The St Dominics High School community gathered for the annual Dedication Ceremony, a meaningful tradition that formally welcomes Grade 8 learners, recognises accomplishments, and reaffirms the commitment of staff and pupils to the values of the school.

The ceremony began with a proud and symbolic moment as the Grade 8 learners, affectionately known as the Pups, received their blazers from their prefect mentors, the Bulldogs. The presentation marked the end of the initiation period and signified the Grade 8s’ official acceptance into the St Dominics family.

Leadership

Mrs Shirley McGhee (executive head) welcomed those in attendance and reflected on the school’s strong culture of service and leadership. “Students are not afraid of service,” she said, encouraging learners to ‘always lead with purpose’. She reminded the school of the words of Eleanor Roosevelt: “To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart.”

Mr Ettiene Smit (head of the high school) spoke about the true meaning of dedication. He emphasised that dedication is a conscious choice – not simply being enrolled at the school or employed as a teacher or staff member, but actively choosing to belong and to uphold its values.

“Wear your uniform with pride,” he urged, adding that dedication is not about perfection but about consistency – something that must be spoken, lived and worn each day.

The Grade 8 learners made a pledge: “I promise to be friendly and polite at all times. To respect my teachers, parents, friends and visitors. To speak in a civil manner to others as we respect and care for one another.”

The Grade 12 learners pledged their dedication as leaders of the school, while the prefects publicly committed themselves to servant leadership. Staff members also pledged their continued commitment, followed by a collective pledge from the whole high school. Members of the Representative Council of Learners (RCL) were officially sworn in as office bearers.

Celebrating excellence

Honours blazers were awarded for outstanding achievement in leadership, sport, culture and participation at the International Science Fair. The prestigious title of Dux Learner for 2025 was awarded to Shakira Seedat (received on her behalf by Mrs McGhee and Mr Smit), recognising her exceptional academic performance.

The Dedication Ceremony served as a powerful reminder that belonging to St Dominics is not passive; it is a daily, deliberate choice. Through service, leadership and consistency, the school community reaffirmed its shared commitment to live out its values with pride and purpose.

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