La Rochelle Yearbook 2024

2024 NR 118

INHOUDSOPGAWE

Annual Report ........................................................................................2 Governing Body ..................................................................................14 Personeel .............................................................................................15 Congratulations A-candidates 2023 ............................................18 Matrieks & Personeel ........................................................................19 Message from the Head Girl ...........................................................20 Message from the Deputy Head Girl ............................................22 Miladies & Daisies ...............................................................................24 40 Days .................................................................................................25 Matric Farewell ....................................................................................28 Grade 12 Register classes ...............................................................30 Ontluikende Skrywers ......................................................................34 Budding Authors ................................................................................36 Art ..........................................................................................................38 Hostel ....................................................................................................40 Hostel Headgirl ...................................................................................42 Koshuis-onderhoofmeisie ..............................................................43 Cake & Body ........................................................................................44 Koshuisdinee & Oscars ....................................................................45 Flag ceremony ...................................................................................46 Koshuisdans ........................................................................................47 Koshuisgange ....................................................................................48 Academic Prestige evening (2023) ..............................................50 Akademiese Prysuitdeling ..............................................................53 Grade 11 ..............................................................................................73 Grade 11 camp ..................................................................................75 Graad 11 Winterbal ............................................................................76 Graad 10 ...............................................................................................77

Grade 10 Dance .................................................................................79 Graad 9 .................................................................................................80 Graad 9 Kamp .....................................................................................82 Graad 8 .................................................................................................83 Graad 8 Atletiek ..................................................................................85 Graad 8 Baadjieseremonie ..............................................................86 Graad 8 Vrugtefees ...........................................................................87 Daisy-konsert & Swem .....................................................................88 Student Council ..................................................................................89 RCL ........................................................................................................94 Diensklubs ...........................................................................................97 Societies .............................................................................................102 Athletics .............................................................................................116 Landloop ............................................................................................123 Chess & Squash ...............................................................................124 Swem ..................................................................................................125 Netbal .................................................................................................127 Hockey ................................................................................................132 Tennis ..................................................................................................137 Equestrian ..........................................................................................138 Alumnae .............................................................................................140 Vandag is ’n goeie dag om ’n Larrie te wees .............................141 All Girls’ Festival ................................................................................142 Founders’ Day ...................................................................................144 Tours ....................................................................................................146 Farewell message – Mrs Elsabé Conradie .................................150 Borge ...................................................................................................152

REDAKTEUR: Mev. Karin Leibbrandt | PROEFLEES: Mevv. Carla Uys, Cindy McFarlane en Ella Fick PHOTOS: Nico de Wit, EJ Langner, Aleit Academy, Lizelle Lötter, Tracy Meyer, Lida Hendrikse, Nicky Albertyn, Mood Photographic, Kelly Hill, Ronél Strauss, Larike Schmidt, Helena Louw, Karla Steyn, Personeel DESIGN AND PRODUCTION: Avant Garde South Africa | 021-863 3165 | PRINTING: Tandym Print | 021 505-4200

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 1

DEDICATED TO

As we celebrate our school’s rich history, we are thrilled to an nounce a significant milestone in 2024-the restoration of the original school bell, adorned with the van der Bijl family crest. This restoration project, bringing back a significant landmark to its rightful place, not only pays homage to our past but also serves as an inspiration for future generations. Die klok wat aanvanklik in 1902 met sy gelui die leerders op hul leerreis gestuur het, se stem het stil geraak en die knie gebuig voor tegnologie en ontwikkelling met die koms van die elek troniese klok. Hierdie klok was weggesteek met die aanbouing van die Huishoudkundeklas in 1938. Nou, danksy die visie van die Studenteraad van 2024, word hierdie nalatenskap herleef in ‘n betekenisvolle nuwe tradisie. The construction of a new clock tower represents our school’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and growth. Re storing the bell offers us an exciting opportunity to revive a historical artefact, strengthen our traditions, and honour our heritage. This initiative encourages us to look ahead and em brace the challenges of modern society with confidence and determination. Vanaf 11 Oktober 2024 het die matrieks van La Rochelle met die lui van die klok op Uitstapdag ’n nuwe tradisie in ons skool se geskiedenis gevestig. Die lui van die klok verteenwoordig beide die hoogtepunt van hul akademiese loopbaan en die begin van hul volgende avontuur. The Student Council of 2024 closes the chapter at La Rochelle GHS with the motto... “ENTER TO LEARN AND LEAVE TO LEAD BY EXAMPLE.” EN AVANT ‘n Spesiale word van dank gaan aan: Mnr. André Wessels vir die ontwerp en bou van die kloktoring; Mnr. André Visser vir die restorasie van die klok.

