Orban School recently announced the launch of its first-ever newspaper publication – run and compiled by the learners themselves.
The name of the newspaper that will be distributed at the school to all learners, teachers and parents is The Purple Overview/Die Pers Oorsig.
Estie van Heerden, marketing specialist for the school explained the inception of the newspaper was a way of exposing new career choices, additional cultural activities, literature, and the arts.
The editorial team consists of young writers, designers, artists, and a cartoonist. As Van Heerden shared, the team members are all working hard on a new master head design and content for the first edition of the paper.
Learners who wished to be part of the team had to complete applications and deliver assignments in two rounds of tasks before the final editorial team was announced. The editorial team has about 15 children who are media enthusiasts and three teachers who will mentor them throughout.
Managing editor of Rapport and mother of one of the editorial members, Liezel de Lange, said a school newspaper will allow the learners an opportunity to grasp just how important and fun it is to be informed about happenings in your direct environment.
“It will also teach them the importance of trustworthy sources and good journalism instead of rumours and hearsay. Most importantly, it’s very rewarding and fun to read about yourself and those around you.”