Spar Superstars SCS 2024

AYESHA Thayab, a Grade 7 learner, received first place in the Umlazi District Natural Science Olympiad held on September 4.
In a captivating showcase of intellect and perseverance, Grade 7s competed fiercely in the Olympiad which was designed to foster enthusiasm for science and technology among young learners.
The event featured two stages, circuit and district, and challenged participants with rigorous multiple-choice questions derived from the natural sciences curriculum, supplemented by general knowledge questions in science.
In a statement, the school said, “With only the sharpest minds rising to the top, the competition was intense. Ultimately, Ayesha emerged as the standout performer. Displaying remarkable composure, she achieved a perfect score of 100% in the tie-breaker of the final round.”
Her teacher, Minesha Singh, who is also a nominee for a national teaching award in natural science, said she is extremely proud.
“Ayesha’s achievement demonstrates that with passion, dedication, and hard work, remarkable things are possible. She has set a new standard of excellence,” she said. She will receive her award at a special district awards ceremony on October 10.

TIISETSO Sibisi, a Grade 7 learner, is the current U13 age group champion of inter-schools cross-country.
She also placed first at the recent Umbumbulu Cross Country Championships, and first at the inter-schools athletics’ 1 500m event.
She is now preparing to compete in the upcoming KZN event in Newcastle.

LANGELIHLE Majola, a Grade 7 learner, is a talented DJ who entertains at community and family events.
He also creates his own music, and is extremely committed and passionate about the art of music-making.

JASMIKH Maharaj, a Grade 5 learner, is a vibrant Balvani/ Hindvani radio presenter that has captivated audiences with her dynamic voice and engaging presence.
Her journey in broadcasting began with a notable performance at the Hindi Eisteddfod, organised by the Hindi Shiksha Sangh, where she showcased her exceptional talent and passion for Hindi language and culture at the young age of two.
The school said her dedication to promoting the richness of the Hindi language through her radio show continues to inspire and entertain listeners, making her a cherished figure in the Hindvani community.
She has also received numerous awards and certificates for her outstanding achievements.

TYNE van Achterbergh, a Grade 11 learner, recently represented South Africa at the Lifesaving World Championships in Australia.
He participated in multiple events, including boards, surf swim, oceanman, ski, tube rescue, and ocean relay.
Competing against athletes from 16 countries, Tyne finished second in the World Juniors for surf swim. In other events, he placed 4th in boards, 8th in oceanman, 13th in ski, and for team events; 4th in tube rescue and 4th in ocean relay.
This was the 17-year-old’s third international appearance.
Tyne said it was an amazing experience and eye-opener to see what the world has to offer.
“The competition I faced was not as expected, as they were really well prepared. I’m excited about my surf-swim result, and although I might not have achieved the results I wanted for other competitions, I am happy. It was also an honour to once again proudly wear the green and gold badge of my country, with an amazing support system behind me,” he said.
He also took part in World Clubs for Scottburgh Lifesaving Club, where he made it to the finals for surf swim. He finished 19th in the Club Junior category against 99 U19 competitors.

JANCO Barnard, a Grade 12 learner and dedicated rugby player, has been selected for the South African invitational sevens team that will compete in Dubai between November 27 and December 4.
In a statement, the school said it was proud of him for this excellent achievement.

SBONGILE Mhlongo, a Grade 9 learner, was recently named player of the tournament at a chess tournament held at Adams College. The games featured schools from the Umbumbulu Circuit and Sbongile was chosen to represent the circuit in the Umlazi District Chess Tournament after being named the best U15 girls’ player.
Sbongile also received a certificate of excellence in life orientation at her school’s awards for term two best achievers.

ZAHNRÉ de Beer, a Grade 11 learner, has made the U18 girls KZN Duikers rugby team. The school congratulated her on this achievement.
Although the school does not have a girls’ rugby team, it sometimes hosts friendlies. Last year, Zahnré scored tries in the first two matches played against Creston College. The first game ended in a 5-5 draw, and the second saw Kuswag win 17-0.

GRADE 8 learner, Mpilwenhle Ngubane, played in a chess tournament for high schools which was held at Adams College, and was named best player in the U15 category for boys. As a result, he has been chosen to represent the circuit in the district championships to be held in Umlazi later this month.
Mpilwenhle also takes his studies seriously. In his school’s awards ceremony for best achievers for term two, he received certificates of excellence in natural sciences, mathematics, and economic management sciences.