Helping children to realise their potential can be a daunting task for the adults in their lives - parents and teachers. I would like to share a few helpful ways that we can support them on their journey this year and perhaps apply this to an area that you would like to grow in too!
Firstly, it is important to unlearn limitations. We tell children that they can become anything and then proceed to plant seeds of fear or consider their dreams too whimsical to chase. We cannot see what their future will be like and how their dreams and ideas will unfold but we can teach them to unlearn the limitations they may place on themselves because they think they are not good enough or their ideas are not sensible enough.
Secondly, we can empower them with resources to soar and these do not have to be financial in nature. We have all heard the saying "knowledge is power", so supporting them with accessing useful information helps them navigate and unlock their potential.
Thirdly, we can teach them the benefits of hard work. Potential cannot be fully realised without effort - a lesson best learnt early on in life. Hard work and effort need not scare them but rather provide them with the tools to achieve their dreams.
Fourthly, help them find ways to overcome procrastination. This is often the biggest challenge many adults face. Why not teach our children valuable ways to get things done?
Lastly, stand back and let them learn and grow. While we may feel that they need everything from us to succeed, holding children's hands through every challenge they face subliminally teaches them that they can't do things on their own. Children only learn independence if we allow them to experience a sense of independence in an age-appropriate manner. As a parent myself, this is one of the hardest things to do but it is of utmost importance if we want to set our children up for success and live their full potential. Yes, they will make mistakes but they will be okay!
Belinda Petersen
Principal
Condolences to Phumza Jali on the passing of her cousin. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this sad time.
What an incredible honour it was to be invited to the SACE Inaugural Teacher/Practitioner-Based Research Colloquium in Gqeberha from 26 – 28 February 2025! This prestigious event, hosted by the South African Council for Educators, brought together professionals from across the country to share evidence-based research and innovative practices aimed at transforming education.
Representing Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School, I had the privilege of presenting on a topic close to my heart: "The Soft Skill Revolution: Reimagining Teacher Internship Programmes in South African Schools." My presentation focused on the forward-thinking vision of our School Management Team (SMT) and School Governing Body (SGB) in reshaping the teacher internship experience. Our programme is designed to equip student teachers with the necessary soft skills to enter the profession with confidence and resilience, ensuring they can thrive in the ever-evolving world of education.
However, this initiative is just one piece of a much bigger puzzle at RGJS. I highlighted how our school has intentionally transformed staff development through:
A comprehensive induction programme for new staff
A mentorship initiative benefiting our entire staff body
An Aspiring Leadership Programme, which nurtures future leaders in education
Being at the colloquium made me reflect on how RGJS has positioned itself as a leader in educator growth and development. We are fortunate to be in a space where we can innovate, empower, and uplift both our educators and the learners they serve.
Adding to the significance of this event, I was deeply humbled to be recognised for my commitment to professional development, being announced as one of the top scorers in the province and at the national level. This acknowledgment fuels my passion even further, reaffirming that the work we do at RGJS is making a tangible impact on the education landscape.
I return from this event inspired and excited to continue championing quality education for every child in every classroom.
NEW STAFF
We welcome Deja to our Support Staff Team this month.
"I like horror movies, my favourite colour is black, favourite soccer team is Liverpool, and I love gaming with my fiancé on weekends".
We welcome Neil to our Management Team as Deputy Principal from 1st April.
OUR STAFF
This week, meet our Aftecare, Drama, Art and Grade 6 & 7 Teams.
KIRSTEN MANUEL
AFTERCARE SUPERVISOR
Hi everyone. I am Kirsten Manuel, the Aftercare Supervisor at RGJS. WHAT A GROWING 2 years it has been with the RGJS family, and I could not have done it without God.
I am a mum of 1 boy (which is more than enough) and a proud mommy of a first time school attendee and a "be what I must be" to a lot of girls who are at aftercare! They are still trying to figure out my age! I don't have a sweet tooth, an absolute foodie with many hmmmm moments. I love the ocean, I love sitting in gardens and find great peace in those moments while watching those I love enjoy life.