2 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

JAARVERSLAG

Beste ouers, La Rochelle-leerders en vriende van die skool. Die jaar 2024 was ’n besondere besige jaar vir die leerders en opvoeders van die Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle, en terselfdertyd ook ’n baie geseënde jaar. Een van die probleme waarmee die skool elke jaar ge konfronteer word, is ’n tekort aan koshuisverblyf vir leerders. Te danke aan die bemaking van me. Christa le Roux (oud skoolhoof) aan die La Rochelle Trust, kon die trust gedurende 2024 die Toringkerk se pastorie koop. Die naam van hierdie nuwe koshuis sal Huis DC le Roux wees en dit sal verblyf verskaf aan ’n opvoeder-egpaar (PC en Lynique Beneke), sowel as 12 leerders. Die koste van die verbouings sal ook deur die La Rochelle Trust gedra word en dit is dus die eiendom van die La Rochelle Trust en nie die WKOD nie. Duisende dankies aan almal wat kragte saamgespan het om te help organiseer aan die 4M-atletiekbyeenkoms van 2024. La Rochelle was vanjaar die gasheerskool en ons het ons gaste met styl en finesse ontvang. Die dag het regtig by ons karnaval tema gepas. Ons banier, kreet en dansers was die vertoonvenster van La Rochelle se kreatiwiteit en uitnemendheid. Ons atlete het op die baan geblom en gewys hoeveel deursettingsvermoë ons het. Dankie ook aan ons hoofborge, Paarl Valleij Lifestyle Estate and Farm en Vital. Dit is vir ons ‘n voorreg om met hierdie uitstaande instansies geassosieer te word. Dankie ook aan ons ander borge: Pam Golding, ISDIN, Rain, NWU, RK, Fuel en Sticitt. Gaan lees gerus die pragtige berig wat Erin Meyer vir die Avanti-skoolkoerant oor hierdie geleentheid geskryf het. During the weekend of 15-18 March 2024, La Rochelle GHS and Boland Agricultural School started a new tradition of participating in hockey, netball and rugby against Outeniqua High School in George. On Friday, 15 March around 300 very excited learners and teachers climbed on buses for Hartenbos, where the Larries stayed for the weekend. The netball teams played against Langenhoven HS in Riversdal en-route, and hockey teams played against York and Glenwood, before having a social event with Boland Landbou on Friday evening. All netball and hockey teams played against Outeniqua on Saturday. This event was specifically organised so that all students, not just the A-teams, could experience the enjoyment of a tour. STAFF As always, the strength of La Rochelle Girls’ High School lies in the dedication and expertise of her staff. This year, we welcomed several new members to our team who have made a positive impact: On the academic side, we are pleased to have Mrs. Ella Fick joining our Afrikaans department, Mrs. Lynique Beneke bringing her energy to Life Orientation, Technology, and Athletics, Ms. Jonicia Blommetjies contributing to our English department, and Mrs. Hannelien Groenewald taking over Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD). Our Wellness team has expanded with the addition of Mrs. Jané du Toit and Mrs. Elmarie Swanepoel, whose care and compassion are invaluable to our learners’ well-being. We further strengthened our Sport Office with the appoint ment of Mr. PC Beneke as Head of Sport, and we are proud to welcome back old-girl Melissa Swanepoel, who will support our athletics program and oversee the use of facilities.

BABAS

Ava-Mari Meades

Mnr. & mev. Burger & Leah

Mnr. en mev. Neethling & Jozua

Mev. Elsabé Conradie, me. Amanda Lochner, mevv. Sonnet Vorster & Johanna Heydenrych by mev. Vorster se afskeid.

