Latest News
By | 24 Aug 2010
Dear WGJS Family
Term 3 has already been overflowing with excitement and tremendous achievements.
Our girls performed incredibly at the Orchestra Eistedfodd and achieved an ‘A+' (85%-90%) Congratulations to all our excellent young musicians.
Thank you to the teachers involved and all the parents that came to support us!
Well done to the girls who played in the ABRSM violin examinations. Although we are still awaiting the results, all the girls played well and it was a very enjoyable experience.
There is an obvious desire to win. This desire does not simply magically appear. It needs to be cultivated, nurtured and become the driving force in the hearts of each Wynberg Girl. This passion is what leads our girls to achieve.
"The starting point of all accomplishments is desire. Keep this in mind: feeble desires bring feeble results just as a small amount of fire makes a small amount of heat.''
I challenge each girl to strive for her personal best in the current test and assessment series.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
The events of the past few days regarding the strike have once again highlighted that as a staff at WGJS, we strive to ensure the safety of each and every girl. This becomes extremely difficult if not impossible when all and sundry have access before school and after school to enter the school premises. My request is that only learners enter the premises and proceed, unattended, to their classes. Should a parent need to proceed to the office then they are to collect a visitors badge from the security at the gate. I thank you for your support in this necessary safety precaution.
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE TEAM - Miss Whitfield
Our General Knowledge team came FIRST when they competed against four other schools on Friday afternoon. Congratulations to Grace Brain, Ashleigh Thompson, Amy Tayler, Paige Buxey, Beth Petersen and Saabira Swart.
ACHIEVEMENTS
Saleehah Domingo, a Grade 7 learner, has been selected to participate at the SA Karate Championships in Durban next month. We wish her well.
REPORT COLLECTION
Parents are requested to diarise Tuesday 21 September to collect their daughters' school reports.
Reports may be collected from the Vera Lawton Hall between 15h00 and 19h00 on Tuesday 21 September 2010. Reports are confidential documents addressed to parents and as such, will only be handed to parents.
Should a parent wish to arrange an appointment with their child's teacher, then they are requested to contact the teacher and set up a suitable appointment time.
The school bursars will also be available on that evening to discuss arrear accounts and accept any payments or payment plans should your account not be up to date. Please contact Mrs Yardin or Mrs Korck should you wish to discuss your school account prior to this evening.
SCHOOL MAGAZINE
Mrs Laubscher and her team are already hard at work on this project in between all their other activities. We thank our Magazine Team for their hard work and diligence Everyone looks forward to this annual publication.
Should you wish to advertise in the 2010 magazine, kindly send your contribution in jpeg format to jullau@wgjs.co.za
Should you wish to advertise, the costs are as follows:
Business Card - R200-00
Quarter page - R300-00
Half Page - R500-00 (B&W) R 650-00 (Colour)
Full Page - R800-00 (B&W) R1 200-00 (Colour)
Sponsorship costs:
Full page - R100.00 Half page - R50.00
Advertisements must be sent and paid for in full by 8th October.
EARLY LEAVING REQUESTS
Numerous requests are received on a daily basis for children to leave school early or take time off for holidays.
This request will only be accepted in cases of emergency or for unavoidable medical appointments. We cannot sanction time taken off for holidays and can only note parents requests for such.
No additional work will be provided by teachers for children taking time off for holidays. It remains the duty of the parents to catch up on missed teaching and learning.
To ensure the safety of learners, children may only be collected by their parents or by a third party with written consent from parents, during school hours.
MUSIC DEPARTMENT - Miss Leonard
WHAT? The movie, Grease
WHERE? School Hall
WHEN? This Friday, 27 August, 13h30 - 16h00
TICKETS @ R25 each - includes a burger and cooldrink, only available until THURSDAY!
There will be an orchestra rehearsal after the movie on Friday, 16h00 - 18h00 in preparation for the Orchestra and Choir Festival on the 9th of September. Please note that tickets for this concert will only be available at the door.
NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY - Mrs Baerecke
Ashleigh Thompson, Grace Brain, Saabira Swart and Franquay Adamo took part in the regular quarterly "Inter Schools Literature Quiz", hosted by Micklefield. There were 19 teams participating and our girls were placed 2nd. Grove won by a very narrow margin! Congratulations to our young ladies, who each won a new book, kindly donated by Exclusive Books.
Each Grade 3 to 7 learner is currently completing the task of making a "Matchbox Book" in her library lesson. Inside the box is the illustrated story of any children's classic. All Grade 4 to 7 girls are currently doing their unprepared reading, as well as ensuring that they read the required number of classics by 10 September, as indicated at the start of this term.
Many new fiction books are being processed and will be put on the shelves during the next 3 weeks. The titles will be displayed on the noticed board in the Library. Should you wish to donate one of these books, kindly notify me.
Finally, all "Readathon" forms and money should have been handed in by last Friday. Should your daughter still have hers at home PLEASE send it to school TOMORROW. It is imperative that ALL forms are returned. The names of the girls who were winners of any of the "Readathon" competitions will be displayed on the special mention notice board at the entrance to the office area.
"A library is a hospital for the mind." (Anonymous)
MY SCHOOL / MAKRO CARDS
A reminder to please swipe your MySchool and Makro cards. This is an income generating tool which requires little effort with big benefits for the school.
FUN RUN DAY - Saturday 30 October 2010
COMING SOON: Very important information about this wonderful event. This is certainly a date to diarise as a day of fun for the whole family.
GETAHEAD EDUCATION SOFTWARE
Evalunet, one of South Africa's premier developers of educational software and producers of GetAhead, has negotiated a special deal with our school.
Buy this year's grade and get next year's grade FREE!!!
On the 16 August 2010 our school launched the Getahead School Project.
Your child will also stand a chance to win an Apple iPod, as well as software for the rest of her school career!
GetAhead will benefit your daughter by.....
- - Developing a greater interest and insight in schoolwork;
- - Improving thinking and concentration skills;
- - Helping to revise schoolwork at her own pace
GetAhead is proudly South African, curriculum based and therefore RELEVANT to our learners.
Evalunet will be making a generous cash donation to our school based on the number of GetAhead products ordered. We encourage you to seriously consider this project in the interest of our school, but more importantly, in the interest of your child's education.
www.getahead.co.za
CHALLENGE FOR THE WEEK:
If someone were to pay you R10 for each kind word you spoke and collect R5 for each unkind word, would you be rich or poor?
Yours sincerely
D E CAWCUTT (MRS)
PRINCIPAL
By | 11 Aug 2010
Dear WGJS Family
WWW - Wonderful Women of Wynberg
August is Women's month.
We certainly have the most Wonderful Women at Wynberg Girls' Junior School.
We can all learn skills and information but people who really influence our lives and shape our futures are often the unsung hero's. Who is your role model?
Each parent has the huge task of setting a good example and being a good role model. It certainly gets one thinking about the responsibility we as parents and particularly mothers, have in shaping the type of lady we wish our daughters to grow up to be.
Are we currently educating the next president of SA, the future millionaires and businesswomen of the future at WGJS?
I encourage each one of you to discuss this aspect with your daughters and share with them women who may have influenced your lives positively. Take time too, to thank these special people.
WGJS staff members share their role models - mothers feature highly, aunts, dads, grans and fellow staff members:
Aunty Kate: She lived life to the full - a strong woman, fixing cars during the war, taking part in everything possible, giving generously of her time and huge, tight bear hugs;
My dad taught me to be independent and to do things for myself. Also taught me to always strive for excellence;
My mom: always willing to help others, she's a great mom, friend and person.
My mom: for her strength and perseverance through adversities.
My friend: she is a young mother, scientist and currently studying for her masters. She has strong moral values and wisdom. She sacrifices things in order to help others. I aspire to be like her
Mrs Baerecke: I want to be like her when I grow up. She is a lady who handles what life throws at her with grace and integrity. She is such a positive force, her enthusiasm, encouragement and kindness make her one in a million.
Are you a role model? Perhaps today is the day to ensure that you too can be honoured for your values, integrity and enthusiasm to LIVE life to the full and leave a legacy.
Achievements
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Louise Emkie, a member of our maintenance team, on passing matric. We are proud of you!
Nikita Dellis, Chloe Scholtz, Courtney Cottle performing in The Spiders Web at the Cape Town International Convention Centre later this month. Michaila Goliath is currently away as she participating in an Ice Skating competition. We trust they will all enjoy this experience.
Young Entrepreneurs Finals
We wish to congratulate our Young Entrepreneurs for 2010. The Grade 6 finalists are: Lisa Wiener, Emily Suttle, Abigail Sivertsen, Nicole Jutzen, Verushka Snyders, Lisa Veldsman, Nina du Plessis. In third place, Satara Lumb, second place, Megan Mulholland and first place, Abigail Kempster. The grade 7 finalists are: Melissa Guthrie, Nuraan Nicholas, Nazeera Loonat, Kirsten Hilario, Caitlin Cairns and Caitlin Hurry. In joint third place, Franquay Adamo and Melissa Van der Westhuizen, second place, Grace Brain and first place, Tasneem Rawoot. Well done ladies, your presentations were of an exceptionally high standard.
Music Department - Miss Leonard
Did you know?
- High school music students have been shown to hold higher grade point averages than non-musicians in the same classes.
- Playing a musical instrument has cognitive benefits. A Stanford study has found that musical training improves how the brain processes spoken word - this could lead to improving the reading ability of children who have dyslexia and other reading problems. (www.supportmusic.com)
Our orchestra will be participating in the Eisteddfod on Friday, 13th August. The Eisteddfod takes place at Rondebosch Boys Preparatory School. Good luck to Miss Galliers and the girls, and thank you for all the time you've put into the preparation for this event.
On the 19th of August, six of our violinists are taking part in the ABRSM violin examinations. Good luck to Lisa Stephens, Nirvana de Villiers, Razaana Manuel, Rebecca Bredenkamp, Megan Eastman and Paige Buxey.
My School Card
A request to parents to remember to swipe their cards. Should you not have a myschool card, please collect an application form or apply online.
Similarly, a Makro card is also available. If linked to WGJS, we receive a percentage of the purchase amount.
Money Matters
Many parents are not familiar with the South African Schools Act and their liability to pay school fees. We would like to bring your attention to the following:
- a. In terms of Section 39 of the South African Schools Act, parents are liable to pay compulsory school fees.
- b. In terms of Section 40 and 41 of the South African Schools Act, the school may enforce the payment of these compulsory fees.
- c. In terms of family law, parents are jointly and severally liable for the payment of the school fees irrespective of their marital status.
- d. In the event of non payment of school fees the school will institute legal action against both parents irrespective of maintenance and court orders which may exist between the parties.
- e. Parents who are unable to pay school fees may apply for the exemption of these fees. These exemptions are not funded by the Government, but rather by the paying parents.
