The first half of Term 1 has flown past. The new tutor groups seem to be working well, encouraging all our girls and especially our new pupils to feel part of their school. As with any new system, there are always hiccups and we have already changed some of the demerit points and are looking for ways in which to award more merit points. We have also engaged in discussion with the RCL and the Grade 11's about changes that need to made and we would value your comments (positive and negative) by letter or e-mail to principal@wvnghs.co.za.

FAREWELL

It is with sadness that we learned of the deaths of two of our support staff during the holidays. Cathleen Oerson worked at Waterloo House for twelve years and then at school for a further ten years, while John Mqamelo had been part of the ground staff for the past ten years. Wynberg is extremely lucky to have had hard-working, loyal workers of their quality as part of our cleaning and maintenance team for so many years. They will certainly be missed.

Our sincere condolences go to their families.

NAME BADGES

It is compulsory for all students to wear a name badge on the left lapel of her dress or blazer. Badges are given to new students. Thereafter, lost badges must be reported to Mrs Inglesby and cost R15 to replace. Not wearing a badge will cost students one demerit.

NB: If your daughter does miss a test, she will be expected to write it on her first day back at school, during supervised study in the afternoon.

.. Please ensure that you send a note explaining your daughter's absence with her to school on her first day back. This will keep her out of trouble and make the Admin staff very happy.

NEW COMPUTER RULES

Internet and email access
Because access to the internet is not always without risk, and because some girls are not careful about the sites they visit and the emails they write and/or forward to others, and in order to ensure that the Wynberg network of computers is used in a responsible and legal way, students and their parents have had to sign a 'Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Policy" (AUP) form. This form sets out very clearly what students may and may not do. Only when a signed form has been returned, will students be given access to email and the internet. 

Not complying with these rules obviously results in having email and internet privileges removed.

Printing
Another change concerns printing and paying for what you have printed. From now on, all printing has to be paid for in advance: a minimum of R20. This amount will be credited against the girl's name and only then will the printer print. If her printer account is empty, the printer will not be activated. Instead an error message will appear on the screen of her computer.

Christina Blom was the Dux pupil in this year's external Senior Certificate examination. 

Forty candidates achieved A-aggregates in the finalexam, and there were two hundred and twentysubject distinctions.

- and eight obtained 90% and above: 

Roxanne Irwin, Nicola Aspeling, Jessica Bacon, Michelle Genricks, Michelle van der Westhuizen, Alexandra Butterfield, Wei Du, Muneera Deaney.

In addition, Wynberg Girls' High once again boasts a 1O0% pass rate. Of the 155 candidates who wrote the full examinations, there were forty girls who passed with distinction, forty-three who obtained a B average, and forty-five who passed with a C.

The following subjects had a grade average above 70%: 

English 1st Language H G, Isixhosa 2nd Language (all the candidates who sat the examination obtained A's), Geography HG; History HG; Art HG, Music HG, Chinese (A-Level) and Painting SG.

In addition, in keeping with Wynberg's endeavour to educate further than the confines of the curriculum and produce well-rounded young women, general knowledge badges were awarded to the top achievers in the junior and senior sections of a series of general knowledge quizzes written regularly by the entire school.

While this was a day to acknowledge and motivate those who have achieved, it is hoped that it was also an opportunity for those who did not reach their goals to draw inspiration from those who did.

Shortly after celebrating these achievements, the results of the Cambridge AS Level exams arrived, These exams were written by many Grade 11 girls last year and were cause for further celebration. AS Levels are offered as enrichment courses in English and History. The hard work of the teachers and the AS Level candidates was well rewarded when twelve A's and seventeen B's were achieved

A  levels teachers and pupils celebrate their results

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

This is an excellent opportunity for girls to receive help from senior girls in particular subjects or sections of subjects in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Senior girls are also encouraged to volunteer as peer tutors. This will make an impressive addition to your CV!

Anyone is welcome either on a regular basis or for help with a particular section of work. Please contact your Class Tutor or the head of Peer Tutoring, Lucy Eastman, if you have any questions in this regard.

