saturday and will be selling breakfast buns, pancakes and cheese toasties. Major Frazer’s barista will also be there selling their delicious coffee. Treat yourself and support our PTA! (Cash and card accepted)
Hockey fixtures vs Priory on Saturday, 17 May at VP
| Fergusson Field | ||||
| 09:00 | U13B | |||
| 09:45 | U13C | |||
| 10:30 | U13A | |||
| Top field | ||||
| Field A | Field B | |||
| 09:00 | U10C | 09:00 | U9C | |
| 09:25 | U10B | 09:25 | U9B | |
| 09:50 | U10A | 09:50 | U9A | |
Hockey fixtures vs SAC Prep on Thursday, 22 May @Prep
| Match Time | Team | Venue |
| 13h30 | Prep U9B vs VP U9B | Retief |
| 13h30 | Prep U9A vs VP U9A | Retief |
| 13h30 | Prep U8 vs VP U8 | Retief |
| 13h30 | Hockey Clinic Prep & VP | Retief |
| 13h45 | Prep U9B vs VP U9A | Retief |
| 13h45 | Prep U9A vs U9B | Retief |
Hockey fixtures vs DSG Thursday, 22 May @DSG
| Time | Court 1 | Court 2 | Court 3 | Court 4 | Court 5 |
| 14:00 | U13A | U12A | U11A | U13D | U10A |
| 14:30 | U13B | U12B | U11B | U13C | U10B |
| 15:00 | U12C |
Netball Results
It’s been a busy season already and the girls are thrilled to have been taking part in different matches and leagues. The following are scores for the fixtures we have had this week:
Saturday,10 May – VP vs Erica Derby Day:
U9A won 3 – 1; U10A lost 12 – 3
U11A lost 4 – 0; U12A won 9 – 2
U13A won 10 – 6
Monday, 12 May – Makana Round Robin:
U12A lost VP 2 – 5 PJ
U12A won VP 5 – 1 C.M.Vellem
U13A won VP 6 – 1 Tantyi Lower
Wednesday, 14 May – VP vs PAHS:
U8A won 1 – 0; U9A won 2 – 1;
U10A lost 4 – 8; U11A lost 0 – 4
U12A lost 3 – 6; U13A lost 5 – 6
Well done, girls!
Netball fixture vs KC @KC today
| FIXTURE | COURT A | FIXTURE | COURT B | |
| 08:30
(10 min a side) |
U11B
VP vs KF |
08:30
(10 min a side) |
U10A
VP vs KOS |
|
| 08:55
(12 min a side) |
U13B
VP vs KF |
08:55
(7 min a side) |
U9A
VP vs KOS |
|
| 09:25
(12 min a side) |
U13A
KOS vs KF |
09:25
(7 min a side) |
U8A
VP vs KOS |
|
| 09:55
(10 min a side) |
U11A
VP vs KOS |
09:55
(7 min a side) |
U9B
VP vs KF |
|
| 10:20
(12 min aside) |
U12A
VP vs KOS |
10:20 (7 min a side) |
U9A
KOS vs KF |
|
| 10:50
(10 min a side) |
UllA
KF vs KOS |
11:20
(12 min a side) |
U13A
VP vs KOS |
|
Netball fixtures vs SAC Prep on Wednesday, 21 May @Prep
| Match Time | Team | Venue |
| 13h30 | Prep U8 vs VP U8 | Prep |
| 13h30 | Prep U9B vs VP U9B | Prep |
| 14h00 | Prep U9A vs VP U9A | Prep |
Tennis results
On Sunday, 11 May our girls participated in the Luden Tennis Cup. Overall, we finished 3rd out of the 4 teams. Lots of fun was had. Well done, girls.
Upcoming tennis fixtures
There will be a tennis match against DSG on Tuesday, 20 May at 13:45 at DSG. All the best and play well girls.
Slipper Day
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.