- f. This is a statutory requirement and thus this debt is a priority debt and must be paid before any other debt.
- g. All other debts list are contractual debts and thus the criteria of indebtedness in terms of Section 86 the National Credit Act is applicable to those debts and those debts may be restructured.
- h. This debt may not be referred to a debt counsellor
Taken from "Arista Training - A to Z of School Fees"
Thank you to all the parents who ensure that their school fee accounts are kept up to date. Should any parent experience financial difficulty regarding school fees they are urged to communicate this to the finance office.
News from the Library - Mrs Baerecke
During "Readathon Week", various competitions were held. The winners of the daily "Mystery Competitions" were Beth Petersen 7B; Emily Suttle 6B; Tai-Li Lee 4B; Haanim Samaai 3F and Mia Sim 1B. They each received a brand new book, as did the 3 winners of the "Wish for a book" event - Mrs Makinson, Sabrina Otto 2M and Danielle Martin 6R. The winners of the Grade 1 and 2 colouring-in competitions will be announced during the week.
Please note that ALL forms and sponsor money must be handed in by 20 August at the latest.
"When I discovered libraries, it was like having Christmas every day!" (Jean Fritz)
Readathon Week was such a fun week. Many thanks to all the moms, dads and grannies for helping the girls dress up in colourful crafty costumes. Thank you, Mrs Baerecke for organising this very successful event.
Safety
We wish to ensure that our children remain safe and secure and are pleased that our girls are not waiting or wandering around the playground after closing time.
During this past week we had an unpleasant incident where an unknown lady entered the school building and simply walked off with one of our girl's bags. With this in mind, we request all visitors to the school to report to the front office for a visitors badge. In this way we can hopefully provide a safer school.
In closing, we would like to wish all our Muslim families well over the fast.
Yours sincerely
D E CAWCUTT (MRS)
PRINCIPAL
By | 28 Jul 2010
Dear WGJS Family
"Your attitude determines your altitude." This wise saying is nothing new. Sadly however, we often forget to adopt the correct attitude to all our activities, events and daily challenges.
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Orchestra Eisteddfod
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Friday
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13 August
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18:00
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RBPS
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R10 (for parents, participants free)
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Music Movie afternoon
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Friday
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27 August
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13:30
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WGJS
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R25 (available from 16 August)
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Music Rehearsal day
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Saturday
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28 August
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08:00
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WGJS
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-
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Orchestra & Choir Festival
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Thursday
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9 September
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19:00
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WGJS
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R25
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- Sat 31/7 "Tantalising Tales" (6 - 8 years) by Sally Boulle: 11h00
- Sat 31/7 "Book Boggling Quiz" (8 - 10 years): 15h30
- Sun 1/8 "Book Boggling Quiz" (9 - 12 years): 16h00
Bursar's Office
It has come to our attention that a number of parents are sending cash to school with their children for various reasons and are not enclosing it in envelopes.
We request that ALL monies sent to school are placed in a clearly marked, sealed envelope. Please include your daughter's name, class and purpose for payment on the envelope. This is to ensure that money sent does not go missing between home and the bursar's office as well as to ensure the safety of the learners. These envelopes are then to go to your daughter's class educator at the start of the school day and will be collected from the class by the Finance Office daily.
Should you need to send money for various reasons on a particular day, please enclose the correct monies in individual envelopes, as not all monies are receipted by the Finance Office and need to be distributed between various outside service providers and extra-mural educators.
Please note that under no circumstances do we give change.
Parenting 911 - Ken Resnick
No doubt all parents remember the sleepless nights when their babies with teething, suffering from colic or other midnight worries. As children grow, other challenges face us as parents. How do we deal with a child who does not have a good attitude, how can we get our children to participate in household chores, keep their rooms tidy, and countless other challenges?
WE CAN LEARN FROM THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN THERE AND DONE IT.
All our parents are invited and encouraged to attend a Parenting course by Ken Resnick on 4th August at Wynberg Boys' Junior School from 18h30 - 21h30. His parenting course is being discounted from R1500 to R100 for a three hour session.
He presents an enjoyable evening with excellent easy strategies to make aspects of parenting less of a fight and more of a pleasure.
The talk is for parents of children from Grade R to Grade 4. A number of tickets are still available, and we encourage you to attend this very informative presentation. Please send payment in a clearly marked, sealed envelope to our Finance Office to secure your seat.
Parenting Evening - St Joseph Marist
‘Kids and TV' is the topic to be addressed on Thursday 29th July at St Joseph Marist, Belmont Road, Rondebosch. Time: 19h30- 21h30. The cost is R20.00 per person. For more information, please contact 021 685 6715.
Music evening at WBHS
Congratulations to our awesome choir, and fantastic music teachers. The performance at the annual Campus Music Festival was truly wonderful. Well done!
DATES TO REMEMBER:
August 2 Young Entrepreneurs Finalist Awards
6 Grade 6 Cake Sale
9 National Women's Day
Thought for the week:
Do not judge a book by its cover.
Best wishes
D E Cawcutt (Mrs)
PRINCIPAL
By | 13 Jul 2010
Dear WGJS Family
Wow - what an amazing 5 weeks we have experienced in our country. One could not help getting swept up in soccer fever through the unity displayed by the flying of flags, cheering and even the sound of vuvuzela's. It certainly made me proud to be a South African.
Similarly, I feel extremely privileged to have the opportunity to take on the leadership at Wynberg Girls' Junior School. On my first walk through the corridors it was wonderful to see the many exhibits and art works in support of the World Cup on display. This attests to the amazing skills and talents that are being refined at our school.
The history of our school has laid the foundation for excellent achievement: academically, culturally and on the sports field. There are many events planned for this term. I encourage each parent to be part of their child's education and look forward to meeting you at these functions. I also wish to encourage each girl to strive for personal excellence and so make you and us proud.
A special "welcome back" all our teachers and a big thank you to our cleaning and maintenance staff for ensuring that the school is clean and tidy for our return.
It was with shock and sadness that we mourn the passing of Mr Ron Condie, husband of Mrs Wendy Condie on 30 June. I am sure that you all join me in offering our deepest sympathies to her and her family.
We also extend our condolences to the Mrs Kassen and Jarita on the death of their husband and father, Mr Rajin Cassen.
May God's presence surround them and our prayers and thoughts comfort them at this sad time.
Safety
It is vital that no girls remain on the school grounds after closing at the end of the school day. Only learners participating in scheduled activities may remain at school. All other girls must be collected within 30 minutes of closing or alternatively attend Aftercare. Should any parent have an emergency whereby they are unable to fetch their daughter timeously, they are requested to contact the school office on that day. No girl may wait for a sibling or lift club unless by pre-arrangement in cases of emergency.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
July 13 Extra-murals begin
26 - 30 Readathon week
In Conclusion
An education at Wynberg Girls' Junior School is a gift. I trust we will continue to unpack this gift carefully and treat it with the respect our wonderful school deserves.
Wishing you a great week.
TODAY'S QUOTE
People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care -
John Maxwell
Kind regards
Mrs Dee Cawcutt
PRINCIPAL
By | 08 Jun 2010
Dear WGJS Family
There have been a number of events this term that have been cause for immense pride in our school.
The soccer day was a great occasion for all who attended and I must thank all those involved in a successful day.
The new winter sports uniforms saw our girls looking smarter and more professional than any other school. The girls wore their uniforms with so much pride, it was a joy to watch.
The Prestige Concert was a highlight that at times, gave me goose bumps. Our girls achieved very well in the various music eisteddfods. These included the choir eisteddfod where our girls achieved 90 - 100% and 80 - 90% and several girls achieved the highest marks in their particular music categories over the term. Sonja Stock achieved 92% in her Unisa exams last week, which is a major achievement as she will be added to the Unisa Roll of Honour. The clarinet choir achieved a diploma at their eisteddfod (90 - 100%). Well done girls!
Our general knowledge team won the first interschools' event of the year. Some of the girls involved in the team were the same girls who came second in South Africa in the "Kids Lit Quiz".
On the sporting front, Lauren Jonathan made it into the Western Province netball training squad. Lauren, Jamie Southgate and Tasneem Rawoot made the Zonal B Hockey team, while Nicole Hendricks made the A team. Emily Suttle and Saleehah Domingo made the Western Province Gymnastics team and went on tour to Oudtshoorn. We are proud of all these girls.
As I have read and signed all the academic reports this last week, it was interesting to note how many of the girls were commended for their positive approach to academics and how much they have improved over this term.
There are so many other girls who have achieved in and outside of school.
Well done to all of you. We are proud of every Wynberg girl.
PA/Fundraisers And Events Co-Ordinators - Lyn Makinson
Well done to everyone who took part in our "Two Thousand and Ten Global Cup of Soccer" and what an awesome final match between Denmark and Spain, with Denmark taking home the coveted trophy with a victorious 1 - 0 win. We could see that all the girls and their parents thoroughly enjoyed themselves on a truly beautiful morning in true South African style, with plenty of cheering and with the odd vuvuzela being blown. To everyone who was involved in ensuring that the day was a great success - THANK YOU for your time, effort and enthusiasm. We look forward to our last fundraiser of the year, our Fun Run/Walk which takes place at the beginning of the 4th term.
Flowers - Miss Weston
Thank you very much to the parents who provided flowers for 'The Prestige Concert' on Thursday. We are also very grateful to Giulietta Harrison for her beautiful flower arranging.
News from the Library - Mrs Baerecke
Next term is our very exciting READATHON 2010 (26 - 30 July). The theme this year is "Children's Classics", (eg Oliver Twist, Wind in the Willows, Heidi, all Fairy Tales, Alice in Wonderland, Secret Garden etc) so put on your thinking caps! A list of titles to help you is on the notice board outside the library. Fancy Dress Day is on Friday 30 July. A detailed letter and the sponsorship form will be handed out on the first day of school. During the holidays, please secure at least 5 sponsors for the "Big Read", which will take place on Friday 30 July.
The "FAMILY READING CHALLENGE" will be held on Thursday 12 August.
As a family, experience the joy and fun of reading together - and then join us for a quiz evening based on the book list. Teams will answers the questions by writing down the answers after they have discussed them as a team.
Throughout the evening there will be spot questions with prizes - aimed at the younger children to keep them involved. This is a fun evening to get together with other reading families and learn
more about the books and authors on the list and challenge your memories too! Your team may have up to 6 people and the cost is R30 per family. Should you be interested, contact Mrs Baerecke in the Library for further details.
