The Grade 1s made Valentine’s Day cards for the Estate staff. The boys had lots of fun making cards and sharing the love and then presented the cards to Chris Perumal and Martha Skhosana to give to their team.
Terrific Tigers for the letter TDrawings of boys in their Ridge BluesGroovy Glasses for letter G
Kids’ Lit Quiz
Below are the results of the Lit Quiz competition:
Team 1: Connor Leech, Abdullah Navlakhi, Vashiv Naidoo and Kabir Budlender came in 8th place.
Team 2: Matthew Thomson, Robert Steyn, Michael Jeong and Connor van der Walt came in 14th place.
A special mention to the three reserves: William Boland, Nyiko Mabunda and Ethan Steyn, they also participated in the quiz and they jumped in to help the St John’s boys collect answer sheets in between every round.
All of these boys showed the Right Stuff and we are proud of their results.
Well done boys!!!
The Grade 0 boys spent the week learning about bugs, recognising colours and building puzzles.
BOYS SPENDING TIME IN THE NEW JP LIBRARY
GRADE 4s – SEED POTS
The Grade 4 boys will observe and record the growth of their seeds over the coming days.
Grade 0s – Valentine’s Day!The Grade 0 boys practicing their engineering skills as they build structures.The Grade 0 boys making shapes using their bodies.
FAREWELL TO STAFF MEMBERS
Sihle Blose
Gary Cooper
We say farewell to Sihle Blose and Gary Cooper. Best wishes in your new and exciting roles.
THE LAUNCH OF EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT TEACHER TRAINING PROGRAMME.
At the ECD training 20 enthusiastic young students and 3 facilitators had their first class in our new JP building. The training will take place every Saturday for the next 15 months.
UPCOMING EVENTS
School opens: Boys to wear Summer Blues – 26 February
Water polo vs KEPS & St John’s – 28 February – 8:00-17:00
Swimming Gala – 1 March – 14:00-16:30
Cricket vs Lynwood & Clifton – 2 March – 8:00-17:00
Ash Wednesday, Boys to wear Blues – 6 March – 7:45
Our Living the Legacy theme for this Centenary year is providing so many of us with plenty of opportunity to pay more attention to so much that we, as a school community, have inherited and all that has been passed on to us from those who have gone before. In essence, it is important to recognise that, embedded in the school’s legacy of the past, will be a number of non-negotiables that can and still do positively influence the boys’ learning habits here at The Ridge each day.
Of course, many of these ‘living moments’ are shared into the lives of the boys, directly and indirectly, through their contact with the adults in their lives. At a school like The Ridge, where class numbers are relatively small and where teachers recognise the importance of building relationships with each lad in their charge, we as educators believe that it is important to encourage the boys to recognise, respect and appreciate, in an adult context, the person behind the professional.
As this Centenary year unfolds, we will look forward to sharing old boys’ stories from yesteryear that describe some of the interesting and colourful personalities who have impacted on and influenced boys’ lives in days gone by. The following delightful anecdote is shared by Mark Holliday who was a boy at The Ridge between 1964 and 1969:
“Boarding life at the Ridge in 1969 was both routine and happy. The private high schools were starting to take on Standard 7 pupils so our senior class was down to a grand total of 12 pupils, hence we all became prefects. Half of us elected to take up a weekly boarding experience in anticipation of high school.
The senior dormitory slept 6: myself, McKerrow, Zoutendijk, Johnston, Impey and Barnes. There were four similar sized dorms with no doors, all opening onto a wide passage, which ended at the door to Mr Rose’s apartment. The entrance door at the other end was locked at night and when nature called you had to kneel over a metal potty placed under your bed making an unmistakable tinkling sound in the otherwise peaceful environment.
After a busy evening with prep, king-stingers, supper and showers to wash off the tattoos made from fountain pen fights, we usually went to bed exhausted. However, twice a week Mr Rose used to read to us and he usually chose adventure stories. He read two chapters before lights out, and I still remember clearly how engrossed we all were with Alistair Maclean’s ‘South by Java Head’ which took a whole term to finish.
One winter’s night, at about 12:30 he came into the senior dorm, switched on the light and said in his inimitable way: “Gentlemen, arise and take heed for there are events afoot that you will recall for the rest of your lives”. He placed his transistor radio on the shelf to the passage above my bed with the volume on low so as not to wake up the juniors. It was the age of entertainment by radio, so on that cold July night we all put on our dressing gowns and sat on my bed in the corner in semi darkness, ears glued to the commentary on Neil Armstrong stepping out of his lunar module. After Buzz Aldrin stepped on the moon half an hour later, Mr Rose stood up with his radio and muttered something about us “trundling down the vast hallways of knowledge in our size 11 boots” and then he ambled back to his apartment.
Such was the thoughtfulness and consideration of our inspirational teacher back then and he was right, I have never forgotten that night nor him.”
Transformation, Diversity and Inclusion:
We were most encouraged with the progress made on the TDI front here at The Ridge last year and with the important momentum that is now driving us forward. 2019 will be offering us many more such opportunities, as a school community and as individuals, to explore additional ways of addressing transformation, diversity and inclusion growth potential and perceived weaknesses within our school community and culture.
We look forward to expanding on what was achieved in designated key areas as laid out in our 10 Point Roadmap Plan of Action. In particular, we will again be highlighting and focusing attention on our language policy, our procurement processes, and on how we are working to eliminate institutional and subliminal racism.
Additionally, we look forward to working with the folk from Heartline in an effort to find safe and trusted ways through which people can share their own stories, listen to and empathise by connecting with others and be part of building relationships that will strengthen the feeling of belonging that we so desperately want for every member of our Ridge community. We look forward to being able to use both the Right Stuff Passport initiative and the Care-to-Learn programme to bring some of this home to the boys in ways that will enhance learning and conscientise related habits of mind.
As always, we are conscious too that we will need to remain attentive to what the diversity dashboard indicators are telling us about progress (or otherwise) being made against the equity and inclusivity scorecards. We look forward to sharing developments with the school community as the months go by.
Early Childhood Development Teacher Training Programme:
We are delighted to confirm that this coming Saturday morning will mark the launch of our very exciting ECD Teacher Training Initiative here at The Ridge.
In partnership with facilitators from the Teachers Learning Centre and made possible through some very generous sponsorship, we will be welcoming twenty young, aspirant pre-primary teachers into the programme.
We look forward to opening the doors and utility working areas of our new Junior Primary block each Saturday morning for the next fifteen months in order to help to facilitate a level NQF 4 ECD teacher training course. Thereafter, we are trusting that further donations will allow for a continuation of the programme and to us being able to offer upliftment, upskilling and empowering to the many other young caregivers who are all so desperate for a qualification that says, ‘I can’.
The students have been selected from various pre-primary and nursery schools from within the greater Alexandria neighbourhood just north of Johannesburg. The course will run between 09.00 and 13.00 each Saturday and occasionally during the school holidays. It will be facilitated and managed by experienced ECD professionals.
Improvements to the Nicolson Hall’s welcome and concourse area:
Parents will, I’m sure, be wondering about the ground work being done on the east side of the Hall. Whilst some of what has been planned is ‘under wraps’, I am able to say that the decision has been made to continue the Centenary Garden’s indigenous plant theme on the west side of the Hall and in doing so, to connect this area of the garden with Ollie’s Garden which skirts the north and west sides of the new Junior Primary block.
The project forms part of the macro plan that aims to bring the external aesthetics of the new JP block in line with the older more established part of the school.
Protocol to be followed when dropping off boys at the start of each day and when collecting boys during school hours:
Parents are reminded that for Grades 3 – 7 the school day starts at 07:30. Having been back at school for a month now, it was hoped that parents would be able to adjust their schedules to accommodate a drop off ten minutes earlier. Thank you to the many who have. Sad to say, though, there are several boys still arriving well after the 07:30 line-up bell. This is proving to be embarrassing for them and disruptive for the rest of the school. I appeal to all Grade 3 – 7 parents to assist their lads and the school by getting their boys here on time each morning.
A reminder that on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays school ends at 15:00 for Gr 5-7. An Exeat Permit needs to be collected from Mrs Semoko at Reception prior to leaving the premises, no boy will be permitted to leave without the Exeat Permit. Your assistance and support in this matter is appreciated.
A Final Word – Junior Prep classrooms come to life:
Having been back at school for almost a full four weeks now and with our new Junior Primary block being very much in use for all of that time it is appropriate to tap into what the teachers say about their new teaching and learning facility. The proof of the pudding, as the saying goes, is in the eating, so I asked each of our JP teachers for a few thoughts and three words that for each person best describes their first four weeks in the new facility:
“This has been a once in a lifetime opportunity! The whole experience of watching this building go from the foundations phase to a totally functional learning space has been unbelievable. I love the bright coloured furniture, the collaborative learning spaces and the fresh air that moves through the corridors from the outdoor balconies.”
“I am really enjoying my new space and airiness that it brings. It has such a good feel to it and every morning so far with the beautiful view and happy boys coming, the start of my day is truly something I think every teacher aspires to. Being under one roof is so wonderful as a JP section.”
“We are so fortunate to have such a lovely building and to incorporate the outdoors with the indoors. The boys are loving their space and I’m sure in time to come teaching in these classrooms will deliver different experiences that will unlock meaningful conversations.”
“Moving into the new building has been both invigorating and energising. Being in a new space and having unlimited ways to set up the new furniture translates to new and unlimited thinking around ideas of teaching and learning in this new space. The boys have a renewed mindset and discovering this new building together has created harmony and a sense of community for both staff and boys.”
The first few weeks of the year have, as always, flashed past. With half-term coming into view, I would take this opportunity to thank so many of you mums and dads for the very positive and engaging way in which you have drawn alongside of us here at The Ridge during what has been an unusually fast start to the year’s operational programme.
I do trust that you will be able to find some down time over the half-term week, when it arrives, as well as some important family catch-up time. Travel safely if you are on the roads and God’s blessings.
On 1 February the “Right Stuff” passport was launched. Each boy has been given a passport which needs to be filled with a 100 minutes of community service.
GRADE 0
During the first few weeks of school the boys were tasked to draw their bodies and then had a messy but fun time painting them.
Grade 0 Learning about patterns
All the hard work drawing and painting deserved some quality time over a quick snack.
CRICKET VS KEPS
The First XI Cricket team, featured above, in action against KEPS. The Ridge managed 140 in their allotted overs which was chased down by KEPS.
SWIMMING GALA
GRADE 6 & 7 ART
The Grade 6 & 7 boys tried their hand at archival drawings. Their chosen source of inspiration was the newly installed Centenary display.
GRADE 4 BOYS BLASTING OFF
Our Grade 4’s learnt how to build rockets in Natural Science.
GRADE 6 SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS
The boys identified different phases of matter using bicarbonate of soda and vinegar.