2 of my favourite quotes:
Do what you can do today, for tomorrow has no guarantees
AND
We are all spiritual beings experiencing a human existence 🙏🏾
ANNE VAN WYK
AFTERCARE ASSISTANT
I am deeply grateful to Jesus for all the blessings and opportunities He has brought into my life. I have been working at Rustenburg Girls' Junior School for nearly three years, where I’ve built meaningful relationships with the staff and enjoy daily interactions with the children.
I am a proud mom of three children—Damian (29), Danielle (26), and Nikita (23)—and a grandmother to my precious grandson, Malachi. We share a love for hiking and the great outdoors. Our family is complete with our two fur babies, Nova and Luna.
MERCIA WILLIAMS
AFTERCARE & HOUSEKEEPING
I have been working at Rustenburg for 25 years as a House Keeper and Aftercare. I love my work and am proud of myself. I like to encourage my friends in different ways on what to do and how to do various things. I play a big role as a mother for many children because my heart is always there for a child. There are still a lot of things I'd like to do in life!
CYNTHIA CETYWAYO
AFTERCARE HOUSEKEEPING
I have been working at Rustenburg Aftercare for almost 20 years.
I love my job and enjoy being with children.
I have a son, a daughter and one granddaughter.
I very seldom relax, I enjoy working!
WANDA KLASS
AFTERCARE ASSISTANT
Hello RGJS community! My name is Wanda Klaas, and I'm excited to introduce myself as the new aftercare assistant. I joined the team in January and have been enjoying getting to know the learners and staff.
I'm thrilled to be a part of this vibrant community and to have the opportunity to help the learners grow and thrive.
ART TEACHER
My name is Liesl Ludik, and I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, going for walks in nature and I have a great love and appreciation for the visual arts. I have been teaching art at Rustenburg for many years, and it brings me so much joy to see the girls embark on their art journey. Recently, I got a toy poodle puppy named Leo, who has quickly become a beloved part of my life.
DRAMA TEACHER
I always say that I have the best job at RGJS - because it's true! I work with every learner from grade 1 to 7 and am able to build confidence and make incredible connections with learners - and between learners! The Drama room is a safe space where we all get to express ourselves through actions and words, often leading to much laughter and a lot of noise! I'm very excited for the FP play in the second term - I can't wait to get creative on the RGJS stage again.
In my time away from school, I run a tertiary drama academy and private drama studio. I also perform, direct and write plays, enjoy food, wine and travel (My husband and I are off to Madikwe in April!) and have a very busy social life. Staying busy keeps me happy and motivated.
GRADE 6A
I'm a proud mom, granna, partner, sister, aunt, great aunt, daughter, friend, and teacher. Wearer of so many hats. This is my 18th year at Rustenburg and 33rd year of shaping young minds. I am so privileged to have been part of the educational journey of thousands of young people. It's not a responsibility that I take lightly, nor for granted. My life is full of music, dance, cooking, walking, water fun, playing, reading, exploring and planning adventures. I would be a travelling nomad if spontaneity ruled the world. The clichéd adage of 'Carpe Diem' has never been truer at this stage of my life and I'm choosing nowadays to actively Seize Every Day.
GRADE 6B
Hallo Rustybugs
Die Afrikaanse Juffrou Hier!
Nog ‘n opwindende jaar by Rustenburg, dit is jaar nommer vier.
As always grade 6 is a busy year with loads of learning taking place! When and if there’s time, I find myself digging in my garden or spending time with my friends and family.
I enjoy cooking, and I can confidently say my husband enjoys my cooking too!
