BUG NEWS

28 March 2025

These last few weeks have really taken its toll on our staff - physically, mentally and emotionally. Dealing with our grief and holding space for learners and the broader school community as they navigate loss has been quite a weight on us. But one thing is absolutely clear. When we are faced with immense challenges, our staff support one another and readily step in where needed, often without being asked.

This school holiday has come at the right time for us as we take time to rest, spend time with loved ones and make space for the heaviness to lift off our shoulders.

Thank you to the parents who have sent their messages of condolences and support, not just for the staff, but also for the Manuel family.

I wish all our Muslim staff and families well for the last few days of Ramadan and that Eid will be a time of happy, blessed celebrations.

Enjoy the school holiday and travel safely!

Belinda Petersen

Principal

CONDOLENCES

Our condolences to the family and friends of Kirsten Manuel. We are thinking of you all and our staff and families who are all deeply saddened by Kirsten's sudden passing. To say Kirsten had a profound impact on everyone she met is an understatement of note.

Thank you to all our families and staff for their generous donations. Kirsten's family is overwhelmed by the kindness shown by our Rustenburg Community. Written memories are being added to a memory book for Kirsten's family, but especially for her son, Rayan. These memories can still be sent to school next term.

On Tuesday, many of our staff, Rustybugs, parents and guardians joined the Manuel Family to celebrate the life of Kirsten Manuel. Thank you to those who were able to join us, shared beautiful tributes and memories of dear Kirsten.

In 2023, after only being at Rustenburg for 6 months, Kirsten wrote these words in her first Aftercare report;

"2023 has unfolded into an amazing year for me so far and the year of tiny changes for the Aftercare Team. Having stepped into some pretty big shoes by the exiting Aftercare Supervisor, I questioned myself if I made the right choice at some points these last 6 months. Little did I know that my life was about to change in a tremendous way. From getting to know this unique Aftercare Team who works diligently with the girls when they finish school, finding my flow with each one, to getting to know as many of the girls as I can that are in our care at RGJS Aftercare, it walks hand in hand with growth, patience and understanding. What a privilege it is being part of this school, at a time such as this.

The hugs and love received amazes me, trusting us to be there when they need that hug, little do they know that sometimes it's us who needs it more.

Thank you for entrusting us with your girls and we will always strive to do our best to be there, in the Aftercare, when they need us.

FAREWELL - HENDRIK MARAIS

Today, we bid a sad farewell to Hendrik Marais. After 19 years of service to our school community, Mr Marais will commence his appointment as the principal of Frank Pietersen Music Centre in Paarl, on 1 April 2025. We are proud of his promotion and wish him well as he embarks on this new chapter.

Mr Marais has been instrumental in various aspects of school life at RGJS, particularly in diversifying the music department and its offerings over the years. His pivotal role in overseeing the composition of our new school song will forever be a historical contribution to our school's rich history. In recent years, he has also spearheaded our Student Teacher Programme to enhance the experience of our country’s future teachers. Not only has he been a valuable member of the school community, but he has also played a significant role in promoting the Creative Arts locally, nationally and globally. His numerous achievements and awards, most recently from the South African Council of Educators (SACE), are a testament to someone who lives with passion and purpose.

Last week, Thapelo Phukuje sat down with Mr Marais for a heartwarming conversation about his wonderful time at RGJS and the exciting years ahead. Enjoy the podcast.

Enjoy this wonderful tribute, young and old, past and present, pupils and parents all joined together to say THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC to dear Hennie🎶.

CONGRATULATIONS

CONGRATULATIONS: To ⭐Siya Macaula⭐ for achieving her first PurpleZA badge as well as Level 1!

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Phukuje on their wedding yesterday. We wish you, Thapelo and Paula, many, many happy, wonderful years together♥️

FAREWELL

Earlier this month we bid farewell to Student Teacher, Shonell Fredericks and at the end of term one, we bid farewell to Megan Fisher.

We wish you both well in your future endeavours.

LONG SERVICE AWARDS

Today, we celebrated two of our staff who received Long Service Awards.

Cynthia Cetywayo was awarded a certificate for 20 years of service.

Mbulayi Faguy Bukasa was awarded a certificate for 10 years of service.

Congratulations, and thank you for your service to Rustenburg, Cynthia and Faguy.

OUR STAFF

This week, meet our Support Staff, Subject Teacher and Admin Staff.

WELEKAZI BALANI

HOUSEKEEPING

This is my 9th year at Rustenburg as part of the Support Staff. I enjoy sewing by hand, baking and listening to music. Gospel music is my favourite.