GRADE 3’s CELEBRATING CHINESE NEW YEAR
UPCOMING EVENTS
Cricket vs St David’s – 9 February – 8:00- 17:00
PA Meeting – 11 February – 17:30 – 19:00
Chess match @ St John’s – 11 February – 16:10 – 18:30
Chatterbox @ Kingsmead – 12 February – 18:00 – 19:00
Kids Lit Quiz @ St John’s – 13 February – 14:30 – 17:30
Cricket vs Pridwin – 13,14 & 16 February – 14:00 – 18:00
Water Polo vs St Benedict’s – 14 February – 14:00 – 18:00
Swimming Gala – 15 February – 14:00 – 16:30
General Knowledge Inter-school Quiz – 18 February – 15:00 – 16:30
Chess match @ The Ridge – 18 February
St Andrew’s Scholarship exam @ The Ridge – 19 February – 08:00 – 10:30
George Harris (Hilton College Headmaster), presentation to interested families. 21 February – 07:15 – 07:50
Prep Schools Cricket Festival @ Kingswood – Tour Leaves – 21 February – 07:30
We are almost a full three weeks into the new school year and there is little doubt that 2019 will be, as expected, a year like no other in our 100 year history. A Centenary celebration that, by design, will offer our 500+ boys, in particular, an experience that will hopefully be remembered and savoured for many years to come.
Thank you to the many parents who joined us on Saturday morning 26th January to enjoy the Centenary Launch and the spirited Ridge School Parade through upper Westcliff. If the convivial and happy atmosphere that pervaded throughout that school family gathering is anything to go by, then we are certainly in for a bumper year.
Remaining with Centenary and related activities and functions, our boys and staff were treated to a well-researched and thoughtfully delivered History of The Ridge presentation at the HM Assembly last Friday morning. Lara Pearce (Archives Administrator) took us all on a fascinating trip down memory lanethat provided a selection of interesting anecdotes, facts and figures from bygone eras. Pictures are worth a thousand words, as the saying goes, and this certainly rang true as the boys received and were able to appreciate some of the legacy of the past as represented by people, places and historical moments that came alive on the big screen.
Centenary happenings to look out for in the months immediately ahead:
1st February … the Right Stuff Passports will be handed out to every boy
15th March … the annual Lumo Dance in the Nicolson Hall
20th March … the annual Soapbox Derby will take place on Rose Field
30th March … the Centenary Celebration Cocktail function for parents and friends of The Ridge will be held in the Channon and Wyborn Anniversary Quads
Centenary Fund-raising:
As most parents would be aware, for the last year there has been frantic activity around the construction of what is now our fabulous new Junior Primary block. In essence, this has represented the culmination of one of the key, long-term foundations associated with the centenary fund-raising and upgrade plans as shared with the school by James Clucas (Chairman of the Board) at a Founders’ Day ceremony a few years ago.
A large portion of the funding for this important phase has come to us via a R10 million loan from the school trust fund. A loan that we are now starting to repay. One of the areas that we are targeting to assist with this repayment is that of school deposit donations. It comes in the form of an earnest request to parents to please consider donating your son’s deposit as this is one of the most effective ways for us to pay down this loan. We are keenly aware that this is a big ask and are extremely grateful to all parents of The Ridge School for their ongoing support, generosity and assistance at so many different levels.
I would like to remind you that all donations to the School are subject to S18A tax certification and so qualify for deductions to annual taxes at a personal and business level. Attached is an explanation of how this works and we would be happy to explain this further should anyone wish to discuss this form of donor giving with us.
Manco and PC Directorate
I touched on the exciting introduction of both of these new management structures at my HM address at the Parents’ Information Evening on Monday 21st January. I was not able to expand on either new system due to constraint of time, so I will take the opportunity to share with mums and dads some of the functions that each will be taking on.
Manco: this is a senior management structure that has been introduced to support and work alongside Nick Diana. Nick, as Head of Senior Primary and SP Academic, is tasked with overseeing all operational features of the school curriculum and the related teaching and learning rollout.
The Manco is made up of the following experienced educators and administrators:
the Head of Whole School English (Urvasi Naidoo), the Head of Whole School Mathematics (Damian Pakkiri), the Head of Middle School (Erica Kinnear), the Head of Learning Support (Jan Mallen), the Head of Research and Innovation (Nicci Kurz), the Head of Information Technology (Daniel McLachlan), and the Head of IT Administration (Ashik Haripersadh). Mandy Herold attends at least one of the bi-weekly meetings in her capacity as Head of Junior Primary.
Nick Diana
Mandy Herold
Damian Pakkiri
Jan Mallen
Nicci Kurz
Urvasi Nadioo
Daniel McLachlan
Ashik Haripersadh
Erica Kinnear
The roles and responsibilities of Manco are:
To be responsible for upholding and safeguarding the vision and strategy that guides all delivery fundamentals associated with the whole school’s academic curriculum.
To be responsible for the quality, standard and delivery of all aspects of The Ridge School’s entire teaching and learning programme.
To review and recommend policies and practices that will improve and add value to the School’s academic delivery and to the formal curriculum at large.
To be responsible for the joint monitoring of and co-operation between the various phases of academic transfer and distribution within the School as a whole.
To be responsible for communicating into and leading through the process of converting curriculum strategy to teaching and learning practice.
To be responsible for leading and managing subject / learning area meetings as and when required.
To research and recommend new approaches to best practice teaching and learning methods and related implementation strategies.
To keep abreast of developments in the field of Information and Technology and its role in enhancing the teaching and learning at The Ridge
To be responsible for guiding the School’s broader educational technology support and implementation programmes.
To take direct responsibility for representing The Ridge School at local, regional and national IEB curriculum gatherings and others.
The Pastoral Care Directorate:
This vitally important management team has been commissioned to be the think-tank responsible for overseeing the holistic development and well-being of all Ridge boys under the umbrella of what is loosely termed the Hidden Curriculum.
The PC Directorate is made up of Di Wellard (Director of Pastoral Care and member of the school Exco team), Ryan Bezuidenhout (Head of Upper School PC), Nico Seakamela (Head of Middle School PC), Another (Head of Junior Primary PC).
Ryan Bezuidenhout
Nico Seakamela
Di Wellard
The group has been tasked with the following:
The Directorate’s main responsibilities:
To act as a source of support, advice and expertise to our staff on matters of pastoral care, safety and safeguarding of the well-being of all Ridge boys.
To co-ordinate the child pastoral care practices and procedures in the School.
To work with the Headmaster to maintain an ongoing training programme for all School employees and other individuals working at the school.
To liaise with the Headmaster to inform him of any concerns or ongoing issues that relate to what might be treats to the well-being of Ridge boys.
To liaise with other professionals to ensure that the School contributes to the facilitation of any offer of early help when additional needs of boys are identified and contributing to plans to provide specialised support to boys who are in need of special care.
To advise and act on all suspicions, concerns and/or evidence of the need for Ridge boys to receive additional support, or of boys who have suffered or are likely to suffer abuse and/or neglect, which is reported through to them.
Where appropriate, to take part in Pastoral Care Conferences and /or reviews.
To work with the Headmaster, the Head of Senior Primary and the Head of Junior Primary to monitor and review Pastoral Care policies and practices.
Lightning Alert System
There have been another series of tragic deaths around South Africa in recent days as a result of lightning strikes. One of the most recent being the death of Clinton Flynn, the Head of Sport at Crawford Prep, Sandton, yesterday afternoon. It needs to be made clear that Mr Flynn and his coaches had reacted appropriately to the school’s lightning alert system, that the children had been sent to places of safety, and that extenuating circumstances results in this tragedy.
I want to assure parents that our lightning alert system here at The Ridge is in good working order and can be trusted to give advanced warning of approaching storms. In summary, the system works as follows:
The lightning alert siren will go off if lightning strikes within a 15km radius of the school.
The siren is mounted on the Nicolson Hall and has a very powerful and blaring resound.
An ‘all clear’ siren will sound after 30 minutes should there be no more strikes within a 15 km radius.
The ‘all clear’ will only go off 30 minutes after the last recorded strike.
The reality, as shared with members of staff this morning, is that no matter how good the system, there will always be a responsibility for coaches, teachers and parents to remain alert themselves, use their own common sense and act decisively if they believe that lightning is threatening.
To this end the following instructions have again been issued to all members of staff:
When a storm is approaching anticipate that the lightning alert siren will probably go off.
When it does, do not hesitate. Get the boys under appropriate cover and into safety as soon as possible.
Staff are then responsible for looking after the boys in that place of safety.
Only when the siren sounds an ‘all clear’ can the coaches or teachers return to the fields, tennis courts or swimming pool enclosure.
If the ‘all clear’ is not given after an extended period of time and parents are intent on taking their boys home then the coaches and/or teachers may only release the boys if the parent or guardian is there in person to collect their son.
Boys waiting in the carpark are expected to wait under shelter at all times when a storm is threatening or is overhead. They will be supervised accordingly.
Coaches and staff at away fixtures or galas will take their lead from the host school (most have their own lightning alert systems) but will always be free to make a call themselves should they believe that there is a lightning threat in that area.
High Schools Information Expo – 31st January
For the fourth year in a row, The Ridge hosted a well-attended and seemingly very worthwhile information Expo in which a record eighteen schools were able to participate and display some of their unique offerings, whilst being on hand to answer questions from parents and boys.
The purpose of the Expo, in addition to giving each senior school a marketing and information-sharing platform, is to provide our Ridge Upper School (Grades 6 and 7) parents, in particular, with important choice-making options. Where it is understandable that certain of the more prominent and higher profiled Boys Colleges will always attract a lot of attention, the wider choice of senior schools as represented through the Expo, share a very strong message to mums and dads to make sure that they spend time investigating which college will prove to be the best possible fit for their son.
A Final Word … Living the Legacy
As mums and dads will now know, our theme for the year is Living the Legacy. Needless to say, what for children can be a rather abstract concept, will need some explanation and unpacking in order for them to better understand what living the legacy will need to look like in an everyday, school-related context.
Much of this should tie up very nicely with our longstanding Right Stuff initiative. Where our emphasis on promoting a Right Stuff approach to life has been in place for many years, it was reenergised and elevated in prominence last year with the introduction of the monthly Right Stuff awards.
This year, as part of the Centenary campaign, every boy has just been issued with a Right Stuff Passport. With the aim being to encourage each lad to earn community service stamps that by year end will have amounted to at least 100 minutes of service, it is hoped that the initiative will engender too, a deeper understanding of what the important service aspect ofLiving the Legacy ought to feel like.
Wishing all members of our Ridge family all the best and God’s richest blessings as we look toward the month of February and all that will be coming our way.
Ridgie welcomed back our parents and boys in spectacular fashion.
and, of course our staff too…
The new Junior Prep building is open for business…
DCIM/102MEDIA/DJI_0040.JPG
it looks lovely but it’s missing a few teachers and boys doing their learning thing…
We also welcomed our newest and littlest Ridge Boys to the family.