STAFF

Mev. Ella Fick

Mev. Hannelien Groenewald

Mev. Lynique Beneke

Me. Jonicia Blommetjies

Mnr. PC Beneke

Me. Kirsty Nel

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 3

ANNUAL REPORT Gedurende die jaar groet ons vir mev. Elzanne Strachen (IGO), Wanri Venter (Sport) en me. Carmari Marais (Duits). Ons is dankbaar vir die bydrae wat hulle almal in ’n kort tydjie by Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle gemaak het. Mev. Christa Vos (Afrikaans) tree die einde van die jaar af, maar ons gaan nog volgende jaar van haar dienste gebruik maak in ’n aflos hoedanigheid. Na 31 jaar by Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle tree mev. Sonnet Vorster (Toerisme) af. Ons sal hierdie elegante dame by beide die skool en die koshuis mis. We celebrated joyous occasions within our staff community; engagements and weddings brought happiness to Madri Gerber and Annadene Malan. Additionally, we welcomed new members with the birth of Jozua, son of Mrs Leani Neethling, Leah, daughter of Mrs Monika Burger, and Ava-Mari, daughter of Mr Quinton Meades. Staff achievements 2024: • Mr. Frans Botha-Visser: French Paper 1 IEB/NSC examiner and chief marker. • Mr Quinton Meades was actively involved in hosting and presenting at teacher training events. He led a series of six coding and robotics workshops, covering a range of topics from Unplugged Coding and Six Bricks to micro bit and LEGO Robotics. In addition to these, he presented at various national seminars, such as the SATA Principals’ Conference. His expertise in the field was recognised when he was selected as a Schoolscape Guru, where he shared his knowledge and experience at Schoolscape events, contributing to the broader educational community. • Me Madri Gerber: Begeleidster van die wêreldbekende Tygerberg Kinderkoor. • Mrs Cindy McFarlane: Telematics online presenter for English Home Language and part of the BOT (Back-on Track) programme. • Mrs Tracy Meyer and Nadene van Aswegen: Part of the WCED BOT programme. • Ms Kirsty Nel: National Teaching Awards for Excellence in Secondary School Teaching – runner-up. • Ms. Mandy Hermanus: Selected as coach for the u.14 Western Cape Oakes team who came third at the All Ages tournament. She was also selected as the Assistant Coaches Convenor of Cape Winelands School Netball. • Ms Adéle Bothma is the chairlady of Boland Hockey, and Mrs Leani Neethling serves on the Boland Hockey Committee with umpires as her portfolio. INSTANDHOUDING EN INFRASTRUKTUUR A heartfelt thank you goes to Mr. Peter Whitmore and his dedicated team, for their tireless efforts to keep our grounds pristine. Their hard work ensures that our school remains a beautiful and welcoming space for all. Die plaveisel voor die koshuis is gelê en daar word beplan om die res van die plaveisel in die parkeerarea gedurende 2025 te voltooi. Verdere projekte by die koshuis behels die instap vrieskas en verbeteringe aan die hoofkoshuis se dak om te verseker dat dit waterdig is. One of the standout projects this year was the construction of the stunning En Avant coffee shop, offering our learners a cosy and inviting space to relax and enjoy their breaks. We are immensely grateful to Feedem and Mr. André Wessels for their generous contributions, which made this project possible. The netball courts received much-needed resurfacing, and we thank RFG Foods for their contribution to this project. We