"There is no substitute for books in the life of a child". (Mary Ellen Chase, 1952)
DATES TO REMEMBER:
June 9 School closes at 11h30
July 13 School opens
Extra-murals begin
26 - 30 Readathon week
IN CONCLUSION
There is a concern that the girls who are left to fend for themselves on the school grounds after school hours are in a vulnerable position both physically and socially. Some of these girls are left until after 18h00 each day. Although there are only a few girls, the Governing Body feels that in the interest of the wellbeing of the girls, we must insist that arrangements are made for all girls to be collected at least half an hour after their school day or extra-mural ends. As from next term, any girl not collected on time will be escorted to the aftercare, where they can be cared for. There will be an aftercare charge of R50 levied for each occurrence. I am sure that as parents you will support the Governing Body's decisions around caring for our girls.
Thank you to all the Wynberg families for all the support and the hard work throughout the term. We look forward to Mrs. Cawcutt's arrival next term and all that lies ahead for Wynberg in the second half of the year.
If you are lucky enough to be able to enjoy some time off with your families may it be a time of joy and good memories. If not, please ensure that your girls are well cared for in a structured and caring environment.
Best wishes
SR PAYNE
ACTING PRINCIPAL
By | 25 May 2010
Dear WGJS Family
Can you believe it? There are just 4 days to go until the big soccer tournament. No, not the FIFA World Cup, but the WYNBERG GIRLS TWO THOUSAND AND TEN GLOBAL CUP OF SOCCER. This event is one of our main FUN - raisers for this year. It is a day for the Wynberg family to spend time together and to enjoy each others company. It promises to be a day filled with fun and excitement for the whole family. Whether you are personally involved in the actual games or not, come along and enjoy the atmosphere and the entertainment.
A lot of planning has been invested in this event and I wish to thank the class reps and the PTA committee in advance for their efforts. This is a family day and we encourage you to attend as a family. Please don't leave your daughters unattended.
The raffle attached to the soccer day is an exciting one, with a large number of prizes. The grand prize is the weekend away, but the most coveted prize has to be the Build A Bear dressed in beautifully made Wynberg Winter Sports Uniform complete with a hockey stick. The complete list of prizes will be displayed on Saturday.
EARLY CLOSING
Due to staff planning, school will close at 13h00 on the 7th and 8th of June. School will close at 11h30 on the Wednesday. Please make arrangements for the care of your daughters on these afternoons.
FAMILY MATTERS
It was with great sadness that we heard of the passing of one of our parents on Sunday the 16th of May. Riaan Volschenk leaves his wife Jenny, his son Liam, and his daughter Anja. Our condolences to the Volschenk family and we, the Wynberg family promise to support you in any way we can.
CLOTHING SHOP - Mrs Law
The larger sizes of the WINTER SPORTS UNIFORM as well as all sizes of the Brown Opaque Tights are back in stock.
Please note that the Clothing Shop will not be open on Saturday 5th June.
PA/FUNDRAISERS AND EVENTS CO-ORDINATORS - Lyn Makinson
GLOBAL CUP OF SOCCER - Saturday 29 May
To everyone who will be taking part in our very own "Two Thousand and Ten Global Cup of Soccer" - Thank YOU and we look forward to your company on Saturday. You will receive notification today, via child mail, as to which team you have been allocated, please look out for this very important piece of information. This letter will also give you a brief run-down of who else is in your team and your team colours. If you have any queries, please direct these to Lyn Makinson at lmakinson@wgjs.wcape.school.za. A reminder that all your pre-order breakfast and lunch orders need to be returned to school by tomorrow to ensure that we cater correctly. Saturday is all about having FUN, so be sure to get all your family members to join you in cheering for your team and enjoy the day with us and have FUN, FUN, FUN!!
RAFFLE
We wish to extend a BIG Thank You to our main sponsor, CAPE NATURE,- for donating a 2 night stay for a family of 4 people at Groenvlei Bushcamp. Visit them at www.capenature.co.za for further details of any other venues that they have on offer. Be sure to get those raffle sheets in as the draw for this magical weekend away and many more wonderful prizes will take place on the last day of school.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
May
26 - 28 Grade 5 Camp
28 Extra Murals end
June
3 Prestige music concert
7 - 9 Early closing
9 Term ends
IN CONCLUSION
I publicly wish to thank all the educators at Wynberg Girls' Junior School for all their hard work and the professional attitude with which they approach the education of our girls. I am regularly blown away by the care and emotional energy that the teachers expend on their day to day tasks.
These educators are called to be teachers and learners, nurses, sports coaches, counsellors, parents and friends. Each year we seem to expect more of them and time after time they rise to the occasion. Just this weekend there were four separate events voluntarily attended by various members of staff and I know that 35 of them have volunteered to play soccer on Saturday.
Thank you to the many parents who go out of their way to express gratitude for what these educators do. Your encouragement goes a long way to energise and inspire these people who find themselves on the coalface of education.
What encourages an educator more than anything else is when the girls show a desire to learn and the educator can see them grow, whether it is in sport, academics or emotionally.
As we work together to provide the best education possible for your daughters, please assist us by encouraging your daughters to get involved and to take responsibility for their part in their education.
All the best to the Grade 5 girls and their educators as they venture off on camp tomorrow.
Best wishes
SR PAYNE
ACTING PRINCIPAL
By | 11 May 2010
Dear WGJS Family
What cold and miserable weather we are experiencing. Fortunately it is only the weather that is depressing. Spending each day with your girls is a joy to the staff and the volunteers involved in the school.
We are very proud of the generous Wynberg spirit which has yet again been demonstrated in the last couple of weeks. Wynberg families donated well over 1000 books to help furnish libraries in less fortunate schools. Since last week the school's foyer has been covered each morning with bags of clothes collected for Hospice. Thank you for your generosity shown toward others and the values you are teaching your daughters in the process. This week has been designated EQ week and promises to be another exciting week of exploration and discovery in the field of emotional intelligence, understanding ourselves and those around us. A highlight of the week promises to be talk by Katherine Mills on Thursday evening. She will be talking to parents about improving communication between themselves and their children.
Parent Empowerment presentation
The Wynberg Campus will be hosting a presentation at Wynberg Boys' Junior School, at 19h00, on Wednesday the 12th of May, covering the topic of ‘teens and technology'. In this day and age our children are living in a very different World to the one that we grew up in. In order to stay abreast of these changes and to help us to understand our children, it is important that we keep ourselves informed.
This presentation will cover topics such as MIXIT, Twitter, the internet and Facebook. What are these phenomena and how do they affect our children? Is there anything we can do to protect our children from the negative side effects associated with technology?
Are you able to help?
We are looking forward to starting the next phase of building on the swimming pool structure. This is, of course, an expensive operation. We are appealing to any parent who may have a contact in the building supplies business. We need everything from steel girders to roof sheeting and bricks. There are also a number of opportunities to be involved in advertising around the pool. If you would like to be involved or are able to help in some way, please contact Simon Mc Queen on his cell 072 450 2146.
Grade 7 Trading Day
Well done to all of the Grade 7 girls for a fantastic trading day. Thank you for the hard work. I am proud of all of you. Mr Schlebusch.
E-Learner registration for grade's 4 and 7 only: Reminder
A reminder that all Grade 4 and 7 learners need to pay their once off registration fee of R60 by the 31st of May. Your daughter can only start her e-Learner tests once this fee has been paid.
Music Department
We would like to remind you of the following music events during May and June. Please book your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment!
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Cape Town Marimba Festival
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Friday
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21 May
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Baxter Concert Hall at 19h45, tickets available at Computicket.
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Cape Town Choir Eisteddfod (Junior and Senior Choir)
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Saturday
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22 May
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Bergvliet Primary School. Tickets at the door.
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Prestige Concert
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Thursday
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3 June
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Vera Lawton Hall, 19h00. Tickets available via class teacher from 17 May
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Just a kind reminder that the Internal Music Exams are scheduled from Monday 17 May to Friday 21 May.
Len's Flower Bulbs
You would have received your bulbs for planting at the end of last week, we trust that your gardens will be a sea of many pretty colours in the Springtime. Thank you for your support!!
Two Thousand And Ten Global Cup Of Soccer - Saturday 29 May 2010
With only 19 days to go before we have OUR official kick-off to our very own Global Cup of Soccer, we still require an additional 100 players, closing date for entries is the end of this week. We encourage you to take part in this once in a lifetime opportunity and support your girls' and their school. If you have not yet entered, either as a player or a referee please do so as soon as possible, without YOU we cannot make this event a success. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our main sponsor - CAPE NATURE - who have sponsored a weekend away for a family of 4 to Groenvlei Bush Camp - visit them at www.capenature.co.za for further details of other venues that they have on offer.
Come on girls, get your dads and moms entered into this FUN Day of Soccer and if you have not yet entered, please do so, DUKE needs you to be there!!!!!!
Do you have a My School Card?
If you do, please don't forget to swipe it. If you don't, then please contact Mrs Moore at the front office for an application form. Last year we raised R12000, but we could collect a lot more if you and I remember to swipe.
Dates To Remember:
May
10 - 14 EQ Week
12 Parent Empowerment presentation
13 Communicating with your children - Katherine Mills
26 - 28 Grade 5 Camp
28 Extra Murals end
In Conclusion
This being EQ week, it is an appropriate time to discuss one of the guiding principles in this, our Gracious Society. It is our intention, as a staff, to nurture intrinsically motivated girls, learners who are motivated to learn because they want to and not because they have to. This is easy to say, but much more difficult to achieve.
Extrinsic motivation typically utilises rewards and punishments to increase learner motivation to succeed. Intrinsic motivation, meanwhile, attempts to help students enjoy learning. The problem with extrinsic motivation is that it's not sustainable. As soon as you withdraw the punishment or reward, the motivation disappears. You also get diminishing returns - If the punishment or rewards stay at the same level, motivation slowly drops off. To get the same motivation next time requires a bigger reward. Most dangerous however, is that motivation through reward and punishment reduces intrinsic motivation. It saps the child's desire to perform because it is the right or satisfying thing to do and the reward or punishment becomes the focus. This is called the over-justification effect.
Rewards and punishment do have some value as they provide short term results when needed. We like to believe that we use these systems as tools, when necessary, as we strive for intrinsic motivation. There is no doubt that the girls put great value on certificates and high marks, but we must be aware that these cannot be the sole motivators and that an emphasis on achievement, because she is worthy of the effort, is the focus.
A child's self esteem is of vital importance in this process. Self-esteem is not developed through baseless praise, but recognition of their value as people. The vast majority of children do not naturally have a desire to learn. This is a value that needs to be taught by the school as well as in the family.
We are very proud of our girls and enjoy watching the development which is happening in each one of them.
Best wishes
SR PAYNE
ACTING PRINCIPAL
By | 28 Apr 2010
28 April 2010
Dear WGJS Family
This is a short week and although we all enjoyed the long weekend, it is important for us all to be reminded that our priority at school is always to make the most of every minute and to use each moment to learn as much as possible. The Grade 6 group are back at school after a very successful camp. The girls not only enjoyed camp, but by all reports they lived up to the standards of behaviour, courtesy and the enthusiastic work ethic that we have come to expect from our Wynberg girls. It was pleasing to hear such a good report. Please note that as was explained in a previous newsletter, the Finance Department has changed the way that they present your fees invoice. If you have any queries please contact their office.