On weekends, I enjoy going shopping and on Sundays, I go to church. I also enjoy spending time with my sister.

MBULAYI FAGUY BUKASA

GROUNDSMAN

2025 is my tenth year at Rustenburg Junior.

I am a lover of pressed grapes, red wine to be specific.

I spend my weekends with my boy, who keeps me very busy.

I am one of 16 children so I enjoy being around a lot of people. I am good with my hands and enjoy doing new things.

FRANCOIS JOSHUA

GROUNDSMAN

I love my work and I am enjoying what I do at RGJS. I love to spend time with my family. One of my hobbies is watching sport, I am a big sport fan.

March is an exciting month for me and my fiancé, Deidre. We are getting married tomorrow!

MAGDALENE JACOBS

HOUSEKEEPING

I love my Rustybug family and have been working in House Keeping at RGJS for 8 years.

I have 5 children and 5 grandchildren - 3 grandsons and 2 granddaughters. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, and my church family.

LUYANDA ZINYUSILE

GROUNDSMAN

I have been working at Rustenburg since 1996, 29 years!

I have been married to my wife Phumla since 1990 and we had 3 children, sadly our son passed away. We have 3 granddaughters who keep us very, very busy! My favourite soccer team is Mamelodi Sundowns. I enjoy running, mostly on weekends.

MIETJIE DE BRUIN

HOUSEKEEPING

I have been working at Rustenburg for almost 6 years in Housekeeping. On weekends, I enjoy spending time with my sisters and friends. I love hiking and being outdoors. I enjoy working in our community and supporting those around me.

MARSHALL JACOBS

FOREMAN

I am a father of 4 beautiful kids who loves spending time with them whenever I can. These days I work on cars with my boys by my side sharing my knowledge with them on how cars work. In my free time, you will find me on the couch watching a mini series or documentary. I also love watching the SA 20/ 20 and IPL cricket and when SA play a match. But Saturdays are time for the Stormers, WP and the Springboks - Rugga Crazy son of a Gun.

KHANYISA BEJE

HOUSEKEEPING

I'm Khanyisa Beje the proud mom of a 12 year old daughter . Outside of work, I like to go shopping and explore new restaurants.

I've been working at RGJS as a housekeeper for three years.

NOSIPHIWO RANI

HOUSEKEEPING

Hi my name is Nosiphiwo Rani, this is my 4th year at Rustenburg as a housekeeper. I'm a proud mom of 3 boys. I love spending time with my family and I enjoy working at RGJS.

LES HARWIN

GRADE 6 & 7 SUBJECT TEACHER

I am a relief teacher standing in for Catherine Pike, while she is on maternity leave for 6 months, until the end of Term 2.

I am from KZN and moved to Cape Town in 2008. I joined the Cannons Creek staff for 4 years, then moved to St Cyprian’s where I have been for 12 years before ‘retiring’ at the end of 2022. I then did locum teaching there until the end of 2024. I certainly am not ready to retire quite yet, so am happy to be kept busy in a job that I love and which continues to bring me joy in the classroom.

I am married to Cliff and we have two daughters, Jenny, an attorney, who is engaged to be married and Taryn, who is a teacher at St Cyprian’s School. She is married to Justin and they have two daughters, Madison (5) and Emma (4) and I am blessed to be a Nanna to our two little girls!

I love music, play the piano and our family and friends enjoy much fun with karaoke at home. I am an avid gardener and animal lover who is the proud mom of 3 dogs.

When I am not teaching, I tutor children in Maths and Study Skills from my home in Pinelands.

LEZEL MCCRAE

RECEPTIONIST

Hello RGJS Community, I am the newest addition to the Admin Department.

I joined RGJS in October 2024 and take pride in creating a warm & welcoming environment for the girls, staff & parents. I have been in the education sector for over 17 years and I am thrilled to be part of this vibrant community.

I am a proud mom of two amazing young ladies (Tamia and Morgan, ages 25 and 22) who inspire me everyday. They are one of my greatest blessings! Outside of work, I cherish moments with my nearest and dearest, enjoy exploring the outdoors and just some quiet time.

VENESSA JOSEPH

PRINCIPAL'S PA

I started at RGJS in 2021. I have grown so much in this role, when I reflect on the years gone by. The staff, parents and learners are just amazing. I love every minute of what I do. I have 3 wonderful humans that are my absolute life, my husband, Terence and two teenage daughters ,Kiara and Tamika. We love the outdoors and spend a lot of time together enjoying life. Our family motto:

Life is short, make sure your loved ones know how much you appreciate them.

