POLOKWANE – Pepps Polokwane Preparatory School learners were recently awarded for their academic and sports achievements.
Gr. 7 learner, Emma Melville excelled at these awards and received numerous awards.
She was awarded the Smit Trophy for the top gr. 7 learner, the Willetts Award for the best achiever in English, the Mengouchi Trophy for her achievements in the school’s debating team and she shared the Agapé Award with another learner, which is awarded to learners who show a sincere Christian approach towards fellow learners, teachers and the community.
“Academics come first for me. But I try to manage a balance between academics and sport, because it is also important to participate in sport. It helps me to concentrate better when I study, so it is better to do both,” said Emma.
But she said sport was on hold for now as she was writing examinations.
“To all gr. 7 learners, study hard, keep focused and don’t give up,” she said.
Emma is an accomplished athlete and is passionate about hockey and mountain biking.
She said she tried to practise as often as possible with her mother, Melanie, who is a long distance and endurance runner and has competed in marathons such as the Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon.
“I really hope to compete in the Comrades and the Two Oceans Marathons one day, but I suppose I will have to finish school first, then will I seriously consider if I still want to run these ultra races.”
Her inspiration to be competitive on the sports field as well as academically, comes from her parents, Mark and Melanie.
“They are both very supportive in what I do, and that is what really drives me to excel.
“But I also have a very soft spot for my teachers.”
She said Celri Lawrenson was her favourite teacher.
Next year, Emma plans to go to Stanford Lake College, where she will stay in the hostel, which is an experience she looked forward to.
“I am excited yet nervous about going to high school. But, change is good as well as change of scenery,” she said.
“I have a true love for Jesus Christ. In times of struggle, I found strength within the Lord. He helps me to overcome challenges.”
She said she was going to miss everyone at Pepps, her friends, the teachers and the inspirational and friendly environment of the school.