GRADE 6C
With 14 years of teaching experience under my belt, I've recently discovered the joy and lightheartedness that comes with being a Grade 6 teacher at an all-girls school. When I'm not keeping up with the latest beaded bracelet trends or getting the tea from the girls about the who's-who in the entertainment industry, you can find me nose-deep in a good book with a steaming cup of coffee, all while being "terrorized" by my mischievous cat, Horus. This year, my goals are to not only stay on top of the latest pop star fashion (definitely not) but also to get back to my love of running and smash out some races. It's all about balance, after all!
GRADE 6 STUDEN TEACHER
Hi all, my name is Sanele Nkomombini and this is my third year as a Rustybug. In my tenure at Rustenburg I have enjoyed the experience of being in an inclusive environment like this school has where Ive had the opportunities to thrive in being a great teacher. I have had good mentorship this far and this will help me in my own classroom one day.
Outside of school I watch football as im a proud Liverpool fan. I spend time with friends and family. I am a co-owner of a soccer club called Royal Titans that is based in Langa Township, we coach girls and boys from a young age and one day we would love to see them fly and be professional players.
GRADE 7A
I am a dedicated mum to my two wonderful kids, Oliver and Emily, and a proud fur parent to my three beloved pets. I start my days pounding the pavements in the early morning, finding energy and inspiration in the quiet hours. Passionate about education, I adore teaching and thrive on making learning engaging and creative, especially for the girls I teach. My enthusiasm for shaping young minds shines through in everything I do, as I’m always seeking new ways to bring lessons to life.
GRADE 7B
I’m Trish Hopkinson and I am missing the staff and girls terribly. I can’t wait to return to school in Term 3. The Rustybug family have been my biggest supporters and cheer team over the past year and I’m so grateful for that. See you soon.
GRADE 7B
Hi, I'm Megan, a dedicated educator with almost 12 years of teaching experience. I'm a recent Honours graduate from the University of Cape Town (UCT) and I'm passionate about inspiring young minds. With my bubbly and enthusiastic personality, I strive to make learning a joyful experience. When I'm not in the classroom, you can find me hiking with my two furry companions or expressing my creativity through painting and drawing, leveraging my artistic background.
GRADE 7C
Richard and I have been together for a lifetime. We have 4 adult children, 3 furry grandchildren (Yogi Peanut, Chan, the old man, and “Fluffy”). and a loft full of Fed winners (racing pigeons). I love being outdoors and barefoot, especially at the beach.
During the holidays I binge-read, cook and sip and sleep late if I’m not travelling. I love the old cities in Europe and Asti has a special place in my heart. Greece and Turkey are on my bucket list.
GRADE 7 STUDENT TEACHER
“My name is Ammaarah Cassiem-Eksteen. I joined RGJS in January 2025 as a student teacher, and I am loving every moment of this journey! Every day, I am inspired by the curiosity and enthusiasm of the learners, and I am excited to continue growing and learning from my mentors to become the educator I want to be! When I’m not in the classroom or busy with assignments, I am off running, or going for a sunset stroll with my husband (we also love stuffing our faces, so good food is always involved!), or I’m sitting on the cricket field reading a book! I can’t wait to see what this year holds and I look forward to making meaningful connections!”
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.
Admissions for Grades R, 1 and 8 are open on the WCED website.
Rustybugs currently in Gr R do not have to apply for Grade 1.
LIBRARY REQUEST - BOOK CARE
Of late, a number of books have been returned to the library with damaged spines and bent covers. It appears that some girls may be putting the library bags (containing books) into their backpacks along with many other personal items. The pressure on the books is causing additional damage. Water bottles should also be kept away from all books.
Please remind your daughters that library bags need to be carried as a separate item.
The girls had a delightful outing visiting Wendy, the Bug Lady, at her charming, insect-filled home in Meadowridge. Excited giggles filled the air as they discovered hidden bugs under rocks and in her bustling compost heap. Wendy enthusiastically taught them about different habitats, even letting them peer through a microscope to see worms up close. One fascinating fact they learned was that snails are both male and female! Surrounded by nature, the girls enjoyed the freedom to touch and explore the insects and their surroundings. To wrap up their adventure, they expressed their creativity by drawing their favourite insects with colourful chalk on Wendy’s driveway. It was a day full of wonder, learning and fun!
