BUG NEWS

17 April 2025

EFFORT: I give my best effort to everything I do. Every time I try, I grow stronger. My effort makes me better every day!

UMZAMO: Ndizama kangangoko ndinako kuko konke endikwenzayo. Ngalo lonke ixesha ndizama, ndiyomelela. Imizamo yam indenza ndibe ngcono yonke imihla.

MOEITE: Ek gee my beste poging aan alles wat ek doen. Elke keer as ek probeer, word ek sterker. My moeite maak my elke dag beter!

As we continue exploring our theme, Growing Together, we have introduced the value of EFFORT for this term, following on the value of potential.

Whilst we all have the potential to achieve and experience success in whatever way, shape or form, our potential remains dormant unless we put in effort to achieve our goals. Effort means that we are working towards something and always trying, even though it may be difficult. It is the journey towards accomplishment that is important. It is the process of learning and improvement, not just the outcome or result. Effort fosters resilience, adaptability and dedication to achieving something, turning aspirations into reality. It teaches us that we can do more than we thought, learning new skills and abilities along the way.

I am excited to see the effort every Rustybug puts into achieving their goals this term and, of course, our staff and parents too!

Safe travels to all those who will be away over the long weekend. Enjoy some downtime with loved ones.

Belinda Petersen

Principal

CONDOLENCES

Condolences to Mandy Jacobs and Marshall Jacobs on the loss of their cousin.

Condolences to Nongatsho Mtsi on the loss of her stepson.

Condolences to Lorensha Weavers on the loss of her aunt.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this sad time.

IT'S A GIRL

Congratulations to Dominique and Justin Maritz on the birth of their beautiful baby girl. Harleigh Raine Maritz was born on Monday 14th April, weighing a fabulous 3.8kgs.

We cannot wait to meet you, Harleigh Raine. 💮

CONGRATULATIONS

CONGRATULATIONS to the following staff on their recent appointments:

To Melanie Dudley, Head of Student Teacher Programme

To Leah Smith, acting Head of Music and Creative Arts

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Joshua on their wedding on 29 March. We wish you, Francois and Deirdre, many happy, wonderful years together♥️

JOIN OUR TEAM

AFTERCARE SUPERVISOR

Closing Date: Monday, 5 May 2025

HEAD OF MUSIC

Closing Date: Monday, 5 May 2025

WELCOME TO OUR TEAM

JANINE DAVIDS

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER GR 7B

I am so excited to be stepping into Grade 7 for the term! While I may be a new face in thier classroom, I am certainly no stranger to the school. I have proudly been teaching at RGJS for 17 years - (yes, time flies when you are having fun🤩).

Outside the classroom, I am a proud wife and mom to two wonderful kids, Simone and Dean who keep me on my toes - and two fur babies, Obelix and Cooper who think they run the household! When I'm not explaining maths concepts, (I tutor from Grade 4 all the way to Grade 9), you'll likely find me crocheting up a storm or taking long soul - refreshing walks on the beach - preferbaly with coffee in hand.

I am truly looking forward to an exciting, energetic an enriching term with your children. We'll be working hard, laughing lots and learning even more.

KAUTHAR GALLOW

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER GR 5B

Hello again to the Rustybug community.

I am a returning educator currently relieving Mrs Maritz as she is on maternity leave.

In 2022 I was part of the IT department as the IT specialist educator and this year I am wearing a different hat as class educator.

Being in the classroom is truly remarkable with the amazing girls at RGJS. Each day is seen as a new adventure.

Outside of school, I enjoy digital design, nature activities and family time with my husband, daughter and son.

ALEX VAN DER SPECK

MUSIC TEACHER

My name is Alex Van Der Speck. I enjoy spending time outdoors and appreciating the fresh air and beauty of nature. I also take pleasure in exercising regularly. Staying active and fit is important to me. I also love performing in concerts and I value quality time with friends and family.

DAMIAN GRIEBELAAR

GROUNDSMAN

I'm Damian, father of 1 cute little boy. I love spending time with my family, especially with my son.

I'm very supportive, helpful and respectful towards others. My hobbies are rugby, gaming and woodwork when I have nothing to do.

I enjoy going to small places outside of Cape Town, Karoo etc ...Drives after lunch on a Sunday and walking on the beach .