BELINDA PETERSEN

PRINCIPAL

I'm married to Gerald and have two daughters, Nina and Emily. We're a busy family with lots on the go on a quiet day! When I'm not at school, my other title is Uber Mom! I enjoy most genres of music but when it comes to family choices, hip-hop is our favourite. Supporting local artists and connecting with creatives is what you'll often find us doing over weekends.

DARRYLL KLINK

BUSINESS MANAGER

I joined RGJS in July 2024 and thoroughly enjoying my time with the School. I’m grateful to be part of such a wonderful community known as RUSTYBUGS.

I am a husband to an incredible woman and a proud father to my son and daughter. I enjoy being outdoors whether it’s going for a cycle, fishing and in nature with my family.

Inquisitive by nature, I like trying new things even when at first I would tell myself ‘this isn’t for me’ BUT I was pleasantly surprised how much fun I’m having on the padel court - that’s when my competitive side starts to come out!

LYNN CORNELIUS

BURSAR

I am Loveable Lynn and I am here to spread some Love and Joy!

Working within the Finance department you work with different accounts every day, and it made me realise that one day I will have to give an account for this earthly life. What have I done with this life, just like your account is being checked, so your earthly life account is checked.

Are you living a balanced life or are there lots of withdrawals? How are you living your life?

What profits are we making to live a better life, one day when I leave this earth, I hope that I can leave behind a life filled with legacy, compassion and love.

Let us choose to be better, not just for this life but the life thereafter.

LAUREN NEL

BURSAR

When I am not at work, I spend all my time with my husband and my beautiful daughter, Luna.

I love spending time with family and friends, cooking and getting into a good book...when I am not stuck in an endless loop of 'WHY' questions from my very inquisitive 4 year old!

ROBYN LYNCH

SCHOOL ASSISTANT

I am the Grade 4 to 7 assistant as well as being the school assistant, I wear many hats and my role is continuously changing. I have been part of the Rustenburg Community for 18 years as an aunt when cousins attended, as a mother when my daughters attended and officially as a staff member since 2013. I have seen Rustenburg through three principals, four Deputy Principals and many changes. Though I did not attend Rustenburg myself, I matriculated from Good Hope Seminary Girls' High school. Having experienced a girls' school education myself, I feel that I am able to understand the school experience that our girls have.

In my private life, I have two precious daughters, Emily and Georgia who are both at various stages of their university journey. In my down time, I am a rabid reader and foodie, I love to cook and experiment with new recipes. I do Zumba and quite recently I started Salsa classes. I also love to roller skate and rollerblade and watch roller derby matches. I love to take long reflective walks in nature and on the beach. My personal ethos is to always spread love and kindness because the world is a harsh place and we all could use a touch of grace.

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.

2025-26 ADMISSIONS GR R, 1 & 8

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.

WCED ADMISSIONS

2025-26 Admissions GrR,1&8 posters A1.pdf

HOOKED ON BOOKS

During the final week of term, we were privileged to enjoy a thrilling performance from Hooked on Books. The energy of the performers and their song and dance routines had the audience eating out of the palm of their hands as they presented another round of exciting book trailers. A few lucky Rustybugs were able to join the actors on stage and demonstrate their dramatic skills. Hooked on Books will return later this year to showcase Afrikaans books and present a special show for the Gr Rs.

PHOTO ALBUM

GR 6 ENRICHMENT

On Tuesday, 25th March, the Grade 6 learners arrived at school filled with excitement for their 2025 Enrichment Programme. This year, instead of weekly sessions, the programme was condensed into two full days of skill-building activities and inspiring guest speakers.

Day 1 kicked off with sandwich-making and card decorating for the learners of Molo Mhlaba and ended with a high-energy Zumba session led by Cheryll Bachus. Mrs Wates hosted a library session focused on board games to boost critical thinking, while Karen Villet and Penny Biccard presented a “Healthy Body, Healthy Mind” talk and provided a “Stress-busting” Toolkit. The learners then enjoyed baking chocolate chip cookies with Mrs Wepener and took part in a self-defense class with the instructors from Cape Judo.

Day 2 featured a Pilates class for all by physiotherapist Alex Heiberg, a tyre-changing workshop by Mr. Marshall Jacobs for 6A, and a career talk by musician, Dan Shout, for the 6B class. Comedian, Mel Jones, shared her philosophy of life with the 6C class: “You’ve got to laugh at it.” The programme concluded with Dr. Lyndall Gibbs delivering a valuable talk on puberty. We are very grateful for their willingness to share their experience and expertise with us.