Birthday wishes
We wish the following staff and girls who celebrated their birthdays this week a very happy birthday: Mrs Kruger, Ms Christian, Mr Daniels, Buhle Koliti, Angawo Zono, Sibulele Nduna, Okuhle Dyibishe, Ngcwele Manyati, Luyakhuthando Mhlekwa, Amy Mlambo, Olibango Ngabaza and Lashante Rama
Regards
Mrs Rafferty
PRINCIPAL
Upcoming Events
| Friday
16/05 |
Mini Maestros
Netball vs KC @KC |
| Saturday
17/05 |
Hockey & Netball @VP |
| Monday
19/05 |
Grade 3-7 Extramurals cancelled
SAC/DSG Music Festival Choir Festival @16:00 at SAC |
| Tuesday
20/05 |
Tennis vs DSG @DSG |
| Wednesday
21/05 |
Netball vs Prep @Prep
Orchestra Festival @18:30 at SAC |
| Thursday
22/05 |
Hockey vs SAC
Music Festival Gala evening @18:30 at SAC |
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 |
_________________________________________________________________________
VP Newsletter survey
Daughter’s name: ______________________________ Grade: _____ Class: ______
Please indicate your preference by placing a placing a cross over it. I prefer to receive the VP newsletter in the following way:
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VP Newsletter 9 May 2025
Message from the office
So, it’s back to the grindstone and five day weeks! We have a jam-packed schedule of sporting fixtures up ahead – I love the winter season! Please support your daughter at all her matches, if possible, as we love our family support and your girls love you watching them give their best.
At VP we encourage our girls to win with grace and lose with dignity and we implore you to echo this while your daughter is giving her all on the field.
Cheer your daughter from the sidelines and support her teammates. Support her coaches and their decisions – they are all trying their best. Do not coach from the side lines as this may contradict what they have been told as a team and by their coach. Do not get involved during team chats – leave that to the coach and the team. Do not undermine or speak poorly of your child’s coach in front of your daughter as this will affect her willingness and eagerness to give her best. And please, please, please do not chirp the referee!! It is far too often that matches turn nasty not because the players are bad sports but because the adults involved have forgotten the ethics and value of sportsmanship and instead promote winning at all costs, and this gets tangibly absorbed into the spirit of the game being played.
Remind your daughter that she needs to play her best and support her teammates even if she isn’t in the team she hoped to be in or playing the position she wanted or if she isn’t in the starting line up or does not play a full game. In primary school, building character through sport is just as (if not more) important as learning the sport itself. Her coach will note her positive attitude and her team spirit – a coach wants a player who gives of her best (regardless of her situation), follows instructions, shows a willingness to learn and grow, and who is an encouraging and supportive teammate. Often these nurtured attitudes will go a long way to developing a successful player later in life.
I want to thank our eager and encouraging parents who find the time to come and cheer our VP teams on and we are grateful for the very supportive parent body that we have. Praise your little girl’s efforts, point out her strengths and moments of greatness and sure, give her some tips, but above all, teach her to be a good sport (as this permeates into all of life) – win or lose.
A very special Mothers’ Day to all the special women who support and nurture our VP girls. We hope that you are deservedly spoiled rotten on Sunday!
Art Club
Please note the Art Club time is changed from 15:00-16:00 on a Wednesday.
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!!!!
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 to the newsletter sent home today 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. This would make a wonderful Mothers’ Day gift!
Grade 6&7 Social
The much-anticipated Graeme/ VP social is tonight at VP. Doors will open at 18:00. The music will be switched off at 20:50 and all girls must be fetched by 21:00. Entry and exit will be from the hall gate in Beaufort Street. Please make sure that you have arranged reliable transport. No girl will be allowed to walk home. Please note that according to our late collection policy any child who is fetched late will not be allowed to participate in future evening functions.
Worker of the Week
Well done to Sibabalwe Hanisi for her wonderful work in EMS and LO this week!
