Off to big school
It was hard, but the new Grade one's parents eventually let go.
This year, Paardekraal Primary School will see 180 Grade ones in four classes.
“We have grown so much that we added a new class and employed a new teacher,” Linda van der Westhuizen said. She is the Foundation Phase’s Head of Department.
Half past seven on 13 January was a big moment for the Grade one pupils at Paardekraal Primary. With their bags packed and all the boxes on the stationary list ticked off, parents hugged and kissed their children goodbye.
“Now listen everyone,” one of the teachers announced to the excited and scared faces in the school hall.
“Fold you arms, put your finger in front of your mouth and listen carefully.”
Each demand was met immediately by the children. They did not want to disappoint their new teachers on the first day. But their parents were not as easy to persuade.
After a few requests, the parents, who seemed more afraid than their children, finally broke free.
“The children are becoming more and more independent. They settle in quite easily,” another teacher, Joey Meyer, said.
Joey added that their school desks are readily waiting for the Grade ones to fill it and she believes that 2016 will be yet another successful year for South Africa’s upcoming leaders.
To view more photos of Paardekraal, click here.
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