School principal, Silas Pillay, addresses parents.
Grade 1 pupils at Halfway House Primary School, who started classes on 11 January, were all smiles and none of them shed the usual tears that school newbies are known for.
Although there have been reports of glitches in the online registration system introduced by the provincial education department, the school managed to enrol 240 Grade 1 pupils, with each of the six classes accommodating 40 children.
New Grade 1 pupils eagerly wait to go to class.
“I would like to congratulate all parents for the successful online application. We assure you that your children are in good hands. If there’s anything parents would like to know, the school will have an information session on 25 January,” said principal, Silas Pillay.
Fisani Malinga-Stroud, a parent, said she was happy that her child was in good hands. “I am proud of the school and was very impressed with the online registration system, which was quick, professional and effective,” she said.
Parents, teachers and Grade 1 pupils at Halfway House Primary School.
Seven-year-old Hlompho Siwela, who was accompanied by her mother on her first day at school, could not hold back her enthusiasm as she pulled her mother’s hand and guided her towards the school premises. “I am excited that I’m finally starting school,” she said, smiling.
Kgomotso Siwela and her little one, Hlompho, on her first day in Grade 1.
Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe visited the school. “We welcome the new parents and the Grade 1s. We wish them prosperity in their first year of school. The school started on time and they have their stationery and books,” she said.
Deppe said a project aimed at repairing the road in front of the school would start soon to make things easier for parents and pupils.