Indlulamthi Badge
Our first Indlulamthi Badge recipients were announced at Monday’s Assembly. We are so proud of them! Well done to:
Grade 4 – Nakhane Klei, Chanelle Musarurwa, Zingce Pilisani
Grade 5 – Azoma Magopeni, Misha Potts
Grade 6 – Ababalwe Ngwetsheni, Haset Sintayehu
Grade 7 – Uzosule Kanana, Iminathi Mcophele, Mila Nongubo, Nakweziphi Mthetho
According to the criteria for our badges for 2025 girls who have received the Indlulamthi Badge for 4 consecutive years from Grade 3-6 or Grade 4-7 will receive an Honours Indlulamthi Badge. We are so proud of Haset Sintayehu, Mila Nongubo and Nakweziphi Mthetho who will be receiving their Honours Badges and who are our first recipients ever!
Bathurst Show Art Exhibition
Congratulations to the following girls who received awards at the Bathurst Show art exhibition.
Grade 4:
Asante Sankqela (Gold)
Anna Malamis (Gold)
Chanelle Musaruwa (Silver)
Rebecca Phillip (Silver)
Onika Jimmy (Silver)
Grade 7:
Iviwe Jakavula (Silver)
Merit Acheivers
Isabella Tladi, Lulo Ponoshe, Isla Orsmond, Iminathi Bawuti, Sairaah Govender and Zenazi Gqekehas have received over 250 merits so far this year. Well done!
Assembly
On Monday Grade 4KC will present their assembly. Their assembly starts at 10:15. Parents are welcome to join us.
Music
Mini Maestros
The Mini Maestros competition will take place next week, on Friday, 16 May, at the Kingswood College music school. Girls will be transported in the school bus, and they are reminded to wear civvies with their Mini Maestros T-shirts to school. Parents are welcome to attend. Letters were sent home this week, which contain the morning’s programme.
SAC/DSG music festival
We are thrilled to be participating in this festival, which is a great opportunity for our girls to perform and to hear musicians from other schools. The following girls/groups will be involved: selected soloists, junior choir, senior choir, chamber choir, and orchestra. Please take note of the following dates. Further details will be provided in a letter, which will be sent home next week.
Solo categories: Monday, 19 May to Wednesday, 21 May (mornings only)
Choir festival: Monday, 19 May (16:00)
Orchestra festival: Tuesday, 20 May or Wednesday, 21 May (18:30) To be confirmed.
Gala concert: Thursday, 22 May (18:30) Soloists/groups selected from the week’s performances.
Assessments
All music pupils will play their scales tests next week. Their Term 2 assessments will take place the week after. Keep up the lovely practising, girls!
Tennis report: Luden Cup
Good luck to our girls participating in the Luden Tennis Cup this Sunday at DSG. All the best and have fun girls.
Well done to Marizaan Boucher who played in the Tennis South Africa tennis tournament in Cradock recently. She won the girls U14 division. We are very proud of her.
Derby Day vs Erica Primary tomorrow
We are very excited for our first fixture this season. Girls are to be dropped off 45 minutes before the start of their game. Girls supporting must be dressed in their full school uniform with their blazers or their school tracksuit with their navy blue golf shirt (No house shirts). Cellphones are not permitted. Please make sure that you make arrangements for collection before you drop her off. ALL girls must be fetched from the Huntley Street gate by 11:30 at the latest. Parents and supporters must please use Huntley Street gate for access, no cars will be allowed onto the campus. The fixtures are as follows:
| Hockey | ||
| Fergusson Field | Top field | |
| 08:30 | U13A | 08:50 U9A
VP U10B vs VP U10C |
| 09:10 | U13B | |
| 09:50 | U13C | 09:10 U9B
U10A |
| Netball | |||
| Court A | Court B | ||
| 09:00 | U12A | 09:20 | U9A |
| 09:30 | U11A | 09:40 | U10A |
| 09:50 | VP staff vs Erica Staff | ||
| 10:15 | VP U13A | ||
Sport fixtures next week
- Wednesday, 14 May netball vs Port Alfred @VP. Matches start at 14:30. All girls playing will have received a letter.
