BUG NEWS

18 September 2025

SUPPORT: I support others and they support me. We help one another to grow and reach our goals together.

INKXASO: Ndiyabaxhasa abanye nabo bayandixhasa. Siyancedana ukuze sikhule, sifikelele kwiinjongo zethu.

ONDERSTEUN: Ek ondersteun ander en hulle ondersteun my. Ons help mekaar om te groei en ons doelwitte saam te bereik.

Supporting one another means being driven to see others succeed as we journey on this path of growing together. Success is not a limited resource. If others achieve their goals, this doesn't mean that we have failed or we should feel threatened. It also doesn't mean that our chances at achieving success is ruined or there is less opportunity for us in the future. Being human, we sometimes allow the achievements and success of others to dampen our spirits. It is easy to compare ourselves to others without realising that we are bringing judgement upon ourselves.

Having a growth mindset encourages us to see beyond where we are in the present moment to what is possible. And when we support the success of others, the upliftment multiplies. Truly supporting others helps us understand that everyone is on their separate path, uniquely working towards their goals. It builds positive energy and momentum so that we can celebrate together when big and small successes are achieved.

These are important lessons for our Rustybugs to learn. When we look around and judge ourselves based on the achievements of others, we are losing sight of our own goals and the bigger picture of our individual areas of growth. I don't believe that everyone should be great at everything. Rather, we should each aim to pursue our personal best by recognising our individual potential and putting in the necessary effort. By doing this, we are teaching them to value themselves, no matter whether external rewards or recognition come their way.

Belinda Petersen

Principal

CONDOLENCES

Condolences to Roxanne Greeff on the loss of her father-in-law.

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

CONGRATULATIONS

CONGRATULATIONS: To ⭐Harlene Veotte⭐ for achieving your first PurpleZA badge.

SCHOOL NEWS

RGJS IMPORTANT DATES TERM 3 2025

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.

MUSIC ASSEMBLIES

This week, our Foundation Phase and Intermediate/Senior Phase learners delivered unforgettable music assemblies, brimming with energy, star quality, and polished performances that felt like a full-blown concert!

From the adorable Poco Strings to the powerhouse Senior Choir, the passion for music was on full display. To cap it all off, our talented music teachers gave a stunning performance of Stevie Wonder’s Sir Duke. Want to catch a glimpse of the magic?

Click the link to experience the music vibes!

PHOTOS AND VIDEOS

20250916_082815.mp4

HERITAGE DAY ASSEMBLY

In celebration of Heritage Day, we are delighted to welcome former Justice Albert Louis Sachs as a guest speaker at our Grade 4 - 7 assembly on Monday, 22 September 2025.

Albie Sachs is a South African icon, having played a significant role in our country’s history in establishing a constitutional democracy. He served as a lawyer, judge, activist, scholar and author throughout his career. Despite losing an arm and sight in one eye in a bombing in 1988, he continued to serve our country in drafting the new Constitution. During Nelson Mandela’s presidency, he was appointed to serve as a Constitutional Court judge.

All RGJS parents are invited to attend this momentous assembly. You are welcome to be seated in the gallery by 07:55.

We look forward to this opportunity to learn about our country’s history.

MAD.pdf

LITERACY WEEK

LEARNING AND LAUGHING DURING LITERACY WEEK

What an amazing Literacy Week we had! We kicked things off with Lus vir Lees! - a super fun and interactive show that had us giggling from start to finish. Our Literacy Quiz got everyone’s brains buzzing, and storytime with Mad Libs had us in stitches all over again (peep one of our hilarious Mad Lib submissions below!). We wrapped up the week with a fabulous dress-up day, bringing our favourite characters to life and celebrating the joy of reading together.

A big thank you to our teachers, parents, and learners for making Literacy Week such a success – we can’t wait to do it all again next year!

PHOTOS

HOOKED ON BOOKS

Hooked on Books - Lus Vir Lees

On Monday, 8 September, we kicked off Literacy Week with a foot-stomping performance from Hooked on Books. This is the first time we’ve hosted an Afrikaans show, and the girls got into the spirit of the occasion. The actors integrated English and Afrikaans during the performance and enthusiastic volunteers were drawn into the skits. The library has obtained a copy of all the books, but interested parents may also obtain private copies via Exclusive Books. (See newsletter for discounts, details and book titles.)

Next month, the Gr Rs will have their own special Hooked on Books - Wiggly Woggly performance - with books specially tailored for their age range.

PHOTOS

SOUTH AFRICAN MATHEMATICS CHALLENGE 2025

Celebrating Our Achievers!

Well done to all the Grade 4 to 7 learners who took part in the 2nd Round of the South African Mathematics Challenge — congratulations to those who will be receiving their awards in assembly.

