BUG NEWS

28 February 2025

Yesterday was a triumph of spirit and camaraderie! Observing girls supporting girls in the pool expressed what we would all like to see in society. Yes, we cheered on our swimmers and houses as they swam the lengths and widths of the pool in the hopes of scoring points. But, at the end of the day, it was truly a celebration of courage and determination. For some, this was their first gala experience. They bravely dived into the pool, remembering all their swimming coaches have taught them and did their best. For others, it was an opportunity to test their skill and endurance.

At RGJS, we celebrate when our Rustybugs do well and we also celebrate those who are learning. For us, it's not just about winning a race or a trophy, it is really about showing up, even when we may not feel confident or have the best technique YET. Yesterday embodied our term's value - potential. Many of our Rustybugs are working towards building their confidence in their swimming skills and we are proud to support them on their journey.

Go Rustenburg!

Belinda Petersen

Principal

ABUSE NO MORE!

On Friday 14th February, the RGJS Staff attended a workshop on ABUSE NO MORE, hosted by the WCED (Western Cape Education Department).

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

On Friday 21st February our staff spent the afternoon in a recycling workshop, run by Plant The Seed. The informative session helped us understand our role as a school and individuals in being environmentally conscious by implementing good recycling habits.

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LEADERSHIP TRAINING

On Saturday 22nd February, numerous staff spent the day in Leadership Training with Owen Henderson. This is the third group of staff to experience in-depth training to enhance personal and leadership effectiveness.

OUR STAFF

This week, meet our ICT and Grade 4 & 5 Teams.

CATHERINE PIKE

HOD ICT

Catherine Pike is a Rustybug through and through! From being a pupil at RGJS, a teacher and now head of ICT, Catherine has been teaching at RGJS for 16 years!

2025 brought on a new role, motherhood! In January, Catherine and Andrew Pike welcomed their beautiful baby Jessie into the world. Catherine is currently on maternity leave, we miss her, but at the same time we are all so excited and happy for this wonderful time in her life.

TAMLI ELLIOTT

CODING & ROBOTICS

I’m Tamli Elliott, a passionate Coding and Robotics teacher who thrives on challenges and seeks out new opportunities to grow. I’m lucky to be supported by my husband, Stuart, a structural engineer, and our two wonderful daughters. As an explorer at heart, I love traveling, camping, and immersing myself in nature. Life is about embracing every adventure, and I’m grateful for the experiences that shape who I am both personally and professionally.

FAWAAZ FATAAR

IT NETWORK MANAGER

IT guy for the past 6 years at RGJS.

Car enthuthiast.

Outside school, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, junk food, travelling and mini getaways!

XOLISWA KAHLA

IT SYSTEMS SUPPORT ENGINEER

I have been an integral part of Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School for the past 7 years, serving as an IT Systems Support Engineer. My technical expertise ensures the smooth operation of the school's IT infrastructure, providing essential support to both staff and students. With a unique blend of introverted and extroverted qualities, I am able to work independently on complex tasks while also collaborating effectively with my colleagues. Outside of my professional role, I cherish the time spent with my only son, finding joy in our special moments together. My dedication to both work and family highlights an admirable balance in my life.

SAMANTHA LOUW

GR 4A

In Grade 4, every day is a new adventure! I absolutely love teaching this grade—exploring big ideas, fostering curiosity, and making learning fun. I've been in teaching for 12 years and a proud part of the RGJS family for four! When I’m not in the classroom, I’m growing my garden, practicing yoga, spending time with my husband, Tim, and our two busy kids, Grayson and Emmalyn (my Rustybug in Grade 2), or dreaming of my next family travel adventure!

But first - coffee!

NICOLETTE DE KLERK

GR 4B

My name is Nicolette De Klerk, and I am a fun-loving mother of three beautiful children—Luke, Elizabeth, and Naomi. I feel truly blessed to live in Muizenberg, where I get to fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the ocean.

In my spare time, I cherish moments with family and friends and love meeting new and interesting people. My passion for travel and exploration stems from my curiosity about the world and the connections I make along the way.

I strive to create a classroom where learners feel heard, seen, and valued. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing a student’s eyes light up with excitement when they discover something new.

CARLEN RIETTELS

GR 4C

Carlen Riettels here! I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the RGJS family—there’s something so special about being a Rusty Bug! Teaching has been my passion for the past 11 years, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow and contribute at this wonderful school.

Beyond the classroom, I’m a proud mom to my precious two-year-old, Carah, who keeps me on my toes! One of my greatest joys is capturing the beauty of landscapes through photography, especially during the holidays. Even with Carah running around (and occasionally tripping over things), I’ve managed to snap some truly breathtaking shots.