STAFF MATTERS
Alison Law, a past pupil of the Wynberg Girls' Schools, was involved in an accident on Friday evening, 16th April. Mrs Sharron Law, Alison's mother, manages our school Clothing Shop. Alison is in the Intensive Care Unit at Vincent Palotti hospital in Pinelands. We extend our love and support to the Law family at this very difficult time and pray that Alison be restored to full health.
NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY -Mrs Baerecke
A huge THANK YOU to the Wynberg family for the wonderful response to the appeal for books to help schools to start their own libraries - we collected over 1 200!
The Inter Schools Literature Quiz will be held at this Friday, in our school hall, from 14h45 until 15h45. We shall be entering two teams. Good luck to the following girls: Nazeera Loonat, Ashleigh Thompson, Grace Brain, Beth Petersen, Saalihah Domingo, Nicole Ryklief, Courtney Cottle and Saabira Swart.
"Reading is a good habit".
NAME BADGES
Due to recent price increases, we unfortunately have had to adjust the price of our name badges. The new price will be R15-00.
These can be ordered through Mrs. Moore and paid to the Finance Office.
TWO THOUSAND AND TEN GLOBAL CUP OF SOCCER - PRIZES
We appeal to our parent body for any donations that may be used as prizes for our Raffle that will be going out at the beginning of May. We are registered as a Section 18A organisation and are therefore able to issue your business with a Section 18A certificate. Please contact Lyn Makinson at lmakinson@wgjs.wcape.school.za, should you require any further information with regard to this matter.
CLOTHING SHOP - Mrs Law
Please note that the Clothing Shop will NOT be open on Saturday 1 May as this is a public holiday.
Please be reminded that our girls' must be dressed in their full winter uniform as from Monday 3 May.
PA/FUNDRAISERS AND EVENTS CO-ORDINATORS - Lyn Makinson
Have you diarised the 29th May yet?? If NOT, please do so, as we at Wynberg Girls' Junior School are hosting our very own "Two Thousand and Ten Global Cup of Soccer". This day promises to be a fun event where our girls, parents and educators are able to showcase their soccer talent and participate in a once in a lifetime opportunity as the FIFA World Cup comes to our shores. We need your support to ensure that the day is a great success. The cost is R20-00 per entry from Grade 3 to 7 as well as for our moms and dads. You do not need to know how to play the game but be sure to get mom and dad to play and join us in the fun on the day. There will also be fun games as we had at our "Soccer Fun Day" for the younger girls and they will be able to cheer for their team on the day. Once we have received all the names of our entrants, the draw of the teams will take place at school, this date will be advised closer to the time, watch this space..............DUKE will be visiting us on a regular basis over the next couple of weeks and we are certain that he will make an appearance on the day of the Tournament. A reminder that on Friday 30th April is Soccer Dress Up Day, so get yourselves dressed up in your soccer paraphernalia and be sure to send those entries in quickly. Moms and Dads, if you do not wish to take part in this event, we would greatly appreciate your kind assistance somewhere else on the day, please have a look at the booklet that was sent home at the beginning of last week - we need YOUR support.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
May
3 Full winter uniform to be worn
10 - 14 EQ Week
26 - 28 Grade 5 Camp
28 Extra Murals end
IN CONCLUSION
We are looking forward to our soccer fun day "Two Thousand and Ten Global Cup of Soccer". This is to be our main fundraiser this year. I urge you to be involved where ever possible. The girls have been asked to wear soccer clothing this Friday in anticipation of the World Cup. It is not necessary for the girls buy a soccer shirt, but they must wear some soccer related clothing. If no appropriate attire can be found they will be allowed to wear blue jeans with their white school gym shirt.
Why do you send your daughter to a girls' school?
This is an important question. If you need to be reminded, I suggest that you go to the SAGSA (South African Girls' Schools Association) website. There is a lot of good information on why your decision to be at a school like ours is so important. I have copied an extract below.
Robin Robertson, a former girls' school principal, who later taught at university level, says girls' school alumnae stand out in the crowd:
"As a college professor I could identify students from girls' schools with 90% accuracy on the first day of class. They were the young women whose hands shot up in the air, who were not afraid to defend their positions, and who assumed that I would be interested in their perspective".
We are proud to be a part of your daughter's education and we encourage the girls to make use of every opportunity that this school offers.
Best wishes
SR PAYNE
By | 13 Apr 2010
13 April 2010
Dear WGJS Family
The school holidays have come and gone and the second term of the year is under way. This is a short term with only eight weeks before the winter holidays. There is much to do and it is important that we that get into the swing of things from the very beginning of the term. The extra-mural timetable has already started and the girls are hard at work in the classrooms.
We encourage all the girls to get involved in at least one extramural each term. The learning that takes place in these environments is as important as the learning in the classroom. Our school offers many opportunities that expand social, emotional and physical skills. An education is incomplete without involvement in all spheres of school life. Please support your daughters and encourage them to participate.
The long awaited winter sports uniform is now available. All girls playing hockey and netball will be required to wear the uniform when playing in matches. The uniform, which costs R270.00, is available at the uniform shop which will be open at the regular times as well as on Saturday 17th April from 09h00 till 12h00.
STAFF MATTERS
Miss Tracey Donson has replaced Mrs Randelhoff in Grade 1 who has taken up her new position in the Education Department. Miss Donson spent several weeks with her class during the first term to facilitate the transition, and is well set for the rest of the year that lies ahead.
A warm welcome to Mrs Lyn Makinson, our PTA stalwart, who is now employed by the school in the finance department.
Miss Steele has not yet returned to school as she is recuperating from surgery. We wish her all the best in her recovery.
We would like to congratulate Miss Stalling on her recent engagement. We congratulate Mrs Coleshaw (Miss Bojé) on her recent marriage.
NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY - Mrs Baerecke
The month-long campaign in celebration of libraries, books and reading, culminates on World Book Day, Friday 23 April 2010. To assist those schools that do not have libraries, we are currently holding a book collection, ending on Friday 23rd. Each learner is encouraged to bring a book / books in GOOD condition, to the library during that time. Stickers will be placed in these books, providing a place for the donor to write her name. I appeal to you to support this very special cause.
The Inter Schools Literature Quiz will be held at WGJS, on Friday 30 April, from 14h45 till 15h45. We shall be entering two teams.
Before you reach for the remote, grab a book and get hooked!
REMINDER: E-LEARNER REGISTRATION FOR GRADE'S 4 AND 7
WGJS has recently become a registered e-Learner Centre and our computer lessons are aimed at allowing our learners to have the opportunity to achieve an international certificate in computers. Last year all our Grade 4 and 7 learners were successful in showing that they had the knowledge required to achieve this certificate. We are hoping that this year ALL our Grade 4 and 7 learners for 2010 will register to allow them to achieve the basics before moving onto the ICDL international certificate in high school.
Additional information about this course can be collected from Miss Adams. All we require from our parents is a once off course fee of R60.00 which is sent to the ICDL Foundation and can be paid at the school's finance office before the 31st May. This fee is essential to your daughters ICT education as they are required to complete online tests and will then be prepared for the next step in the ICDL. Your daughter can only start these tests once this fee has been paid.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
April
21-23 Grade 6 Camp
26 School holiday
27 Freedom Day
May
3 Full winter uniform to be worn
19-21 Grade 5 Camp
IN CONCLUSION
This is the first term without Mrs Condie at the helm. After numerous farewells, she left knowing our appreciation for her enormous contributions to Wynberg Girls' Junior School. We wish her all the best with her new adventures and her life ahead.
We are waiting in anticipation for the announcement of the school's new principal. The Governing Body have completed the interview process and have forwarded their nominations to the WCED. We believe that the right person with all the skills necessary for taking our school into the future will be appointed and we look forward to their arrival.
This is to be a new chapter in the long history of our school. A chapter filled with growth and continued excellence. We are truly lucky to be a part of these changes as we mould the future together.
Yours sincerely
STUART PAYNE
ACTING PRINCIPAL
By | 24 Mar 2010
Dear WGJS Family
This is my last Newsletter at Wynberg Girls’ Junior School; the end of an era for both the school and for me. While at once it brings great sadness to me, I also celebrate the gift of a great privilege and very special relationship. Our girls have a short week as we approach the holidays. It is still a very important week with teaching and learning taking place at a significant level. The staff will be in staff development and planning sessions from 13h00 each day this week. Girls who are unable to be collected at that time will be supervised in classrooms until 14h30 each day. No-one will be permitted to wander around the school premises before 14h30. School will close at 12 o’clock on the last day, Friday the 26th of March. STAFF MATTERS
We congratulate our Deputy Principal Mr Stuart Payne and his wife Tanille on the birth of their baby boy, Samuel Jack Payne. We know that they are assured of a love that knows no bounds. The process to appoint a new Principal for WGJS is in progress. However, in the interim, the school will be run by Mr Stuart Payne who will act as Principal with Mrs Michelle Rhode as his Deputy. I have every confidence that these two thoroughly able and highly professional people will serve you and our school, extremely well.
SCHOOL FEES – FINANCE DEPARTMENT – Mrs J Yardin
On your next statement you will notice that your balance reflects the total annual amount due. We have taken this approach to facilitate better administration of the accounts. For those who do not pay up front for the year, please do not be alarmed as your payments are still expected monthly over 11 months (2 January to 1 November). We request that all queries or payments to be made, other than debit orders, are finalised by Thursday 25 March as the office will be closed until 12 April. We thank you in anticipation of your support for both processes.
PAPER AND CARTRIDGE RECYCLING 2010 – Mrs K Rose
We remind you of the recycling collection which began at the beginning of March together with a company called Green Office. We would love you to bring all your used cartridges (from home and work) to school as they can be recycled!
DIVING – Miss Woodin
The diving squad performed extremely well at the Inter-schools diving competition on Tuesday last week! We came third overall. Congratulations to all those who participated – you really did your school proud!
FLOWERS – Miss Weston
Thank you very much to the parents who provided flowers for 'The Music Soiree' on Thursday. We are also very grateful to Mrs Giulietta Harrison for arranging the flowers so beautifully.
LOVE BOX PROJECT – Miss Cuyler
“No one has ever become poor by giving.” – Anne Frank
We have decided to continue with the Love Box project this year. It supports our belief in ‘Our Gracious Society’. This project provides the girls with a wonderful opportunity to be compassionate and it involves them ‘physically’ in providing an inexpensive gift for a child less fortunate than themselves. We would like every child in the school to take part in this project. During the first week of every month we will be asking that you provide an item (as stated in the Newsletters) and send it with your daughter in a packet with her name on it. At the end of the year the girls will wrap their gifts and the gifts will then be distributed to various charities/orphanages. During the month of March and April we ask that you please send an empty shoe box to school. Thanking you in advance for your support.
NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY - Mrs Baerecke
This week is South African Library Week and the theme is “Reading changes lives”. There is a month-long campaign in celebration of libraries, books and reading, culminating on World Book Day, 23 April 2010. To assist those schools who do not have libraries, we will be holding a drive for “The Bookery” – Home of the Equal Education Book Drive – during the second week of the new term. Each learner is encouraged to bring a book/books in GOOD condition to school during that time. Stickers will be placed in these books, providing a place for the donor to write her name. Next term, there will be an inter schools Literature Quiz at WGJS, on Friday 30 April. We shall be entering two teams – but more about that later! May I encourage you to allow your child to join her local library (if she does not already belong)? It is wonderful for her, especially in the holidays, when our library is closed. Grade 6 and 7 girls who have paid their fines and returned their books, are eligible for “Holiday Loans” from school. Congratulations to our Grade 7 girls who have finally been appointed as Librarians for this year. Their names appear on the Honourable Mention Notice Board. “Any book that helps a child to form a habit of reading to make reading one of his deep and continuing needs, is good for him (her).”
MUSIC DEPARTMENT – Miss Leonard
Soiree:
We extend a big thank you to all the families who attended our Soiree. The evening was a tremendous success and we would like to thank, from the Music Department, all the girls who participated – the Marimba band, Senior Choir, Junior Choir, Vocal Ensemble, Clarinet Choir and the String Ensemble. You have worked very hard and done us proud. Enjoy a well-deserved holiday!
PLAYBALL
We will be starting playball lessons for grade 1's in the second term. They will be held on a Friday afternoon from 13h30 to 14h15 on the Tennis courts Fees are R240.00 per term for 8 lessons with a once-off Admin fee of R40.00.
PA/FUNDRAISERS AND EVENTS CO-ORDINATORS – Lyn Makinson
Our Soccer Fun Day which took place on Friday 12 March was a GREAT success. Our Soccer Mascot - DUKE - made an appearance and danced with the girls to his favourite tune. The children had a great fun playing various games which included "Pin the Tail on the Mascot"; "Splat the Mascot"; "10 Pin Soccer Bowling"; "Score a Goal"; "Go Soccer Fish" as well as an "Obstacle Course"; they also had their faces painted and their hair colour sprayed by our girls from Grade 7. An immense amount of fun was had at the Jumping Castle and the 2 Water slides. To everyone who was involved in ensuring that this event got off the ground - a BIG THANK YOU, without your assistance, time, effort and enthusiasm, an event such as this could not have happened. We look forward to everyone’s eager participation next term (parents, teachers and girls) in our "Two Thousand and Ten Global Cup of Soccer" which takes place on Saturday 29 May 2010. Be sure to diarise it now as more, important information will follow in the 1st week of next term when you will get to see a lot more of DUKE, our Soccer Mascot
DATES TO REMEMBER:
March
26 School Closes at 12h00
April
12 School reopens for the 2nd Term May
3 Full winter uniform to be worn
IN CONCLUSION
As I take leave of my beloved Wynberg Girls’ Junior School, I have much to be grateful for. I have been truly blessed in my sojourn here. I have said it many times before to many people and I will say it again; being the Principal at Wynberg Girls’ Junior School has been the pinnacle of what I consider to have been a happy, successful career. I have experienced a richness here that I have felt nowhere before and for which I will be eternally grateful. I believe this school to be a unique place. My staff is a very special group of people. I feel particularly proud of their achievements, interest, dedication and the most sincere effort they put into everything that they do. Apart from that, they are also a group of people who care for one another with a great compassion and through this form a united team who work extremely well together. There is always an openness and honesty. I am truly proud of them all and feel deeply indebted to them for their part in the success of our school. I have been fortunate to have met wonderful, wonderful people who are the parents and grandparents of our girls. They have given me genuine support and through them I have received encouragement, prayers and kindness. Thank you. Finally, my girls who give me the utmost joy every day. From the time I arrive in the mornings until I leave the school at the end of the day, they are a source of pure delight. Even those that are at times a little lost along the way, deserve my love and respect as it is our responsibility to support them along their sometimes difficult journey. I thank God for you all. Love and best wishes to my Wynberg Family.
W M CONDIE (MRS)
PRINCIPAL
By | 19 Mar 2010
Early closing - School will close at 13:00 on Tuesday 23 March, Wednesday 24 March and Thursday 25 March
By | 10 Mar 2010
Dear WGJS Family
This has to have been the hottest March in years. Yesterday we were close to melt down! You will have noted that apart from swimming, all extra-murals took place indoors yesterday with the minimum amount of physical activity and thus any further generation of heat! May I remind you to ensure that the girls have sunblock at their disposal in this very hot weather.
STAFF MATTERS
We would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Mrs Vanessa Randelhoff who has been appointed as a Senior Educational Specialist at the Metropole South Education District. This appointment is with effect from 1 April. She was filling in, in Grade 1 for the first term after an absence from WGJS while she served temporarily at the MSED. As our Head of the Foundation Department and as a wonderful personality and character, we will miss her greatly.
Mrs Michelle Laughton was due to have returned to Grade 1 at the beginning of next term following her maternity leave. However, she has chosen to be a stay-at-home mum for the foreseeable future. As an experienced, enthusiastic Foundation Phase teacher we will miss her greatly but wish her well.
We are most fortunate to have obtained the services of Miss Tracy Donson. We met Miss Donson more than a year ago. She has joined Mrs Randelhoff in the classroom this week and will stay on with us to ensure a comfortable transition for our Grade 1’s from one teacher to the next. This sort of arrangement is fairly unique to us but I truly believe that this is the best way to proceed when it is at all possible. We wish Miss Donson a long and happy stay with us. I trust that she will receive the support of our Wynberg families.
Amanda Steel, our clinical social worker, will be away for approximately 8 weeks. She is to undergo spinal surgery next week. We wish her a full and speedy recovery.
INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY – 12 MARCH 2010
As part of our EQ programme we will be celebrating this special day by collecting various items in support of chosen charities. Each Grade has selected a specific charity and a letter has been sent home indicating what items are required. (Items are also listed on the School Communicator). The collection takes place for this week only (8 – 12 March). Your support is greatly appreciated!
CLOTHING SHOP – MRS LAW
The Clothing Shop will be open on Saturday 20th March from 09h00 to 12h00. All your winter uniform requirements will be on the shelves from Monday 15th March. The shop will also be open on the first Saturday of next term, i.e. 17th April from 09h00 – 12h00.
Please note that the shop does not have the facility for debit or credit cards.
PAPER AND CARTRIDGE RECYCLING 2010
The recycling competition has started for this year. Please encourage your daughter to bring as much paper for recycling as she can – it is for the good of our planet!
We also have a new recycling collection starting in March together with a company called Green Office. We would love you to bring all your used cartridges (from home and work) to school as they can be recycled! A newsletter will be sent out giving you more details on this wonderful initiative.
MUSIC DEPARTMENT – Miss Leonard
A further reminder - Soiree:
The Soiree takes place on the 18th of March at 19h00. Tickets for the Soiree are now available via the class teachers until Tuesday 16 March. Please send the money as soon as possible to secure your tickets. The programme includes performances by the Junior Choir, Senior Choir, Vocal Ensemble, Clarinet Choir, String Ensemble and the music staff.
PA/FUNDRAISERS AND EVENTS CO-ORDINATORS – Lyn Makinson
Our Soccer Fun Day takes place on Friday 12 March, be sure to get your vouchers at R2-00 each to play the various games on the day. There will also be a Jumping Castle for our Grade R - 3 girls and boys as well as 2 Water Slides, if you wish to ride the Water Slide, we ask that you please wear your school swimming costume and apply lots of sunblock. Your class teacher will allow you 5 minutes at the end of the day on Friday to change into your costume. Each grade will have a designated classroom where all school bags will be kept, please note - do not bring any valuables to school on this day as we cannot be held responsible for any loss thereof. Any lost property found on the day will be sent to the Ticket Sales table and thereafter to the school’s lost property. Remember that a donation of R5-00 will allow you to enjoy a "Civvies Day" on Friday – the theme "Soccer Dress up". We look forward to seeing you on Friday and hope that you will enjoy a FUN DAY with us.
RECEPTION – Mrs Harrison
We would like to thank all those parents who gave so generously of their time on Saturday 6 March to help in the Reception garden and a big ‘thank you’ for all the seedlings and compost that was donated. The girls will definitely benefit from your efforts.
WYNBERG SAILORS
On Sat 6th and Sun 7th March Imperial Yacht Club at Sandvlei hosted the Annual Inter School Sailing Regatta. This is one opportunity in the Sailing Calendar for the sailors to represent their schools in their chosen sport. The trophies are hotly contested and the enthusiasm with which even the less experienced sailors tackled the different weather conditions in order to try for glory for their schools was wonderful to see.
The Wynberg Campus of schools was represented by 5 sailors. The Boys’ High fielded 3 sailors, the Girls’ High and Junior each had one. At the Junior School level the competitors all sail Optimist boats and should sail in teams of 3. If a team is short of sailors then they sail with “Ghosts” who score zero for the team!
Despite a howling South Easter most boats were rigged and launched and the first race started. More than half the fleet decided to abandon the race before it ended. Boats were capsizing and their skippers were struggling to right them to continue racing. After the first race the wind hadn’t dropped and the organisers decided to call it a day and hold race 2 on Sunday morning. The weather was perfect. At 10 am the boats all launched into good breezes that made for exciting racing without the fear factor of Saturday! Six races were sailed in all.
At Prize Giving all the competitors were acknowledged with a certificate of participation and then the winning schools were announced. There were 14 Junior Schools teams and Wynberg came 8th. Sonja Stock from WGJS sailed alone in her team so gained no points from her “Ghosts”! She came 7th out of 26 sailors. Well done Sonja! We have some other up and coming sailors so watch this space!
PARENTING CONFERENCE
CBC St John’s is hosting its first Parenting Conference and would like to cordially invite you to join us for the day. The conference is aimed at parents, teachers, psychologists, remedial therapists, occupational therapists and counsellors.
Keynote Speaker: Dr John Buswell - Forensic Psychologist and co-founder of Rape-Wise Date: 13 March 2010
Time: 08h30 – 13h30
Venue: CBC St John's Parklands, Corner Parklands Main Road and Dorchester Drive Parklands Cost: R120 per person (Includes a conference pack and refreshments)
FREE child care facilities available (Snack-pack available @ R20)
A limited number of tables are available to businesses and/or individuals to exhibit educational resources. Please email Natalie at jsimons@cbcstjohns.co.za with details of your product.
