The excitement of a new academic year filled the halls of Crawford International Fourways as Grade 1 learners returned to big school, marking the beginning of an important milestone in their educational journey.

Principal Shivani Sahadia said the school is enthusiastic about the year ahead and focused on helping learners thrive across all areas of development.

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“As always, we are looking forward to 2026 as we welcome our children back into the new academic year. “We are looking for our learners to excel in every area, and we are hopeful for great progress throughout the year.”

For many Grade 1 pupils, the first day of school can be both exciting and emotional, but this year’s intake settled in with confidence and smiles. Grade 1 teacher Chloë Da Silva shared her excitement about welcoming a new group of learners into her classroom.

“It’s always a little scary because you get so comfortable with your old class, and then suddenly you have a whole new group of children. “But it’s also incredibly exciting. Each year brings new personalities, and I’m really excited to watch them grow.”

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Da Silva explained that Grade 1 is a year of tremendous development, where learners begin to discover who they are while mastering key skills.

“Grade 1 is where they learn to read and write, but their personal growth is just as remarkable. Their confidence grows so much, and it’s amazing to be part of that journey.

@caxtonjoburgnorth Crawford International Fourways principal Shivani Sahadia welcomes the grade 1 and Grade 1 learners sharing what they want to be when they grow up. Video: Ayanda Ntshingila #caxtonlocalmedia #Localnews #News #Fyp #Community #SA #Fourways #Schools #johannesburg ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

“Seeing how they grow from the first day of Grade 1 and watching them start to do things independently is probably the most exciting part for me.” Crawford Fourways’ first day passed smoothly, with no tears among the learners, a pleasant surprise for staff.

“There were actually no tears today, which was very surprising. We were lucky to have met them towards the end of last year at their graduation, so they were already comfortable with us.”

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