Days and Times: Monday: 15:00 - 16:00; Wednesday 15:00 - 16:00; Thursday 15:00 - 16:00

A WYNBERG WELCOME TO THE GRADE 8' S

It's the beginning of another year. Time to start taking out the schoolbooks once again; time to make sure that uniforms look as decent as they did last year; and time to forget about the blissful summer holiday that has, once again, passed swiftly by. For another group of girls, however, it is time to buy a completely different uniform. Donning it opens the doors to the world of the senior student. It is a step which brings both anxiety and enormous excitement.

The day before the official start of the first term, the new Grade 8's were welcomed to Wynberg Girls' High School by the various leaders of this year's Matric body. After meeting at the swimming pool, the Matric leaders took their Grade 8's on a tour through the school. As soon as the tours were over, the spirit builders began. Every house had some up with various games for the girls to play, just to break the ice between them and to have some fun with the Matrics. These ranged from the wellknown (and VERY well-loved) chocolate game to the slightly unconventional marshmallow game.

The day was definitely a success. A lot of the younger girls were made to feel more at home and comfortable with going to a completely new school. New frien ds were made, and the beginnings of companionship were built between the Matrics and their new tutor group.

To help the Grade 8's settle into their environment and to get to know one another, they spent their first week participating in an orientation programme. This included a number of sporting and cultural activities.

Grateful thanks are extended to all staff members and the PA for the work which goes into the preparation of an event like this. It was more than evident that our Grade 8's and their families appreciated it enormously.

GRADE 8 ORIENTATION

To help the Grade 8's settle into their environment and to get to know one another, they spend their first week participating in an orientation programme. This included a number of sporting and cultural activities. 

Silverlea House gets into the swing of things

On the second day, they were out of the school for most of the day as they went to the 'Stadium on Main', where they played action cricket, netball, basket ball and some soccer. On the third day of their orientation amongst other things, they were sent to various sections of the school where they obtained information and completed a form which revealed just how well they knew their new school

We welcome these students to our school, and hope that their involvement in, commitment to and enthusiasm will continue throughout their time at WGHS.

Being a camp structured around Leadership, we were visited by Mrs Harding, a prime example of a leader, who introduced us to good leadership traits so that we could strive to be good future leaders at Wynberg. Then, knowing that stress and conflicts arise from being a leade,r we were involved in a brilliant workshop run by Mrs Martin on how to Manage Stress and Resolve Conflicts. We can now proudly say that we have the right to walk away from a conflict and retain our energy. A workshop on etiquette headed by Mrs Kourie, reminded us of the magic words and what a difference they make in the lives of people, because sadly it seems to be phasing out of the English language. Camp eventually ended with the planning of the Variety Concert with the help of Ms Mc McCarthy.

But with work must come play: spare time was spent swimming, jumping on the trampolines, participating in problem-solving games/activities with Rocklands staff members and generally enjoying ourselves. "Who Wants To Be A Chocolanaire" was an outstanding activity headed by Mr Lord. We thoroughly enjoyed it (in spite of the odd accusation of cheating) and dined on the rewards of chocolates that followed. 

The Concert performances put on by each house showcased the wonderful acting talent amongst the grade 11 learners. Characters ranged from wolves and fairies, to undertakers with cruel intentions, to gangsters and yes, even Altaaf Kazi, our E-NEWS reporter made his appearance on the show. Everyone had a very good time and Cavanagh must be congratulated on winning this very enjoyable house competition.

As we made our way back to Wynberg, we realised what a great experience we had had. On arrival at WGHS, Mrs Harding, Mrs McEwan and Mr Burrell greeted us and set about motivating us to become future leaders and offering us various leadership positions to think about. On behalf of all the grade 11 Learners I would like to thank Ms Bernstein and all the other teachers who ran workshops and helped contribute to the success of the camp. We really appreciate it. It has given us all a new spirit for life and a passion for Wynberg as a whole. It has given us the opportunity to develop into the future leaders of Wynberg. 

Christine Friest 

On Thursday 12 February, a group of twelve Grade 11 and 12 girls went to the Haze-Metre Presentation at Camps Bay High School. In 2003, Grade Ten and Eleven Science classes had the task of recording the amount of air pollution every ½ hour over a couple of weeks. This was a project designed by Climatologists at Wits University to determine what factors affect the haze over Cape Town. 

Once at Camps Bay High, the co-ordinaters of the project gave us data they had collected and told us to draw conclusions from their findings. We had to plot the graphs for ourselves and compared the results with the synoptic charts provided. They wanted us to see how they concluded their findings. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day despite Mr Bodenstein's stress when the school bus started smoking! We would like to thank Mrs Jaaback and Mr Bodenstein for taking us.