ADVERTISING
We are regularly approached by companies or individuals requesting space in our Newsletters to advertise or for us to distribute leaflets. The expectation was that this would be done for nothing. Now we all know that advertising costs! Thus we decided some time ago that we would charge a fee for advertising unless there was some direct benefit to the school. Therefore, if you do receive any flyers through the school (and this will not be on a regular basis), please know that this has been paid for or the school has benefited in some way. I would like you to know however, that we will never compromise who we are or what we stand for.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
March
9 Inter-schools swimming gala
10 Inter-schools Tennis
12 Extra-murals end
Soccer Fun Day
13 Under 13 Hockey tournament
15 Reports to be handed out
15/16 Parent interviews
16 Inter-schools diving
18 Music Soiree
21/22 Human Rights Day and Public Holiday
23 Last Newsletter of the First Term
26 School Closes
IN CONCLUSION
Some family news
I was recently asked at an Open Evening for prospective 2011 parents what our staff turnover was like. The question did not surprise me entirely as I had been on the receiving end of some gossip a while ago about our staff turnover (it never ceases to amaze me how people thrive on negative gossip). Indeed, we have lost a number of good, experienced teachers over the past two years. At the risk of sounding defensive, I must inform you that of them all, not one has left us for reasons of unhappiness or discontent at WGJS. In the space of 18 months, our WGJS staff produced 5 babies! Four of the new mothers have chosen to stay at home or in one case, change career. Some of our more senior staff have taken retirement or early retirement and one chose to teach in China. There have been promotions and we always celebrate people’s success.
I am particularly proud of our new staff, carefully selected individuals. WGJS provides a wonderful teaching environment which attracts good, well qualified professionals. Without exception, our new staff come with excellent credentials, wonderful interpersonal skills and great enthusiasm. They work long hours and show great dedication to your children. All they need is your belief in them, your encouragement and support. Please get to know them.
Our gracious society and rich, emotionally intelligent environment is paying dividends. Our girls are polite and considerate. Naturally, as children they are still learning about social etiquette and themselves, and will make mistakes, but what is so encouraging is to see the outcome of our efforts in applying graciousness and EQ in our daily functioning. It is working. Thank you for supporting us in this. We love our girls!
Best wishes
W M CONDIE (MRS)
PRINCIPAL
By | 24 Feb 2010
Dear WGJS Family
We have passed the halfway mark for the term and much has been achieved. We’re excited about the girls’ successes in a number of areas as well as what is generally taking place here at WGJS. The Communicator is proving to be a great method of communicating with parents and many of you have commented on its success. If you have not already loaded the CD onto you computers (at home or work if you are permitted), then I strongly urge you to do so. If for some reason you have not received a CD, please ask your daughter to collect one from the office.
PAPER AND CARTRIDGE RECYCLING 2010
The recycling competition has started for this year. Please encourage your daughter to bring as much paper for recycling as she can – it is for the good of our planet!
We also have a new recycling collection starting in March together with a company called Green Office. We would love you to bring all your used cartridges (from home and work) to school as they can be recycled! A newsletter will be sent out giving you more details on this wonderful initiative.
MUSIC DEPARTMENT – Miss Leonard
Soiree:
On Thursday, 18 March we are hosting our first music concert of the year. This event will take place as a Soiree – with tables set out and finger snacks served. Parents may choose to buy 10 tickets (a table) for friends together, or separate tickets that will be placed at tables. Tickets for the Soiree are R50 and available via the class teachers from 1 March – this includes the light finger dinner. Guests are welcome to bring their own beverages. The Junior and Senior choirs will perform, as well as our music staff.
PAPER STORY
We have been inundated with requests for copies of reports, extra photostatting to be done for lost notes, printing of projects, faxed information for the girls (many pages arriving at a time through the fax machine) all at our expense. We go through large volumes of paper, provided by you, specifically for academic use. At this rate the paper you have provided will be exhausted by June and we will have to make up for the deficit for which there is no budget. We regret therefore that we will have to charge R5 with immediate effect for any copies made at school. May we remind you to keep your daughters reports in a safe place. This is especially relevant to the Grade 6’s who need copies of their reports for high school applications.
CLOTHING SHOP- Mrs Law
Due to the winter uniform only expected to be in the store by Monday 15th March, the clothing shop will NOT be open on Saturday 6th March.
The shop will, however, be open on Saturday 20th March and Saturday 17th April.
EXTREME POSSIBILITIES – Learner Academic Achievement Programme
I was recently approached by a representative from Extreme Possibilities with regards to a programme they are running for the older children, from Grade 6 up. There is a free seminar on Wednesday 3 March at 19h00 at the Wittebome Civic, Rosmead Avenue, Wynberg. Basically it is about “helping learners to reconstruct their self-image by identifying the self limiting belief they have about themselves and what they can accomplish”
Should you wish to attend please contact them on 021 762 1966. I am unable to endorse the programme, as I am not familiar with the contents nor the company. However, you are free to take up the offer of a free seminar and decide for yourself.
PTA/FUNDRAISERS AND EVENTS CO-ORDINATORS – Lyn Makinson
We are well into our 1st week of selling LEN'S FLOWER BULBS, and look forward to your participation in this exciting fundraising event. You would have received an order form at the end of last week, offering HADECO bulbs. This is the perfect time to plant these bulbs and await the glorious beauty that will be with us in Spring time. As there are prizes for the top 3 sellers in the school, be sure to get those orders in as soon as possible. Remember that the closing date for all orders is Friday 5 March. So, get selling to parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends and neighbours and show your support for YOUR school.
GOVERNING BODY BY- ELECTION
Thank you for the best support we have every received at a Governing Body Election. Approximately 20% of the parent body was present which meant that we reached the required quorum at the correct time. I am pleased to inform you that Mr Alan Makinson has been elected onto the School Governing Body.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
March
2 Summer Sports photos
5 Grade 1 Cake Sale
5 Summer Sports’ Day at WBHS
9 Inter-schools swimming gala
11 Inter-schools Tennis
12 Extra-murals end
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13 Under 13 Hockey tournament
15 Reports to be handed out
15/16 Parent interviews
16 Inter-schools diving
18 Music Soiree
21/22 Human Rights Day and Public Holiday
26 School Closes
IN CONCLUSION
All children are born innocent, like an empty book which still has to be written in. Their parents, significant others, as well as their environment determine what their life story will be. If children live what they see, we need to ask what it is that they have seen and learnt that condones this kind of behaviour?
Can a child feel so unloved, helpless and hopeless, that she will attack those around her?
*Children need adults who are role models of positive behaviour. We need to consider our actions. Children copy what we do. Take a look in the mirror. Do you like what you see? What are your morals and values? Are you teaching them to your children?
*Children need mentors. We all have a responsibility to guide and teach our youth, even if they aren't our children. If we don't, they will find other idols that may not always have their interests at heart;
*Our youth need to feel connected to and loved by the adults in their life. We should take the time to talk with them. Since the breakdown of the extended family, children are spending less time with the people that love them. In many families, both parents are working long hours and are either too stressed, tired, or disinterested to bond with their children. Society and business have a responsibility to provide families with time and support, so that this fragile relationship can be nurtured.
*All children are born with an instinctive desire to learn and explore their world, and it is our responsibility as adults to encourage this. By supporting our educators both financially and practically, we can help to address the lack of respect that has become acceptable behaviour in our schools.
Imagine if every adult decided to take one small step towards improving education in this country, what a dynamic prosperous life we could enjoy in the future.
Adapted from an article in “Inspired Parenting”
My personal word to you sound like a chorus I am often singing. We may be in an environment where we are more fortunate and privileged, materially, but are our girls receiving the time, love and role modelling they deserve? In most instances, yes, but there is still room for us to spend more “quality” time with our children.
Best wishes
W M CONDIE (MRS)
PRINCIPAL
By | 09 Feb 2010
Dear WGJS Family
This is the month of love, for showing that we care about each other; husbands, wives, partners, friends, children, parents, colleagues, in fact anyone who is important to us, our happiness and survival! As Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday, at WGJS we will celebrate on the 15th of February.
VALENTINES’ DAY AT WGJS
On Monday 15 February, the girls are requested to wear red, pink or white, or combinations of these colours. They may wear denims as long as they have a top representing one of the appropriate colours. On this day, they will be sending “friendship” messages to one another which will be delivered by “Valentine Fairies”! They are reminded to bring R5 for civvies.
WGJS COMMUNICATOR – Mr Payne
Nearly 150 parents have registered on the Communicator in the first three days. Thank you for the fantastic response. We will endeavour to keep you updated with school news as often as possible. If you have not registered yet, please do so as soon as possible. If you have any questions you may email Mr Payne at deputy@wgjs.wcape.school.za
REMINDER: E-LEARNER REGISTRATION FOR GRADE’S 4 AND 7
WGJS has recently become a registered e-Learner Centre and our computer lessons are aimed at allowing our learners to have the opportunity to achieve an international certificate in computers. Last year all our Grade 4 and 7 learners were successful in showing that they had the knowledge required to achieve this certificate. We are hoping that this year ALL our Grade 4 and 7 learners for 2010 will register to allow them to achieve the basics before moving onto the ICDL international certificate in high school.
Additional information about this course can be collected from Miss Adams. All we require from our parents is a once off course fee of R60 which is sent to the ICDL Foundation and can be paid at the school’s finance office before the 31st of May. This fee is essential to your daughters ICT education as they are required to complete online tests and will then be prepared for the next step in the ICDL. Your daughter can only start these tests once this fee has been paid.
GRADE 1 CLOSING TIME
As from Monday 15th February the Grade 1 learners’ will be dismissed at 13h00 from Monday to Thursday and at 13h30 on Fridays.
SUMMER SPORTS DAY
Summer Sports Day has been postponed until 5th March 2010. The venue for this event will be the Wynberg Boys’ High School fields.
CLOTHING SHOP – Mrs Law
Please note that children are not permitted to eat or drink while they are in the shop. This rule applies even when they are accompanied by a parent. We thank you for your co-operation in this regard.
MUSIC DEPARTMENT – Miss Leonard
Screening of musical:
The music movie date has been postponed. This will take place in the second term on the afternoon of the 30th of April.
Soiree:
On Thursday, 18 March we are hosting our first music concert of the year. This event will take place as a Soiree – with tables set out and finger snacks served. Parents may choose to buy 10 tickets (a table) for friends together, or separate tickets that will be placed at tables. Tickets for the Soiree are R50 and available via the class teachers from 1 March – this includes the light finger dinner. Guests are welcome to bring their own beverages. The Junior and Senior choirs will perform, as well as our music staff.
FROM THE LIBRARY – Mrs Baerecke - “WE ARE A READING SCHOOL”.
