Filled with mixed emotions, hundreds of Grade One learners across the country began their educational journey on January 12. The City Times visited several schools in Benoni and Daveyton to capture moments of how things got off on the very first day of school.
Actonville Primary School
With just four classrooms for the Grade Ones, about 238 learners were welcomed to the school.
According to the principal, Venessa Moodley, compared to other years, they’ve admitted more learners this year due to new classrooms, which are set to be built sometime this year.
One of the learners, Saabira Ally (5), said she was excited to be at school and that she can’t wait to be a teacher one day.
Laerskool Northmead
Relishing their first day at school, learners showed excitement with no one spotted crying. Milan Van Dyk (6) said she was happy to be at school after the holidays.
Letsha Primary School
The new Grade Ones were in a jovial mood on their first day of school. However, two of the learners, Reatlegile Ntshinga (6) and Bokang Islam (6), couldn’t hold back their tears as they were overwhelmed by the feelings of being at school for the first time.
The principal of the school Khosi Mtshweni urged the parents to familiarise themselves with the school’s policies.
“We have an orientation on January 15 where parents will acquaint themselves with the programmes that we have. We are sponsored by Kellogg’s and we always insist that the learners be here early to get a bowl of cereal for breakfast.
“The Department of Basic Education also sponsors us with soft porridge, which the learners receive every morning. With that said, we are ready for the academic year. These learners are in good hands.”
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Rynfield Primary School
Things went off smoothly on the first day of school with 140 admissions for the Grade Ones.
Moshoeshoe Primary School
Upon arrival, the learners stood in a queue to be allocated to their classes.
The head of the department for Grade Ones, Elizabeth Moeketsi, said they are ready to hit the road running with academic activities.
“I have a very enthusiastic team and we are itching to start. At the end of the year, all these learners will be ready for the next grade.
“We know the children are still shaken but as soon as they are settled and we hit gear one, they will want to remain at school forever.
“These teachers that I work with are amazing. The passion for teaching is deep and they are not only teachers to these children, but they also act as parents, looking after the children’s physical and mental well-being,” Moeketsi concluded.
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Also Read: Twins give Grade One a thumbs up!
Also Read: No tears as Grade Ones head to their classes