TERM 2 STAFF DEVELOPMENT

On the first day of Term 2, our staff ended the day with a Staff Development Workshop focusing on our YET statements for 2025. At the beginning, all staff were given a leaf (as were our learners) on which to write something we would like to achieve by the end of 2025.

In the World Cafe Style Discussion, staff added their thoughts and opinions on various topics that feed into the school's Strategic Themes.

TWO OCEANS ULTRA & HALF MARATHONS

Congratulations to Kim Jackson and Lauren Lyons, who completed the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon on Saturday, 5th April.

Congratulations to Neil Ryklieff and Pam Heiberg, who completed the Two Oceans Half Marathon on Sunday, 6th April.

Congratulations to all our parents and guardians who ran the Ultra or the Half Marathon.

OUR STAFF

This week, meet our Music Staff

CATHY GRAY

MUSIC ADMINSTRATOR

This photo makes me look outdoorsy, adventurous, maybe even sporty, or is that wishful thinking? I am none of those things - and this boat is definitely not ours. What I am is a very lucky wife, mother and teacher. I am surrounded by the most wonderful people, young and old, both at home and at work. I’m a real homebody, always busy with one project or another (this year I’m dabbling with watercolours). If I could, I would probably go to at least one concert every week. My work is my passion and music fills my home, my working hours and even my dreams. What could be better?

CRAIG WILLIAMS

MUSIC TEACHER

Craig Williams is a music teacher at RGJS. Music is his passion. Outside of school he enjoys playing in various orchestras, like the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra and Cape Town Baroque. He enjoys nature and often does hikes and trails. He also enjoys good food.

KATY RACIONZER

MUSIC TEACHER

Hi, there! I am the brass teacher here at RGJS.

Outside of teaching, you would mainly find me working on my Master's degree, working out at the gym or crocheting (when my cat allows me to use the yarn!). I also enjoy playing in a few jazz bands and performing at various venues.

RINA SCHUTTE

MUSIC TEACHER

Rina is a cello teacher and one of the instructors and founders at Muzkanda. She also teaches cello at Rustenburg Girls’ High School and performs regularly. She has a particular passion for musical theatre. A few years ago, she toured internationally with Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, and in the past two years, she has performed in The Sound of Music and My Fair Lady at Artscape. In her free time, Rina enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.

LEAH ADAMS

MUSIC TEACHER

Many of you know me as Miss Adams, but since October last year, I’ve also proudly become Mrs. SmAdams to our Rustybugs.

When I'm not immersed in Class Music, singing a tune, or tinkling away on the piano, you'll find me enjoying the beauty and buzz of Cape Town. I have a deep love for travel, especially anywhere tropical (I’m definitely an island girl at heart!). I also enjoy baking and cooking, although I’ll happily admit that cleaning up afterwards isn’t quite my thing.

Music is more than just a pastime for me—it’s a lifelong passion and constant joy and what a pleasure it is to get to share that joy with our Rustybugs.

MAILEEN JAMEY

MUSIC TEACHER

My name is Maileen Jamey, known by the Rustybugs as ‘Miss Jamey Pie’. I have been a Rustenburg music teacher for just over two decades, starting at the high school then moving to the junior school. Needless to say, I have loved every moment of teaching our Rustybugs!

I am a child of the performing arts. In addition to music, I love dancing and theatre. I am a Flamenco dancer and have performed in numerous musical theatre shows.

I enjoy concerts and shows, reading, nature, and deep chats with family and friends.

JAMIE BARRON

MUSIC TEACHER

My name is Jamie Barron. My passion for music runs deeper than a bass drop at a rave. I believe music isn't just sound—it's therapy, art, and a secret weapon for transforming minds (watch out, students!). When I’m not teaching, I’m orchestrating something sweet in the kitchen—because in my world, dessert is not optional, it’s a lifestyle.

I’m also a wife and proud mum to one amazing son, Haqqani, who keeps me on my toes and ensures I never finish a cup of tea while it’s still hot. Whether I’m teaching notes or hiding the last cookie, I try my best to bring heart, humour, and a whole lot of rhythm to everything I do.

Other than teaching and baking, you’ll likely find me in my happy place, the gym, or hiking trails where nature brings me peace, joy and recharges my soul.