Not to mention how proud we are of our Old Boys on their first day of college.
Don’t forget to join us for the big Centenary Launch and Parade tomorrow morning. Boys to arrive by 08:15, the service will begin at 09:00, followed by the Parade at 09:45.
Next week The Ridge will be hosting a High Schools Expo. With 18 schools from around the country in the Nicolson Hall. All our Ridge families are welcome as it is never too early to shop around for the perfect fit.
Other upcoming events to note:
Please consult the app for more detail.
Reminder: On the calendar function on the app you are able to select an event and then have it saved to your personal calendar.
CRICKET vs KEPS – Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31January and Saturday 2nd February
Water polo vs KEPS and St Peter’s – Thursday 31 January
A, B and C Swimming gala – Friday 1 February
Grade 0 Coctail Party in Rose Pavilion – Tuesday 5 February
Cricket vs St David’s – Wednesday 6, Thursday 7 and Saturday 8 February
Water polo vs St David’s – Thursday 7 February
2nd Team Water polo tour to Knysna – Thursday 7 February
Following what I trust has been a memorable and happy December and January holiday season, it is almost time again to dust off the school uniforms, cut and reshape your lad’s holiday hairstyles, and get to grips with books, bags and bats in preparation for the start of a Centenary year that promises to live up to all our expectations.
Gearing up:
I’m pleased to report that, following the expected recess and downtime for all members of staff, the school is in excellent working order and, as such, is in a welcome state of readiness as we approach the first day back next Wednesday, 16th January.
The recent rains provided much needed sustenance for fields, gardens and general grounds, and our estate teams have been hard at work doing what is required to make sure that all is in good working order ahead of the boys’ return. Likewise, classrooms and utility spaces are also in great shape and are ready to be populated with this year’s energetic crop of young Ridge lads.
New Junior Prep block:
We are delighted too to be able to report that our new Junior Prep block will be in full operational readiness for our eager young Grade 1, 2 and 3 boys. Whilst there is still work being done in the surrounding area outside the building, our JP teachers and the housekeeping ladies have made sure that the teaching and learning environment will be open for normal teaching and learning from Wednesday next week.
Centenary:
Given that we are about to be immersed in all that the Centenary year will be bringing our way, we can all anticipate that next week will offer a good deal more than one would normally expect at the beginning of a given academic year. Whilst not wanting to betray all that is being planned for a very special 2019 school opening I am nonetheless able to alert you to the fact that the 16 January will provide a very fitting celebratory prelude in anticipation of and preparation for all that is to follow in the weeks and months ahead.
I have included another copy of the Centenary calendar towards the end of this letter as a reminder and for your interest. We will make sure to bring to light and so highlight every event and upcoming function well in advance as the weeks roll into view.
2019 Class lists:
These will be posted on The Ridge School App on Monday morning next week. Lists will also be posted on the noticeboard outside the Nicolson Hall.
Reminders and Prompts:
– the Grade 1 – 7 boys will be wearing their Summer Blues as they return to school on Wednesday morning. Grade 0 boys will wear their khakis when they are brought to school for their orientation programme.
– a reminder that the school starting time has been brought forward by ten minutes for Grade 3 – 7 boys. As such, the first bell will ring for line-up at 07:30. All Grade 3 – 7 boys should be at school by 07:25 at the latest each day, please.
– Grade 0 boys will arrive at school as per the special schedule that was communicated through to parents last year. The starting time for Grade 1 and 2 boys will remain at 07:40.
– drop-off points are as per normal with the Grade 0 and 1 boys only being dropped off in the Lawley Road carpark, the Grade 2 – 5 boys in the main carpark off Woolston Road, and the Grade 6 and 7 boys making use of the Irish Gate drop-off point.
– boys are expected to return to school with their hair neatly cut and groomed. We appeal to parents not to allow their boys to return on Wednesday with hair that is of an unacceptable length, style or colouring.
– an appeal to parents to please make sure that all clothing, sports equipment and personal belongings that your sons will be bringing to school is all clearly marked.
-The School shop hours are as follows: 07:15 to 08:00 & 13:00 to 14:00 (Monday to Friday).
-The Ridge App needs to be deleted and then reinstalled to ensure it is functioning optimally.
Dates to Diarise:
– 16 January First day back to school. 08:00 – Centenary Opening Assembly
– 18 January 08:00 – History of The Ridge Assembly and Capping Ceremony
– 21 January 18:00 – Parents’ Information Evening
– 26 January 08:30 – Official Launch of the Centenary Celebrations 10:00 – Unveiling of the new Junior Prep block
– 1 February 08:00 – Right Stuff Passport Launch
“We are extremely proud to highlight that in addition to all the celebrations, we will be promoting service to our communities as a major feature for the year. Each boy at The Ridge will be issued with a “Right Stuff Passport” in which they will have to log at least 100 minutes of service to their community. In addition, on Saturday 1 June 2019 the Centenary Engagement Committee is organising for the whole school community – boys including their whole families as well as staff – to spend time at various pre-determined charities/outreach organisations. We anticipate that this will be a very rewarding experience for all. “ – Ijeoma Solarin (PA Chair)
Sports arrangements:
Separate communiques will be going out early next week to alert parents and boys about sports arrangements being planned for the first few days of term.
I look forward to greeting and welcoming you all as we look forward to a memorable and happy return to school for your lads next week.
Blink and you’ll miss it; In the blink of an eye; Before you can blink.
Blink …
… and the 2018 academic year is finished.
Do I write every year about how quickly the time has passed? I’m sure I do, and this year is no exception, except that this year I have science on my side! Christian Yates, a lecturer in Mathematical Biology at the University of Bath proposes that time is perceived to move more quickly for older people due to a slowing heartbeat, breathing and metabolism, making our lives feel busy and rushed. At the same time, time moves slower for children.
So, when my son, Zach, said to me the other day how quickly the year went, I was thrilled to realise that it wasn’t in fact just me aging, with slow metabolism, a slow heartbeat, and slowing breathing!
Just last week I had 22 young fresh-faced Grade 5 boys shuffle into my classroom, chattering eagerly about the year ahead. Sadly, I now have had to say goodbye to them as they go onto the next step of the journey at The Ridge in Grade 6. My Grade 5 boys, though, happily leave my classroom for the next one having grown and matured. For a teacher, that’s a good end to a year.
I was made even more aware of both the passage of time and the development of boys at The Ridge at the recent Grade 7 Leavers’ Dinner. While listening to the wonderful messages to each Grade 7 boy given by Mr Diana, Mr Motsepe and Miss Naidoo, I found myself thinking about the photo we would put up for Jude in a few years and what he would be remembered for. How quickly time has passed since his start at The Ridge, a blink of the eye ago…
At this event, I also saw mature, young (almost) men ready for their journey to high school, and I was very proud to have been a part of their maturing and developing on their journey to this point.
As you will see here, Horizons is now being published as a blog. Over the years, Horizons has gone through various formats in order to give you the most informative and user-friendly version. We realise that many of you were reading Horizons on a mobile phone, and the previous format was not suitable for this use. By publishing Horizons as a blog, we hope that your reading experience is as good as what you are reading about and that it means everyone is able to enjoy the many wonderful things that happen at The Ridge over the course of each term.
I don’t wish to end on a depressing note, but in closure as I write this, I am drawn to the wonderfully melancholy quote from Dr Seuss:
“How did it get so late so soon?”
On that note, happy holidays to you all. See you in 2019!
By Anton Pretorius
Grade 7 Headmaster’s Leadership Programme
Towards the end of the Grade 6 each year and as the following year starts to come into view, the excited crop of young lads, begin to give some serious thought to their role as Grade 7 student leaders here at The Ridge. Some of the discussions held with them all revolve around their involvement in the Headmaster’s Leadership Programme.
This initiative, which was started some years ago, focuses on giving each Grade 7 boy a chance to demonstrate his developing leadership skills by thinking through, planning towards and then actively engaging in four important components that reflect on or enhance his growth towards a deeper understanding of leadership. These components are: Service, Development of Self, Physical Development, and Organisational Skills.
It has been a real pleasure for me as headmaster to be able to monitor and manage the boys as they have dreamt up an impressive and diverse range and assortment of ideas and activities that together have made up their collective Grade 7 Leadership Programme contributions through 2018. Every boy is expected to plan for and complete two components, the compulsory one being Service. On having successfully completed two components boys have been awarded their Blue Leadership badge. On the completion of all four, the boys receive a special Headmaster Leadership Programme certificate at Prize Giving and their names appear in the Prize Giving brochure.
It is important to note that in every instance, when the boys have come up with their chosen service or activity for each component, they have had to also submit a form detailing exactly what they will be doing, how, when and with whom. This form then comes to me for signing off. Once the activity has been successfully completed, they submit evidence in support of what has been achieved and some information on what they have learnt from the experienced.
It would be unfair of me to single out individual boys and their initiatives or activities from the plethora of ideas chosen by the boys during this past year, so I will rather share some of the more unusual ones that have certainly captured the imagination. Some that have made their impact in the lives of others, added value to each of the Grade 7 boy’s own understanding of self, and/or allowed boys to venture into some unusual adventure, face the challenges head-on, and come out the other side knowing that they have achieved something that they could never have dreamt possible.
A few examples:
Service:
Soles for the Souls … shoe collection for the needy
Collecting clothing for the St Lawrence’s Children’s Haven
Collecting shoes for the children of Matwabeng
Raising money to provide cataract surgery to those in desperate need
Water collection for Cape Town
Working at the Jabulani Khakibus Kids Home
Spring cleaning in the Salvazione Christian School’s Art Room
Honouring the care-givers at the Park Care Nurses’ Day celebration
Working at the Wood Rock Animal Shelter
Cleaning up Clansthal beach
Development of Self:
Learning how to cook Sushi
Learning to speak Spanish
Learning how to sail
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
Climbing Mount Kenya
Losing weight
Learning to play the guitar
Riding in the 94.7 Cycle Race
Completing a CPR and First Aid Course
Physical development:
Paddling the Orange River
Scuba Diving Course
Aiming for competitive status in canoeing
Snake handling and awareness
Swimming the Midmar Mile – twice in two days
Learning how to box
Work experience at the Gas Agency
Four-day cycle race in Botswana
Learning how to rock climb
Organisational Skills:
Arranging a big brother’s 21st birthday party
Organising a Fathers’ Day lunch
Organising of a golf day for mates over the half term weekend
Organising a Kids’ Polo Exhibition Match
Hosting of a dinner party for parents and friends
Organising of a clothing collection for a local Children’s Home
Arranging a morning Tea Party for the nurses of Park Care
Arranging of a games event for a mother and friends
Organising of a shoelace sale for charity
By Richard Stanley
Wendy Schultz
Wendy Schultz has been an educator at The Ridge for 18 years, in the position of Grade 1 teacher. What a privilege it has been to work with and get to know this amazing lady. As a colleague, Wendy is the most supportive, honest and dedicated educator to work with. She is the first person we seek out for advice, ideas and encouragement.
