Sunward Park High School was a hive of excitement and intellectual energy on May 7 and 8 as learners from 11 schools across Ekurhuleni went head-to-head in the annual Spelling Bee.

The two-day competition drew learners from Sunward Park High, Hoërskool Elspark, Lethulwazi Secondary, Erasmus Monareng Secondary, Masithwalisane Secondary, Royal Schools Alberton, Glenbrack Secondary, Sanelich Academy, Thoko Thaba Secondary, Leondale High and Germiston High.

The competition opened on May 7 with the Grade Eight and Grade Nine categories.

Olothando Nkomonye from Thoko Thaba Secondary claimed first place, followed by Omphile Mokoena from Masithwalisane Secondary in second place and Achuma Daniel from Royal Schools Alberton in third.

The competition continued on May 8 with the senior ‘Super Bees’ category, featuring learners from grades 10 to 12 in a more intense spelling showdown.

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Oyena Nyamende from Hoërskool Elspark took first place, Palesa Radingoana from Sunward Park High was second, and Lethukukhanya Malgas, also from Hoërskool Elspark, was third.

Schools were also recognised for overall participation and conduct in categories such as most punctual, most disciplined and schools with the highest participation in the third round.

Royal Schools Alberton dominated several of the awards on the opening day, while Hoërskool Elspark stood out on the second day for both performance and discipline.

Organisers described the event as a refreshing reminder of the excitement that academic competitions can bring, noting the enthusiasm, discipline and sportsmanship displayed by learners throughout the two days.

“It was inspiring to see learners so engaged in an academic activity and enjoying every moment of it,” said organisers, adding that they hope to see even more schools participating in next year’s competition.

The event was coordinated by Thuli Mashazi from Sunward Park High School.

Schools and sponsors interested in supporting future competitions have been encouraged to contact her on 011 896 5114 or via Thulisile.Mashazi@gdeschools.gov

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