En Avant Café

revamped the teachers’ and learners’ bathrooms and the bathrooms in the school hall, providing updated and more comfortable facilities for staff, learners, and visitors. The archive was moved to the Learning Centre, making space for a new media room. Planne vir ’n addisionele 8 klaskamers in reeds deur A3D argitekte opgetrek en goedgekeur deur die Wes-Kaap Onderwysdepartment. Die onderwysdepartement het ongelukkig geen befondsing vir hierdie projek goedgekeur nie. Die koste van die projek beloop egter R20 miljoen en dus sal die beheerliggaam nou moet gaan kyk na moontlike finansieringsopsies vir die projek. ACADEMICS La Rochelle Girls’ High School continues to uphold its reputation as an institution of academic excellence. Our school remains a place where outstanding teachers are eager to contribute to the learning environment, drawn not only by our ethos but also by the spirit of continuous improvement that defines our school. We are proud to have some of the best educators in the country, true leaders in their respective fields, guiding our learners to achieve their full potential. A key component of our success is our commitment to e-learning and the ongoing professional development of our staff. By equipping our teachers with the latest educational tools and techniques, we ensure that our learners receive the best possible education in an ever-evolving academic landscape. Die matrieks van 2023 het ons trots gemaak. Die 93 kandidate het nog ’n keer vir ’n 100% slaagsyfer gesorg met ’n klasgemiddeld van 73% en ’n B-graad toelating van 96%. 19 kandidate het ’n gemiddeld van 80% of meer behaal. By die Wes-Kaap Skole se toekenningsfunksie by Leeuwenhof word La Rochelle 14de in die provinsie geplaas. By die SOS se Top 20 toekennings eindig La Rochelle 14e landwyd vir die afdeling “meeste onderskeiding per getal kandidate”, met 231 onderskeidings (2,5 per leerder). Onderskeie vakprestasies landwyd is Afrikaans Huistaal (4de), Engels Eerste Addisionele Taal (6de).Baie geluk aan ons DUX-leerder, Iris Saunders, met haar pragtige gemiddeld van 94,4%. Iris is ook aangewys as die top-leerder in die Wes-Kaap vir RTT. The Prestige Academic Award Evening acknowledging achievements form 2023 took place in the En Avant Centre on 25 January 2024. During this event, the 2023 Matrics were honoured for their excellent results in the NSC exams, and the current Grade 9-12 learners were awarded honorary colours for academic achievement.

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JAARVERSLAG Quinne Ludick, who matriculated in 2023, earned a well-deserved special mention at The Face of Design event hosted by the Cape Town Creative Academy in the earlier part of the year. Out of 900 design students, she stood out as one of just 25 learners recognised for her exceptional artwork. This achievement highlights her talent and potential in the creative field. Other academic achievements include: Erin Meyer’s (Grade 12) prose written piece “The Climb to the Stars” was selected from submissions from schools across South Africa and published in the acclaimed SACEE anthology, English Alive . She was one of 7 learners asked to present their piece at the official book launch. Erin was the trophy winner in the Paarl Valley Eisteddfod Grade 12 Poetry division, with her poem “The Deep”. On the 7th of May 2024, Mrs Oosthuizen and Ackerman’s Grade 11 First Additional Language learners embarked on an educational outing to the District Six Museum in Cape Town. They took a tour around the area, accompanied by local tour operators to gain more knowledge about this time period. The purpose of this visit was to delve into the historical significance of District Six and better understand their prescribed novel, Buckingham Palace - District Six by Richard Rive. Then on 16 May 2024, the ladies accompanied the Grade 10 English First Additional Language learners on a visit to the Cape Town Holocaust Centre. The learners, who had been studying the Play of the Diary of Anne Frank as their prescribed drama, were guided through the permanent exhibition that combines text, archival photographs, film footage, documents, multimedia displays and recreated environments that commemorate the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. This visit aimed to enhance the learners’ understanding of the drama by further educating them on its historical context. Wiskunde Olimpiades: Hierdie jaar het La Rochelle weereens haar talent ten toon gestel met 47 dogters wat aan rondte 1 van die Old Mutual SA Wiskunde Olimpiade deelgeneem het. 19 leerders het na rondte 2 gevorder wat indrukwekkende vaardighede en vasberadenheid demonstreer. Boonop het 51 dogters deelgeneem aan die UCT Wiskunde-kompetisie, en ons is trots om die prestasies van ons deelnemers uit te lig, met 5 individue en 2 pare wat in die top 200 van hul onderskeie graadgroepe geëindig het. Hierdie prestasies reflekteer nie net die harde werk van ons dogters nie, maar ook hul passie vir Wiskunde en toewyding aan uitnemendheid. Gasvryheidstudies: Ons graad 10-klas was hierdie jaar ’n rekordgetal van 32 leerders met ’n totaal van 67 leerders wat die vak by Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle neem. Ons was goed kreatief bedrywig met vier praktiese klasse per kwartaal per graad. Graad 10 en graad 11 het onderskeidelik Hotel Verdé en Mount Nelson Hotel besoek. Exchange programme: During 2024, La Rochelle received exchange students from two of South Africa’s most successful exchange agencies, FSA Youth Exchange and GROW Abroad. These agencies provided not only our pupils, but also exchange students from abroad, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We had two unique and special multi-exchange relations between two students, Mari Joubert (Grade 11) and Anna-Lena Hakenes (Grade 11) from Neustadt, Germany. During the December holidays in 2023, Mari went to Neustadt, Germany for her exchange program and later this year, Anna-Lena visited Mari for her exchange program. Not only has the language barrier become something of the past, but a truly unique sisterhood has formed.