I’m excited for another year of learning, growing, and making memories!

LORENSHA WEAVERS

STUDENT TEACHER

Hi, I’m Lorensha Weavers, a student teacher here at RGJS. I’m on a journey to becoming a passionate and enthusiastic educator, inspired by the amazing mentors who guide me along the way. I believe that learning is beautiful—it’s a gift that no one can ever take from you. I’m excited to continue growing and to help others discover the joy of learning as I move forward in my teaching career!

MELANIE DUDLEY

GR 5A

"Every day is a new adventure in our classroom! I love seeing the spark of discovery in each child's eyes. We learn together, laugh together, and sometimes even make a little mess together. My goal is to create a space where everyone feels safe, curious, and excited to explore the world around them. It's truly the best job!"

DOMINIQUE MARITZ

GR 5B

"My name is Dominique Maritz. I'm a wife, and my husband and I are eagerly expecting our little baby girl in April! As a Grade 5 educator, I’m passionate about sparking curiosity and inspiring my learners to think beyond the textbook and explore the world around them. Family time is incredibly special to me, and when I’m not with my loved ones, I enjoy eating out at markets, going to the beach, trying new recipes and watching documentaries. This is my second year at RGJS, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year holds as we learn, tackle challenges, and create memories that will last a lifetime!"

ALEX ABRAHAMS-CROCKER

GR 5C

I love spending time outdoors, whether it's playing sports, exploring nature, or just enjoying the fresh air. Being active and surrounded by friends and family makes every moment more meaningful. Whether it’s a hike, a game, or a simple day outside, I believe the best memories are made in the open air.

AMY ERASMUS

STUDENT TEACHER

Three years ago, I joined Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School, and it has truly become a second home. Now in my final year of studies, I am a Grade 5 Student Teacher and loving every moment of it. Being in the classroom, seeing students grow in confidence and curiosity, and sharing in their "aha" moments makes this journey so rewarding. Teaching isn’t just something I’m studying—it’s something I’m passionate about, and I feel lucky to be part of such a wonderful school community.

SCHOOL NEWS

RGJS IMPORTANT DATES TERM 1 2025

ALL SCHOOL INFORMATION INCLUDING THE FULL CALENDAR IS AVAILABLE ON THE RGJS SITE

Disabled Access - Don't hesitate to contact admin@rgjs.org.za should you require wheelchair access or assisted access to our school campus.

VALENTINE'S CIVVIES

Our school was an array of pink, white and red as we enjoyed a Valentine's Civvies Day on Friday 14th February. Thank you to our Rustybugs for sharing the love on this fun Friday!

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GR 7 TALK ON DIGITAL AWARENESS

This month Mark Russell addressed the Grade 7 learners, parents and guardians. Mark Russell’s Digital Wellness Talk was both informative and crucial in today’s increasingly digital world. The session highlighted the importance of being safe and digitally aware, providing valuable insights into the responsibilities of both parents and learners when it comes to device usage.

One of the key takeaways was the role of parents in ensuring that their children use devices responsibly and safely. The talk emphasised the importance of setting clear boundaries and utilising parental controls to protect young users from inappropriate content and online threats. It also stressed that providing learners with devices at an early age should come with a strong commitment to educating them about the potential risks of the digital world and how to navigate it safely.

Furthermore, the session covered the importance of balancing screen time and maintaining healthy habits in the face of constant digital stimulation. The legalities and health issues surrounding the usage of devices was an eye opener and stark reminder that we don’t live in a bubble and that once we post something online, it's there forever! Mark also highlighted the critical need for open communication between parents and children about their online activities, fostering trust and ensuring that learners feel comfortable seeking help if they encounter any issues.

His talk was a timely reminder of the shared responsibility between parents, educators and learners to create a safe digital environment. It provided practical tools and tips to empower families to guide their children in using technology wisely, helping protect vulnerable youth from the dangers of the digital age while promoting positive online habits.

BULLYING - Parent Talk Feb 2025.pdf

LEADERSHIP ASSEMBLY

Congratulations to all our Grade 7s who received their leadership roles for 2025. The Grade 7s were awarded their badges in assembly on Monday 17th February. We look forward to watching you grow and develop your leadership responsibilities throughout the year.

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TRAFFIC & PARKING!

The next major phase of MyCiTi – known as Phase 2A – is currently underway in the most densely populated part of Cape Town. A major transport corridor will link town centres in Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain with Claremont and Wynberg. This is already causing major traffic congestion which many of us are already experiencing! Please be mindful of these upgrades when planning your route. Travelling times may be longer, which could result in being late for school.