Bronze Awards: Mihle Madikane (4C), Raina Adams (4A), Victoria Uren (4A), Emma Wilson (4A), Rachel Frankish (5A), Sienna Bodill (5A), Zahra Esmail (5A), Charlotte Kriedemann (5B), Chloe Robertson (6A), Fatima Razzak (6C), Tazkia Mohamed Hoosain (6B), Nadra Adams (6B), Ella Coulstock-Welsh (7B), Ella Green (7A), Thaafirah Hendricks (7A)

Silver Awards: Aasiya Razzak (4A) , Ava Rood (5A), Sylvie Daniel (5A), Lexi Winter (5A), Nabiha January (5C), Maya Villet (5C), Nicole Mutemaringa (6A), Lily Van den Berg (7B), Gia Heldsinger (7B), Faatimah Long (7A), Isla Meyer (7C)

Gold Award: Julia Cox (7C)

Aasiya Razzak, Lily van den Berg, Gia Heldsinger, Julia Cox and Lexi Winter were invited to the final round at Belvue Primary on 11 September — an awesome achievement as they were among the top scorers nationally!

We are so proud of all our mathematicians!

GR 7 - UCT SCIENCE MERCK CURIOSITY CUBE

On 10th September 2025, 24 girls were given the exciting opportunity to attend the UCT Science Week Merck Curiosity Cube, an inspiring event that sparked curiosity and hands-on learning. Accompanied by Mrs Pike and Mrs Barrish Liddle, the group explored a variety of science fields, including Biology, Astronomy, Robotics, AI, Chemistry, and Physics.

The event took place in the Chemistry Undergraduate Laboratories, where the learners engaged with interactive labs that covered topics such as biodiversity, energy sources, acids and bases, Earth-Sun-Moon relationships, and more. A highlight of the day was the Merck Curiosity Cube, where the girls delved into AI-focused experiments, inspiring them to pursue future careers in science and technology. This was a day of discovery and exploration, encouraging these young learners to dream big in the world of science and conquer their fear of creepy things … the striped, hissing cockroach was a unanimous favourite! 😂

PHOTOS

GR 6 - KOEBERG POWER PLANT

Our recent visit to the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station was an eye-opener! We learned about the importance of safety, sustainability, and innovation in generating electricity for our homes and communities.

## What We Discovered

- Koeberg plays a vital role in South Africa's energy landscape.

- The power plant uses advanced technology to minimize its environmental impact.

- We were impressed by the team's commitment to safety and operational excellence.

## A Valuable Experience

Our visit to Koeberg was informative, engaging, and thought-provoking. We're grateful for the opportunity to learn about the power plant's operations and its contribution to our country's energy needs.

PHOTOS

GR 2 IBL - INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING

On September 5th, 2025, the Grade 2 Rustybugs concluded their Life at Night theme in style. Dressed in their cosy pyjamas, learners participated in engaging camping-themed activities alongside their parents. The day was capped off with the delightful experience of making and enjoying delicious s'mores. A memorable time was had by all!

PHOTOS

On Wednesday, 17 September 2025, our Grade 2 learners boarded their “flight” with passports and boarding passes in hand, ready for an exciting new learning adventure on Rustybug Airlines. Over the next few weeks, the learners will be travelling across South Africa, exploring the unique features of each province and discovering what makes our country so special. We look forward to sharing their journey with you!

Gr 2 IBL PHOTOS

LONG TABLE HERITAGE DINNER

Thank you to all our families and staff who attended the Long Table Heritage Dinner on Tuesday evening.

The table was full of some interesting and extremely delicious snacks, meals and desserts. Many of us went home with very full tummies and even "padkos", known in Nigerian culture as "I was there".

Thank you to our families for a very special evening of sharing cultures, nationalities, traditions and interesting stories.

We truly have a diverse, multicultural school family!

BARN DANCE GR R -3

On Friday, 12th September, our Grade R, 1, 2 and 3s and their "pardners" enjoyed a fun evening dancing at our annual Barn Dance.

Thank you to ALL our Rustybugs and their "pardners" for their enthusiastic participation.

PHOTOS

GRADE 7 BUSINESS CONFERENCE

Our Grade 7 girls, together with Molo Mhlaba’s Grade 7s, enjoyed a vibrant Business Conference on 6 September. Learners experienced a real conference setting with registration booths, goodie bags, keynote speakers, and interactive exhibitions.

A big thank you to our presenters, planning team, Grade 6 helpers, and supportive parents for making the day such a success!

PHOTOS

RECYCLING @ RGJS

Here is our August Recycling Report.

Well done on diverting 474kg and contributing to the circular economy in South Africa!

MUSIC

FOUNDATION PHASE MUSIC CONCERTS

The Music Department's Foundation Phase Concerts, held on the 4th of September, were nothing short of spectacular.

