Auckland Park Preparatory School’s (APPS) newly appointed headmistress Joanne Glendinning has reflected on a year defined by academic strength, community connection, and a renewed sense of unity across the school.

Glendinning described academics as the heartbeat of the institution, noting that APPS girls excelled in a range of external competitions, including Tour de Maths and the Wits Mathematics Challenge.

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Their consistent performance in the national IEB shared assessments further reinforced the school’s reputation for diligence and intellectual growth.

This year also saw the installation of new touch-screens in every classroom, a development that has elevated daily teaching, while still working hand-in-hand with traditional book-based learning.

The school’s science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics syllabus – created in collaboration with Wits University – continues to deliver impressive outcomes, encouraging creativity, innovation, and problem-solving.

Beyond the classroom, APPS families gathered for a number of much-loved events that have become part of the school’s identity. The music picnic, golf day, family padel day, tents and torches, isiZulu fireside tales, the walkathon, and the swimathon all brought parents, pupils, staff, and friends together in moments that strengthened bonds and celebrated the school’s close-knit spirit.

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In culture and the arts, the drama department once again delivered memorable school productions supported by original scripts, vibrant choreography, and music that showcased the school’s creativity. APPS choirs continued to shine at the Linder Auditorium, while individual talent also took centre stage. Among the standout achievements were Regothabetse Mabutho’s performance honouring the spirit of Miriam Makeba, Maja Preston’s leading role in Chicago, and Grade 5 violinist Rorisang Kutulema performing a concerto under the baton of Maestro Richard Cock.

On the sports fields, the school celebrated strong seasons across multiple disciplines – swimming, athletics, netball, hockey, tennis, and soccer. Competing in national tournaments gave the girls both experience and confidence, further strengthening team performance and resilience.

Innovation also took a spotlight this year, with the APPS robotics team placing 29th nationally out of more than 200 schools, an achievement that reflects the school’s growing strength in coding and electronics education.

Glendinning said the biggest lesson of 2025 was the power of unity. The school community supported one another through challenges, celebrated each other’s successes, and continued to nurture a culture of kindness and belonging.

As the festive season approaches, APPS extends warm wishes to families and the wider community. The school hopes the coming weeks offer time for rest, reflection, and reconnection – and that the new year arrives with renewed purpose, energy, and hope. “From all of us at Auckland Park Preparatory School,” Glendinning shared, “we wish you a joyful, restful festive season and a 2026 filled with promise, growth, and continued unity.”

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