As the festive season settles with its familiar warmth and cheer, Hope School is celebrating a year that has been nothing short of remarkable.

In his heartfelt New Year message, principal Wilfred Jacobs reflected on a year that tested, shaped and strengthened the entire school community.

Read more: Hope School learner competes for SA at World Wheelchair Basketball Championship

“This year has reminded us of the power of collaboration and the importance of creating a nurturing environment where every child is supported to reach their full potential,” he shared, expressing deep gratitude for the resilience shown by learners, staff and parents throughout 2025.

And it is no exaggeration, Hope School’s achievements speak for themselves.

The school rounded off the year with its Academic Excellence Day on November 28, celebrating the learners whose hard work and perseverance propelled them to the top. From improved performance across subjects to individual breakthroughs, 2025 marked a year of academic growth that left teachers and families beaming with pride.

But it was on the sports fields, local and international, where Hope School’s spirit soared even higher.

An astonishing 25 learners qualified for the National Paralympic Games, set to take place in Cape Town next year. Their determination and discipline have positioned Hope School as one of the strongest contributors to youth para sport in the country.

The school community is also celebrating several standout stars:

Sicelimpilo Sibisi, a Grade 12 learner, made national headlines after being selected for the South African U23 wheelchair basketball team, which competed in the world championships in Brazil.

Guiding the team on the international stage was none other than their own staff member, Nichodemus Mmitlwe, serving as team manager.

Also read: Hope School learner represents SA at World Boccia Championships in Egypt

Sheena Hwami, a Grade 11 athlete, proudly represented South Africa at the Africa Regional Boccia Championships in Egypt. She travelled alongside Hope School’s dedicated boccia coach and teacher, Aaminah Chothia, who also served as assistant coach and team manager to the national squad.

Matriculant Thokozane Gininida made waves in the pool, representing South Africa at the Para Swimming Championships in Namibia, adding yet another international achievement to the school’s growing list of accolades.

With such a powerful year behind them, the Hope School family is stepping into the new year with renewed optimism.

“May the new year bring continued progress, unity, and inspiration,” Jacobs said, expressing confidence that 2026 will bring fresh opportunities and bigger dreams.

Hope School’s festive message is clear: the heart of the school beats stronger than ever, nurtured by community, propelled by passion, and fuelled by the belief that every child can flourish.

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