Primary school learners from The King’s School West Rand attended the National South African Spelling Bee for the first time on August 2.

The learners worked together as a team and supported each other during the competition. Twenty of the learners rose to the challenge despite their nerves and gave their best, obtaining outstanding results.

At the competition, the learners participated in three rounds of spelling. The first two rounds were speed spelling, which consisted of 20 words, and then 10 words, which had to be spelt within a minute. The last round consisted of two ‘unseen’ words which had to be spelt within a minute to qualify for the Top 10 Spellers from Johannesburg.

Rebaone Mabeo, Grade Five, performed exceptionally well and scored three out of five in the sudden-death round. She came out in second place, earning a spot in the top three qualifiers to represent the Gauteng District at the national finals, which will be held at Sun City in December.

“I am astounded and in awe of our learners’ courage, tenacity and determination to take up a challenge they were unprepared for and still achieve amazing results,” said teacher Melissa Brownee.

By participating in such a competition, the school believes that learners will grow and develop their skills further. They are trusting in Rebaone to represent not only herself but the school as well at nationals.