The most important part of Wendy’s day is the time that she spends with the children in her care, making sure that each child has a happy day at school. She knows her boys so well and takes the time to connect with each one. We love it when she shares quirky anecdotes about what the boys have said and done. Her infectious laugh can be recognised immediately.
When old boys visit, she recognises most immediately and reminds them of the kind of boys they were in Grade 1. She has long chats with their parents, asking about the family as if they’d just left the previous year. Ms Mafunise, your ‘Maths expert’ says, “I won’t let you down, I will keep shosoloza maths!”
Wendy talks to everyone, colleagues, parents and boys with the utmost respect and never wavers in that regard. As a friend and Grade 1 team mate, our love and respect for Wendy is immeasurable. She is the example we aspire to. Wendy will laugh with you, lift you up and ‘set you straight’ when you need it. She is our ‘3 C’s’; our Conscience, Confidant and Caring Friend!
We asked her boys what they liked about Mrs Schultz, and besides the usual “she is kind”, “she gives us nice work” there were these extra gems:
‘She lets us play in the morning.’
‘I like everything about her!’
‘She always takes care of us when we’re sad.’
‘I like how Mrs Schultz looks.’
‘She is a good teacher and I’m just happy I’m with her.’
‘She always speaks to us in a nice voice.’
‘I don’t know…. I just like her!’
We are going to miss you so much Wendy, but we know you’re just a ‘giffy’ and a call away. May your next adventure be a fulfilling and happy one!
With so much love and respect.
By Lauren Baines-Fourie, Tracy Beukes and Miriam Mafunise
Karen Durandt
I have known Karen for many years. I first met her when she was teaching at St Katharine’s. She taught my daughter in Grade 1, 12 years ago. Georgie absolutely adored her and the academic foundation she received from Karen was exceptional. Karen left St Katharine’s after many years to take up a Grade 2 teaching post at The Ridge. The St Katharine’s staff really missed her when she moved across, and she has remained in close touch with many of her former colleagues.
Our current Grade 7’s were her first Ridge boys. I asked the boys in her first class of their memories from their time in her Grade 2 class and this is what they had to say:
‘Mrs Durandt was always very kind and caring to us all, she was a very nice teacher.’
‘Mrs Durandt was always there for us, and always looked after her boys. She was a fantastic teacher.’
‘Mrs Durandt helped me through a very difficult time as I was repeating the year. I felt very alone but she really made sure I settled in well and found new friends. She was one of my favourite teachers.’
Karen comes from a family of teachers, and teaching is in her blood. She commits to high standards, is an excellent teacher, and has inspired many girls and boys over years.
Karen is always immaculate, stylish and professional in her approach. She has a wonderful family and is devoted to the boys in her care. She is courageous and strong in her outlook in life and, although reserved, is deeply sensitive and caring. I have taught two of her sons, Kieran and Jamie, and she is an amazing mother to them all.
Karen leaves us to spend more time with her children and we will miss her. I know that she will be back in the classroom before too long.
By Janet Fox van der Poel
Carole Newman
Carole is a remarkable person, to say the least! She started her professional life as a musician, having studied music at UCT. She then married Dennis and they had two lovely children, Johnny and Lesley.
With a busy, young, growing family, her career path changed somewhat. She furthered her studies at UNISA in English and Special Needs Education, which have since been her areas of specialist knowledge.
Although Carole’s focus changed when she became involved in Education, her exceptional skills as a musician – dedication, intelligence, commitment, passion and flair, were transferred to a different domain.
Carole has been at The Ridge for 25 years where her excellent reputation precedes her. She has given unstintingly of her time and knowledge to the boys in her care. If ever boys were “known and grown” it has been with Carole’s expertise and encouragement. She has a strong sense of justice and always supports the underdog.
Carole is dignified, kind and loyal, and is a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend. When she has any “me time”, she loves reading, gardening and various cultural activities.
Carole, as The Ridge School bids you farewell, we thank you for your remarkable service to the school and wish you many years of well-deserved time to kick back, read, listen to your much-loved music and smell the roses!
By Jane Lamb and Sean Coughlan
Justin Wardle
Justin joined us just over two and a half years ago from the Cape. Most people gravitate to the Cape, but we were fortunate that Justin chose to come to us! He arrived at the start of the second term in 2016 and became a huge asset right from the start. With all his experience and expertise, Justin became part of almost every aspect of the music department.
He is a hugely accomplished musician with a love of wind instruments and concert bands, ensemble playing and arranging. Justin has assisted Euphane in this area throughout. He has also been a vital part of two very successful music tours, one to KZN, and this year to the Western Cape. Justin has, of course, also accompanied and been an integral part of our various choirs and all their performances. His musical arrangements are legendary. From the start Justin knew that ‘The Sound of Music’ was our forthcoming major senior school production, and it was fantastic working with him. Justin’s contribution to the production was extraordinary.
Justin demands absolute focus from boys, and by his own admission he is ‘not quiet’! The boys have grown to admire and respect this fine musician and they know exactly where they stand with him. Justin has made an invaluable contribution to our music department, and he leaves a great void.
Justin, go well and we hope your new chapter is exciting and fulfilling. I am certain you will be successful at whatever you put your mind to. I have a feeling that you will be back in the music world before long. I think you will miss it enormously. In the meantime enjoy a ‘quieter’ time away from music education and just know that you have left an indelible mark on ‘music at The Ridge’.
By Janet Fox van der Poel
Guinevere Versfeld
It is with a heavy heart that we have to say goodbye to Guin. She has been an incredible asset to the English department and she has always been a wonderful support to the boys and the school as a whole.
Employed as an English specialist in the senior school, Guin’s role at The Ridge was more than that. On arrival, Guin bravely took on the school reports and soon became the in-house Ridge editor. From editing the school magazine, to our recipe book, she was the ‘go to’ before any of these were sent out to the greater community.
Guin played a pivotal role in the school production of Shrek, often displaying her very own acting skills to help mentor the boys. Guin’s dedication to her boys and making sure their very best interests were considered were her priorities, and is one of the reasons why we worked so well together. Her energy and enthusiasm is often seen in her lessons, and her passion for teaching English is something that the boys benefited from. With her proficient English knowledge, the boys were challenged, nurtured and guided in the subject. The boys in Guin’s care were not only given expert guidance in English but were respected, supported and cared for in all aspects of school.
It has been easy, effortless and a pleasure having Guin to work with in the English department. We wish her well as she says goodbye to The Ridge and spends time with her wonderful boys and family.
By Urvasi Naidoo
Neo Motaung
Neo joined The Ridge family 3 years ago as part of the Realema internship program. Before long he had made himself indispensable; in the class, on the sports field and in the arts. Neo is a disciplinarian and a stickler for time. He has a suave dress sense, coupled with impeccable manners that make him the darling of those he comes into contact with. With his easy manner and broad smile, Neo makes friends easily and can communicate with everyone and anyone on campus.
Neo is ambitious and very driven. With his zest for life we can expect great things from this young sir. He has from day one displayed the characteristics of a teacher: he is gentle when there is a need but also firm with his boys. He is supportive of lads that need a helping hand but is not prone to spoon feeding. Neo believes in boys taking the initiative to find information for themselves.
Go well, Motaung, motho wa ha Hlalele, Sebata se maro. Represent us well where you are going, remember that a teacher is a teacher no matter where they are. Hold on to the values of Great Teachers: fairness, putting the needs of your learners first, being mindful of those in need of a friend, defending the vulnerable and giving praise where it’s due, while you yourself maintain being a life-long learner too. Teaching is a way of life, embrace it. Remember that the profession chose you, that you will be conscripted to a life of poverty, but that great personal fulfilment will be more in abundance. Lastly, take comfort in the knowledge that you are a farmer, the seeds you planted will germinate and bear fruit long after you left this stage.
Realeboha, and ndlelantle!!!
By Moeketsi Motsepe
Tennis
2018 has been another successful tennis season indeed!
More and more boys continue to join and play tennis at The Ridge, some at a social level and some at a competitive level. As tennis is one of the select few sports that is on offer at school throughout the year the numbers of boys participating is growing exponentially.
Playing tennis allows the boys to develop many skills such as: a good work ethic, learning sportsmanship, accepting responsibility, managing mistakes, enhancing discipline and teamwork, learning to cope with pressure and adversity and developing healthy habits.
The Ridge tennis teams performed with grit and excellence, achieving outstanding results during the inter-school leagues this year. The boys showed great competitiveness, sportsmanship and professionalism. The first team in particular were victorious in all their fixtures in the KZN tennis tour. Well done!
The Ridge also has a number of boys participating in the South African junior tennis circuit. They too have performed with excellence and are to be congratulated on their fine personal achievements.
All the boys are to be commended for their enthusiasm and participation this year, whether they represented the school or attended social practices. I look forward to another successful year in 2019 in terms of interest, passion and love for this wonderful sport which is widely regarded as the “sport for a lifetime”.
By Damian Pakkiri
Swimming
Captain: Weston Davis
Vice-Captain: Richard Stagman
2018 has been another happy year for the swimming teams. Once again, we were able to field three teams on a Friday afternoon, which is a great feat from our relatively small school.
The league galas were much bigger this year, with as many as eight schools at some of the competitions. Throughout the leagues, our Ridge teams generally finished in the top 4. The C team always had a tough ask as only a few schools have a C team so they are often competing against B teams.
Our B team was probably our most consistently strong team this year, whilst the A team results often depended on availability owing to a few cricket and water polo clashes. However, as true Ridge boys, they were always prepared to dive in and swim wherever and whenever they were needed!
The highlight, once again, was the Boys Prep Schools Gala in which the A team retained their very impressive 3rd position while the B team achieved an exciting and noteworthy 2nd place.
Rose retained the title at the Championship Gala with Dunn finishing second. Rose again won the year-end Tabloid gala, with Nicolson finishing second.
A big thank you must go to the Grade 7 swimmers for their commitment and dedication to the swimming teams over the years. They have certainly done us proud.
By Erica Kinnear
Cricket
1st XI Cricket Team
The 2018 cricket season was a really good one for The Ridge. In total Ridge boys played a massive 155 matches! There were a number of tours that took place this year, the most significant one being hosted by WPPS during the drought. The Ridge also toured to Clifton and Cordwalles, which is always great fun for the boys and always produces tough opposition. A highlight of this tour was when the U10 and U11 boys visited Hilton College where they were greeted by Mr David Millar (arguably the most explosive 20/20 batsman who plays for the Proteas) and Mr Dale Benkenstein (Hilton 1st team coach and Proteas batting coach). This proved to be a highly exciting morning.
As a school we had five U9 teams, four U10 teams, three U11 teams and five Open sides playing this year, which was most pleasing to see. From all these teams and the 155 matches we played, The Ridge managed to achieve a 53% win ratio across the board against all opposition.