The hall was buzzing with energy as proud parents and supporters filled the seats. Our talented learners performed with confidence and wowed everyone.

Fearless and full of spirit, they made us all so proud.

Well done to every performer for such a memorable and inspiring evening!

SPORT

BISHOPS U12 DAY/NIGHT FESTIVAL

What an incredible event the U12 Bishops Day/Night Hockey Tournament (initiative of the late Brad Bing) turned out to be!

This tournament has truly become a tradition. The team, managed and coached by Mrs Barrish Liddle and Mr Maart, showed exceptional skill and determination, ultimately bringing home the trophy with pride. RGJS's u12s have come 2nd many times but have only won in 2005, 2015, and now 2025. Despite a single loss in the lead-up to the final, the team rallied together, with Amelia Abdullah, our phenomenal goalie, standing out as the true star of the show. Her remarkable saves led us through nail-biting playoffs against Sweet Valley and a dramatic showdown final against Herschel. After an intense and competitive day of hockey, the team earned their gold medals, capping off a remarkable day at Herschel with a night of U12 hockey under the floodlights at Bishops. Truly a day to remember!

WATER POLO - REDDAM MACKENZIE CUP

The U13 Waterpolo team took part in the MacKenzie Cup at Reddam over the past weekend. The U13 Festival runs concurrently with the U19 Festival so it provides a great opportunity for the girls to watch and learn from the senior players.

Our girls showed up with grit and determination in each game and played some great polo, improving each time they entered the pool.

Back Row: Gemma Frankish 7a, Tshiamo Hlahatsi 7c , Lily van den Berg 7b, Cara Pearce 7c, Savannah Pickering 7b, Ella Coulstock-Welsh 7b.

Front Row: Ava Mattushek 7b, Kara Pretorius 7b, Mr Alex Abrahams-Crocker, Gia Heldsinger 7b, Coach Skye, Dian Chu 7c, Isla Meyer 7c.

INTERHOUSE NETBALL

The Netball Season wrapped up with the girls taking part in the annual Interhouse Netball Matches.

The U9s started the afternoon off with their matches, with Cambridge edging their way ahead, winning the U9 division.

The Junior and Senior divisions were played concurrently on the mini astros and hard court, with some really close matches and outstanding play.

Michiel walked away as winners in the junior division, with Wiener claiming first place on goal average in the senior division.

Congratulations to Michiel, the overall winner.

PHOTOS

INTERHOUSE HOCKEY

The Interhouse Hockey matches took place this Tuesday, with the U9s battling it out on the mini astro at school, the U10 and U11s combined into 8-a-side teams at Grotto and our U12s and U13s combined to play 11-a-side matches in a very festive afternoon at the astro at RGHS.

The girls really got into the house spirit with Cambridge walking away with 1st place in the U9 division, Wiener came out tops in the junior division and Innes was crowned senior winner.

Thank you to all the coaches, players and managers for a fun afternoon of house spirit.

Well done to Cambridge, who were the overall winners of the Inter House Hockey.

PHOTOS

EVENTS

BARN DANCE 2025 - SAVE THE DATE

OUTREACH

CASUAL DAY

Thank you to all our Rustybugs and Staff for your support for Casual Day 2025.

The total of R13,026.89 has been donated to Casual Day who are the leading fundraising and awareness campaign advocates for Persons with Disabilities.

Casual Day's flagship project is the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).

THANK YOU RUSTENBURG COMMUNITY FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

HERITAGE DAY CIVVIES

On Friday, 26th September, our Rustybugs may come to school in civvies representing their HERITAGE.

A KARRI collection will be opened for voluntary donations for this Heritage Day Civvies. Funds from this collection will be used to package parcels for the

SANTA SHOE BOX PROJECT

SCHOOL UNIFORM

NO CELLPHONES OR SMART WATCHES

This is a gentle reminder that no cellphones or smartphones are allowed at school.

This information and all school rules can be found on the RGJS Site , Code of Conduct for Learners.

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 2025 - During the school term

Monday 12:45 - 15:30

Wednesday 12:45 - 15:30

Friday 12:15 - 14:30

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.

STARS IN THE MAKING

KARATE STAR

Congratulations to Miah Leeman Ra who competed in a Karate Kata Tournement on Saturday 6th September.

Miah came first place in her division.

Well done Miah, we are so proud of you.

CLIMBING STAR

Congratulations to Sophie Gray 6a who competed in the Western Cape Climbing Provincial Competition, held on 23–24 August.

Sophie competed in both the bouldering and lead climbing categories and placed 3rd in each event.

As a result, Sophie has been selected to join the Western Cape Climbing Team, which represented the province at the SANCF National Competition last weekend.

Sophie was awarded Western Cape Provincial Sport Colours for climbing on Tuesday, 9 September.

Well done, Sophie, we are so proud of you.