ODILE BURDEN

MUSIC TEACHER

I am a mom of two very energetic young boys, Gabriel and Eli and wife to an incredible husband. My family loves being outdoors, from make-believe construction sites in my garden to camping in the bush. On weekends you could see me on a salsa dance floor or on stage performing with an orchestra.

I love making music so much, and I’m so lucky that I get to share that joy with the learners of RGJS.

LAUREN LYONS

MUSIC TEACHER

It has been wonderful returning to the RGJS Music Department (my second family) and seeing all the lovely Rustybugs again. Other than being a passionate music teacher, I am a very lucky mama to two legendary daughters and wife to the best husband. I love inspiring the next music generation and helping students overcome challenges. Outside of work, I am an avid (addicted) runner, finding every opportunity to be on the road and spending every penny on another race to take part in.

SCHOOL NEWS

RGJS IMPORTANT DATES TERM 2 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.

ADDITIONAL SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

All schools will be closed during the week of 28 April 2025 to 02 May 2025 and reopen on Monday, 05 May 2025.

Notice from WCED: Afrikaans; English; Xhosa

RGJS Aftercare Staff will be running a Private Holiday Aftercare Programme for the 3 additional school holidays mentioned above.

Please contact Anne van Wyk for more details annvan@rgjs.org.za

ART IN RUSTENBURG HOUSE

Thank you to Liesl Ludik and our Rustybug Artists for the beautiful works of Art on display in Rustenburg House.

Enjoy scrolling through the pics below.

ASSEMBLIES

The Value for Term 2 is EFFORT;

I give my best effort to everything I do.

Every time I try, I grow stronger.

My effort makes me better every day!

In our first assembly of Term 2, Mrs Petersen spoke into our theme, challenging our Rustybug Learners and Staff to always use your POTENTIAL and put in your best EFFORT. Just like riding a bicycle, you start with training wheels and eventually can balance and ride without support. Some of our Rustybugs and Staff cannot ride a bicycle YET, but we are all encouraged to put in the EFFORT to try and learn how to do so as we all have the POTENTIAL within us!

This week in our Grade 4 - 7 assembly, Mr Ryklieff spoke to our Rustybugs about Freedom Day. Mr Ryklieff highlighted the significance and importance of Freedom Day and shared insights into the historical day when ALL South Africans voted for the first time in 1994.

In our Grade 1 - 3 assembly, Mr Ryklieff asked our Rustybugs "Which two religious festivals will some of our community be celebrating on Sunday?".

Mr Ryklieff spoke about Easter, celebrated by Christians and Passover, celebrated by Jews.

GRADE 1 FAIRYTALE DRESS UP DAY

We started our new project-based learning unit last week - Fairytales and Fantasy! We kicked off by dressing up as our favourite fairytale characters. The girls were very creative, and we had characters from old and new stories. The Wicked Witch stopped by to tell us that she had stolen the Fairy Godmother's magic wand! She also told us that she has used the wand to mix up all the fairytales! Rapunzel was in a beanstalk, the three little pigs were building tents and tree houses and Little Red Riding Hood went to the house where the three bears lived! What a mess!

How will we get the wand back and fix all the fairytales? Through learning about the fairytales and discovering new ones, we take a journey filled with fun things to solve the problem.

PHOTO ALBUM

GRADE 3 PBL - SPACE

Out-of-This-World Learning Begins!

Last week, something extraordinary happened on our playground - an alien spaceship crash-landed, kicking off our newest project-based learning unit! We met Vitox, a friendly (and somewhat confused) alien who needs help returning home. Vitox had been exploring the solar system when he crash-landed but now he can't remember how to get home or even which planet he’s from. Armed with a mysterious map of the solar system, our students have become interplanetary detectives and researchers, diving into the solar system to search for clues and help Vitox find his way back home.

PHOTO ALBUM

GRADE 5 CAMP - ROCKLANDS

A Journey of Growth, Fun, and Discovery!

After a few days of camp food, Djembe drumming, and engaging in many other fun games and activities, the Grade 5 learners arrived back at school feeling exhausted but truly enriched by the experience.

Last Wednesday, our Grade 5s left school for an incredible two-day adventure at Rocklands Adventure Camp, where they embraced challenges, created unforgettable memories, and learned lessons that went far beyond the classroom walls.