Our Grade 2 learners had a roaring good time as they wrapped up their inquiry based learning unit! Dressed as paleontologists, they spent the morning with Ruby the Raptor and Trevor the T-Rex, digging for fossils and even creating their own. From Dino dioramas to the Dino dance, it was a dino-mite way to celebrate their learning adventure!
The Grade R girls had an exciting and hands-on adventure at the Cape Town Science Centre today - all about colours! They kicked off the day with a fun experiment using milk, sunlight, and food colouring, exploring how colours mix and react in surprising ways.
They had a blast interacting with different scientific equipment, building strong walls, and stepping into a special lightroom to learn about colour frequencies. But the real highlight was the incredible science show—flames in different colours, loud bangs, and even a moment when the scientist safely set his hand alight!
It was a morning filled with curiosity, discovery, and plenty of “wow” moments—an unforgettable learning experience for our young scientists!
Last week on Monday the 24th of February, RGJS was invited to take part in a very exciting art competition hosted by The Mighty Orgamites, an organization that is working with Groote Schuur Hospital and the Canadian Blood Services in the field of organ transplants.
Twenty-five grade 4 girls were invited to participate in the art competition. A film crew filmed and photographed the girls hard at work. The brief, to decorate a heart symbolising the collaboration between Groote Schuur Hospital and the Canadian Blood Services.
Well done to all the girls that participated in this exciting competition:
4A: Josephine Kempthorne; Hanan Gutuza; Robyn Elshove; Emma Wilson; Elianna Cook; Ariella Faulkner; Abigail Wood; Linamandla Mbuku; Relebohile Litabe.
4B: Dani Collard; Ruby Meyer; Rose Beyer; Maya Bhoola; Claire Erasmus; Motirayo Arogundade; Okuhle Mnyandu; Amaal Davids.
4C: Luca Gibbon; Riley Gilfillan-McEvoy; Mihle Madikane; Ruva Mokomele; Tadiwa Chimboza; Aaliya Dawood; Holly Haldane; Saffiya Pansarey.
The artwork was of such a high standard that the judges struggled to choose the 3 winners, but after much deliberation, they reached a decision.
"A huge congratulations to 1st place: Rose Beyer 4b, 2nd place: Riley Gilfillan-McEvoy 4c, and 3rd place: Josephine Kempthorne 4a for their outstanding achievements in the art competition! Their effort, creativity, and attention to detail were superb, and their work stood out in an incredibly talented field".
Of the 25 art entries, the top 9 Works of Heart were presented to the Canadian Blood Services at the launch of the Orgamites at Groote Schuur Hospital where they are currently on display. The artworks which were selected by the panel, were created by: Rose Beyer, Riley Gilfillan-McEvoy, Josephine Kempthorne, Amaal Davids, Saffiya Pansarey, Claire Erasmus, Aaliya Dawood, Ariella Faulkner and Robyn Elshove.
Rustenburg also received a certificate and a medal for our participation.
Join our Rustybugs and staff as we embark on increasing our recycling habits and knowledge. As mentioned previously, Plant The Seed is assisting us on this exciting journey and we look forward to growing together.
Thank you to all our Rustybug bookworms for their generous support at the Help the Rural Child Book sale. Help The Rural Child is extremely grateful for the funds raised from the sale held last week in the hall. The money raised will assist in supporting the projects run by Help The Rural Child.
In the Foundation Phase assembly on Tuesday 4th March, Mrs Greeff explained to our Rustybugs all about what Lent is and what happens on Ash Wednesday.
Mrs Cotterell shared the story of Gerald the Giraffe, who believed he could not dance like the other animals. But with encouragement and a little self-belief, Gerald didn't give up - he found his own rhythm and danced beautifully in his way! His story reminds us that perseverance and confidence can help us achieve things we never thought possible.