MySchool

How does MySchool work ?

• Every time you shop at any of the MySchool partners (there is a full list on the pamphlet), a percentage of your purchase is donated the school or schools of your choice.
• Simply present your MySchool Card at the till point whenever you shop at any of the My School partners, and ensure that your transaction is captured. 
• The more you buy, the more funds you raise for your school.
• The funds generated by the MySchool system are used to ensure that schools can better deal with the ever-increasing financial demands placed on schools.

How do I get a MySchool Card ?

• phone MySchool on 0860100445
•  send an email to enquiries@vmp.co.za 
• You can also apply for additional cards for family and friends. These will also be linked to your school/s.

Hot off the press:

Tile San Paint Afrika & Carr's Hill Service Station have just joined the scheme.

SCHOOL FEES

This is a reminder that these can be paid directly into the school's bank account. When doing so, please quote either the account number from your statement, or your daughter's surname and name, as a reference.
Banking details :
Absa Bank: Wynberg
Account: 11 5684 0536
Branch Code: 632 005

ATTENTION ALL GRADE 12'S

The UCT Drama Department will be staging the grade 12 setwork Hamlet by William Shakespeare, at the Little Theatre, Orange Street Campus, from 8-27 2004. Tickets are R25.00 per pupil. Bookings close on 2nd March 2004. Contact the Little Theatre at 4807169 or email scole@hiddingh.uct.ac.za 

ELANDSPAD HIKE

On Sunday the 15 February, Mr Bodenstein and Mr Hunter took an eager and animated group of girls to spend a day of hiking and swimming in the Du Toits Kloof Mountains. Following the Elands river through the valley, we made our way up and down the hillside edge. With the sun blazing above our heads and the heat pounding our backs, the knowledge that there were rockpools where we could cool off inspired many to march through the hills at lightening speed. The scenery amazed all those who had not experienced the hike before, especially the Australian Gappers, Sarah and Becky. The water was freezing but no one refused its inviting flow. 

After eating and swimming in the rock pools, we headed through the valley once more to visit one of the highest waterfalls in the Western Cape. Although we endured grazed shins and bruised knees, the waterfall made up for it all. We enjoyed the true beauty of nature that was hidden within the valley and relaxed, detached from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As in the grand tradition of a wonderful day it must always to come to an end, so we headed back down through the valley for one last swim then back to Wynberg. 

We truly recommend this hike to all : you encounter so many of the earth's hidden treasures if you're prepared to walk a kilometer... or two.

Sarah de Man and Becky Gallman (The Gappers)

OLD MUTUAL MATHEMATICAL TALENT SEARCH

Collect an entry form from Jessica Groenewald, complete the five mathematical problems and send them in to the address given. You will then be sent the next round of problems appropriate to your level. Certificates are sent to all those who complete the course.

The Talent Search is part of the programme conducted by the South African Mathematical Society to select and train teams to take part in the Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad and the International Mathematics Olympiad.

MATRIC SLEEPOVER

The madness set in early this year. The Matric sleepover is frequently one of the important highlights of the year for many of girls. This year was no exception. The weather forecast was "Sunny and warm becoming rather windy later", and so it was that with winds blowing at 2030 knots, several of our most proficient campers were humbled as they erected their wayward tents. 

Early on, the music started, and the Matrics revealed their hidden talents: at broadcasting, at braaing, and especially at boogying. The hours were whiled away as the matriculants swam, unpacked their food, posed for pics with their friends, and settled in to some excellent bonding sessions! During the afternoon, the matric tops of 2004 arrived, what a bonus! 

Having established base camp, the 2004 Matrics leapt around on the forbidden grass of the Wellington quad. (Why is it that the breaking of boundaries causes such a jubilant escaping of the spirit?) And on they went, into the early hours and beyond. 
Sleepover? A misnomer. Stayawake - that's more like it !

CALLING ALL BUDDING WRITERS

The Poetry Institute of Africa is having a competition. Write a poem of 24 verse lines or less on any subject in any style and enter it before the deadline on 31 March 2004 and stand to win cash prizes. There is no entry fee. 

Email entries to pia@poetry.co.za or post to Poetry Institute of Africa, PO Box 466 Scottburgh 4180.