A very big thank you to all the coaches and umpires who spend hours out on the field coaching our boys, your dedication to keep the boys positive and motivated is really appreciated. We look forward to an exciting 2019 season.
By Bennie du Preez
Climbing
Although the climbing season this term was a relatively short one, it ended on a high note with The Ridge winning the Bouldering school of the year award at City Rock. This was the first inter‐schools climbing competition hosted by Offwidth. The boys also participated in four Gauteng Climbing competitions featuring tight rope and bouldering. Once again, our climbers excelled, and three of our boys were selected to climb for Gauteng Climbing at National level. This is a phenomenal achievement. Alex Hutton received a gold medal for Top Rope and a gold medal for Bouldering. Oliver Hutton received a silver medal for Top Rope and a bronze medal for Bouldering. Davrin Gillot was placed in 4th position overall. The boys have shown true signs of resolution, steadiness and determination. Heartiest congratulations, boys!
We enjoyed an increase in the number of boys choosing climbing this year. A total of 16 boys, each with their own individual climbing objectives, be it recreational or competitive, balance climbing with other sports that they participate in at The Ridge. Climbing does not only draw on the physical attributes of the boys but it is also a huge mental game drawing on their self‐reliance and confidence, and the boys enjoy it. Unfortunately, there were no Grade 7 boys participating in climbing this year, hence the positions of captain and vice‐captain were not filled.
By Shanitha Ramsurwaj
The professional climber
We had three open outdoor climbing afternoons during the year in which boys participated in and recently, over the October half-term break, we had a number of boys and their families join us at Waterval Boven for a weekend of outdoor climbing. This last event was booked out by March and is extremely popular, with climbers having an opportunity to climb higher routes than what is generally available in Johannesburg as well as being in a most spectacular environment.
The Ridge climbers have done well this year and 2019 holds opportunity for more fun on the walls, harder and higher sends, all while mastering techniques and skills in a variety of contexts.
By Sonja Thomas (Offwidth)
A boy’s perspective of climbing
Hanging by a rope off the side of a mountain, about 40m up, looking at Johannesburg is what I think climbing is all about. This is what we do when outdoor climbing at the Crags. I have been climbing for 2 years and have learnt so much. I love climbing because you are able to see yourself progress. In the beginning the routes that were: “Just too difficult” become: “Ah! That was easy!”
We are a small group of boys and we all have a love for climbing in common. We talk about climbing a lot. When I first started, my goals were to make the climbing team and to climb a difficulty level 15 route. Once I reached these goals I set myself some new ones. I would like to make the National Team and hopefully one day, with enough practice, I’ll be able to top a difficulty 20 route. I love climbing and it has helped me mentally and physically.
By Giulio Cianfanelli
Canoeing
We had a highly successful first official season of canoeing as a sport at The Ridge. This is a brief summary of some of the main highlights and facts from canoeing this year:
Number of boys in the Canoeing Team: 47 boys from Grade 4 to Grade 7
Number of Schools League events in 2018: 11 races (including SA Schools Sprint Champs & SA Schools Marathon Champs)
Primary school standing in the schools league: 2nd place
Individual standings: Nicholas Faure (2nd place in Gauteng in the U12 age group)
Participants in the 2018 Tugela 20s River Marathon: William Mills, Leo Lund, Michael Butcher, Sean Ruwodo
Participants in the SA Schools Sprint Champs at Roodeplaat Dam: William Mills, Nico du Preez, Leo Lund, Sean Ruwodo, Tsibisi Phalafala, Nick Faure, James Stapylton-Smith, Joseph Rosmarin, Luke MacKinnon, Ryan Herold and Alex Hutton
Participants in the SA School Marathon Champs in St. Francis Bay: Nick Faure and James Stapylton-Smith
Race formats: 500m, 200m and 100m sprints and Long Distances races varying between 2km for the U10 age group up to 6km for the U14 age group
A big thank you must go out to Mr McLachlan who has taken it upon himself to really build on our canoeing and for taking it to a new level. We look forward to the team going from strength to strength in 2019.
By Bennie du Preez
Basketball
Basketball was introduced at the start of 2018 and has become a very popular sport at The Ridge School with over 30 boys from Grade 6 and 7 playing for the A and B Teams. The sport is run by professional coaches who have taught the boys many skills, both on and off the court. Being a new sport at The Ridge, we have continued to show marked progress throughout the season with three practice days a week. The boys have played inter-school fixtures against schools like Saheti, Marist Brothers, Ballers, Jeppe Boys Prep, St. Peter’s Boys Prep, St Benedict’s Prep and Sacred Heart.
The Ridge School was invited to the St John’s U/13 Tournament on the 1st to 4th March 2018 and played against St John’s, Jeppe, St Peter’s and Soweto Academy. The highlight of the day was when they beat St John’s 19-16. The boys made it through to the quarter finals which was a great achievement for the team. On the 27th October the Grade 6s were invited to an U/12 Tournament at the American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ) and played against AISJ, Dominican Convent, Morris Isaacson and ISSA. On the 8th November the A Team was invited to the St Benedict’s Basketball Tournament. The B Team at the Saheti School Basketball Tournament did extremely well winning all their games. To finish off the season, the U/11s played at University of Johannesburg on the 10th November and won all their games.
This year has been very exciting for both the coaches and the boys. The sport will continue to grow and the boys will thrive while learning new skills and focusing on fitness and enjoying themselves on the court.
By Mbulelo Ntshingana
Hockey
Our 2018 hockey season was a competitive one where our boys showed a lot of grit on the astro. The Ridge put out 14 junior sides and 15 senior sides this year and it was a very enjoyable season, including all the bus rides to and from practices. With much planning we were able to ensure that every team practiced on an astro at least once a week and played a fixture every week.
Our first side toured to East London for the annual Prep Schools Festival. Our boys punched well above their weight and one of the highlights was going 1-0 down in the last 30 seconds to a coastal side with 7 provincial players in the team. The boys truly showed the Right Stuff and can be proud of all they have achieved.
A big thank you to all the staff and coaches who made this such a fun, exciting and energetic season. The boys really enjoyed themselves.
By Bennie du Preez
Water polo
The 2018 water polo season has been quite successful for The Ridge. This year we were able to have 3 junior and 3 senior sides participating in fixtures, the most teams we have had since we started water polo at The Ridge. Our teams have really competed well against the other schools and at times punched well above their weight.
The highlight of the year is always the SACS Festival where 22 schools from around the country participate. This year The Ridge finished a respectable 10th and the boys can be proud of what they achieved. We were also very proud of our U11A side who finished 3rd in the annual Willy Castle Tournament this year.
2018 has also produced the most provincial players the school ever had in one year, with five in total making the Gauteng squad. A big thank you to all the coaches for their time and dedication throughout the year and we look forward to an even better 2019.
By Bennie du Preez
Music
We have come to the end of another fantastic year of music at The Ridge. All our boys have been part of, and have participated fully in all the various musical activities. Our Music tour with St Katharine’s to Cape Town was a fantastic success. 170 very excited and happy children delighted the Cape Town audiences to several wonderful concerts. It was fun and fabulous on every level. The standard of music was very high and the children loved it.
During the term we have held, and been part of several choir festivals, performances and ensemble concerts. Our bands and voices have also enhanced endless school performances throughout the term, up to and including the last day of the year! We are delighted and proud of the high standard of our music and musicians. Our music exam, competition and eisteddfod results bear testimony to this.
Our annual Grade 0 concert “In the Garden” was delightful with every Grade 0 boy involved. The Nativity play, our African themed, ‘Jesus’s Christmas Umghubo’ was colourful and spectacular. Every Grade 1, 2 and 3 boy was involved and appeared to love every moment. The Senior Prep Carol Service at St Martin’s-in-the- Veld Church was utterly outstanding. The extended choir and orchestra was superb. These were all magical evenings with glorious singing and fantastic music. All the boys can be very proud of their performances.
My thanks go to all the music staff for their commitment and hard work, and particularly to Euphane Richardson and Justin Wardle for their invaluable assistance throughout the year in all regards. Sadly we say good bye to Justin Wardle after 2 ½ very successful years. We will miss him enormously. Enjoy the next exciting chapter Justin!
Lastly I would like to thank the boys who give of their best and with such energy and passion! Without them none of this would be possible. Grade 7 boys, go well and enjoy your new adventures. We will miss you!
By Janet Fox van der Poel
Music Tour – Western Cape
Music Tour… A boy’s perspective
Do – The parent’s money
Re – The Lack of Sunshine
Mi – My account of the Western Cape Music Tour 2018
Far – A long, long way to run, would definitely describe the distance from Joburg to Cape Town, but luckily enough we were able to fly there!
On our arrival in Cape Town we were shuttled down to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where we enjoyed a boat cruise around the harbour. The highlights of this activity for me was spotting some seals playing about in the harbour and listening to a Marimba band play in the square.
Our first concert was on Wednesday 19th September at Bridge House Preparatory School. Despite the miserable weather conditions, the concert went really well, and the music was enjoyed by the audience and performers alike. It really showed how the joy of music can lift up people’s spirit and bring happiness, no matter what the weather is doing.
Sew – A needle pulling thread.
This is merely one of the hobbies that the French Huguenots practiced, as we observed on their emblem at the Huguenot Monument in Franschhoek. On our tour of the museum we were shown many interesting relics and apparatus used by the Huguenots, a few of which were: their old medicinal kits; old doll’s tea party kits made out of real china; different types of bibles of which they were renowned for hiding in loaves of bread; and my personal favourite – their old waffle making machines!
Our lunch at the Vineyards of Blaauwklippen Wine Estate was a picnic inside the old wagon shed, as the weather was still not so great outside. Luckily by the time we had finished eating it had improved, and we were able to enjoy the luxury of warm sun for the first time. We were educated by some of the Estate staff on the history of the estate and all of its owners, as well as all the low-downs of wine and champagne making for those interested!
During some of the free time that we were given, I was able to think a little about how all my beloved pets at home were, including my cat, but those thoughts would have to wait for a while until after we had visited the much bigger relatives of the modern-day housecat, Cheetahs! Our next visit was to the Cheetah Sanctuary in Somerset West. Most of the Cheetahs come from breeding places in Pretoria, Oudtshoorn and Limpopo, and are brought there to be raised as ambassadors of their kind so that people can admire this beautiful species before they are extinct because of us.
A very cold and early start on Thursday 20th September (6.45am departure!) was enjoyed this morning, but despite this, a beautiful sunrise over the nearby skyline of mountains was admired. We arrived at W.P.P.S. at 7:50, unpacked and tuned all the musical equipment, before being allowed some free time before the first concert of the day. Some people decided to play a ball game or two, while others tried to pick up the school’s pet – a chicken!
The concert went really well. Thanks to having a little more time than our last concert, the bands were all able to play a variety of songs, and the audience enjoyed every minute. The highlight was the vibe created by the Marimbas, which was so great that even the Ridge ground staff who had driven the bus and trailer down, decided to join in and have a little fun dancing to the beat of the music.
