Mother Africa’s Magical Talent Show
– Hanelie Van Der Spuy
The vibrant celebration of unity through diversity unfolded on the stage in a spectacular play called Mother Africa’s Magical Talent Show. This captivating production brought together various cultures, each contributing to a true showcase of talent and togetherness. The performance was a testament to the richness and beauty found in the differences among cultures. The stage was set for a captivating showdown in front of the honoured big five, as the judges, with each culture trying to prove their uniqueness and excellence.
As the play, Mother Africa’s Magical Talent Show, progressed, it became evident that the true winner was not a single culture but the unity that emerged from everyone together. In a surprising and heart-warming twist, the big five declared that every culture was a winner. This moment of recognition symbolized the value and perfection within each culture, emphasizing the idea that diversity is not a competition but a joint strength.
The success of Mother Africa’s Magical Talent Show was magnified by the enthusiastic performances of the grade 1, 2, and 3 students. Their commitment and hard work were on full display, from the early days of learning the first dance, Umoja, the spirit of togetherness, to the final magical performance on stage.
The games room, transformed into a vibrant space that echoed with cheers, applause, and the pride of parents, family members, and friends. The joyful atmosphere was further enriched by the presence of guests from The Cavern adding an extra layer of value to the play.
The children’s dedication to mastering their dances and lines was truly commendable, shown in every practice session leading up to the grand performance. The play served not only as a platform for showcasing cultural diversity but also as a powerful example of what can be achieved when individuals come together with a shared goal.
Both evenings of Mother Africa’s Magical Talent Show were nothing short of fantastic, leaving a lasting impression on everyone. The play’s message of acceptance and appreciation for all cultures lingered in the hearts of the audience, fostering a sense of pride and belonging that extended far beyond the final song and dance where everyone in the audience joined in for “shake it off”.
“And so, we end our play tonight with the understanding that we are all unique but share the same land and dreams in our Mother Africa’s embrace!”
The Grade 3s took on the mountains
– Cait Gordon
From the day the Grade 3s see the previous class returning from the epic 2-night adventure, the children look forward to this hike. It is an adventure into the mountains and they do wonder what will be in store for them!
The first day begins with learning all about packing a hiking bag, talking about only packing the essentials as it’s a long way to carry unnecessary items. We learnt about rations and divided all the food up. To the amazement of the adults the children kept coming back for more and more and we wondered about the heavy bags and little children making it up the mountain.
We began the steep hike all the way to Cannibal Cavern, not so far in kilometres but a challenge none the less. Heavy bags and tired legs as we approached our lunch time stop to refuel, enjoying some fresh cold stream water. Tummies full and excitement regained, we continue our journey to the cave with the words “just one step at a time” motivating those struggling. This showed a wonderful team spirit amongst the class and we made it to the cave to the welcome cheers of those who arrived before us and some very helpful boys taking the bags from their classmates to lighten the load.
We enjoyed an afternoon of exploring before enjoying the natural shower to cool and wash after the long day. The children prepared and cooked their own delicious stew and noodles, which was a first-time experience for many of them. The chatter in the cave recounted how they were going to cook this for everyone when they got home.
Day 2 began by being woken up by the birds and the rising sun lighting up the cave. We all enjoyed a warm beverage before a short hike to the viewpoint where we hoped to see the Tugela Falls, but unfortunately the mist did not lift. We looked over the AmaZizi village and down to the school reminding ourselves of our achievement.
After a quick breakfast and packing up our beds we headed along the Eland contour, we were lucky enough to spot an Eland across the valley, as we made our way to Lone Rock to look at some rock paintings and to learn some more about them, thanks to Tikes and Sandile. We continued our hike down the mountain watching the cave get smaller and smaller and then arrived at Cowslip Falls Dam where were to set up camp for the night.
After a quick cool off swim in the dam and some chicken and noodles for lunch we learnt how to put up a tent and proceeded to put up our own tents and get settled in before helping prepare the dinner of wors rolls. We spent the evening roasting marshmallows talking about the highs and the lows of the camp as the second day came to an end.
Day 3 began with some light drizzle that luckily let up and turned into a beautiful last day for us to pack up and prepare ourselves for the return. We took a slow walk back to school where we were welcomed home by all the other Grades and teachers
A huge thanks to Tikes from Farm Adventures, The Cavern for the lovely food and extremely helpful and knowledgeable guides.
An experience that each and every child will remember for the rest of their lives!
An insight into our Learning Support Programme
– Mplio Sibiya
At Royal Drakensberg Primary School, we believe in fostering an inclusive environment where every child’s unique journey towards growth and learning is celebrated. Our learning support programme stands as a testament to this commitment, providing invaluable assistance to students in their educational journey.
At grade 1-3 level, learning support aims to assist children who may require extra help in specific subjects or areas of development. This program covers individual attention, targeted skill development, enhanced confidence, multi-sensory learning approaches and building independence. It provides a supportive environment where children feel safe and comfortable asking questions, seeking clarification, and expressing their challenges without fear of judgement.
This programme goes beyond traditional learning methods, embracing diverse approaches that cater to their individual needs. We understand that every child learns at their own pace and in different settings. Our main aim is not just to assist but to empower, identifying the specific areas where a child requires guidance while nurturing their characteristic strengths. Through this support system, we witness remarkable progress in our students.
