Embedded Files
Respect - I am respectful. I treat others and myself as we deserve to be treated. I show courtesy to everyone. I learn from the wisdom of my elders.
Respek - Ek is respekvol. Ek behandel myself en ander soos ons verdien om behandel te word. Ek betoon hoflikheid aan almal en leer uit die wysheid van my seniors.
Imbeko- Ndinembeko. Ndibaphatha abanye kunye nam ngendlela esifanele ukuphathwa ngayo. Ndibonisa imbeko kuye wonke umntu, kwaye ndifunda kubulumko babantu abadala bam.
As I reflect on the value of respect, I am reminded of how pivotal it is to be respectful in our actions, words and thoughts. When we respect others, we allow them the space to shine. Oftentimes, we forget that allowing others to shine their light does not diminish our light. It's also in the little things we do and the unspoken messages we communicate that makes others feel respected or disrespected. Respect does not necessarily mean that we will never say the wrong thing; it's living with the mindset that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and, when we get things wrong, we graciously own up to our mistakes and shortcomings.
This week, our ISP Interhouse Gala stood out as respect in action. It was not only a celebration of those who swim well and score the most points for their houses. We witnessed our Rustybugs being their peers' greatest supporters. It didn't matter what place they came in their respective races. Everyone cheered for every girl as they finished their races. This is who we are as Rustenburg. It's about being a community that lifts one another up and encourages everyone to reach for their goals and "finish the race". As staff and parents, we can be proud of the girls and who they are becoming.
Best wishes to all our staff and families for a restful holiday. May you feel refreshed and rejuvenated for another busy term as we encourage everyone to "Shine Our Light"!
Belinda Petersen
Principal
CONGRATULATIONS
CONGRATULATIONS
CONGRATULATIONS: To ⭐Siphesihle Dyubhele⭐ on achieving your first PurpleZA badge
⭐Ofentje Masenya⭐ - Gemini Certified Educator!
WELCOME
WELCOME
In June, we welcome Taybah Taliep to RGJS as our Librarian.
My name is Taybah Taliep.
I’m a Muslim mom to three toddlers (two boys and one girl), a wife, and a ferocious reader with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and self-development. I work in the library and information space, so books and learning are very much a part of both my personal and professional life.
Outside of work, I really value quiet time—whether that’s at home or finding peaceful nature spots where I can immerse myself in my latest read. I also enjoy my gym and workout time. That said, life with three toddlers is naturally very lively, and I love creating and finding new little adventures to experience with my husband and kids.
I love trying new foods and sharing meals and snacks with others - food is definitely one of my love languages! Even though I’ve been told I’m a good cook, I don’t always enjoy the process, which feels slightly ironic.
I’m also quite active in the bookstagram and publishing space, and over time I’ve built lovely connections with authors and fellow readers. Attending book launches and literary events is one of my favourite things—any chance to talk about books and support local authors, and I’m there.
I’m really looking forward to getting to know everyone and being part of the school community.
WCED READING AND LITERACY STRATEGY
WCED READING AND LITERACY STRATEGY
On Saturday, 14 March, I had the privilege of attending the provincial Literacy and Reading Launch, hosted by the Western Cape Education Department (WCED). The morning featured a lineup of distinguished speakers, including the Deputy Director-General for Curriculum and Assessment, the DBE Director of Reading, the WCED MEC David Maynier, and the WCED Head of Education, Mr Brent Walters.
It was an absolute honour to hear these leaders share their strategic vision and passion for improving literacy. Their commitment is backed by significant investment and resources being rolled out to every school across the province. The event brought together Departmental Heads, Principals, Deputy Principals and Curriculum Advisors from every district in the Western Cape, all united by a common goal.
I felt an immense sense of pride—not only to be part of such a vital provincial initiative but also to know that we have already implemented this strategy at our school. Seeing the tangible, positive results of this program firsthand makes our efforts even more rewarding. MEC David Maynier noted that our province is competing with top-tier international reading and spelling programs, a standard we are proud to uphold.
The core mission is simple yet powerful: Every learner in the Western Cape must be able to read fluently and for meaning by the age of 10 years old. I am excited to continue witnessing the growth of our young readers. Together, we can and will achieve this.
ROXANNE GREEFF - HEAD OF FOUNDATION PHASE
SCHOOL NEWS
RGJS IMPORTANT DATES TERM 2 2026
ALL SCHOOL INFORMATION, INCLUDING THE FULL CALENDAR, IS AVAILABLE ON THE RGJS SITE
Disabled Access - Please don't hesitate to contact admin@rgjs.org.za if you require wheelchair access or assistance with access to our school campus.
