The Department of Education Gauteng East held its 18th annual awards for the top schools and achievers across the district on February 12 at Stable Inn in Springs.

The awards were attended by various stakeholders, including Standard Bank and Santam, which were the sponsors of the gifts received by the top learners. The Springs Boys High School band blessed the guests with a few pieces from their catalogue.

Speaking to the Springs Advertiser, one of the top achievers in the Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN) category, Armand Lubbe, said he was excited to learn he was the top achiever in the district.

Lubbe matriculated from the Dr WK Plessis School, which achieved a 100% pass rate in 2025 and was one of seven schools that were awarded for its outstanding achievement.

He said that he was shocked that he performed and that he was recognised by the district. He also said that, for him, the moment was about reflecting on his academic journey and how he had strived for excellence.

He added that during the matric year, he felt the pressure, which made him anxious, but with determination, he passed.

“With the support from my parents, the teachers and friends, I was able to push through the difficulties,” shared Lubbe.

Lubbe shared words of encouragement to learners from special needs schools that, no matter what disabilities they have, whether mental or physical, they must always aim high and do their best.

Hoërskool Hugenote took home the award for the best school in the district, with a pass rate of 99.45% and 77% bachelor passes.

The acting deputy principal, Mariaan Labuschagne, told the publication that, as a school, they are happy and proud of their learners, who were able to maintain the number one position.

She said that, for learners, they strive for quality passes and aim for them to leave the school well-rounded, including in sports and social clubs.

“Every year, we aim to provide the best results, and this year, our goal is to get 100% because we see that we have the potential to reach that goal,” expressed Labuschagne.

Labuschagne shared that the school has great teachers, who are key to learners’ success and provide resources and support for learners.

The district director, Somikazi Chabalala, said during the awards that the district is extremely proud of the learners’ and schools’ success.

“To the class of 2025, you have written not just examinations but a statement that the future won’t be declared by instabilities and have proved that excellence is not about comfort but about courage.”

She concluded by thanking the teachers, tutors, and principals for providing support to learners through extra classes and for sacrificing their time to help them on the journey to success.