It’s incredible to observe how, within the realm of play and exploration, children learn and flourish. We embrace this holistic approach that allows kids to discover, experiment, and engage in activities that stimulate their curiosity and creativity. Together, let’s continue to foster an environment where every child feels supported, empowered, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Looking forward to the last Big5Hike
– Idah Radebe
I am a lady from a rural community in the foothills of the Drakensberg mountain who is a teacher at Royal Drakensberg Primary School. I grew up reveling in the beauty of the majestic mountains, not knowing that one day I will have the opportunity to conquer them. I have been working here since the very beginning. Learners from the community would use the Cavern staff truck to come to school two times a week, on a Tuesday and Thursday. We would then go through our school day at the Cavern play room whilst waiting for the numbers to grow before we moved down, to our now school campus, which was just a shed for Mkhulu Peter’s cattle. I have been privileged to watch this little school of ours grow as the years go by. Through the generous donations of our many global friends we have been able to provide the children with quality education that nurtures and supports them to reach their full potential.
I am a mother of four children and two grandchildren. My last two children had their strong foundation from our school as well both my grandchildren. I remember when my second to last child said to me, he really appreciates the strong foundation that he had from Royal Drak without it he would not make it through grade 11 at New Horizon School. I would also say without the RDPS my last born and my grandchild will not be the best academic achievers at their new school. Our school, though small, runs a non-profit project that serves 18 creches in the community supporting most of the needs of the children. We host workshops to help the Khanyisela teachers to be the best that they can, we provide porridge and maintenance to the creches.
I have also been pushed in many ways to reach my own potential. I am now a seasoned Big Fiver and the last and final one will be my 6th walk. Each and every time I partake, I am reminded of how much of a difference I am making in my learners’ lives by walking for their education. Which is why I aim to raise a lot more money next year to help the community children get a solid educational start. This will help prepare them to thrive in their school career.
Visit the school website and join me in securing the future of the children of AmaZizi by sponsoring my ultimate walk. My wish is to raise one million rand between myself and a few old Royal Drak children to ensure that this school of ours and its projects continue into to the future.
The Little Donkey Nativity Play
– Melanie Van Zyl
In the enchanting world of preschool wonders and holiday cheer, our little stars took centre stage on November 30th, weaving a tapestry of joy and excitement with their annual Nativity play. Amidst the twinkling lights and festive decorations, the preschool buzzed with anticipation, though a mischievous tummy bug added an unexpected twist to the tale. From nervous jitters to triumphant moments, our young performers had stories to share, each contributing a unique chapter to the magical night.
Some of our little people reminisced about the play afterwards and this is what some of them had to say:
Alondwe (Mary): My favourite part of the play was our dance. I was a little bit nervous but excited.
Zano (Child): I felt a little bit sad when I couldn’t find my mom in the audience, but when I saw her, I was very happy.
Mongezi (sheep): I am very happy and proud of myself because I spoke very loud and clear.
Ziyanda (child): I loved the dance and remembered all my moves.
Fanele (Shepherd): I had to say my friend’s lines because she was absent. I was so nervous I almost peed in my pants.
Hhelo (child): I liked the food that we got from the Cavern before the play.
Lwazi (Joseph): I was very nervous because there were so many people and I was scared they would laugh at me.
Thato (sheep): I liked the dance the most.
Mpume (chicken): I was happy that my grandma could come. My tummy started to ache and my skirt was a little bit too tight. But my tummy started to feel better after I said my first line.
Lubanzi M (Angel): I was very excited and I spoke very loudly and my mom heard my lines.
As the magical chapter of our delightful Nativity play comes to a close, the echoes of laughter, nervous giggles, and heart-warming tales linger in the air. Our young talents embraced the spotlight with courage, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of over 100 captivated spectators. The teachers stand in awe of these tiny stars, each shining brightly in their own way. The joy, resilience, and sheer delight displayed on that stage reaffirms the magic of childhood and the spirit of the season. Here’s to our little performers, who, like twinkling stars, illuminated the night with their enthusiasm. Until next year’s enchanting performance, may the memories of this Nativity play warm our hearts and fuel our festive spirits.
The Little Donkey
Teacher Corner with Noluthando Zondo
– Michelle Brooks
Miss Thando joined us as an intern this year as part of the N3TC sponsorship programme, allowing teaching students from the local community to gain some experience and insights at our school. After a year, they move back into a school in their community using all they have learnt to help schools in our AmaZizi village.
We spent some time getting to know her and these are some of her insights.
What is your favourite song?
My favourite song is Oceans (where feet may fail)
If you could take a trip anywhere, where would it be and why?
I would take a trip to Mozambique because I originate there and I haven’t been there and I would love to go and see their culture and how they do things.
What is your favourite food?
My favourite food is pizza
What superpower would you choose to have and why?
Time manipulation would be the superpower. I mostly feel under pressure and I wish I can do things differently or earlier and I run late sometimes. This super power would allow me to pause and play!
What inspired you to study teaching?
When I was younger, I always wanted to be a teacher because that was something I saw almost every day. I used to teach my neighbour’s kids and imitate what my teachers used to say at school.
Final Word
The year ends on the ultimate high at Royal Drakensberg Primary School! While we look forward to summiting the five peaks for the final Big Five Hike, we are also excited about climbing another peak. The grade 4, intermediate challenge. Happy to keep our children for another year, our teachers have already risen to the occasion. Academic and operational preparations are well underway yet the real question begs, “Are you ever truly ready?”
The answer to that question is a resounding yes! Not because we have ticked all the boxes but because we have all the right people, in their rightful spaces, with the right attitude. This will forever be our winning formula, the correct blend of human resources equipped with a higher purpose, to serve!
Thank you for being in partnership with us for yet another year and allowing yourself to be a vessel in the divine work of shaping the future!
Happy Holidays,
Thobani, Megan & Loretta