BUG BUDDY CONNECTION
BUG BUDDY CONNECTION
On Monday, 16th March, our Bug Buddy families enjoyed connecting and playing outdoor playground games together on a beautiful morning. It was a lovely way to start the week!
Families played a variety of outdoor games that were suitable for all members, from Grade R to Grade 7. Our Grade 7 leaders were tasked with organising games that aimed to include all family members, and they did a good job supporting activities that could be enjoyed by everyone.
HOOKED ON BOOKS
HOOKED ON BOOKS
Last week, we were once again treated to some amazing performances from Hooked on Books. The talented cast captivated the audience with their vibrant energy, bringing stories to life through song, dance, and dramatic flair. Their engaging book trailers sparked excitement and curiosity, leaving learners eager to dive into new adventures through reading.
Many Rustybugs had the opportunity to join the performers on stage, showcasing their own dramatic skills and contributing to the action. It was a memorable experience for both participants and audience members alike.
We are delighted to announce that Hooked on Books will return later this year with a special focus on Afrikaans literature, as well as an exclusive performance for the Grade R learners. We look forward to another inspiring and entertaining celebration of books and storytelling.
GRADE 6 ENRICHMENT
GRADE 6 ENRICHMENT
The Grade 6 enrichment programme offers a supportive space where learning extends beyond the classroom. Through activities such as cookery, Pilates, Zumba, bao bun making, LEGO building, and team-building exercises, the girls explore new skills in a fun and engaging way. Informative talks on skincare and puberty further support their personal growth. Overall, the programme creates a positive environment where girls can build confidence, develop practical abilities and enjoy learning together.
Zumba: I really enjoyed the Zumba! We jumped around and learnt a lot of new moves. I’d love to do this again sometime. It was a fun fitness session.
Willow de Klerk 6a
Critical Thinking Games: I enjoyed connecting with my friends and making new friends while playing games. Some of the games were tricky, so we had to work together to solve a problem. Khayone Nqubelani 6a
Cookery: We made choc chip cookies. We worked together as a team and I learnt how to mix the dough and that it is important not to place the cookies too close to each other on the baking tray! I also discovered a new recipe which I will try at home. Safa Meyer 6a
Team building: The team-building session with Mrs Niegaardt was a lot of fun. We were given challenges to work through as a team. There were some frustrating moments, but we overcame them! Faatimah Ramdayal 6b and Isla Steijn 6b
Dumpling making: I loved that we got to experience other cultures, learning to make dumplings. Rebecca Wiseman 6c
It was great hearing about Tina’s experience on MasterChef. The dumplings were very yummy. Stella Williams 6c
Skin Care: We learnt about how important it is to look after our skin and wear sunscreen to prevent sun damage. It was interesting to learn about different skin types. Qadira Omar 6b and Ava Rood 6b
Pilates: It was relaxing, fun and a little bit hard at times! Alex was very encouraging and kind. Grade 6c class
Lego - Robotics: We used a program called Spike Creativity and made Lego things using motion sensors and lights, and it was really fun experimenting with the different blocks. The coding was quite difficult, but we got help. Sloane Delaporte 6b and Jude Jakoet 6b.
MATHS WEEK
MATHS WEEK
Maths Week 2026 – Fun, Challenge and Learning!
Our learners enjoyed a wide range of Mathematical challenges and activities during Maths Week 2026. We started the week with lots of excitement as learners showed their creativity by wearing a touch of Maths Magic. It was wonderful to see their imaginative ideas!
Our student teachers also planned fun and engaging Maths lessons that took learning beyond the classroom. Learners worked together, shared ideas, and solved problems in new and exciting ways.
The Foundation Phase thoroughly enjoyed Maths Week and eagerly participated in a variety of hands-on activities. From estimation challenges and maths riddles to exciting STEM tasks such as building the longest chain using just one piece of paper, the girls were fully engaged. These experiences helped them see that maths is not only about numbers, but something that exists all around them in creative and meaningful ways.
A lot of problem-solving took place in the Intermediate and Senior Phases, with daily graded challenges posted on Google Classroom. All Grade 4–7 learners participated in Round 1 of the South African Mathematics Challenge, working individually or in pairs. This Olympiad promotes critical thinking and flexible strategies, and it was exciting to see the different approaches learners used. Well done to everyone who took part. Many will continue to Round 2 next term. We encourage all learners to participate and learn from one another. Several Grade 5–7 learners also entered the WCED/Horizon Mathematics Competition, set at a Grade 7 level, and we are proud that all have advanced to the next round. To end the week, learners enjoyed an Estimation Game, guessing how many marbles were in a jar. The closest estimates per grade will be announced next term!
