The 2026 school year officially began, marking January 14 as a special day for learners starting their schooling journeys at Weltevreden Park Primary School.

Parents arrived at the school early in the morning with their little ones, ready to capture every moment of the day. Mixed emotions could be felt from both parents and learners, with some showing confidence and readiness for the day ahead, while others were scared to let go of their parents’ hands.

To help ease the first-day nerves, the teachers stood with smiles to help guide and welcome the children into their classrooms. Inside the classrooms, the desks were arranged neatly, and each one had colourful stationery that the learners would use to complete the activities of the day.

Many parents shared that they are excited as they watched their young ones take the first big steps towards their education, and others cried as they waved goodbye.