The Grade 6 learners described the experience as “Like camp, but at school!” and thoroughly enjoyed bonding and making the most of every opportunity. It was a wonderful two days of growth and learning!

PHOTO ALBUM

ISIXHOSA FAL

The grade 4 IsiXhosa FAL class had fun making 'Umphokoqo" a South African delicacy which can be described as crumbly pap. The dish is often served with Amasi and or sour cream. The dish in the Xhosa culture is widely enjoyed on a warm summer day so what better way to end a rather hot first term with a delicacy.

RECYCLING @ RGJS

On the 17th of March 2025, I had an interview with Damien Hewitt, who is from an organisation called Plant the Seed, where they work with schools all around South Africa trying to create a better recycling system. I asked him a few questions and below are some of his answers.

Recycling is a very positive thing to have. The term “ a plaster on a bullet wound” is an amazing way to express that we are making a solution but also we are not doing everything we can do to fix the problem. Recycling can make a massive impact on the amount of waste and pollution we have in the world.

Rustenberg uses recycling very well. Many other schools in South Africa don't have the privilege to be able to have colour-coded bins or be educated about this problem.

Our school tries to protect and keep the environment as healthy as possible. Pollution is one of our biggest problems and a huge problem to solve, but if you take most of the materials you use in a day and recycle them, it can make an immediate change to our environment. Large amounts of waste are produced in one day because of the lack of recycling.

Recycling gives us many benefits such as:

Cleaner and better quality air

Better habitat conditions (for living organisms)

It will keep us healthy

To make recycling more efficient, just take a second to think if the item is recyclable or if you are putting it in the correct bin. Also make sure that no food or general waste is being put into any of the recycling bins.

If a material has remains of food waste, for example, an oily container, always try to use something like a paper towel to wipe off the remaining waste. Not doing this can make some materials non-recyclable and create a big mess.

Recycling plays a huge role in our school and who we are because of the time and care our school takes to use recycling.

That is how our school, Rustenberg Girls' Junior, uses recycling.

Written by Zahra Gangrakar 7A

HUMAN RIGHTS DAY ASSEMBLY

On Monday and Tuesday last week, our staff incorporated our 2025 theme, GROWING TOGETHER, into explaining Human Rights Day to our Rustybugs. Plants require oxygen, sunlight and water to grow and flourish; these are basic needs. As humans, we have basic needs and rights to grow and flourish. In our assembly we remembered those who fought for these HUMAN RIGHTS.

PHOTO ALBUM

GR 1 OUTING & PROJECT-BASED LEARNING

The Grade 1s had their outing to the Two Oceans Aquarium on the 14th of March. We had a very informative lesson in the aquarium classrooms explaining how sharks live in the ocean. We learned about the body parts of a shark and we compared them to various shapes. After that, we took a tour around the aquarium. We saw glowing jellyfish, all types of fish and even eels that were trying to hide away from us. We loved watching the penguins waddle around. The highlight was when we spotted Toby the turtle in the overhead glass tunnel! Huge manta rays were swimming all around us! We ended off with a tour around the shark tank. What a wonderful morning of learning and discovery we had!

PHOTO ALBUM

GR 1 PROJECT-BASED LEARNING

This term, the Grade 1 learners embarked on an exciting Project-Based Learning (PBL) journey through "Friendship Reef"! They were guided by Sarah the Starfish and they explored the importance of friendship, emotions, and emotional regulation. Along the way, they met many friends such as Adam the Angelfish, Coco the Clam, Ned the Nurse Shark, Pip the Pufferfish, Inky the Inkfish and Toby the Turtle. Each friend had unique qualities that taught the girls valuable lessons about empathy, kindness, and the value of strong relationships.

PHOTO ALBUM

GR 3 - HELANI THE BEE

Helani, The Travelling Bee Lady, paid a delightful visit to the Rustenburg Girls' Junior Grade 3 girls, sharing her passion and knowledge about bees. She taught the girls about the amazing uses of honey, the different types of bees, and the vital roles they play in nature. With great enthusiasm, Helani showed them the drone cells, worker bee cells, and even where baby bees hatch. The girls were thrilled to taste honey and examine burnt hives and honeycombs up close. Some lucky girls even got to dress up as bees or the Bee Keeper! Helani’s slideshow was both informative and fascinating, leaving everyone buzzing with excitement and newfound knowledge.

