The Good Shepherd School's family was filled with joy and excitement last Friday as they celebrated their 130th anniversary at the Cathedral of St Michael and St George.
The Good Shepherd School's family was filled with joy and excitement last Friday as they celebrated their 130th anniversary at the Cathedral of St Michael and St George.
One of Grahamstown's oldest schools, it is known for its rich tradition as an Anglican school that strives to produce quality education for young learners.
Learners from Grades 1 and 2 recited poems that honoured the school, its history and progress, as others recited Bible passages on Jesus being the good Shepard.
In an interview with Grocott’s Mail, Headmistress Cecil Mager said, “To be part of the school’s history is very amazing in itself, I get so emotional when the children thank the teachers and the school because it means we are doing things right.
"We are trying to produce good quality public education for these kids and, although it’s not always easy especially with things such as lack of funds and so on, but we are trying our best in making sure that each and every child that leaves the school will leave being able to read, write and can actually go into good high schools so they can get into good universities in the near future."
Present and past learners spoke about how Good Shepard had turned their lives around. Aviwe Ntshangase, a former learner, said the school shaped her life when a teacher recommended her to receive a scholarship at Diocesan School for Girls. She later attended Rhodes University.
“The teachers must carry on being supportive and great to learners, because they shape the future of the learner,” she said.
Birthday messages were passed not only by Ntshangase but by many others such as Geoff Antrobus, Chairperson of the Good Shepherd Trust, Edmund Burgess, a parent representative, and former learners.
Pupils were asked what they love about Good Shepherd, and this is what they had to say: “I love the teachers and the food and the library,” Grade 5 learner Tasmin Windvogel said.
“What I love about Good Shepherd is that it’s a Christian church school and has a very good education, there’s always a good way of achieving your dreams,” Grade 7 learner Anelisa Tinga said.
Bronwyne Smith, also Grade 7, said, “I love that the teachers are so kind, loving and caring, and that every morning they put food in our tummies.”
One member of the School Governing Body appealed to parents to strengthen communication with the school.
“Parents must avail themselves to meetings for the sake of their children,” he said.
The learners' and staff's pride was palpable, as they looked forward to many great memories and achievements. The programme ended on a high note with a prayer from Bishop Ebenezer Ntlali.
