I have been reading Springfield, The first one hundred and twenty-five years. It is a story of principles and one of purpose. It is also a story that tells of visionary, committed and compassionate women.
Springfield has endured and continued to prosper through many world events. There were the Anglo-Boer wars, two World Wars, significant economic, social and political crises and even the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918-1919. In reflecting on our current response to a pandemic, I wonder how the Sisters and pupils acted a century ago. I imagine that the time dictated a shift of focus from lessons and examinations to one of self-care and the care of others.
While connecting us to the past, an appreciation of history connects us with humanity, in the
present, and helps us to understand trends about ourselves.
On this day in 1840, the Penny Black postage stamp became valid for use in Great Britain. Its use was a milestone in the history of communications. Daily wading through my inbox demonstrates how this aspect of our lives has changed and leaves me pondering the concept of human progress. In so far as science, technology and efficiency is concerned, there is no doubt that humanity has advanced to a higher state. Perhaps we've lost the art of connecting through letter-writing but lockdown has seen the girls of Springfield evolving into the technological domain of video production to continue fostering their caring sisterhood.
Springfield is bigger than the sum of her parts. She was here long before any of us and, regardless of the trials that we may encounter, it is part of God's plan that she will adapt and evolve, and continue to stand strong long after we are all gone.
PENNY MULLAN
Head of School
He’s got the whole world in his hands…
Last Sunday I had the pleasure of recording three Assemblies for the three phases in the school. I loved doing this, and intend making it a weekly event. I have received some lovely feedback from both girls and parents (the little ones loved my cat who joined me in the Assembly), but my favourite message came from little Isla in Mrs Viljoen’s class. She sent me a WhatsApp voice message in which she said thank you for the Assembly and please could we sing He’s got the whole world in his hands at next week’s Assembly, and then she sang it for me. What absolute delight that gave me!
We changed the words slightly of this well-known hymn that I love singing with the Pre-Primary girls. The hymn as we sing it is (with all the actions, of course):
He’s got the whole world in his hands…
He’s got all the little children in his hands…
He’s got Springfield Convent in his hands…
He’s got the whole world in his hands…
I know this little 5-year old could not have realized the enormous truth in her message. Never as much have we needed our world in God’s hands. Thank you, Isla!
Alison Dunn
This Sunday we celebrate Mother’s Day, a day which gives us an opportunity to really explore the magnitude of the role. I reflect on my own mother, soon to be 80, a woman of gentle resilience and humility with the inner strength and capacity to love unconditionally. I am in awe of her devotion to her faith, her family and friends. She radiates a dignity of grace to all who enter into her space. Her sweet smile warms a room. I acknowledge the blessing of still having her in my life and her beautiful presence I get to enjoy every day.
As a teacher enjoying my thirty second year of teaching, I’ve certainly encountered a range of mothers. While their personalities and characters differed so significantly, the core purpose of their being was very often aligned to a singular purpose of love and devotion. I’d like to honour all mothers for the sacrifices you make, the love you exude and the affirming role you play in the lives of your children. May you never take your role for granted and may God bless you abundantly for everything you do. As the saying goes, “There’s no way to be a perfect mother, and a million ways to be a good one.” Jill Churchill. At Springfield, I am surrounded by many such mothers.
Beatitudes for Mothers
Blessed are motherswho did without for us,they will be rewarded.The girls (Hannah and Sarah) are missing you and the school. Hannah drew Mother Mary for this coming weeks activity for RE. She could not wait for the week to start and wanted to start the school work.
She drew a picture of Mother Mary and wanted to share.
Dear Springfield Family
We request that you keep Gemma and Kaelyn Mills in your prayers.
We’d also like you to keep Mr Keith Richardson in prayer. He recently underwent major surgery and is in need of all our prayers for a full recovery.
With deep gratitude
Ms Stubbs
Until further notice, pupils who are attending school, may wear civvies. However, should you wish to purchase any uniform items, the procedure below is to be followed.
Please note that when school reopens on 1 June, the Shop @Springfield will not operate in the usual manner. School uniform items may be ordered via email and once processed they will be ready for collection. Orders will be taken from today for Grade 7 and Grade 12 only. Orders for other grades will be taken once those grades return to school.
Please send your order to schoolshop@springfieldconvent.co.za Please be as specific as possible regarding the sizes as returns/exchanges will be difficult during this time. Please include your daughter's grade and your cell number in the email. Once email orders are received they will be processed and you will be advised via email or phone on the amount to be paid. Please remember to bring along confirmation of payment when collecting items.
Snapscan and EFT payment will be accepted for orders. For EFT payments please use the following bank details:
Springfield Convent PTA
First National Bank
Acc 50192029088
Branch 250655
ref: name & clothing shop
Thank you for your understanding during these difficult times.
Shirley Woodward