When Rubi-Shae Snyman attended her first day of Grade 1 at Umhlali Preparatory School this month, she extended her family’s school lineage to three generations.

In 1980, Rubi-Shae’s grandmother, Doret Snyman, began Grade 1 at Umhlali Prep. In 2003, Rubi-Shae’s mom, Sharné McFarlane, did the same. Twenty-two years later, the mother and grandmother beam with pride that Rubi-Shae can share some of their nostalgic school experiences. Like her grandmother and mother, Rubi-Shae is in Hulett House.

“Rubi was excited to attend the same school as her mom and gran,” said Sharné. In a quirky twist of fate, the six-year-old’s first classroom is the same as her mom’s.

“It’s great to see how the school has always kept improving,” said Doret, who tells of how she used to take the yellow school bus from Ballito to school.

“It was different times. You would get your bus ticket for the term, get it stamped on the bus, and head to school. I would wait for the bus at the Hilary Drive bus stop and get dropped off by ‘The Big Tree’ at Umhlali.”

Doret moved away from the North Coast, but when she came back to Ballito as a parent, she enrolled her children at Umhlali.

“My brother and I loved Umhlali; it’s a very good school. I always planned for Rubi to attend Umhlali Prep,” said Sharné.

Doret and Sharné’s interests in sports varied; Doret played most of the sports offered, including swimming. Sharné enjoyed swimming and athletics. Rubi-Shae’s activities are more varied. She is interested in sports and arts and culture, and she enjoys reading. Rubi is also learning to play chess.

“I like swimming, gymnastics and ballet,” she said. “I also like computers and going to the library.”

But what is this eager pupil’s favourite pastime?

“Playing and having lunch,” she said. When asked who her favourite teacher is, Rubi gave a diplomatic answer. “I like all of the teachers, but one day, I want to be like Mrs Morgan (her Grade R teacher).”

Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.

Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.