PHOTO ALBUM

GR 7 OUTING

The Grade 7 girls had an unforgettable visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium, where they explored the wonders of marine life up close! From the mesmerizing swirls of jellyfish to the graceful movements of stingrays, every exhibit was a chance to learn about the incredible creatures that call our oceans home. The highlight of the trip was watching the lively penguins waddle and dive, as well as getting an up-close look at majestic sharks. This hands-on experience deepened their appreciation for marine conservation and left them inspired to protect our planet’s oceans!

PHOTO ALBUM

SERVICE CLUB

This month, our Service Society has been busy collecting and packaging EID Boxes, which were collected by Aneesa Davids from Darun Na'im Child & Youth Care.

We at Darun Na'im Child & Youth Care would like to thank each and everyone who blessed our little ones with so many gifts and so many beautiful souls.

Our little ones were so overwhelmed with emotions of joy and excitement, such a beautiful sight to see.

The minute we got home, they were jumping with joy and excitement, super excited to open their gifts.

Words cannot express our GRATITUDE!

We sincerely appreciate it SO VERY VERY MUCH!

May everyone involved be blessed abundantly and so much more.

Wishing all involved everything of the very best in their future endeavours and lots of LOVE, SUCCESS, ABUNDANCE, JOY, PEACE, and lots of HAPPINESS and PROSPERITY AMEEN

MANY MANY THANKS

KIND REGARDS

ANEESA

HOUSE DAY & INTERNATIONAL DAY OF MATHS

Thank you to all our Rustybugs for their generous donations of marshmallow eggs for House Day. On the same day, we celebrated International Day Of Maths! As you can see from the photographs, our Rustybugs used their incredible imaginations and created some amazing mathematical designs!

The marshmallow eggs are being distributed to orphanages, hospitals, old age homes and schools. Photos will be shared in our next newsletter.

PHOTO ALBUM

E1975 REUNION

On Thursday 20th March, a group of Rustybugs who started at Rustenburg Girls' Junior in 1964, spent the morning at our school as they started their 50th Reunion celebrations.

Many of our talented Rustybug Musicians entertained our visitors with a beautiful mini music concert, ending with our new school song. It was beautiful to watch the "old" and current Rustybugs interacting with each other throughout the morning. Our Grade 1s asked lots of questions including; "How old are you now? Are your parents still alive? Were you allowed to wear civvies on your birthday?". Many wonderful stories were shared. Thank you, E75, for coming back to visit your school. We thoroughly enjoyed sharing all the exciting changes and hearing some of your memories.

PHOTO ALBUM

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.

MUSIC

CELLO MASTERCLASS

On Monday, March 24, Professor Anmari van der Westhuizen visited our school and gave masterclasses to some of our Cello Rustybugs, as well as a few of our former Rustybugs. The students who participated were Faatimah Long 7a, Ella Naidoo 7b, Sadie Owen 6c, and Maya Bhoola 4b.

Prof. van der Westhuizen was Ms. Schutte’s cello lecturer at the University of the Free State.

SPORTS

INTERHOUSE CROSS COUNTRY

What a fabulous way to end our first term for our Grade 3 - 7s - Interhouse Cross Country!

Well done to all our Rustybugs who ran in warm conditions but never gave up! All our learners proudly cheered each other with great enthusiasm and true Rustybug Spirit.

PHOTO ALBUM

EVENTS

FUNNY FESTIVAL

As a Grade 7 Fundraiser, a limited number of tickets for the Funny Festival will be available on KARRI. The tickets are R210 each, and the show is on Wednesday, 4th June 2025.

SCHOOL UNIFORM

School Uniform October 2024.pdf

School Uniform—Learners may wear winter or summer uniforms throughout the year, but not a combination of both. Grade Rs wear the same uniform throughout the year, adding their tracksuit over their shorts and T-shirts/Sweatshirts on cooler days.

All uniform items are in this slide deck.

BUGS BOUTIQUE

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

Please note the hours of Bugs Boutique over the upcoming holiday period

Saturday 12th April 09:00 - 11:00

Saturday 10th May 09:00 - 11:00

BUGS BOUTIQUE ONLINE STORE

All orders placed through the online store will be delivered to RGJS.

LOST PROPERTY

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

R5,086.25

Raised in February

Thank you to all our SWIPERS!

THANK YOU FOR SWIPING YOUR

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.

Ms Jali's Holiday Club.pdf

Constantia.pdf

ShowOff April 2025.pdf

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.

Keith Macfarlane - Piano.pdf

Advert study skills course 2025 .pdf

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