The sports fields at St Catherine’s Convent in Florida were buzzing with excitement at their hockey festival on Saturday, August 16.

The day’s games featured players from St Catherine’s, Trinityhouse Little Falls, Crawford International Ruimsig and Constantia Kloof Primary School, all eager to showcase their skills.

According to Megan Scott, the Foundation Phase Department Head and marketer at the school, the festival was about more than just hockey.

“It was a celebration of community and school spirit. Parents and siblings came out in full support, while the Past Pupils’ Association created a warm and welcoming atmosphere by selling food and snacks throughout the day.”

Megan adds that the day’s festivities were also a prelude for the school’s open day taking place on Saturday, August 30, from 09:00 to 11:00, an event they are excited to share with the community.

What to expect?

Visitors can expect a day filled with a variety of activities for young learners, including karaoke, a Lego demonstration, a creative workshop, face painting and much more.

The school’s principal, Terri O’Donovan, adds, “Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet with teachers and learners and chat to them about the school and what we offer. The older learners will accompany visitors on a tour of the school, allowing them to get a sense of what we are all about. This includes shining a spotlight on our school’s core values and strengths, such as our expert staff, religious ethos, family atmosphere and premises.”

Those who are unable to attend on the day are welcome to visit the school on any day of the week.

“Spots are not limited to the open day, and prospective parents and learners do not have to register to attend. Should they miss the open day, they are welcome to contact the school and make an appointment during the week to pop in for a visit,” Terri says.

Who should attend the open day?

Girls from Grade 0000 – Grade Six.

“They will meet our nurturing staff and learners and see/experience what it could/will be like to be part of a sisterhood,” Terri explains.

What makes St Catherine’s open day different?

There is a famous saying, ‘the proof of the pudding is in the eating’.

“There is something special about our campus; you can only experience it once you set foot here.

“The school has been in existence for almost 70 years, and as you walk down the corridors, you can almost hear the girls from years gone by running and laughing as they move between classes. You can feel the heart of the school as you look at the pictures and photos of the decades that have passed by, you can hear it in the stories that the teachers tell,” Terri says.

She adds that, during the open day, prospective learners and parents will be able to experience the following:

Interactive experience instead of just a tour
• Visitors don’t just walk through classrooms – they participate in activities that show how learning actually happens at our school.

Showcasing student voice
• Learners lead tours and answer questions. Parents and visitors get to see confidence, creativity, and leadership in action.

“Taste” of culture and values
• Whether it’s through performances or cultural displays, families experience the school’s ethos rather than just hearing about it.

Personalised engagement
• Families don’t feel like one of many. They’re personally welcomed, guided, and given space to ask meaningful questions that matter to their child’s journey.

Terri says that, even though the open day is a mere two hours, she would deem the day a success if the prospective parents and learners walk away with a true sense of who and what the school is.

“A welcoming community where every learner is valued, inspired, and supported to reach their full potential. We hope they leave with an understanding of our strong academic foundation, our vibrant culture, and the many opportunities we provide for growth both in and out of the classroom.”

For more information, contact the school on 010 880 8270 or visit their website www.stcatherines.co.za.