The Vryheid High School Eco Club has had an inspiring and action-packed week, demonstrating once again that small actions can create big change.

Raising awareness at Risen Son School

Our Eco Club spent a meaningful day at Risen Son School where they led an educational programme on environmental pollution, focusing especially on the dangers of plastic waste.

Learners participated in an engaging presentation on the three Rs — Reduce, Reuse, Recycle — followed by a hands-on workshop on how to create ecobricks. Using 2-litre plastic bottles packed tightly with non-biodegradable waste, learners discovered how everyday rubbish can be transformed into a durable eco-building material.

Working in teams, the Risen Son learners produced their own “hard-as-a-brick” ecobricks and proudly accepted a long-term challenge:

Create as many ecobricks as possible by August 2026!

These ecobricks will be used to build their first Ecobench, with guidance and support from the VHS Eco Club. The collaboration marks an exciting step toward promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable action in local schools.

Eco litter pickup: VHS learners take action for a cleaner community

February 20 – Streets Surrounding Vryheid High School

The Vryheid High School Eco Team, under the guidance of Mrs Mattison and Ms Dlamini, together with learner leaders Armaan Ahmed Ally, Nimrah Muhammad, Samirah Rehman, and a group of committed volunteers, carried out a highly successful litter cleanup in the neighbourhood surrounding the school.

A total of 22 participants dedicated 2.5 hours to the initiative, collecting a wide range of waste including paper, plastic, glass, and other discarded materials. Their hard work resulted in an impressive 14 full bags of litter, a testament to their determination and teamwork.

Challenges faced

Despite the success, the cleanup was not without its challenges. Learners worked in intense heat, and several participants who were observing Ramadan completed the activity while fasting. Additionally, the team had to handle unhygienic waste items.

Nevertheless, volunteers remained motivated and committed throughout the event.

Community impact

The cleanup fostered an uplifting sense of teamwork and community spirit. Learners supported and encouraged one another, transforming the event into a meaningful and memorable experience. Their actions not only improved the appearance of the surrounding area but also raised awareness about responsible waste disposal.

Recommendations

Participants suggested:

• Increasing education around the dangers of littering, particularly broken glass, cigarette stompies, and rotting food
• Hosting regular cleanup events to maintain a cleaner school environment

The Eco Club’s dedication — from educational outreach to hands-on environmental action — continues to highlight the influential role young people play in building a more sustainable future.

Small actions. Big impact. Together, we build a greener future.

VHS Boys’ Hockey team competes at St Dominics Tournament

The Vryheid High School boys’ hockey team showcased determination and grit at the recent tournament hosted by St Dominics. Despite tough competition, the team delivered strong performances and gained valuable experience.

Match results

• vs Hamilton: 1 – 1 (Draw)
• vs Sarel Cilliers: 0 – 1 (Loss)
• vs St Dominics: 0 – 1 (Loss)

The boys displayed excellent sportsmanship and teamwork throughout the tournament, and the experience will no doubt contribute to their development as a team. Well done to all players and coaching staff!

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.