Maths Week 2026 was a fun and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
IN CONVERSATION WITH INGE SCHULENBURG - SPEECH THERAPIST
IN CONVERSATION WITH INGE SCHULENBURG - SPEECH THERAPIST
In this insightful interview, we explore the vital role of speech therapy in supporting learners during their primary school years. At Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School, early language development, clear communication, and confidence building are key priorities.
Our conversation highlights the importance of early identification, strong collaboration between therapists, teachers, and parents, and practical strategies used to support learners. By fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment, the school ensures that every child is empowered to develop essential communication skills, participate confidently in the classroom, and thrive both academically and socially.
CAMP OUT 2026
CAMP OUT 2026
Thank you to all our families who joined us for the 2026 Camp Out. Despite the wind, we had a fabulous evening, camping on the lawns, under the stars, at Rustenburg High.
This year, we had a face painter and a band for the first time! The band was a huge hit with the children and the adults! Thank you to Ryan Matthews, "proudly the band-dad" and Third Time Lucky, for donating their time and rehearsing songs especially for our young audience.
Thank you to Rustenburg High for providing us with a beautiful, safe and secure venue for our Camp Out.
GO KART FUN DAY
GO KART FUN DAY
On Monday, our Rustybugs and staff had a fun day with KASKAR, Go Kart Fun Day.
The spirit of the day was infectious and the themes for each class were just amazing!
THANK YOU to all our families for going the extra mile and helping your daughters "look the part". We had Minions, Grannies, Cops & Robbers, Mario "pink" Sister, Rainbows, Lumo, Cowgirls, Bunnies, Flamingos, to name a few of the incredible dress-up themes.
Thank you to our teachers for being such great sports and joining in on all the fun of the day.
In the final were Grade 4b, 5a, 6c and 7c. These classes had the most number of laps per grade in the first session.
Congratulations to 5b, who won the final session of the day!
MUSIC
LUNCHTIME CONCERT
LUNCHTIME CONCERT
Our second lunchtime concert of the year took place on a blustery Monday, 16 March. Sheet music flew around the playground, stands blew over, but the music transcended all. Highlights included our first ever drum solo, a performance by the flute ensemble, a ukulele and flute duet and a number of piano, saxophone, cello and voice solos.
Congratulations to all of our participants!
SPORT
ALL GIRLS' FESTIVAL
ALL GIRLS' FESTIVAL
To all our Rustybugs and Staff participating in the All Girls' Festival at Wynberg Girls' Junior this weekend, good luck, do your best and most importantly, HAVE FUN.
Here is the FULL PROGRAMME, supporters are most welcome.
ISP INTERHOUSE GALA
ISP INTERHOUSE GALA
The RGJS Interhouse Swimming Gala, held on Tuesday, 24 March, was an exciting day of competition, team spirit, and determination in the pool. Swimmers from all four houses competed fiercely, earning valuable points for their houses.
Final Results:
Cambridge – 541 points
Wiener – 355 points
Michiel – 305 points
Innes – 287 points
The highlight of the gala was a record-breaking performance by Imogen Fairweather 6c, in the U12 50m breaststroke, where she set the only new record of the day with an impressive time of 42.75 seconds.
Congratulations to Wiener for winning the Spirit Cup and bringing the 'gees'!
Overall, it was a memorable event filled with enthusiasm, great sportsmanship, and strong performances from all swimmers.
EVENTS
RGJS Grade 6 Growth-Focused Parent Talk April 2026.pdfGrade R - 3 Parents.pdfOUTREACH
HOUSE DAY -THANK YOU
HOUSE DAY -THANK YOU
On Friday, 13th March, we had our first House Day for 2026! A very big THANK YOU to all our families for their generous donations of tins, pasta, rice, marshmallow eggs, biscuits, porridge, soup, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, sweet treats and MORE! We distributed the items to the organisations listed below. Thank you to all the learners in the Service Society and the Grade 7 Outreach Committee for helping to sort and pack all the items.
The Homestead, Lions Club of Groote Schuur (who distribute to Sisters Incorporated, Mater Domini, Rosedon House, Brown & Annie Home, Rainbow Lane and St. Anne's). Saint George's Home for Girls, St Michael's Child and Youth Care Centre, Marsh Memorial Home, Darun Naim Orphanage, Molo Mhlaba, Margaret's House, Sterling Primary School.