The camp provided our girls with a chance to try new things, from tackling a challenging night hike to exploring the fascinating rock pools at Fisherman’s Beach. They pushed themselves to overcome fears, collaborated with peers they might not normally interact with, and supported each other through every activity. Whether it was learning about nature or making tough decisions together, every experience was an opportunity for growth.

For the teachers, this was also a wonderful chance to get to know our learners outside of the usual school setting. Away from the classroom, conversations flowed naturally about what the learners enjoy in their free time and the interesting ideas they have about the world. It was a valuable moment for us to connect with them on a deeper level, seeing them in a new light as individuals.

The camp was not just about fun and adventure—it also taught the girls the importance of teamwork, communication, and resilience. Back in the classroom this week, they are a stronger, more united group, with a newfound sense of self-confidence and connection with their peers.

PHOTO ALBUM

GRADE 7 INTERACTION WITH SACS

The Grade 7 social interaction between Rustenburg girls and SACS boys was an unforgettable event. It was held in the school hall, which was decorated with colourful lights and balloons. The students arrived full of excitement, dressed smartly and ready to have fun. Everyone quickly mingled, and the laughter filled the air. A variety of fun games were played, helping to break the ice and get everyone smiling. After the games, snacks and cool drinks were served, allowing everyone to chat and relax. Then the disco lights came on, and the dance floor lit up with energy. The DJ played all the latest hits, and both the girls and boys danced. By the end of the evening, everyone left with big smiles and great memories.

PHOTO ALBUM

GR 2 ORANJEZICHT CITY FARM

The Grade 2s had an incredible week diving into the world of farming! From learning about recycling and composting to planting their very own seeds, the excitement was contagious.

Our visit to the Oranjezicht City Farm was an unforgettable, hands-on experience that brought our lessons to life and sparked a genuine curiosity about sustainable living and where our food comes from.

PHOTO ALBUM

GR 2 PARENT TALK

Our Grade 2 parents participated in an engaging and enlightening maths evening on Tuesday, 15 April, designed to deepen their understanding of place value and early calculation strategies. The session was filled with interactive activities that mirrored the classroom experience, giving parents valuable insight into how their daughters are learning foundational maths skills.

A highlight of the evening was the use of concrete tools such as Dienes blocks and flash cards. These hands-on resources helped demonstrate how young learners build number sense and grasp the concept of place value in a meaningful way. Through guided activities, parents saw firsthand how these tools support active learning and encourage a deep understanding of numbers.

One key takeaway was understanding why the vertical (column) method is not introduced in the Foundation Phase. Parents learned that while the vertical method can be efficient, it often skips over the essential understanding of place value. Instead, learners in the Foundation Phase are guided to use visual and tactile methods that build a strong mathematical foundation before moving on to abstract procedures.

The evening left parents feeling inspired, informed, and better equipped to support their daughters on their mathematical journeys. It was a truly valuable experience that highlighted the importance of learning through understanding, not just memorisation.

PHOTO ALBUM

GR 6 PARENT TALK

On Wednesday, 16th April, we hosted a talk on developing a Growth Mindset and Resilience using a Multisystems Lens.

Our speaker was Dr Sharon Aitken, an Educational Psychologist specialising in adolescent development. Her main aim in her practice is to achieve holistic support of children, adolescents and young adults within the learning environment, and one of her focus areas is a strengths-based approach that builds resilience. She shared some handy tips on raising girls who are ready for a challenging new world where technology is at the forefront; yet they need to be guided so carefully with the use of technology and AI. She gave us some valuable insight into the brain of the adolescent and their development, which can help parents understand certain behaviours and actions that they are experiencing currently.

Thank you to the Grade 6 parents who attended this valuable session.

GR 3 IZIKO MUSEUM & PLANETARIUM

The Grade 3 Rustybugs enjoyed going back in time and into outer space at the Iziko Museum and Planetarium. We learnt about the different ways different creatures breathe and used our hands to investigate different animal skins, shells, and scales. We viewed preserved animals, dinosaur fossils and various life forms such as starfish and butterflies. With their deepened understanding of life on Earth, we placed this knowledge into perspective as we zoomed into our incredible solar system. At the Planetarium, we had the opportunity to explore each of the fascinating planets and planetary bodies above us. The stars and planets we have seen in the night sky are much more massive than they appear, and our little Earth is unique and precious.

PICS TO FOLLOW SOON!

