SPARK Kempton Park hosts annual sports day at Barnard Stadium

SPARK Kempton Park hosted its third annual sports day at Barnard Stadium on June 20, bringing together learners, parents and teachers for a day of friendly competition and school spirit.

Despite gloomy weather, the event was filled with excitement as participants took part in a variety of sporting activities, including relay races, netball, soccer, and foundation-phase games such as sack races.

SPARK Kempton Park assistant principal Nyakallo Mdlalose said events like these play an important role in learners’ development beyond the classroom.

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“It keeps the learners energised and helps build their personality, character and courage. Our fifth core value is courage, and this event encourages learners to be courageous in everything they do,” said Mdlalose.

She added that many learners do not always see themselves as sporty individuals, making the event an opportunity for them to discover new talents and abilities.

“Our learners have not always been sporty, but this event allows us to see a different side of them. Watching them showcase their talents is both exciting and rewarding,” she said.

Parent Omphile Mogashoa welcomed the school’s focus on learners’ physical well-being in addition to their academic development.

“It is wonderful to see the school caring about the learners’ physical health and not only their academic performance,” she said.

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“If you are only stimulating the mind, children can become tired and lose motivation because they are doing the same thing every day. Events like this teach them that whether they win or lose, the important thing is to have fun.”

Mogashoa added that team sports help learners build friendships, work together and get to know one another better.

Learners also expressed their excitement, saying they enjoyed spending time with friends while participating in their favourite sporting activities.

The day provided learners with an opportunity to develop confidence, teamwork, and sportsmanship while enjoying a memorable experience outside the classroom.