Principal's Desk

We welcomed back staff and learners on Wednesday, 8 April, after a much-needed break. Unlike other years when we returned on a Tuesday, we were grateful for one extra day.

By week two, our Meet the Teachers evening took place, and my gratitude goes out to the parents who responded to the invitation to visit with their child’s educator to address academic concerns. I am tremendously indebted to the staff, who, after a long academic day, ensured that all their appointments went ahead as planned. While the bookings were meant to end by 7 pm, some staff were committed to staying as late as 8 pm to meet with parents, a clear indication of the calibre of staff teaching your child. 

Understandably, some parents could not meet on the scheduled day, and again, credit to the staff who were willing to meet with you at a more convenient time. I note the late hour at which these meetings are taking place, and I wish to also commend those parents for prioritising their child’s academic progress. Thank you! 

Our Co-curricular programme resumed, keeping both staff and learners busy after hours. On this note too, I am grateful to the staff who avail themselves to either manage or coach a sporting code, club, or society. In doing so, they allow your child to explore and discover another aspect of school life in addition to academics. Thank you to you as parents and guardians who, despite your own long day, and sometimes a significant distance that you have to travel home, wait patiently (I hope) for your child. Thank you for being on the sidelines to cheer them on, come win or lose. Your presence makes a difference. 

During March, we celebrated Human Rights Day, and this month, Freedom Day, marked 32 years of democracy and freedom from oppression. Sadly, I have had to deal with events that hinder all the progress we should have made to date. A separate letter will be sent on this matter in due course. 

On the Academic front, our core business at Bergvliet High School, the RISE programme initiated by Ms Jahura, Deputy Principal and Head of Academics, has already shown significant results for those learners who attended the classes in Term 1. For those unfamiliar, RISE (Rigorous Intervention for Subject Excellence) was introduced to the Grade 11 and 12 learners who take Mathematics and Physical Sciences. The success of the programme will determine whether to extend it to other subjects and other grades later this year. 

Last year, we launched our official Top Achievers Board (the brainchild of the former Head of Academics, Mr Cohen), whereby the top achievers in each grade are acknowledged each term for all to see on a daily basis. This year, Ms Jahura has gone one step further and awarded Tuckshop vouchers to learners in all grades who achieved an aggregate of 85% and more in Term 1. This will continue for the remainder of the year and the years ahead, funds permitting. More news on this incentive for learners can be found in an article by Ms Jahura in this edition of the Buzz. 

While some parents who attended the Meet the Teachers evening might have seen the significant improvements to the interior of the school, not many will be aware of them. I am pleased to share with you that several corridors have had new flooring installed. We continue to replace the old steel windows (that often could not open/close) with aluminium. To add the finishing touches, new blinds were also installed in the same venues. All of this is possible when our parents/guardians diligently pay the school fees. Thank you! 

By the time you read the May edition of the Buzz, the following would have taken place: 

  • Our first Derby Day against Camps Bay High School (away, Saturday, 9 May), except for the girls’ hockey matches taking place at Bergvliet High School on Friday afternoon, 8 May. Please do come and support the various teams. More details will be shared on our website and social media pages.
  • The Astro renovation is now completed, and a re-opening ceremony will take place during the course of the week. Details will be sent by the Sports Coordinator
  • The old astro will be offered for sale to those interested, a great idea to purchase a piece as a “remembrance of the journey with BHS”. Please contact Mr Schultz at Sport@bhs.org.za should you be interested.
  • The mid-year exams will start in the last week of May, with several practical exams taking place. By now, you should have received the exam timetable. Please ensure that your child balances their personal health, co-curricular, social, and academic commitments to ensure holistic success by attending school daily.
  • On Saturday, 30 May, our Music Department will be performing at the Baxter Theatre. As always, an event not to be missed. Tickets are selling fast (available directly from the Baxter Theatre, not the school). I look forward to seeing many of you there.

Stay safe on the roads, warm and dry on rainy days.

Regards

Mrs P Demas
PRINCIPAL