RISE AGAINST HUNGER
RISE AGAINST HUNGER
On Human Rights Day, Chloé Robertson 7c, Ella Jones Grade 7b and Sophie Gray 7b, spent the morning packing food parcels for RISE AGAINST HUNGER.
Thank you to Tracey Robertson, Kim Jones and Kerryn Gray who also joined in and were an integral part of the production line.
"As many as 3.2 million children in South Africa do not receive enough nutrition to lead an active, healthy life. At Rise Against Hunger Africa, we work with Hunger Champions — just like you — to end hunger in communities across South Africa".
Thank you, Chloe, Ella and Sophie for being Hunger Champions.
STARS IN THE MAKING
INDOOR HOCKEY STAR
INDOOR HOCKEY STAR
Congratulations to Ruby Meyer 5a, who recently competed in an indoor hockey tournament. Ruby's team, the U11 Seals, placed 2nd out of 8 teams and Ruby was named player of the tournament.
Well done Ruby, we are so proud of you.
CLIMBING STAR
CLIMBING STAR
Congratulations to Sophie Gray 7b, who competed in two events at the National Climbing Competition on Friday, 13th March.
Sophie was placed 3rd in the Lead event and 4th in the Boulder Event. This National Competition was to select climbers to represent South Africa at the Youth World Championship in Italy in July this year. Although Sophie’s age group is not yet eligible to compete internationally, they were invited to take part to represent the Western Cape, gain valuable competition experience, and prepare for their opportunity to qualify next year.
Well done Sophie, we are so proud of you.
NETBALL STARS
NETBALL STARS
Congratulations to Zia Sablay 7a and Ilhaam Nordien 7a, who were selected by one of the Net Premier League (NPL) Franchise Managers to participate in the first-ever NPL Netball Tournament, held 13–15 March at St Cyprian’s School.
Zia played Goal Attack and Ilhaam played Wing Attack for the U13/14 Dragons team, who placed 1st after the initial round of games, winning 4 out of 5 matches and progressed to the semi-finals. The Dragons Franchise (incl U12-U17s) won first place overall in the tournament!
Both Zia and Ilhaam were recognised by Travel & Sport for their outstanding performances at the NPL tournament and have been invited to join the U14 netball team that will be touring England in December!
Well done Zia and Ilhaam, we are so proud of you.
RUNNING STARS
RUNNING STARS
Congratulations to Cara Smith 6b and Alyssa Smith 2a, who both competed in the Langebaan 5km race.
Well done Cara and Alyssa, we are so proud of you.
HOCKEY STARS
HOCKEY STARS
Congratulations to seven of our Grade 6 Rustybugs who played in the PSI Intercity tournament last weekend.
Ava Rood 6b, Alex Barbour 6a, Stella Williams 6c and Vicky Khun 6c, were part of the Cape Seals who took 1st place.
Maya Villet 6c, Isobelle Dewer 6c and Jude Jakoet 6b were in the Sharks team who came 4th.
All the girls played amazingly and Stella was awarded Player of the tournament.
Well done Ava, Alex, Stella, Vicky, Maya, Isobelle and Jude, we are so proud of you all.
SCHOOL UNIFORM
SWAP SHOP
SWAP SHOP
The Swap Shop will be open on Friday, 17th April, in the Hall Foyer.
As the season is changing, Grade Rs can wear their tracksuits over their shorts and T-shirts to school on cooler days.
Gr 1 - 7 Learners may wear either summer or winter all year round, but may not wear a combination of summer and winter, i.e., school dress with black tights.
BUGS BOUTIQUE
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 will be closed for the holidays and reopen on Wednesday, 8th April
Bugs Boutique Trading Hours 2025 - During the school term
Monday 12:45 - 15:30
Wednesday 12:45 - 15:30
Friday 12:15 - 14:30
SATURDAY 11th APRIL 09:00- 11:00
All orders placed through the online store will be delivered to RGJS.
SUN HATS & SUNSCREEN
SUN HATS & SUNSCREEN
Please remind your daughter to pack her hat for break times and outdoor activities, including sports, especially during this warmer weather.
Sunhats are compulsory and must be worn outdoors at all times.
Please apply sunscreen and, where possible, pack in sunscreen that can be reapplied during the school day.
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.
School Ad - Term 1 .pdf
Holiday Club March April 2026.pdf
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