Anna-Lena Hakenes (uitruilstudent) & Mari Joubert

DUX-leerder: Iris Saunders

Class of 2023

ACADEMICS

Maynardville

Erin Meyer

Quinne Ludick

Wes-Kaap NSS Toekennings

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 5

ANNUAL REPORT From January 2024 to June 2024, Mateja Balta (Grade 11) from Gorizia, Italy, did her six-month exchange with Rebecca Shelly’s (Grade 11) family before graduating from high school. From what Mateja told me, her exchange was one of the most remarkable journeys that she has ever had! Thank you to Ms. Carmari Marais for managing these programmes so effectively. Toerisme: Die jaarlikse Toerisme-uitstappie na Kaapstad se middestad het op 24 Oktober plaasgevind. Gr.10- en 11-leerders doen hieraan mee. Vooraf ontvang leerders ’n lys van die verskeie toerisme attraksie in die stadskern en Waterfront. Leerders werk in groepies en ontvang ’n straatkaart van Kaapstad. Elke groep beplan ’n logiese roete na 10 gekose attraksies met die vertrek en einde in die Waterfront. Leerders neem ’n foto van die groep by elke punt en stel dan ’n digitale aanbieding saam wat aan die klas vertoon word. CAT Olympiad: On the 6th of May 2024, Grade 11 and Grade 12 CAT learners participated in the IITPSA CAT Olympiad. This Computer Olympiad aims to identify, encourage and reward computer aptitude; promote and encourage computer studies and create an awareness of career opportunities in ICT. The following learners participated in the second round of the Olympiad: Kayla Aubin, Lael Frankfort, Sisca Joubert, Lushané Ries, Marené Robertson, Karli Slabbert, Michelle Smith, Ronel Strauss, Esmail Valentine. Art: Learners who did exceptional artwork in conjunction with the Jack Meyer Art Centre were: Grade 8 Sienna Ellis (painting), Grade 11 Katherine Smit (painting), Grade 12 Carla Viljoen (Mixed Media), and Lara Pretorius (painting). English Olympiad: “Resilience” was the theme for this year’s De Beer’s English Olympiad, focussed on short stories in which characters overcame a variety of odds. Eight Matric learners tackled the interesting journey of reading, analysing and finally writing what “Resilience” means. The first part of the assessment was an academic essay based on a short story that had been read and the second essay was creative in content. Kudos to Kaitlyn Wolhuter who achieved a silver certificate, but to all the girls who put on their critical thinking caps in order to hold La Rochelle GHS’s English Department high. Maynardville: An outing to Maynardville open-air theatre in February has become synonymous with an evening of classical theatre, Shakespeare and camaraderie. 2024 proved to be no different but with an added twist. Due to the unusual rainfall this year, our first venture to Maynardville was rained out, and as a result, the event was postponed by 2 weeks. Trying to find dates to get all the avid lovers of The Bard to see the production of Romeo and Juliet was a challenge but we managed by splitting the group into 2. Mrs Meyer and Ms Visagie took the girls on the first night, with Mrs McFarlane and Mrs Dreyer the second evening. All the Grade 12 and Grade 11 girls who were lucky enough to see the production agreed that it was one of the best renditions of the iconic play they had ever seen (even of the versions on TV!) SPORT Atletiek: Die graad 8’s het hierdie jaar vir die eerste keer hulle graad 8-atletiekdag by Boland Landbou gehou. Hierdie dag was ’n goeie ysbreker en het gehelp om die bande tussen die twee groepe te bou. Die interhuis atletiekbyeenkoms vind op 24 Januarie 2024 plaas. Die deelname by interhuis was ongelooflik. Ons het hierdie jaar besluit om nie die inskrywings te beperk nie en was ons verras! Almal wou vir hulle spanne hardloop, spring en gooi.