Last night, Ashleigh Thompson, Grace Brain, Beth Petersen and Nazeera Loonat took part in the annual “KIDS’ LIT QUIZ”, hosted by New Zealander, Wayne Mills. Now for the REALLY exciting news – our girls came first! There were 27 teams; Springfield came second and Bay Primary was place third. We are extremely proud of our young ladies, who now fly to Pietermaritzburg for the South African finals. The World Finals will be held in Edinburgh in August.
The “R1-a-book” sale held last week was a sell-out! Another one will be held later in the year.
All Grade 4 to 7 girls will have done their prepared reading within the next few days and I have enjoyed listening to them. I would like to encourage them to expand their vocabulary by having a dictionary close at hand whilst reading. With guidance from both school and home, they will learn to choose age-appropriate literature.
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.” [Dr Seuss]
PA/FUNDRAISERS AND EVENTS CO-ORDINATORS – Lyn Makinson
Friday 29th January was like no other day, as very excited young girls and their parents eagerly awaited the end of the school day in order to get back to school to pitch their tents, set up for evening, braai their boerewors, be pleasantly entertained and overall have a fantastic time with family and friends at Wynberg Girls' Junior. The weather was perfect and as the evening wore on, we could hear the sound of our children running, laughing, singing and just having a great time. Our ever popular "Fire Spinners" certainly did not let us down as we were all enthralled by their talent. When the evening drew to a close, everyone made their way to their tents for a well-earned rest and the camp-site was peaceful. The sounds of our Egyptian Geese woke many to the aromatic smells of coffee and muffins! Families prepared to pack up and look forward to returning to this famous site once again, next year.
To everyone who joined us, thank you for your support. We are certain that you had a great time and we look forward to your company once again next year.
GOVERNING BODY BY- ELECTION
This is a further reminder about the By Election which takes place on Tuesday 16 February at 18h30. We need to replace one member of the SGB whose daughter has now left the school. Currently, we have one co-opted member who is prepared to stand for office but obviously, this is an open election and should you wish to nominate a particular person whom you feel has the expertise we may require, please follow the legal procedures. Nominations forms are available at the secretaries’ office.
It is a legal requirement that we have a quorum of 15% of the total number of children present at the school, represented by the parents, at the By-Election before we may proceed. Therefore I appeal to you to make every effort to attend and avoid us having to wait another 30 days for a second attempt! The elections are swiftly conducted and the meeting is usually concluded without any delays.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
February
10-12 Grade 7 camp
15 Valentine’s day at school
16 Individual photos
17 Individual photos
19 SU Day
March
2 Summer Sports photos
5 Grade 1 Cake Sale
5 Summer Sports Day
5/6 Choir Camp
9 Inter-schools swimming gala
10 Inter-schools Tennis
12 Extra-murals end
13 Under 13 Hockey tournament
15 Reports to be handed out
15/16 Parent interviews
16 Inter-schools diving
17 Music Soiree
21/22 Human Rights Day and Public Holiday
26 School Closes
IN CONCLUSION
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates vision for tomorrow” (Melody Beattie)
Contemplating everything that’s wrong or bad in our world affects you emotionally and takes you places you don’t want to go. There is a wonderful alternative called gratitude. The moment that you express gratitude for anything, it is like tuning your emotional state to a different station; you unlock the negatives and your focus moves to something that makes life worth living (even if it is just for that brief moment). The more you practice your gratitude, the more you’ll experience those wonderful fulfilling moments.
I challenge you today to count your blessings (no matter how small) and express gratitude in some way – thank God and thank others – you can even reflect in your mind on how “lucky” you are for having food, clothing, email, a car and so on. I know you can do it but will you?
Christo Spies
Best wishes
W M CONDIE (MRS)
PRINCIPAL
By | 28 Jan 2010
Newsletter 2/2010
26 January 2010
Dear WGJS Family
The children have all settled in well and the term is progressing smoothly if not somewhat speedily! It was wonderful to see so many of you on the two evenings we made available for the parents to meet the teachers. Sadly, the Grade 7 parents were conspicuous by their absence. Grade 7 is a very important year so please make sure that you are familiar with the expectations. Your daughters still have a long road ahead of them as far as their school careers are concerned and parental interest and involvement is crucial to their well being and success.
ADULT BEHAVIOUR
It’s not often that I have to write about how our parents should be behaving in and around school, but I must remind you that children are extremely impressionable! We have had two complaints about the parking issue outside the school grounds. Both of the incidents involved “parking rage”. Please be considerate towards our neighbours. You may not park across the entrance to the block of flats. The second situation involved one parent being extremely rude to another parent using less than acceptable language, certainly by WGJS standards. Children were present. We go to great lengths to eliminate the use of unsavoury language at school only to have parents use it in front of their precious children! The parking situation around school presents a number of problems and is the cause of much frustration. With this is mind, arrive in time, be patient, and be courteous and certainly contain your anger.
“WE ARE A READING SCHOOL”.
GOVERNING BODY BY- ELECTION
This is a reminder about the By Election which takes place on Tuesday 16 February at 18h30. We need to replace one member of the SGB whose daughter has now left the school. Currently, we have one co-opted member who is prepared to stand for office but obviously, this is an open election and should you wish to nominate someone whom you feel has the expertise we may require, please follow the legal procedures.
It is a legal requirement that we have a quorum of 15% of the total number of children present at the school, represented by the parents, at the By-Election before we may proceed. Therefore I appeal to you to make every effort to attend and avoid us having to wait another 30 days for a second attempt! The elections are swiftly conducted and the meeting is usually concluded without any delays.
FINANCE OFFICE – Mrs Yardin
Please be reminded that the 26th of February is the last day for annual payers to benefit from the discount. All exemption applications must be in by the 19th February to be considered for 2010.
FROM THE LIBRARY – Mrs Baerecke
On Monday 8 February a team of girls will be participating in the exciting annual “KIDS’ LIT QUIZ”, hosted by New Zealander, Wayne Mills. It will be held at Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School at 17h30.
All Grade 4 to 7 learners should be busy preparing a half a page of English reading for their next library lesson. It might be good idea for you to listen to your daughter, as she practises at home.
During the month of February, those Grade 7 girls still interested in becoming a Librarian this year, will carry out their last session of training, The Librarians for 2010 will be announced, and badges handed out, at the end of next month.
I really encourage all our girls to READ and “grow their minds”! All classes from Grade R to 7 visit the library once a week. In addition, the library is open for the girls at second break and after school till 15h30 (Monday to Thursday). Two book sales are held annually, one in July and another one in November. I also suggest that your daughter join her closest public library.
REMINDER: E-LEARNER REGISTRATION FOR GRADE’S 4 AND 7 - COMPUTER DEPARTMENT
WGJS is a registered e-Learner Centre and our computer lessons are aimed at allowing our learners to have the opportunity to achieve an international certificate in computers. Last year all our Grade 4 and 7 learners were successful in showing that they had the knowledge required to achieve this certificate. We are hoping that this year ALL our Grade 4 and 7 learners for 2010 will register to allow them to achieve the basics before moving onto the ICDL international certificate in high school.
Additional information about this course can be collected from Miss Adams. All we require from our parents is a once off course fee of R50 which is sent to the ICDL Foundation and can be paid at the school’s finance office as soon as possible. This fee is essential to your daughter’s ICT education as they are required to complete online tests and will then be prepared for the next step in the ICDL. Your daughter can only start these tests once this fee has been paid.
PA/FUNDRAISERS AND EVENTS CO-ORDINATORS
Welcome to 2010!! We look forward to your company at our FUNdraising events this year, which promise to be brimming with fun for the family. We start the year with our "Annual Camp-out" which takes place this Friday, a great way for our new families to meet each other and for those who have being before, to renew old acquaintances.
FUNDRAISING EVENTS - 2010
Camp-Out - 29th January 2010
PJ's & Games Evening (Foundation Phase) - 12th February
2010 Soccer Fun Day - 12th March
Fun Run/Walk - 17th April
Two Thousand and Ten Global Cup of Soccer - 29th May
Bingo/Quiz Evening - 27th August
Car Boot Sale - 30th October
Be sure to diairse ALL of these Fundraising events for the year as we look forward to entertaining YOU as a family.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
January
29 Camp Out
February
3 Grade 1 Homework Talk
4 Class photos
5 Grade 7 Cake Sale
10-12 Grade 7 camp
15 Valentine’s day at school
16 Individual photos
17 Individual photos
18 Summer Sports Day
19 SU Day
26 Music Movie
March
2 Summer Sports photos
5 Grade 1 Cake Sale
5/6 Choir Camp
9 Inter-schools swimming gala
10 Inter-schools Tennis
12 Extra-murals end
13 Under 13 Hockey tournament
15 Reports to be handed out
15/16 Parent interviews
16 Inter-schools diving
17 Grand piano inauguration
21/22 Human Rights Day and Public Holiday
26 School Closes
IN CONCLUSION
FAMILY VALUES - HONESTY
To be honest means to speak the truth, even if it's difficult or gets you into trouble. Honest people communicate in an open, upfront way; they do not lie, cheat, steal, or manipulate information to conceal it from others. The exception is occasionally telling a "white lie" to protect someone's feelings. In recent days we have seen how dishonesty harms other people, even causing financial and political ruin. Today more than ever, children need to learn the importance of keeping their word, telling the truth, and being trustworthy. Honesty isn't just the best policy—it's the only way society can function.
DON’T OVERREACT TO MISTAKES
When parents are very punitive, children may engage in blatant lying to escape punishment, even if what they’ve done is an accident. Children don’t want to think of themselves as bad, so they deny having done a bad thing. Explain that you will love them even if they do something bad, but that you expect them to be honest.
SEPERATE THE BEHAVIOUR FROM THE CHILD
Instead of saying "YOU are a liar!" when your child was dishonest, always try to separate your child's behaviour from your child. So rather say: "What you are telling me is a lie and telling lies are not acceptable in our house. We do not want that behaviour from you."
MODEL HONESTY
Model honesty by admitting when you make mistakes or returning incorrect change if you’ve been given too much. Hold yourself to a high standard of honesty. Children are highly attuned to parental hypocrisy. Demonstrate the honest behaviour you want to see in your children by owning up to errors, for example, "I forgot to make the doctor's appointment" or "I made a mistake at work today." This teaches your child that even though honesty is difficult sometimes, it is not something to be afraid of.
Point out the downside of dishonesty. Explain that if a friend has got away with cheating there will be consequences to the dishonesty later. Highlight how destructive dishonesty can be. For example remind a child that cheating in a test means betraying the teacher’s trust defrauding the other test takers as well as failing herself.
EXPECT TRUTHFULNESS
Set up an "honour code" at home. Choose certain tasks, such as completing homework or making the bed, which you trust your child to do. Explain that when you ask, "Did you make your bed?" you will forgive your child if he or she says "no," but that there will be negative consequences for not telling the truth. Thank your child when he or she tells the truth about something that was difficult to tell you, like, "I broke a dish," or "I failed my maths test."