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.

PARKING AROUND RGJS

Please ensure your children have all their bags ready to exit the car in the Drop & Go bays in front of our school. If parents/guardians need to get out of the car to assist their children, please use alternative parking bays.

Please refrain from parking in front of the middle islands in Burg Road, this is illegal parking. Dangerous parking puts the lives of others at risk. Be kind, be courteous, be polite and consider others.

MUSIC

MUSIC FUNDRAISING

We are looking for parents of the Music Learners at RGJS to join the Music Fundraising Committee - the objective of the committee is to raise money for the RGJS Music Bursary Fund. If you would like to be involved in this initiative, please fill in

THIS FORM.

SPORTS

CROSS COUNTRY

We’re thrilled that the Cross Country season got off to such a strong start, with 21 Rustybugs proudly taking part in the Paul Greyling Cross Country League Race in Fish Hoek last week!

A huge well done to our U9s, who bravely ran their very first Cross Country race representing Rustenburg – what an achievement! Special shoutouts to Annabel Verhage Gr 5a and Ava Rood Gr 5a, who showed real commitment by racing despite just returning from their 3-day Grade 5 Camp.

These races are always a whirlwind of activity, but our girls continue to thrive in the chaos, showing grit and great team spirit throughout.

Overall, the girls ran superbly, and a massive congratulations to our U13 age group, who dominated their race by claiming 1st Steffanie White Gr 7a, 2nd Cara Pearce Gr 7c, and 3rd Ava Mattushek Gr 7b positions. Incredible effort!

PHOTOS

EVENTS

MOLO MHLABA & RGJS ISIXHOSA LESSONS

Sibulele Magini, Head of School at Molo Mhlaba will be running a Level 2 Conversational Basic isiXhosa Course for 5 weeks on Thursdays from 6 - 7pm, 18th May - 5th June via Zoom.

Space is limited, please sign up using this LINK

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.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW!

OUTREACH

MARSHMALLOW EGGS

Thank you again to all our families for the donations of marshmallow eggs. 8558 have been distributed to the following organisations, schools and charities;

Molo Mhlaba; The Homestead; Lions Project; Sterling Primary; Home from Home Trust; Marsh Memorial Children's Home; Bonteheuwel Baptist Church; Callas Foundation; St Joseph's Intermediate Paediatric Care; Egoli in Schaapkraal; Ottery Road Methodist Primary; Beit-ul-Aman Old Age Home; St George's Home For Girls; Avondrust Old Age Home; Safe House Lower Crossroads; UTurn Homeless Shelter.

HOUSE DAY

Friday 9th May is HOUSE DAY and we will be supporting

HELP THE RURAL CHILD!

Learners may come to school in their PE kit, wearing their HOUSE SHIRTS on Friday, 9th May.

How can we assist HELP THE RURAL CHILD?

Do you have clothing that you have outgrown, books you don’t read, ornaments that are gathering dust, toys that you no longer play with, pots and pans stored away, unwanted gifts, CDs, DVDs, etc? All of these items, in good condition, can be donated to HELP THE RURAL CHILD.

On Monday, 5th May, all learners will receive a large packet to take home. During the upcoming long weekend and holiday, you can sort your things and get ready to fill your bag to be brought back to school on Friday, 9th May.

Should you have furniture items you would like to donate, HELP THE RURAL CHILD will arrange to collect them from your home.

Please contact 021 685 2810 to arrange.

Thank you in advance for supporting this incredible charity.

MOLO MHLABA & RGJS

As one of our Outreach initiatives, we would like to assist Molo Mhlaba with the following items that you may no longer be using and would like to pass on to the girls at Molo Mhlaba:

Art materials: paint, paint brushes, pastels, crayons

Stationery

Reading Books

Secondhand musical instruments

Secondhand sporting kit or gear

If you have any of the above items in good condition, please drop them off at the front office, clearly marked MOLO MHLABA.

SCHOOL UNIFORM

School Uniform Gentle Reminders

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.
Birthday Civvies may not be worn on the first or last day of the school term; all learners are to wear full school uniform. Should your birthday fall on these days or during the holiday, you may choose an alternate day in the school term.
Earrings must be removed before playing any sport.
All library bags must be transported in the library bags - the library bag is part of the school uniform requirements.

All uniform items are in the document below.