STOP & DROP - The bays directly in front of school on the Main Road are a STOP & DROP zone, before school. Please do not get out of your vehicle and walk your daughter to the gate. Please ensure your daughter has all her bags in the car so she is able to get out of the car without any delays.

Opening your boot and getting out of the car greatly impacts the cars behind you and affects the traffic flow on the Main Road. Please be mindful of others and use alternative bays if you are unable to STOP & DROP & GO!

SHARED READING

Not only do our Rustybugs love reading, so do their Parents and Guardians! Thank you to all those who can read to our very excited Foundation Phase Learners on Wednesday morning for shared reading.

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GR 5 OUTING TO SANCCOB

Last week on Tuesday and Wednesday, our Grade 5s spent the day at SANCCOB.

Our Grade 5s visited SANCCOB, learning about the amazing work done to rescue and rehabilitate injured penguins! We saw firsthand how dedicated individuals help these incredible birds return to their natural environment, preventing extinction. It was an informative outing, highlighting the importance of protecting our environment. Continue the conversation at home! Ask your children what they learned about penguin care, the threats they face, and ways we can all contribute to conservation. Even small actions like recycling or reducing plastic use can make a big difference for penguins and our planet. Let's inspire a generation of environmental stewards!

BUG BUDDY BREAK CONNECTION

On Thursday 20th Feb, our Bug Buddy Families enjoyed a House Break together where recently appointed House Captains performed their first duty, war cries for the Interhouse Swimming Gala! During the first part of their break, the Bug Buddy Families practiced their war cries and then enjoyed break together.

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GR 4 IN-TING EDUCATIONAL EXCURSION

The Grade 4s recently had an exciting "In-ting" with the Oceans in Motion mobile classroom, bringing the magic of the ocean right to our school! This vibrant, solar-powered van—often seen travelling Cape Town’s roads—carries a unique life support system that allows learners to experience marine life up close.

The facilitators led an engaging, hands-on lesson where our Rusty Bugs got to interact with live sea stars, sea urchins, and sea anemones. Through this unforgettable experience, they learned about the wonders of the ocean and the importance of protecting our environment. This interactive session beautifully complemented their Grade 4 Natural Sciences and Technology CAPS curriculum, making learning both meaningful and fun!

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WORLD THINKING DAY

On Friday, some of our Rustybugs came to school in their cub and scout uniforms in celebration of WORLD THINKING DAY on Saturday 22nd February.

Leadership abilities, teamwork, self-motivation, commitment, perseverance, environmental and cultural awareness and strong values are just a few of the life skills our Rustybugs acquire whilst having fun and 'learning by doing'.

Pictured from right to left: Josephine Kempthorne 4a; Tshiamo Hlahatsi 7c; Nicolette Pottage 6c; Linamandla Mbuku 4a; Kopano Hlahatsi 4c

Front: Maya Nair 5b; Maya Villet 5c; Robyn Elshove 4a; Julie Cronje 1c; Iris Hardenburg 3b.

LIBRARY MONITORS ASSEMBLY

On Monday 24th February, our recently appointed Library Monitors presented the Monday Morning Assembly message.

"Our value for this term is potential. We all have the potential to be better readers if we are willing to make the effort. Remember, if you have a fixed mindset, you won’t be willing to try something new e.g. a new author, a new genre or even reading something at all. If you have a growth mindset, your goals are within reach with effort and perseverance.

Seeds don’t grow unless they push through the soil, and cope with the heat of the sun or the cold rain. If you’re willing to take a risk and give whatever it is a go, even if you don’t reach the full target, you will have grown and challenged yourself.

The journey begins when you take a small step - a step into the library to select a book. The library is encouraging all Rustybugs, including staff, to sign up for a reading passport. Reading can take you places you can’t afford to visit, YET".

SLIDE SHOW

RAMADAN ASSEMBLY MESSAGE - GR 1

Ramadan was explained to all our Grade 1 to 3s on Tuesday 25th February.

Thank you to our Grade 1 Team for their assembly message.

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TUESDAY SANDWICHES

As one of our Outreach initiatives, RGJS delivers sandwiches and fruit to the girls at Molo Mhlaba Girls' School in Khayelitsha every Tuesday.

For those able, please bring an extra sandwich and/or a piece of fruit. The girls must place them in the box in Rustenburg House before 08:00 every Tuesday.

SPORT

HERSCHEL SPORTS NIGHT GALA

What an incredible weekend at the Herschel Sports Festival! Our amazing swimming team had an absolute blast competing in the Twilight Gala. It was an evening filled with thrilling challenges, and our swimmers truly gave it their all. Many placed impressively and even set new event records!