La – A note to follow sew.
In our case, a concert to follow a concert. Almost immediately after finishing our first concert at W.P.P.S., we had a quick refreshment break, packed up the instruments, and were on our way again, down the road to Herschel Junior School for our second concert.
Tea – I drink with Jam and Bread.
For us it would be more correct to say Chicken and Chips, with Coke, as we enjoyed a lunch delivered to the school from Spur.
Our afternoon’s activity was to head up Table Mountain on the cable car on a spectacularly sunny day. It was really cool to be able to breathe in the fresh, but crisp, air at the top, smell the beautiful Fynbos, and to look over the sea and everything down below. This was merely one of the things that contributed to Mr. Stanley’s song choice for today of Chris De Burgh’s “At the end of a perfect day”.
Our last concert at Somerset House was great, as we had really saved our best performance for last. The Marimba band got to play even more songs than usual, and a few of the Jazz band members got to test out their talents on improvised solos. Each concert that we performed was equally amazing in my eyes, and the performances did vary slightly from one to another, but they all followed a general layout. This was:
– The Orchestra plays: A 5th of Beethoven and Special Star.
– The String Ensemble plays: You’ve got a friend in Me.
– The Jazz Band plays a selection from Cantaloupe Island, Blue Room and Real Africa.
– The Choir sings: Africa by Toto, From Now On from The Greatest Showman and The Mandela Medley.
– The Marimbas finish off strong, as always, with their selection of music.
After we had finished performing, we packed everything up again (everyone’s least favourite bit), and headed to the airport at 10:30. We checked in at 11:45, possibly a little late for boarding time at 12:15, and made our way to boarding gate A10. This was done, but not before most people bought themselves lunch, however I was unable to, as I had spent all my money on presents for family members! So, stomach rumbling and all, we boarded the plane, and by 13:15, we were in the air on our way back to Joburg!
And that will bring us back to Do, o, o, o, home.
By William Mills
Art
Each year we await with anticipation, the huge display of artworks that have been produced over the year. Boys thoroughly enjoy seeing what the other grades and classes have been up to for the past 10 months. The younger boys love identifying older brother’s, SALT member’s and friend’s artworks. Boys can be heard enthusiastically discussing the merits of each other’s art, sharing and developing their unique aesthetic sensibilities.
The highlight of this year’s Art Week had to be the Grade 7 Self Portraits and the Mandela Works series. While the Grade 7 boys wowed us with their expressive and personal renditions of themselves, capturing an important moment in their journey to adulthood, The Mandela Works were nothing less than impactful. This series of four panels was a rare opportunity for an entire grade to work on a single art work. It took an important and significant occasion to do this- the celebration and remembrance of Nelson Mandela’s life and work! The four magnificent collages were a very fitting artistic tribute to a remarkable man and his journey.
As usual, Art Week afforded us the opportunity to award and reward some of our very special talents from Grade 4 to 7. This was done through a Top 5 Gold award for the top 5 artworks on display in each grade, an Exceptional Achievement certificate for boys who had made a substantial contribution to the exhibition and who have thus produced work of a consistently high standard throughout the year, and a Parents Favourite reward.
More and more we are becoming aware that in our fast changing world where AI and IT are dominating, it is the things which make us uniquely human, which machines can’t replace, that we have to develop and nurture – that is compassion, critical thinking and creativity. Art classes at The Ridge make a substantial contribution to equipping our boys with these ‘softer’, but soon becoming ‘core’ skills.
By Nicci Kurz
Media
This term, we kicked off with a visit from South African award-winning author, Lori-Ann Preston. She visited the Grade 3s, 4s and 5s to launch the first book in her series, Thabo the Space Dude. The boys loved listening to her story of how she became an author, and were lucky enough to be have their books personally signed by her.
A week later, we had another fabulous Reading Breakfast in honour of Roald Dahl’s birthday. Boys were asked to come as their favourite heroes from a book and, as usual, they accepted the challenge with enthusiasm! The quad was scattered with superheroes, sporting heroes and literary heroes, all picnicking with their families and sharing stories from books.
During this term, Mrs Glanz also brought her CLAW-rescue, Timmy, to the library to cheer him up after his best friend passed away. The boys loved cuddling on the couch with him, reading out loud to make him feel better.
On the decorating front, the library has had a make-over, with a beautiful new accessioning desk installed. A dedicated chill-space (keeping to the HOMAGO theme – Hang Out, Mess Around, Geek Out) has been set up in the corner where the old desk used to be. The boys are very excited about this change and we’ve had many visitors pop in throughout the weeks to come and see the progress.
By Hanlie Glanz
Chess
Any member of the chess team who has played in an away match with The Ridge Chess Team would know what each host school serves for supper and the break between matches or after them. For example, St John’s always serves potatoes and chicken whereas we here at The Ridge always serve chicken prego rolls. Schools that serve pudding are regarded very highly! St Benedict’s, St Peter’s and Pridwin have come up with Doughnuts, Peppermint Crisp Tart and Ice Cream. All of which were very much enjoyed. Sugary treats add to a, hopefully, sweet victory!
So as you can see, being part of the chess team is not just about learning strategy, or skills of the game or even eating delicious food. It is more about the camaraderie and friendships that develop while being part of this somewhat small team at The Ridge. On a Wednesday morning, the library is full of enthusiastic and eager boys who want to participate in a game that has become popular at The Ridge. Our early morning starts together with our evening matches, have not deterred Ridge boys from playing chess.
There are two chess coaches, Bruce Young who sets all the chess problems and gives us chocolates when we get the puzzles correct- we have been recipients of a chocolate bar or two! Kunda is a grandmaster and it is an absolute privilege to be coached by him. The coaches have taught us different types of strategies that have helped the chess team develop their skills in the game.
After all the amazing experiences that we’ve had during our time as Captain and Vice-Captain and even prior to that, we can strongly recommend joining The Ridge Chess Team.
By Sam Labe (Captain) and William Mills (Vice-Captain)
Grade 0
With the celebration of ‘Heritage Day’ earlier this term, our boys spoke warmly about different cultures and what they thought ‘Heritage’ was. It was very pleasing to see how their understanding was translated onto paper. It was even more heart-warming to see happiness, brotherhood and the South African flag don their work. The boys participated with grandeur in cultural and sports outfits, and left at the end of the day with a closer connection to each other and their special practices.
Our term ended with the magic and wonder of Christmas. Over the year, the boys’ artistic interpretations have evolved beautifully. They not only managed to draw Father Christmas free hand but also on A2 paper. It is in the spirit of Christmas that each Santa has a beautiful smile, ready to reward each of our boys for always showing ‘The Right Stuff’. Wishing you a blessed and safe holiday season!
By Kathryn Rossouw
Grade 1
Grade 1 boys rounded off another exciting year. Enjoying serious work, Santa fun and honing those organisational skills – getting ready for next year.
Your teachers are going to miss you!
By Lauren Baines-Fourie
Grade 2
The Grade 2 boys have been learning about famous landmarks and countries. As part of their Learning Journals, they had to build their own famous landmark from recyclable materials. We held a grand exhibition and the boys proudly displayed their imaginative creations!
By Tessa MacMurray
Grade 3
Before school we packed our bags with the things we needed. When we got to school we put our bags below the bus in the hold. The bus drive was about 2 ½ hours. I sat next to Zuko and Reza. We ate sweets and talked about basketball on the bus.
When we got there, we sat under a tree. Mark introduced us to the facilitators. Their names were Ntombi, Mishak, Clement, Michael, Candy and Shadrak. My facilitators name was Michael. I have a bad short memory so I can’t really remember who was in my group. But we were called ‘Banana Baboon’.
With Clement’s team we went looking for fish. Josh, Seb and I were in a group. Seb and I caught a big fish. Well, actually it was small, but compared to other fish it was big! After fishing, we went to the bum slide/ tummy slide/ knee slide. The knee slide was quite sore but you went so fast on your knees. After this slide we went back to our dorms.
Then we went to the tree climb. The tree was very tall and had a curve at the end which made it quite difficult to climb. I got to the beginning of the curve. I tried not to look down otherwise I would get scared. I could feel the gravity pulling on my body. When it wasn’t your turn we made bracelets (with beads, but mine broke during dinner time). After the tree climb we went back to camp for a very short rest.
Quite soon after we met the other teams in the warrior and chief grounds (that’s where we played it). The rules were quite simple, your chief had to hide and could not move. Everyone else had a tail and tried to find the other chiefs. If your tail got pulled off you were out and went to jail. After the game we went back to camp and it was a long walk.
By Felix Jackson
Grade 4
The enthusiasm and energy of the 2018 Grade 4s contributed to a happy transition into the Senior Prep. They grasped every new opportunity with both hands and enjoyed a busy, fulfilling year.
In the classroom, they were introduced to Natural Science and the experimental nature of the subject inspired their inquiring and inquisitive minds. The making of ice cream proved to be a particular favourite! The boys also produced an Expo project of their choice which they presented and then put on show, alongside the Grade 7s, at the Expo evening.
The library, with its wealth of books, combined with the incentive scheme, encouraged many boys to increase their volume of reading in order to attain their reading club awards. They were also treated to two presentations by well-known authors which they enjoyed.
On the sporting front, the Grade 4s showed their prowess with some wonderful results across the board. Their secret to success was that everybody played their part in their team and enthusiastically fulfilled his role.
Outings this year included a day at Gold Reef City to learn about the history of Johannesburg and an informative walk through the Melville Koppies. The three days at Camp Konka are always a highlight of the year where the boys participated in a wonderful range of team building and physical challenges. They come away having made new friends and having attained a belief in their ability to take on and overcome new challenges.
This has been a happy year of growth for each and every Grade 4 boy.
By Erica Kinnear
Grade 5
Grade 5 STEAM 2018
It would be difficult for a Grade 5 boy to convince you that they don’t enjoy their weekly STEAM lessons. This is because twice a week, the Grade 5 boys eagerly make their way to their mentor teachers to participate in a lesson where they have fun while learning
Off the back of introducing STEAM in Grade 5 in 2017, this year we have consolidated and improved on the implementation of the STEAM programme. Boys have continued to participate in lessons that allow the them to learn and practice 21st century skills, from critical thinking to problem solving and from collaboration to innovation.
At the start of the year we looked at the planet Mars. We watched and analysed a wonderful movie, The Martian, and brought in several themes that we explored further:
Boys initially explored the idea that astronauts have to have some sort of spaceship to carry them to Mars that needed to be a living space. We asked boys to make a spaceship out of 3D shapes.
The idea of being isolated allowed the boys to explore the concept of loneliness and the necessity of communicating with others. We asked the boys to write digital letters to NASA explaining their feelings and asking for help.
Once on the planet Mars, boys had to consider how one would get around. So boys had to learn about vehicles and make a working model of a Mars Rover.