1ste span – Top Skole

Outeniqua-naweek

SPORT

Curro Atletiekspan

Rebecca McCarthy on Evergreen’s Foxtrot

Jade Atkins

14A Hokkie-span

6 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

JAARVERSLAG

Die gees, en veral die krete van die verskillende spanne was ’n hoogtepunt. Cillié het weereens hierdie jaar die spanbeker verower, maar Murray het hulle laat sweet vir hierdie oorwinning. Cillié het ook die spangeesbeker verower. Ons neem verder deel aan die volgende byeenkomste: Stellenberg-atletiekbyeekoms: Hierdie jaar het ons ’n rekord van 55 atlete vir die Stellenbergbyeenkoms ingeskryf. Ons atlete het besonders goed gevaar en verskeie rekords gebreek. Curro Podium-atletiekbyeekoms by Pilditch stadion in Pretoria: Ons span het as dogterspan vierde in die land geëindig en is sesde geplaas onder al die dogter- en seunsspanne in die land. Met hierdie prestasie was ons die beste span in die Wes Kaap onder seuns en dogters. 4M-atletiek: Hierdie jaar het ons 90 atlete in die span gehad - die grootste nog in die bestaan van La Rochelle 4M. Ons is stadig maar seker besig om weer die diepte by ons atletiek te bou en elke jaar krimp die verskil tussen ons en die wenspan. Veels geluk aan die volgende twee atlete wat spesiale toekennings op die dag ontvang het: Mia Wilson – beste o/17-baanatleet; Cornelia Destroo – beste o/17-veldatleet. Die volgende rekords is gebreek: Enya Binneman o/15 400m (57.07); 4x 100m o/15 aflosspan (49.19); Kylie Basson o/17 200m (25.11); Cornelia Destroo o/17 diskus (41.16). Boland Sentraal en Boland Kampioenskappe: Weereens herskryf La Rochelle die rekordboeke met 33 atlete wat gekies is vir die Boland Sentraal-atletiekspan en 20 atlete wat gekies is vir die Boland-atletiekspan. Ons atlete verower 28 medaljes; 9 goud, 10 silwer, 9 brons by die Boland Kampioenskappe. By die Curro Podium Suid-byeenkoms in Oktober eindig die Larries derde in die dogtersafdeling en Enya Binneman ontvang die trofee vir die beste junior baanatleet en Kylie Basson die trofee vir die beste senior baanatleet. Swimming: Lane Leaders Swim School joined La Rochelle GHS last year to bolster the coaching of swimming at la Rochelle GHS. Their continued coaching year attracted positive responses from the swimmers, and improvement. The Interhouse Gala took place on Tuesday, January 30th, with significant participation and great spirit among the learners. The following swimmers excelled in the pool: Londyn Samuels, Adelmari Barnard, Jeanette Müggenburg, and Sienna Ellis. La Rochelle swimmers then participated in the Boland B league and fared very well. Londyn Samuels and Adelmari Barnard participated at the Level 3 regional championship, where Adelmari received a silver and bronze medal. Adelmari also participated at the Freda Barnard gala in Oudtshoorn where she obtained 2 silver and 3 bronze medals. Biathlon: Anmi Slabbert and Mia van Zyl participated in the Boland Championships held at Hoërskool Hugenote on February 24. Mia was selected to represent the u17 team at the SA Championships in Bloemfontein on March 30. Netbal: Ons het die grootste aantal spanne per ouderdomsgroep in ’n baie lang tyd en ons leerders maak ons trots. Spesiale melding moet gemaak word van ons o/18A netbalspan wat geskiedenis gemaak het deur op 24 Mei 2024 vir Paarl Gimnasium 32-25 te klop en net ’n week later vir HMS Paarl met 36-26 te wen. Hierdie span speel daarna by die Topskole toernooi en wen in die uitspeelwedstryde vir Stellenberg, Paarl Gimnasium en HMS Paarl, om dus as die nommer een span in die Wes-Kaap te eindig. By die DSTV Topskole-toernooi in Florida eindig ons o/18A-span sewende in Suid-Afrika. Hierdie span word ook weer na die Wildeklawer-toernooi in Kimberley genooi, waar hulle 12de eindig. Verskeie spelers word gekies vir streeks-