Remember, children learn what they live. Never underestimate the power of a parent.
Extract from “Proud2Parent
Best wishes
W M CONDIE (MRS)
PRINCIPAL
By | 28 Jan 2010
1/2010
13 January 2010
Dear WGJS Family
Welcome back! We extend a special word of welcome to all our new families and look forward to a long and happy association with you all.
We focus with excited anticipation on the year that lies ahead! As I look at our annual programme, I know that there is much to be enthusiastic about. My staff has spent an enormous amount of time, in the last months of 2009 on planning for 2010. They are well and truly prepared to give your daughters the wonderful, well balanced education they deserve.
STAFF NEWS
We welcome the following new staff to WGJS and have no doubt that they will receive your full support:
Mrs Verster – Music Miss Kocsis – Grade R
Miss Bezuidenhout – Grade 1 Miss Whitfield – Grade 5
Miss Lyddell – Grade 6 Miss Yeats – Grade
We welcome Mrs Randelhoff back to WGJS. We are delighted that the WCED has returned her to us! She will be in Grade 1.
It is with regret that I also have to inform you that Mrs Laughton will not be returning to Grade 1 at the end of this term. She is to be a stay-at-home mum with her baby daughter. We thank her for 6 years of outstanding service and await her return to education in the future.
MEET THE EDUCATORS/ NEW PARENTS’ EVENING
On Wednesday 20 January at 18h00 the Foundation Phase parents are invited to meet their daughter’s teacher at 18h00. There will be a slightly different arrangement this year. We ask all parents from Grade R – 3 to meet in the school hall for a brief general meeting before proceeding to the classrooms. Our new parents will receive an invitation to an informal reception to meet the Governing Body and staff at 19h00. This will enable you to go to the classrooms first.
On Thursday 21 January, the Intermediate and Senior Phase parents are invited to meet the teachers. Once again, we will all meet in the school hall for a brief meeting before proceeding to the classrooms.
During the classroom meetings, you will be informed of what you may expect for the year as well as hear about what we expect from you and your daughters. Please make every effort to attend these very important meetings. It’s all so much simpler when you know exactly what is going on. Please be aware that the educators will be unable to discuss individual cases with you at these meetings but they will be more than happy to set up appointments with you to discuss your particular concern.
Parents new to WGJS will receive an invitation to attend an informal gathering with the staff and Governing Body after the Parent/Educator Meetings.
EARLY CLOSING
Please note the Grade R and Grade 1’s school day will end at 12h30 until Friday 12th February. Thereafter they will leave at 13h00 on Monday to Thursday and 13h30 on a Friday.
EARLY CLOSING
Please note the Grade R and Grade 1’s school day will end at 12h30 until Friday 12th February. Thereafter they will leave at 13h00 on Monday to Thursday and 13h30 on a Friday.
E-LEARNER REGISTRATION FOR GRADE’S 4 AND 7 - COMPUTER DEPARTMENT
WGJS is a registered e-Learner Centre and our computer lessons are aimed at allowing our learners to have the opportunity to achieve an international certificate in computers. Last year all our Grade 4 and 7 learners were successful in showing that they had the knowledge required to achieve this certificate. We are hoping that this year ALL our Grade 4 and 7 learners for 2010 will register to allow them to achieve the basics before moving onto the ICDL international certificate in high school.
Additional information about this course can be collected from Miss Adams. All we require from our parents is a once off course fee of R50 which is sent to the ICDL Foundation and can be paid at the school’s finance office as soon as possible. This fee is essential to your daughter’s ICT education as they are required to complete online tests and will then be prepared for the next step in the ICDL. Your daughter can only start these tests once this fee has been paid.
MUSIC DEPARTMENT – MISS LEONARD
We would like to wish all the girls and their parents a prosperous 2010. We look forward to working together this year developing all the eager young minds to become talented musicians!
We welcome Mrs Renata Verster to our department. She will be teaching piano, flute, recorder and Foundation Phase class music. We trust that she will enjoy being part of our department.
Individual music lessons will commence as soon as the timetables are finalised. Lesson times will be confirmed with the class teachers and pupils concerned.
Please diarise the following for this term:
Senior Choir rehearsals Tuesday 14:00 – 15:00
Monday 7:30 – 8:00
Vocal Ensemble Weekly rehearsals To be confirmed
Junior Choir Tuesday 8:10 – 8:40
Variety Concert (Masque Theatre) in conjunction with WGHS Vocal Ensemble Thursday/Friday 19:30
Saturday 14:30, 18:30 21/22/23 January
Music Movie Tickets for sale Friday 26 February
Choir Camp Senior Choir Friday/Saturday 5/6 March
Grand piano inauguration Tickets for sale Thursday 18 March
May our music fill your ears with joyous sounds this year!
MY SCHOOL CARD
If any of our new families have not yet completed the “My School Card” application form, please do so as soon as possible. Our school benefits every time the card is swiped at the participating stores at no cost to you. It is a simple way for the school to raise additional funds.
PA/FUNDRAISERS AND EVENTS CO-ORDINATORS
The Parent Association constitutes an extremely vital cog in the wheel of school life. For 2010, we have a core group of highly motivated parents, headed by Mrs Lyn Makinson, who will be relying on your support throughout the year to reach our much needed targets. Involvement in all areas of school life is a very positive experience and certainly enhances your daughters’ view of school. We have a notice board outside the school hall, dedicated to “forthcoming attractions” as well as important information regarding our progress in fundraising. Please make yourself available to assist in at least one of the events and certainly diarise all the events to avoid any clashes. FUN raising is a key element in all our FUND raising activities. We begin the year with our Camp Out on Friday 29 January. More details will follow.
SCHOOL FEES AND EXEMPTIONS – Finance Office
We wish to thank all those parents who have paid their school fees for 2010, in advance. There is also a far greater number paying by debit order. This is a great help to the school as well as being a time saver. We encourage you to use this system. Should you still wish to make use of the debit order system, please obtain a form from the Finance Office. Further information may be obtained from Mrs Yardin or Mrs Korck. Please complete the form as soon as possible and make the necessary arrangements.
We wish to remind parents who feel that they qualify for exemptions or partial exemption on fees, that the forms are available at the Finance Office. You are required to come in to the school and sign for the application as per the legislated regulations. The deadline for submitting the completed forms is Friday 19 February 2008. The Governing Body Finance Committee will process these applications. We ask you to consider your options very carefully as the school is almost totally reliant on school fees to operate efficiently and effectively. We do not receive any compensation for exemptions from the Education Department. Please note that this concession on fees does NOT apply to Grade R which is privately operated.
GOVERNING BODY BY- ELECTION
Please take note that a separate letter informing you of the School Governing Body By - Election which takes place on Tuesday 16 February at 18h00 is attached. We need to replace one member of the SGB whose daughter has now left the school. Currently, we have one co-opted member who is prepared to stand for office but obviously, this is an open election and should you wish to nominate someone whom you feel has the expertise we may require, please follow the legal procedures.
It is a legal requirement that we have a quorum of 15% of the total number of children present at the school, represented by the parents, at the By-Election before we may proceed. Therefore I appeal to you to make every effort to attend and avoid us having to wait another 30 days for a second attempt! The elections are swiftly conducted and the meeting is usually concluded without any delays.
EXTRA-MURALS
All extra-murals begin on Monday 18 January.
FLOWERS FOR THE FRONT OFFICE – MISS WESTON
We are looking for volunteers to provide flowers for the Office. All you would need to do is send a large bunch of flowers to school on a Monday morning. This would take place twice a year. You would leave the flowers with one of the secretaries in the office. You would not need to arrange the flowers but if you are able to, that would be greatly appreciated. Please indicate below if you would be able to assist us.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
We, the young ladies, parents and educators, are all very proud to belong to the WGJS family. Certain standards have been set and need to be maintained in order for us to continue to be seen as a fine example to all. A high standard requires attention to detail, hence our requests to you to ensure that your daughters wear the correct school uniform, neatly, at all times. While the initial outlay may appear expensive, it costs far less in the long run than if you had to acquire a wardrobe of casual clothing and shoes for you daughters were uniforms to be abolished. The “Wynberg” label costs a fraction of the designer labels our girls are all attracted to! Please be aware that no outrageous hairstyles or altered hair colours are permitted. Fashionable, sweeping or hanging fringes are to be kept back, away from the face in hairclips or a hair band. Only small studs or sleepers, one in each ear, may be worn.
PUNCTUALITY
We realise and accept that the traffic outside school this morning was extremely congested which hampered punctual arrival. It should lessen over the next few days after our Grade 1’s have settled in. It is imperative that the girls arrive at school at the correct time every morning. I cannot emphasise this enough. Often, when the girls arrive after the bell has rung, it is not their fault, but in fact parents who have been responsible for their late arrival. Punctuality is part of self-discipline and most certainly, respect. We understand that crises do occur but for the most part we urge you to ensure that your daughters arrive at school in good time. All latecomers are to announce themselves at the secretaries’ office so that we are aware that they have arrived safely.
MOMS WHO PRAY
Should you like to be part of the group of moms that pray for the staff, their families and the girls’ of Wynberg Girls’ Junior School, please contact Mrs Appleton on 082 790 5264 for details.
ABSENTEES
Should your daughter not be coming to school for any reason, please contact the secretaries by 09:30 on the morning of her absence. This is very important. This enables us to organise extra work for your daughter should it be required but more importantly, we know that she is safe and that nothing has happened to her on her way to school.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
January
18
Extra-murals begin
20 Foundation Phase Meet the Parents at 18h00
New parents function at 19h00
21 Intermediate and Senior phase Meet the Parents at 18h00
20-23 Vocal Ensemble performs at the Masque Theatre
29 Camp Out
IN CONCLUSION
Start as you intend to finish. In other words do not be distracted from the wonderful intentions you have to make 2010 a special year. Begin with a flourish and end it in the same way. Work hard at maintaining all your good intentions. It requires self- discipline and conditioning! We plan to do our very best and will not be happy with mediocrity!
We will endeavour to have a school filled with eager, enthusiastic learners. We must provide dynamic, motivating educators. We dream of polite, respectful learners. We must provide sound role models. We imagine a school where there is no bullying. We must ensure policies are in place and that the girls are protected and that perpetrators’ behaviour is altered through programmes. All this I am willing to do. However, the school can only do so much in 5 hours a day. Society takes care of the rest! So, only if we work together, model the standards, values and morals will we succeed. I’m willing to try, I know you are too!
A quote from Barbara Jordan, mother of the basketball player Michael Jordan follows:
Give your children the priceless, lasting gifts of character: concern for others, self esteem, freedom to dream, integrity, independence, responsibility, confidence, values based on good judgement or reasoning and spiritual faith. The best way to do this is through you own example.
Best wishes
W M CONDIE (MRS)
PRINCIPAL