In the movie, the lead character makes a daring escape. We asked the boys to storyboard their own interpretation of a Mars escape, then create a coded digital animation showing this using the Scratch coding platform.
We also suggested to the boys that life is probable on other planets somewhere in the universe, although unlikely on Mars. But if there was life, what would it look like, thus we asked the boys to make an alien head out of papier mache.
2018 has also been a significant year in the life of South Africa as we celebrated what would have been Nelson Mandela’s 100th birthday. We asked the boys to investigate his life in a bit more detail and then design and make a Mandela board game that allowed the player to play a game and at the same time learn about Nelson Mandela.
In the last term of the year, we directed the boys’ attention to a wonderful television series called Mythbusters. In this series, the presenters identify common myths and attempt to debunk these myths using correct and careful scientific experimentation. We challenged the boys to identify their own myths or scientific ideas, and then to design and practically investigate that myth or idea and then film themselves doing this in order to create their own Mythbusters type episode. This project required a large amount of upskilling the boys in scientific language and on how to complete scientific experiments. Boys had to plan their experiments very carefully as well as storyboard their episode. Once this part was completed, boys then did their experiments, filmed themselves and then used the footage to edit and create their episode.
By the end of the year, the Grade 5 boys had participated in many lessons that sparked creativity, that forced them to be independent thinkers, to problem solve and then innovate solutions, to collaborate with others and to gain confidence in showing others what they learned. We look forward to continuing to improve the STEAM programme into 2019 and to bringing in even more unique, creative and most of all, fun ideas.
By Anton Pretorius
Grade 6
The boys were privileged to take part in a number of varied activities to expand their cultural and civic learning this term. The Game of Life was one of these activities. The game allows the boys to develop a deeper sense of their strengths and attributes as they play, particularly during elections where boys canvass support from peers. Ultimately, the intention of the election process is to allow the boys to create a holistic awareness of themselves in order to prepare them for their upcoming College interviews. The term culminated in a very exciting election, where one boy per class was elected mayor.
Boys that remained at school during the music tour week were gainfully occupied in a cultural musical venture of their own. They had to form their very own band. Not only did the boys have to create their own music and perform live on stage, they had to also manage their own resources to create posters and costumes. This activity demanded hard work, collaboration and creativity whilst allowing the boys to have fun. The boys thoroughly enjoyed it. They had a blast!
A few boys volunteered to participate in an external STEM project over the mid-term. It was a two day programme aimed at technical problem solving skills. Boys built an actual drone submarine and tested it by manoeuvring it through an obstacle course in the swimming pool.
Just after the mid-term, boys wrote the IBT tests. The IBT allows individual student performance to be tracked against international standards. This year we chose to do the online version and the boys enjoyed the process. All went well and we look forward to our results next year.
In STEAM, boys were involved in the Garden Project and the Forensic Investigation Module. Skills covered in the Garden Project were: soil analysis, research, planting techniques, plant care and digital documentation. In the Forensic Investigation Module, boys explored how forensic science is used in criminal investigations and had to apply the principles of the scientific process to solve a fictional crime.
The Grade 6 year is the first year the boys write exams and for many boys it is the toughest part of the year. However, our Grade 6 boys made us proud when they displayed the mental and physical capacity to overcome the frustrations and anxieties that inevitably arise when facing exams. They remained focused and followed the exam protocols.
We concluded the year with our annual preparation for the Grade 7 Valedictory song. We were delighted with the musical talent and co-operation that the boys demonstrated throughout this endeavour.
By Shanitha Ramsurwaj
Grade 6 STEAM
Grade 6 STEAM has remained a highlight of the week for this group of boys, the first to experience this cross curriculum learning last year in Grade 5. The STEAM process engaged them in a huge variety of activities, beginning with the discovery of water systems, understanding structures and materials, and tinkering with electrical circuits. All this investigation went into building the skills needed to design and make a 3D model of a water-wise house. The design was rendered in three parts- a technical drawing, a Minecraft version, and then finally a model. Recycled materials were used as much as possible.
Moving into more uncharted territory, the boys were asked the big question of ‘’what’s worth fighting for?” This allowed them to come up with their own project, which had to be relevant to their immediate school context. Boys investigated bullying, litter, subject and uniform changes etc. They had to work in groups to research their issue, find a solution, and ultimately present their findings in a unique way. This resulted in an improvement in their writing, research, analysis and synthesising skills.
A break out room scenario completely flummoxed the boys as we kicked off our Space programme. The excited chaos of being locked in a room with 14 other boys allowed for some interesting results. They then ventured deeper into the solar system, and learnt some animation skills.
Real life situations are immersive and result in better retention of facts. With this in mind, October saw the boys embark on a garden project. Soil analysis was done, and plant care strategies and schedules had to be drawn up. Getting hands, and feet, dirty was part of the experiential learning which STEAM embraces.
Forensic Studies were another highlight of the year, engaging boys in a crime scene investigation. Finger print, hair, blood, soil, and handwriting analysis were all woven in, expanding their science skills. It was a roller-coaster of excitement as teams drew closer and closer to nailing the suspect.
Learners and teachers alike have embraced and enjoyed these authentic learning opportunities. The ability to identify problems and create solutions bring 21st Century skills to our boys.
By Nicci Kurz
STEM Competition Grade 6
Imagine getting the chance to build one of South Africa’s first drone submarines and learn technical problem solving skills along the way. Well, in October, eight Grade 6 boys got the opportunity to do this. The first day we split into teams of two and were given a kit to build, with nothing but a manual to guide us! My team made one mistake, which we learnt from and managed to fix so that we caught up with the other teams. The next day was so much fun as we got to test the drones through an obstacle course in the pool. In all it was the best experience ever! Thank you to Mrs Ramsurwaj and Mr Mitchell from Interconnect Education for this amazing opportunity.
By Joseph Rosmarin
Grade 7
The Grade 7 boys often find Term 3 to be nostalgic but exciting. As much as they look forward to their college days ahead, they also want to enjoy their final days here at The Ridge. Most of the term is spent tying up the syllabus across all the learning areas and working towards the November Examination.
The boys spent their final few days of Grade 7 with their peers, and were involved in a few activities both on and off campus. They visited the Grade 0 area, reminiscing with the teachers about their time spent there, a time which started their Ridge School days. They visited Soweto for a day and also went to St John’s and played some friendly games.
As the boys leave us at the end of the year, please read through some of their poems. They have paid tribute to The Ridge, a place which holds a special place for many.
By Urvasi Naidoo
The Ridge is where I learnt to fly
We stand in the quad today
I’m all sad that this is the last day
There isn’t much left to say
I’m nervous and excited to
But before I go I say to you…
I’ll do you proud just wait and see
I’ll be the best student I could ever be
You have prepared me so it’s time to go
The rules have guided me
And my friends have helped me.
I’m moving to my new school
New teachers and new rules
It’s been fun but my day at The Ridge is done
I have one last thing to say
Thank you, The Ridge in every possible way.
By Leruo Mophatlane
Time to say goodbye
These last few years have been my best
And now I have to say goodbye
To the school that will never rest
The place that taught me to fly
And got my confidence sky high
From the teachers that helped me climb
To the friends that I will keep till the end of time
To the Ridge who built my foundation
I’m pleased that I’m near graduation
Thank you for all that you have done
It’s been very fun
By Marc du Plessis
Totsiens
Tiny boys reluctantly waved goodbye to their mothers,
Tears crawled down my puffy red cheeks,
Unknowingly, I had just started my journey with strangers,
But now I call them brothers.
We roamed the Hersov and ran all around,
We learned to read,
And even to count.
Through icy winter mornings,
We stood like soldiers in our lines,
We were briefed on what the day will bring,
And would fill up our precious time.
There were highs and lows and challenges were faced,
But as life goes on,
I will always remember the solid foundations The Ridge placed.
Building an excellent school is certainly a mission,
You can build the school,
But excellence is only achieved through values and tradition.
Now like eagles high above,
We have reached the bright blue sky. We will keep in our hearts the love,
Of The Ridge,
Where we have learned to fly.
By Ben Kok
Grade 0 Concert
In the Garden was the theme for the Grade 0 concert this year. The stage was miraculously converted into a beautiful fairy garden, complete with toadstools, spiders, snails and a gorgeous green caterpillar. The Grade 0 boys were transformed into Garden gnomes, garden creatures and an army of ants! All of this was hosted by the Beatles themselves.
The boys loved singing and dancing to the insect songs and recited their lines most beautifully. The show ended poignantly with the Fireflies song. The lights were dimmed and the boys switched on their special firefly light and followed actions in time with the music. The effect was spectacular.
Thank you to all the parents for helping their children learn their lines and for all the help with the costumes. This year we had a bright, colourful programme, for the parents to have as a keepsake. Thank you to Darshan Mistry for compiling this. Thank you to Musa Zwane for all his help with the lighting and sound.
This concert was Sarah Green’s first Grade 0 concert with The Ridge School and what a special evening it was. Thank you, Sarah for all your hard work with our boys, over the last year. We wish you many more Ridge concerts and musical times in the future.
By Kathryn Rossouw
Junior Prep Nativity Play
‘Jesus’s Christmas Umgubho’
Just when you thought Mrs Fox van der Poel couldn’t possibly improve on the previous year’s play, she does, and this year seemed to reach even greater heights. The Nativity story has been told so many times in so many countries, but this year we heard what Christmas is like in our beloved Africa, under an African sky.
Every aspect of the play had been meticulously prepared for and brilliantly executed. The song choice, the costumes, the set-design, the wonderfully humorous script, but most importantly, the incredible enthusiasm of each and every boy on the stage added to a memorable story.
Our Grade 3 boys, as always, took the lead roles. The Grade 2’s were the Shepherds and the Animals and the Grade 1’s were the Zulu dancers, the Stars and the Angels.
The most meaningful lines in the play was when the Shepherds were bringing baby Jesus their gifts and the following was said:
“A little lamb because he is a baby just like you.”
“A crook, to help over stony ways when you grow up.”
“A cloak to keep Jesus warm.”
“I bring you my love baby Jesus, it is all I have.”
King Herod was very scary indeed, pretending he wanted to worship baby Jesus, when in fact he wanted to kill him because he was jealous and didn’t want there to be any other king in the land.
Finally, we joined together with families from various faiths and we were lead in prayer: “We pray for our families and loved ones and for safe holidays. Bless all the children of this land that they too will feel your love at this special time. May we all spread this message to everyone we meet” Amen.
By Mandy Herold
Grade 7 Market Day
The Market Day project is an important event on the calendar for Grade 7 boys. The business project usually runs for 4-5 weeks, with the Grade 7 boys selling their products to the greater Ridge community. The initiative afforded boys the opportunity to show off their entrepreneurial skills, and to experience, to some extent, the demands and joys of the business world in a fun and collaborative way. Boys were tasked to sell at least one durable product, as well as other products of their choice, and many of them opt to sell food and drinks. On the respective Market Days, the atmosphere was lively and energetic and it was lovely to see our Grade 7 leaders manage their projects so wonderfully and efficiently. Market Day not only displays boys’ leadership and entrepreneurial skills, but is used as an opportunity for fundraising. All proceeds and profits made from the sales go towards the Grade 7 leaving gift for the school.