Our Learning Support Team shared the assembly message on Monday, 3rd March with our Rustybugs. The Learning Support staff spoke about the importance of being an integral part of a team. We can all be amazing and unique on our own, but together, as a team, we can create and become something incredible.
Enjoy this TEAM WORK video shared with our Rustybugs.
Please refrain from parking on the yellow and red lines, on corners, on the pedestrian crossing and in all illegal areas.
Parking illegally is not only dangerous, but also a lack of respect for others, which is of concern.
Please be mindful and respectful of our school community.
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.
MUSIC
Our Grade 4-7 and Grade 1-3 music assemblies this week were pure magic. Performances ranged from piano and voice through to flute, trombone and even the wind band, who delighted everyone with a Taylor Swift number. In the Foundation Phase assembly, some of the girls were beginners with only six weeks of lessons behind them. We are in awe of the talent of our Rustybugs. Well done, girls!
ISP ASSEMBLY
Young beginner violinists were very excited to play their first notes with the bow, after patiently doing six weeks of plucking only.
Well done girls!
Madison Pickard and Yana Shaigh (3c)
Sofaa Adams (2c), Thokozile Mzobe (2b), and Lilitha Mavela (2b)
Ayah Begg, Mia Champanis, Shazia Ebrahim, and Lukhona Bala (1a)
Liyana Leteka, Alexa-Rose Botman, and Grace Mupunga (1a)
SPORT
Last Thursday, our A and B Couples took part in the annual Inter Schools Tennis - Round Robin tournament at Springfield, and the standard of tennis was nothing short of impressive!
In the A Couple division, despite facing tough competition, Lily van den Berg 7b and Chloe Jones 7b showcased some excellent shots and continued to grow stronger throughout the day. These talented girls also represented Rustenburg in last year's Inter Schools tournament and have made noticeable strides in both their confidence and skill levels since then! Watching them smile and laugh during their games served as a beautiful reminder of what sport is truly about — enjoying the journey, win or lose!
Meanwhile, our B Couple, Milan Morkel 7a and Laura MacGregor 7a, displayed a quiet yet strong presence on the court. Their synchronized tap of the racket and the lift of a foot after winning each shot didn’t go unnoticed, a sign of their seamless teamwork and focus. These girls were on top form at the net and, after a hard day of play, they emerged victorious, winning the B Couple Trophy! A huge congratulations to Milan and Laura, as well as to our U13A team, who truly embody the spirit of sportsmanship.
Work hard, play hard, and remember to laugh in between!
INDIVIDUAL MEDLEY: 1st Gia Heldsinger Michiel; 2nd Kara Pretorius Cambridge; 3rd Savannah Thirsk Wiener
U10 FREESTYLE: 1st Kate Lesch Cambridge; 2nd Fia Moore Ackerman Innes; 3rd Victoria Uren Wiener
U11 FREESTYLE: 1st Zayb Christians Michiel; 2nd Rachel Frankish Innes; 3rd Ava Rood Wiener
U12 FREESTYLE: 1st Kaycie Roberts Cambridge; 2nd Iqra Davids Wiener: 3rd Hanaa Carelse Wiener
U13 FREESTYLE: 1st Gia Heldsinger Michiel; 2nd Kara Pretorius Cambridge; 3rd Cara Pearce Cambridge
U10 BACKSTROKE: 1st Fia Moore Ackerman Innes; 2nd Imogen Lentz Cambridge; 3rd Kate Lesch Cambridge
U11 BACKSTROKE: 1st Zayb Christians Michiel; 2nd Ava Rood Wiener; 3rd Willow de Klerk Michiel
U12 BACKSTROKE: 1st Kaycie Roberts Cambridge; 2nd Hanaa Carelse Wiener; 3rd Mila McCallum Michiel
U13 BACKSTROKE: 1st Savannah Thirsk Wiener; 2nd Gia Heldsinger Michiel; 3rd Kara Pretorius Cambridge
U10 BREASTROKE: 1st Fia Moore Ackerman Innes; 2nd Kate Lesch Cambridge; 3rd Amélie Marwick Wiener
U11 BREASTROKE: 1st Zayb Christians Michiel; 2nd Annabel Verhage Cambridge; 3rd Imogen Fairweather Cambridge
U12 BREASTROKE: 1st Iqra Davids Wiener; 2nd Kate Wingham Wiener; 3rd Haniya Achmat Cambridge
U13 BREASTROKE: 1st Kara Pretorius Cambridge; 2nd Gia Heldsinger Michiel; 3rd Lily van den Berg Cambridge
WELL DONE TO ALL OUR SWIMMERS
EXTRA MURALS
EVENTS
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 tomorrow Friday 14th March in their PE shorts, HOUSE shirts, white socks and takkies.