"YitsboJl Writing Competition

Write an English, Afrikaans or Xhosa slogan, quote or poem and stand a chance to win cash prizes, a certificate and a gift pack. The winning entries will be used by the Western Cape Language Committee in future awareness campaigns.
Closing date for entries: 15 March 2004

Collect an entry form from the office.

Preparation for the Sports Tour to Port Elizabeth in the April holidays is already underway, with trials and practices planned for the weeks ahead. All the girls are looking forward to a wonderful tour and a chance to show the other girls' schools in South Africa what Wynberg is made of!

Jenna Cunliffe

ATHLETICS REPORT

Practice is held every week at the Boys' School on Mondays and Thursdays. Quite a few new girls have joined and we look forward to observing their improved performances.

On the 6 February, nine girls took part in the Nestle Bellville Competition. Special congratulations go to: Jade Backlow: silver medal in the 100m; Amber Cameron: bronze medal in the 800m; and Roshaan Carr: gold medal in high jump and a silver medal in the javelin. 

We look forward to many more great results.

Busi Kokolo

INDOOR HOCKEY

Indoor hockey made a great start to the year with the first matches of the season against our rivals, Herschel. We managed to win 2 of the 4 games played, with the first team beating Herschel for the first time in several years. We have a busy season ahead, including inter-schools on 19 March. With hard work and dedication we all hope to make it a successful one. 

Results vs Herschel: 
lst won 7-2; 2nd lost 2-3; 3rd won 9-1; 4th lost 2-4 

Results vs Stellenberg:
1st won 7-2; 2nd won 3-0; 3rd lost 1-4; 4th lost 0-1

J enna Cunliffe

WATERPOLO

The waterpolo players started the season very enthusiastically, more than ready to get into action. We welcome the Grade 8's to this exciting sport and wish them well for all of their matches. The 1st team has not played a match yet, but would like to welcome their new coach Helen Wilson. Congratulations to Robyn Anderson, who was chosen to represent the Western Province U16 team. I hope all the players have a wonderful season, especially the Matrics.

Tessa Fredericks

ROAD-RUNNING

Road Running started off well this term. With plenty of new girls, especially Grade 8's. We started on a gentle note to warm up after the long holiday. Increasing slowly, our first challenging run was on a very hot day so shade was a must. Newlands Forest was the destination. We all look forward to more exciting runs during the rest of the term.

Debbie Gray

TENNIS

Tennis started well this term. There is great enthusiasm from the Grade 8's, and the first match of the season was a success. The senior leagues have played well and we hope this continues throughout the term and we achieve many more good results.

Debbie Gray

CRICKET

Although we lost our first game to Mannenburg High School, our team played with energy and a positive attitude. Well done to the girls who played, and a very warm welcome to our Grade 8's who played extremely well, showing off their exceptional bowling skills. Congratulations on a good effort and we look forward to the rest of the season.

Nicole de Vries

Squash Development has started for all wishing to learn how to play squash, or those wishing to improve their game. Good luck to all those participating in the Western Province Trials which are next month.

Jennifer du Plessis

SWIMMING

All the swimmers have had a great start to the season. The first major co-ed gala this year was held at Newlands in February. We all had an enjoyable time and managed to come 5th overall. Let's try and improve our position at the inter-schools gala later this term.Extra special congratulations to the following girls who have been selected to represent the USSASA Western Province Aquatic Team at the National Championships: Chanell van Wyk and Nicole Widelko; U19: Jenna Preece.

Sharon Marle

DIVING

The new Grade 8's have joined diving with great enthusiasm and are progressing very well. There are many competitions to look forward to, with a friendly encounter at the end of February and inter-schools in March. Training for all of these competitions is well underway with all the girls working hard to achieve good results. Good luck to all the girls taking part in the competitions and may the rest of the season bring positive results.

Sheona Innes

SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMING

This term has started with a large number of new and enthusiastic Grade 8's, who have adapted quickly and have loads of talent. The B team has improved rapidly and we look forward to many great results from them. The A team are currently working on a routine for the PGSGU Gala to be held later this term. This will include a duet and a solo and all support would be gratefully appreciated. We look forward to the results of the WP High School Trials being held soon. Good Luck to Lindsey Nevin, Jade Hunter and Alexis Solomon for the WP Champs!

Jade Hunter