- Thursday, 15 May hockey vs Kingswood @KC. The following teams will be playing: U9A/B, U10A/B, U13A/B/C/D. Fixtures and times to follow next week.
- Friday, 16 May netball vs Kingswood @KC. The following teams will be playing: U9A/B, U10A/B and U11A/B. Fixtures and times to follow next week.
- On Saturday, 17 May VP will be hosting Kenton Primary, Kowie Foundation and St Dominics Priory for fun filled hockey and netball fixtures. All girls involved would have received letters today. Fixtures to follow next week.
Netball Results
Wednesday, 7 May: U12 and U13 girls played in the Makana Round Robin League. The results were as follows:
U12: VP vs Good Shepherd: 0 – 3
Grahamstown vs VP: 1 – 1
U13: Good Shepherd vs VP: 7 – 3
VP vs C.M.Vellem: 0 – 3
Well done, girls!
Netball fixtures
Monday, 12 May: U12 and U13 girls are participating in the second round of the Makana Round Robin at PJ. We are waiting for fixtures from PJ. The team will be transported to PJ in the school bus and must please be collected from PJ at 17:00. The girls would appreciate the support, as always!
Gymnastics Report
Last weekend Kazlin De Maar took part in a gymnastics competition in Port Alfred with the Grahamstown Rhythmic Gymnastics. A big congratulations to Kazlin for receiving 2 gold medals and 1 silver medal.
Donations for Tuckshop
Thank you so much for the generous donations of goods for our tuckshop for tomorrow. We would most appreciate donations of the following for next Saturday’s derby day’s tuckshop to reduce our costs. Items needed are: sliced bread – white or brown; white hamburger rolls; butter/margarine; eggs; bacon; flour; salt; Sunflower oil; cheddar cheese; tomato sauce and sugar. Donations can be dropped off at the school office. Thank you for your support.
Sarah Baartman Chess Trials
Best of luck to Ella Radovic, Makatendeka Chakona, Bridget Akpeng, Alibongwe Mthembu, Katherine Marias, and Lusenathi Ntoyanto as they head to Graaff-Reinet this Saturday for the final stretch of the Sarah Baartman chess trials! We know how excited you all are, and we are so proud of your hard work and dedication. Wishing you sharp minds,steady hands, and an unforgettable experience. Safe travels, girls– you’ve got this!
Slipper Day
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.
Birthday wishes
We wish the following staff and girls who celebrated their birthdays this week a very happy birthday: Mrs Wilhelmi, Iyana Kolwane, Milisuthando Nkayi, Inomusa Tauzen, Lunje Giyose, Zoe Green, Anopa-Nyasha Thondhlana, Ithandile Hilta and Hlalumi Motshwene.
Regards
Mrs Rafferty
PRINCIPAL
Upcoming events
| Friday
9/05 |
Grade 7 Committee meetings
VP/GC Social @VP (Gr 6&7) |
| Saturday 10/05 | SB Chess trials in Graaff-Reinet
Erica Derby Day @VP |
| Sunday
11/05 |
Luden Tennis Cup @DSG |
| Monday
12/05 |
Makana netball round robin @PJ |
| Wednesday
14/05 |
Netball vs PAHS @VP |
| Friday
15/05 |
Mini Maestros |
| Saturday
16/05 |
Hockey vs Priory @VP |
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 |
VP Newsletter 25 April 2025
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.
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!
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!
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..
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!!!!
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.
Assembly
Grade 5K will present their assembly on Monday, 5 May at 10:15. Parents are welcome to join us.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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:
VP Newsletter 11 April 2025
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 26th 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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
PTA Meeting
Please note that we will have a PTA meeting on Wednesday, 16 April at 17:15 in the school hall.
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.
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
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 |
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.
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 |
VP Newsletter 28 March 2025
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.
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
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.
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
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 |