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THIS OUTREACH PROJECT!
Add a " Touch of Maths " to your House Day Uniform for
International Day of Mathematics
tomorrow,
Friday 14th March - for all grades🐞
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
Congratulations to our Rustybugs who took part in the U11 PSi Intercity hockey tournament held at St Cyprians recently.
Eight teams took part with the Cape Seals winning the tournament and the Sharks had a nail-biting showdown to place 4th.
Cape Seals
Ruby Meyer 4b
Alex Barbour 5c
Sharks
Ava Rood 5a
Vicky Kuhn 5c
Jude Jakoet 5a
Stella Williams 5a
Well done to PSi Hockey Rustybugs, we are so proud of you.
Congratulations to Penny Walker 4a, who competed in Interschools Synchronised Swimming on Friday 7th March.
Penny finished first in her category, "Novice 12 and Under Figures at Level 1 Championship".
Well done Penny, we are so proud of you.
Congratulations to Dian Chu 7c, who recently participated in the Exterra Sprint Triathlon. Dian came first in her age group.
Well done Dian, we are so proud of you.
Congratulations to Laura MacGregor 7a, Cara Pearce 7c, Kayla McMartin 7a, Candice Davison, RGJS Sports Administrator and all our Rustybug Community who took part in the Cycle Tour on Sunday.
Laura cycled the 42km Cape Town Cycle Tour on a tandem and got the position of second female on a tandem!
Well done to you all, we are so proud of our cycling community.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
SWAP SHOP WILL BE OPEN TOMORROW, FRIDAY 14TH MARCH 12:00 - 13:00
Please access Bugs Boutique through Grosvenor Road, the road adjacent to RGHS. Please use the small pedestrian gate on Grosvenor Road.
Bugs Boutique Trading Hours 2024 - During the school term
Monday 12:45 - 15:30
Wednesday 12:45 - 15:30
Friday 12:15 - 14:30
All orders placed through the online store will be delivered to RGJS.
Please encourage your daughter to check the Lost Property Boxes.
Please complete this FORM if you are missing an item, but remember to remind your daughter to check the boxes as well.
MYSCHOOLCARD
R6,234.24
Raised in January
Thank you to all our SWIPERS!
New to RGJS and have a MYSCHOOL Card, please remember to change your beneficiary to RGJS.
All funds raised go towards our school bursary programme!
MYSCHOOLCARD
Sign up here for MYSCHOOL CARD
Add RGJS as your listed beneficiary
Already a MYSCHOOL CARD holder? Change your beneficiary to RGJS here
SWIPE SWIPE SWIPE
EVERY SWIPE CHANGES A LIFE
ADVERTS
Please contact Pam Heiberg for advertising rates & queries pamhei@rgjs.org.za
Please note that the placement of an advertisement does not indicate endorsement by the school.
Coach Fred will be having his next Saturday Netball Clinic Saturday 15 March from 9am-10:30am and running a holiday clinic for U7 to U13 girls from Monday 31 March to Thursday 3 April from 9-11am.
Please email (Fnanetball@gmail.com) or whatsapp (0665598425) for further details and to sign up.