A huge shoutout to Kara Pretorius 7b and Gia Heldsinger 7b, who both smashed it by setting new records in multiple individual events! A big round of applause also goes to our U13 Team, who set a brand new U13 Medley relay time and placed 1st place in their age group – such an outstanding achievement!

But the highlight of the evening? The electrifying Skins Race held under the lights! It starts with 8 swimmers and gradually narrows down to just 2, with each round eliminating the last two. The excitement was through the roof! Gia, representing Rustenburg, dominated the race and emerged as the 2025 Skins Race champion! A massive congratulations to Gia – you absolutely crushed it! 🌟

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HERSCHEL WATER POLO FESTIVAL

Our U10, U11A and B, U12 and U13 Water Polo teams took part in the Herschel Sports Festival last weekend.

The girls loved the opportunity to play against a variety of teams and grew with each game, improving on the skills they had been working on all season.

A big thank you to the coaches and staff who spent hours next to the pool cheering on the teams.

TENNIS

Tennis started with a BANG!

As you might or might not be aware, the U11 and U13 team tennis girls practice every Tuesday morning from 06:40 - 07:40! It might be early but the girls SHOW up every Tuesday morning rearing to go!

We have played 3 weeks of fixtures which has included some tough competition across all age groups. The one thing that has shown up on a weekly basis is the famous South Easter which meant having to change the game plan from the GET GO!

It is hard to single out players but one thing is certain, everyone is doing their part and contributing to the team's overall effort. Sometimes it's the consistent hard work and teamwork that really make a difference, even without standout moments.

Team sports, especially tennis, thrive on that sense of community and support from both the players and the staff, so it’s awesome to see how the girls are working together and representing Rustenburg.

Well done to the girls who are new to Team Tennis, you have done your fellow team players and Rustenburg proud.

WATER POLO

Our Water Polo season got off to a great start with the U13 team taking part in the Reddam Action Water Polo Festival. The team played exceptionally well with some great wins. The stand-out match on Friday was against Springfield where the girls pulled out all the stops to come out on top.

On Saturday, the playoff matches continued with the girls once against playing fantastic polo which saw them make their way into the Quarter Finals. They had a narrow defeat and finished 5th overall but can be commended on their overall performance.

The league matches kicked off with the U10 to U13 teams playing against Wynberg, Reddam, Herschel and St Cyprians. We have a mixed bag of results but a special mention must be made to the U13s who drew 4 all with St Cyprians, the U11A drew 4 all with Herschel, and the U11B beat Herschel 8-1.

SWIMMING

Our U10 to U13 Swimming teams took part in the annual PGSGU Inter Schools Swimming Gala on Friday at Herschel. The team swam exceptionally well with a number of girls swimming personal bests. A special mention to Gia Heldsinger 7b on winning the 100m Individual Medley, the 50m Butterfly and the 50m Freestyle as well as Kara Pretorius 7b on winning the 50m Breastroke.

We would like to congratulate the U11’s for coming 3rd overall and the U13 team for coming 1st overall. We should be really proud of our swimming team who came 3rd out of the 8 schools. Well done swimmers, you have all trained exceptionally hard to obtain this result.

FOUNDATION & INTERMEDIATE/SENIOR PHASE INTERHOUSE GALAS

Well done to all our Grade 1 to 7 Rustybugs for yesterday's wonderful galas. A special "well done'' to all our Grade 1s who swam in their first interhouse gala!

All final results will be shared in assembly on Monday and Tuesday next week.

Photos are being edited and will be shared soon!

Thank you to our Sports Department for all their hard work, planning and a thoroughly enjoyable day!

EVENTS

HOUSE DAY

On Friday 14th March, we have our first HOUSE DAY of 2025. We will be collecting marshmallow eggs which will be donated to those less fortunate. The donations can be placed in the boxes in your classroom.

Rustybugs come to school on Friday 14th March in their PE shorts, HOUSE shirts, white socks and takkies.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THIS OUTREACH PROJECT!

HELP THE RURAL CHILD BOOK SALE

Help The Rural Child will be selling books in the Hall from Tuesday 4th- Thursday 6th March.

BUGS IN ACTION

We love sharing good news and achievements in our newsletter especially our Rustybugs "in action" outside of the school day. Please send your news and pics to Pam Heiberg - pamhei@rgjs.org.za

STORY STARS

Congratulations to Hafsa Ackers 5b, and Maya Nair 5b, who submitted stories to Story Stars, the WCED Annual Creative Writing Competition for all Grade 4 learners in the Western Cape in 2024.

Hafsa was placed third and Maya was placed 6th.

Well done Hafsa and Maya, we are so proud of you.

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SCHOOL UNIFORM