Grade Seven Evening
12 October 2005

To ensure that the transition from junior to high school is as easy as possible, an extensive orientation programme is held for the Grade Eights. The first part of this is an evening function that seeks to welcome them officially, and to provide them with the information that they will need for 2006 as a member of the school.

Each girl was given an information pack that contained details about the various aspects of school life. They were addressed by three girls who are currently in Grade Eight: Hannah Laubscher, a day girl, explained how she found she was able to develop as a person through getting involved withÏthe various sport and cultural activities. She also expressed how she has appreciated the systems that are in place to ensure that the Grade Eights feel welcome to the school. She particularly mentioned the tutor group system and said how she now felt that she had big sisters in her house. Two girls from the hostel, one a weekly and one a termly boarder, explained about life at the hostel. They said that although they missed being at home, they really enjoyed being able to spend so much time with their friends. They made special mention of the food - a vital component!

The girls were then addressed by the heads of the four Pillars for 2006. More information was given about opportunities that would be available to them at Wynberg. It became apparent that the school provides an outlet for many different types of people and that there would be something for every Grade Eight to get involved with. Ms Harding spoke about the school policy and welcomed the girls to the Wynberg family. Mrs Paverd explained the various support systems that are available to the girls, encouraging them to speak to someone if they needed help, either in their academic work or with the general problems they may have to face at high school. Ms McCarthy gave the relevant technical details about the education system that the girls are currently involved in. The parents and girls were encouraged to approach teachers to ask questions. Tours of the school were also conducted to familiarise the new students with where everything is.