The Grade 7 boys would like to sincerely thank The Ridge community for supporting them so generously.
By Urvasi Naidoo
Lighthouse
The Lighthouse continues to be a place of learning, life, love and laughter. We have hosted many parent team meetings through the year as well as informal parent chats and visits. The many boys who visit daily so enjoy being part of this learning environment which for us as a Learning Support team is what we strive for. We have also had visits from a number of other independent schools as well as hosting the Learning Support cluster meeting which was extremely well attended.
We were privileged at the beginning of the year to welcome Ms Agnes Jooste and Ms Claire Lord as specialist remedial therapists. Mrs Candice Fletcher, our school Psychologist, was away on maternity leave for most of the year and gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, Gray Fletcher. We were very fortunate during this time to have Ms Catherine Cresswell, who with serenity and calm, took over this role and made a significant contribution to both the boys, parents and our lives. As the school psychologist for most of the year Catherine conducted classroom anti‐bullying role playing groups in the Junior Prep as well as class discussions on anxiety and other topics. This important role will be expanded into the Senior Prep going forward. Parent coffee mornings have also been initiated to facilitate support and connection with parents in the Junior Prep which Candice will carry into the Senior Prep in 2019.
As a team we have also spent time at Japari, Crossroads and Bellavista schools, which was extremely helpful in understanding the extraordinary depth of learning that happens within the parameter of a Remedial school. In order to stay abreast of the latest research and trends in the fields of learning support, and to ensure that our techniques and methods are in accordance with evidence based practice, the Lighthouse team attended several training courses this year. These included the Professional Minds course on “ Anxiety Exposed” and “Have you heard or can’t you read”. The insights and research provided in these critical areas of child development have been extremely helpful. The Kathie Nunley course –“ Understanding your child’s brain from birth to adolescence” enabled us to think both as a parent and a teacher about the critical importance of brain development in today’s noisy and ever changing world.
Most importantly we have had the privilege of working very effectively as a team and sharing ideas, thoughts and challenges with both the Junior and Senior Prep staff. We feel very privileged to work in a beautiful heritage building which is extremely well resourced.
In the words of Hamzah Johnson, Grade 6 at the Ridge, “The Lighthouse is a place of bright colours, calm and laughter. Once you attend lessons there you will not want to leave. The teachers always have smiles and even if we have not completed a task they love us for who we are. Lessons in the Lighthouse also help if you are struggling with Maths, English or reading. The small groups that come down love being there. If you finish tasks there are fun games to play and bouncy balls and exercises that help your brain. The Lighthouse has created light in my life!”
By Jan Mallen, Agnes Jooste, Claire Lord, Catherine Cresswell, Candice Fletcher
The Ridge Golf Day
The weather was perfect, the field was full and the golf sublime! Once again, Parkview Golf Club played host to another successful Ridge Golf Day. This years a few welcome additions made the day that more enjoyable and inclusive. We were privileged to have staff and boys from both St John’s College and St John’s Prep join us for an afternoon of golf. In a new initiative this year, we entered a Ridge team who competed against St John’s Prep. In the inaugural event The Ridge proved too strong for the visitors. A new tradition has begun and we hope it will grow to include a few more of our competitor schools. The Golf Day, each year, is in support of our Outreach schools, and I would like to thank all those who participated in order that we may help to enrich the lives of others.
Thank you
Special thanks to Tessa Graham for providing so many wonderful photographs for this edition and other Ridge School publications.
Stunning picture of the 1XI team at their last cricket matchCongratulations to Sam Wearne who scored a century on Saturday.
GRADE 3 THANKSGIVING ASSEMBLY
OLD BOY NEWS
Ridge Old Boys cricketing careers at Michaelhouse, Mike Brownlee was awarded the Ravenor Nicholson Bowler of the Year award and Fraser Jones the Dale Benkenstein Player of the Year award at the recently held annual cricket awards dinner.
GRADE 0 CHRISTMAS ART
GRADE 3G’s THEME FOR THE TERM ANCIENT EGYPT
The boys learnt about their way of living, dress code, food, the importance of their gods and mummification. The animals also played an important role, especially the cat. For a write up the boys had to convince their teacher why the hairless Egyptian cat, which is called the Sphynx cat, will make an ideal classroom pet.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Cricket vs St Peter’s – 24 November – 8:00 – 17:00
Grade 3 Thanksgiving Service – 27 November – 7:45 – 8:30
General Knowledge Quiz – 29 November – 7:40 – 8:50
Junior Gala Grade 0 -2 – 29 November – 9:00 – 11:00
Senior Choir & Instrumentalists to be dropped @St Martin’s-in-the-Veld – 29 November – 7:30 – 9:00
Grade 4 -7 Carol Service @ St Martin’s-in-the-Veld: Boys to wear Blues – 29 November 18:00 – 19:00
Tabloid Gala Grade 3 -7 Boys are free to go home after the Gala – 30 November – 9:30 – 11:30
At this years’s final Transformation, Diversity and Inclusivity sub-committee meeting, a good deal of time was spent reporting back on the encouraging progress that has been made against a number of key measurements as set out in the 10 Point Transformation and Diversity Roadmap Plan.
In general it was felt that the important progress that has been made has forged some real traction along what has been an exciting chapter on our TDI journey. The Roadmap / Plan has been included as an addendum to this newsletter in order to help to refresh your understanding of the key drivers to which we have committed.
Our Ridge Diversity Dashboard reflects how the numbers are measuring up. This is specifically interrogated and reviewed at least twice a year by the Board and TDI sub-committee.The dashboard indicators tabulate an easy to compare record of growth and progress made from enrolment, staff complement, annual fees, academics, extra-murals and related achievements. For the purpose of this newsletter, I have extracted the figures pertaining particularly to diversity.
The tables below will give parents an idea of diversity progress made during the past nine years:
Diversity of Boys:
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
Total Colour
27%
29%
30%
30%
33%
34%
34.7%
37.6%
39.73%
Black
12%
14%
17%
17%
19%
19%
20%
21%
22.16%
Mixed race
2%
2%
2%
2%
2%
Indian
12%
12%
11%
11%
10%
11%
11%
13%
13.17%
Asian
0.2%
0.2%
0,2%
Other
2%
2%
1.5%
1.4%
2.2%
Diversity of Academic Staff:
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
11.6%
13%
16.7%
14.3%
16.3%
20.9%
26.6%
29%
30.43%
This story is a record of our growth in diversity, purely through numbers; there is, of course, a critical additional transformation story to tell. If truly transforming and therefore meaningful, this experience needs to be deeply and sincerely felt by all who belong to the family of a school like The Ridge. What is required is a purposeful shifting of cultural norms and values by all at The Ridge who either inspire, drive or are on the receiving end of diversity practices.
It is appropriate, in this context then, to share some of the Transformation, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives of the past eleven months. Some of the more prominent ones are highlighted separately below.
Looking at next year on the Transformation, Diversity and Inclusion fronts, the three targeted priorities as selected off the Roadmap Plan remain:
Language Policy
Institutional and Subliminal Racism
Procurement Processes
In addition, we will be linking up with the Heartlines organisation as they explore with boys and staff the excitement of story-telling in their programme,What’s Your Story?
What’s Your Story is an approach to building understanding, cohesion and community in schools. It has been developed by Heartlines, a social change organization that encourages people to live out positive values.
What’s Your Story, promotes social cohesion through the power of sharing personal stories in order to build understanding, empathy and trust. In so doing, they will seek to also address racism, prejudice, discrimination and difference.
What’s Your Story aims to teach people the skill to implement WYS in their everyday lives, through a simple methodology they call: ask, listen, tell, go beyond.
The Heartlines What’s Your Story initiative has been successfully implemented in businesses and churches throughout the country, and they are now in the process of developing a set of resources for schools. The idea is to create a flexible set of materials and tools to use across a variety of age groups and in different learning contexts within the school environment..
The proposed outcomes for What’s Your Story in schools are that learners learn:
A new skill to use for the rest of their lives, namely the skill of asking and listening to other people’s stories.
To record their own story and use the experience to build self-awareness
Better team work and collaboration by building empathy and understanding among each other.
A Final Word – ‘Lest we Forget’:
On Friday 9 November The Ridge boys, staff and many parents joined the national and international chorus of remembrance, as people and organisations around the world made time to pay their respects to so many millions who have given their lives in the interests of freedom, peace and justice.
Our Remembrance Day Service was poignantly led by our Grade 7 boys. Given that it was the 100thanniversary of the signing of the Armistice on the 11thNovember 1918, the service provided for a particularly significant and moving occasion for all involved. We were delighted, too, to have retired Major General Yekelo from the SADF as our Guest of Honour.
It struck me again that, no matter the passing of time, and the years that may serve to dull the memories, it is, incumbent on us all and, on every successive generation, to find time to pay our respects and to remember the ultimate sacrifices made by so many in the Great War, the 2nd World War, myriad other fields of battle and countless conflicts through the ages.
This annual Parade of Heroes in honour of the fallen must never be allowed to take on an insincerity that a retreat towards a semblance of duty could encourage it to become.
Our most sincere thanks to all the moms and staff who helped to make this special Grade 0 concert such a success. Thank you to all the Grade 0 boys for been such stars.
The Ridge Climbing Team
At the provincial climbing competitions three of our Ridge boys made it to the Junior Nationals in KZN.
The boys are : Alexander Hutton U13, Oliver Hutton U11 and Davrin Gillot U11
The U11 and U13 boys categories are the two largest categories in Junior climbing and so the boys did exceptionally well to get to National level.
Results:
Top Rope: Alex: gold, and Oliver: joint silver Boulder: Alex: gold and Oliver: bronze
THE RIDGE SCHOOL ANNUAL GOLF DAY
SENIOR MUSIC SOIRÈE
A SWIMMING GALA AT ST STITHIANS
THE RIDGE RIGHT STUFF AWARDS – OCTOBER 2018
Grade 4K – Ethan Stein
Grade 4B – Luke Chorley
Grade 40 – Matthew Samuels-Duvel
Grade 5P – Goojun Jeong
Grade 5S – Jousha Kok
Grade 5M – Thabo Mngomezulu
Grade 6R – Makhosonke Mchunu
Grade 6M – Matt Denoon-Stevens
Grade 6L – Nicolas Faure
Grade 7N – Julian Kemp
Grade 7D – Oliver Brown
Grade 7M – Luke Freimond
UPCOMING EVENTS
Cricket vs St Benedict’s – 10 November – 8:00 – 13:00
Inter-house Cricket – 12-16 November – 14:00 – 18:00
Grade 2 Music Assembly – 13 November – 7:45 – 8:45
