Last week was one for the books at Vryheid High School as learners and staff came together to celebrate Spirit Week leading up to the much-anticipated Derby Day against Hoërskool Pionier. From creative dress-up themes and hilarious staff pranks to thrilling sports fixtures and outstanding learner achievements, school spirit was at an all-time high.

Spirit Week 2026

Learners and staff understood the assignment

The excitement kicked off on Monday, May 18, with the theme “Blue Monday”. Learners arrived dressed in shades of blue while the staff added some humour to the day by pranking the principal with the worst excuses imaginable for not coming to school. From ridiculous family emergencies to bizarre pet stories, the principal certainly had an entertaining start to the week.

Jersey Day brings school spirit

Tuesday, May 19, was Jersey Day, bringing a colourful mix of sports jerseys and team pride across the school. Staff members also took part in the ongoing prank challenge by presenting the principal with random and unusual gifts throughout the day.

Adam Sandler Day takes over

On Wednesday, May 20, the school embraced the laid-back “Adam Sandler Day” theme, with oversized shirts, shorts and sneakers making appearances across campus. The staff took creativity to another level by dressing up as the principal, leading to plenty of laughter and memorable moments.

Cops, robbers and cross-dress chaos

Thursday, May 21, saw Grades 8 to 11 dressed as cops and robbers, while the Grade 12 learners and staff participated in a cross-dress theme that had everyone entertained throughout the day.

Green and Gold Day ends week in style

Spirit Week ended in spectacular fashion on Friday, May 22, with Green and Gold Day. The highlight of the day was the “kidnapping” of the Acting Deputy Principal, who was dramatically taken to the field, tied up, and covered in molasses as part of the spirited festivities. The event drew huge crowds of cheering learners and staff, ending the week on a high note.

Derby Day 2026

Passion, pride and intense competition

On Saturday, the annual Derby Day took place at Hoërskool Pionier, where both schools showcased exceptional determination and sportsmanship across all sporting codes.

First team rugby ends in heartbreak

The first team rugby match had spectators on the edge of their seats. In the dying seconds of the game, VHS earned a crucial penalty opportunity. Choosing to kick for poles from the halfway line, the pressure was immense as the crowd fell silent. Unfortunately, the kick hit the poles, and VHS suffered a heartbreaking 28–29 defeat in one of the most thrilling derby clashes in recent years.

Rugby results

• U/14: 57 – 7
• U/15: 27 – 22
• U/16: 19 – 40
• Second Team: 21 – 24
• First Team: 28 – 29

Hockey results

Boys Hockey

First Team Boys: 5 – 2

Girls Hockey

• First Team Girls: 0 – 3
• Second Team Girls: 0 – 5
• U/16 Girls: 0 – 2
• U/15 Girls: 1 – 3
• U/14 Girls: 0 – 1

Netball results

• U/14: 20 – 16
• U/15: 10 – 28
• U/16A: 12 – 15
• U/16B: 12 – 10
• Second Team: 8 – 28
• First Team: 17 – 31

First team girls impress in Newcastle

The First Team Hockey Girls travelled to Newcastle to participate in the Spar Hockey Tournament, where they delivered excellent performances against strong opposition.

Tournament results

• vs Dundee: 0 – 0
• vs Utrecht: 2 – 0
• vs Newcastle: 0 – 1
• vs St Dominics: 1 – 0

A special congratulations goes to Mercy Chituku, who received the prestigious Princess Hockey Stick award for her outstanding performances during the tournament.

VHS karate stars achieve national success

Only two VHS learners were able to attend the South African Karate Championships, but both represented the school with pride and distinction.

Lwazi Mlotshwa

• Gold Medal – Kumite
• Bronze Medal – Kata

Ayanda Ndlovu

• Bronze Medal – Kata

Congratulations to both learners on their exceptional achievements at national level.

ACTS Bible Study Programme inspires learners

During Term 2, the ACTS committee hosted a meaningful five-week Bible Study programme focusing on the theme “Living in the World”.

The study addressed the pressures teens face daily, including fitting in, popularity, self-image, reputation, pushing boundaries, and the responsible use of technology. Learners were encouraged and equipped with practical guidance on how to live Godly lives while remaining true to their values in a challenging world.

A huge thank you goes to the ACTS committee for their dedication and commitment to leading each week’s sessions and positively impacting the lives of learners.

Upcoming events

May 29 – Eco Club Clean-Up
May 30 – PSG Finals at Hoërskool Pionier

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.