Hard work pays off for local IEB matriculants

The Advertiser visited local schools on January 18 when the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) matriculants received their results.

St Dominic’s Catholic School for Girls

St Dominic’s Catholic School for Girls achieved a 100% pass rate and nine placements in the top 1% of the IEB nationally. Seventy-two learners received 154 distinctions between them.

Senior school principal, Sharon Fitzgerald, said on behalf of the staff and students that they salute the class of 2022 for their outstanding results.

“These exceptional young women are reaping the rewards of their fortitude, grit and commitment. They are an inspiration and an example to their younger ‘sisters’ at St Dominic’s.

“We wish them the very best as they continue their journey into tertiary studies and we hope they keep a piece of St Dominic’s in their hearts.”

Claire de Graaff was the school’s top achiever, boasting eight distinctions, and she received an IEB Outstanding Achievement (awarded to IEB learners who were in the top 5% in six or more subjects and achieved a rating of 7 in life orientation).

“I was surprised about my results. I expected it because I worked hard, but it is always a shock to see how well you did when the marks come through.

“I had a lot on my plate as I was also the head girl, but I managed my time properly and everything worked out.”

Claire will study medicine at the University of Witwatersrand next year.

Her advice to the class of this year: “Never procrastinate and always get your work done. Believe in yourself. You can achieve whatever you want to do.”

Woodlands International College

Building on its 21-year academic track record and the stellar results of the class of 2021, Woodlands bettered its bachelor’s degree pass rate to a formidable 96.1% (2021: 95.0%). The college is elated at this achievement under adverse circumstances.

According to Dr Mafu Rakometsi, the CEO of Umalusi, the matric class of 2022 suffered great prejudice because the Covid pandemic severely disrupted their learning in the formative Grades 10 and 11.

Priding itself on its small, personalised classes and high teacher-to-student ratio, the 52 students obtained 64 distinctions.

The 2022 Dux Scholar and Executive Prefect, Claire Downing, achieved seven distinctions, including one in further studies in mathematics, and has been accepted to study medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand.

Tayla Howroyd, the deputy head girl, and Jenna Joseph garnered six distinctions. Tayla will study in the United States as a scholarship recipient for her academic and sporting achievements (golf). Jenna will study locally this year.

Robynne McMaster, who was the head girl, and Muhammed Cassoojee achieved five distinctions each.

Robynne is also a scholarship recipient for studies in the United States, while Muhammed will study actuarial science domestically.

Nicole Dos Santos (mathematical literacy) and Jenna (mathematical literacy and business studies) reached the top 1% of candidates in these subjects.

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