en provinsiale spanne. Kyk gerus na die volledige netbalverslag in hierdie jaarblad vir meer inligting. Jade Atkins, gr. 12, is na verskeie oefenkampe as lid van die Protea o/21-netbalspan gekies. Die Baba Proteas, wat uit 12 spelers bestaan, speel op 17-23 Maart 2024 in die African World Cup Qualifying-toernooi in Pretoria. Jade is die jongste speler in hierdie oefengroep. Sy is in 2023 aangewys as die Telkom Netbalkampioenskappe se speler van die toernooi en by die ABSA Wildeklawer word sy ook as die speler van die toernooi aangewys. Net so ’n merkwaardige prestasie is Zahrah Noah wat ’n lid van die o/18 Wes-Kaapspan was en opgeneem is in die o/21 SA-groep. La Rochelle GHS hosted the second Fair Cape Netball Tournament from 27-30 March 2024. Some of the best U.18 netball teams from across South Africa participated at this tournament and were exposed to some unique Larrie hospitality. Dankie aan ons borge Fair Cape Dairies en Six Gun Grill. Hockey We are delighted to report a significant increase in the number of learners participating in hockey. Our hockey teams have shown remarkable improvement compared to previous years. Their hard work and determination are starting to pay off, and while we are not yet where we want to be, we are on a promising path. This year, special mention must be made of our U14 teams, who have demonstrated exceptional talent and sportsmanship. The U14A hockey team has been particularly outstanding, earning an invitation to participate in the inaugural “Rising Cup U14 Tournament” in Bloemfontein from 7 – 10 August 2024. This prestigious event is open to all U14 hockey teams ranked 13th and 30th on the SA School Sports Rankings. The team performed admirably and finished 4th in the tournament. La Rochelle GHS hosted the Challengers Cup for u.18 teams for the second time in 2024, with some tough competitors taking part from around the country. Muurbal: Die muurbalspan neem deel aan die All Girls’ Festival. Marli Liebenberg was deel van die Junior Boland-muurbalspan. Equestrian: Lara Myburgh, Summer Jardine, Juliette Stock and Rebecca McCarthy represented the Western Cape Team. On the Dressage South Africa Graded Show ranking, Rebecca is placed 3rd provincially and 4th nationally on Capitol Rouge, and on Evergreen’s Foxtrot, she is 1st provincially and nationally. Elena Kritzinger participates in the SA National Equestrian Championships and achieves 3rd, 5th, and 6th places. Chess: Leigh Adams and Inke Botma were invited to represent the Cape Winelands Development team at the Brian Raubenheimer Development Tournament. Cross Country: Since March 2024, Johan Fourie, one of South Africa’s best 1500m athletes in the 1980s, has been coaching our cross-country athletes. Ms Michelle Dykman, a top athlete, was appointed for an internship at La Rochelle, and thanks to her enthusiasm, the numbers for cross country grew exponentially. Tennis: Mnr. Duane Armstrong van die Pro Kennex-akademie behartig La Rochelle se tennisafrigting. Ons neem vir die eerste keer deel aan die Nelspruit Groot Vyf-toer en eindig vierde. Die eerste tennisspan eindig sewende uit 14 spanne by die All Girls’ Festival in Potchefstroom. Ander toernooie waaraan ons tennisspanne deelgeneem het, was die Marilie Moolman toernooi in Cradock en die o/15-gemengde-dubbels-toernooi saam met Boland Landbou in Stellenbosch.

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 7

ANNUAL REPORT

leerders vaar uitstekend, met kategoriewenners op verskeie gebiede. We began the year’s culture programme on 5 April with the Daisy Concert, which was a most enjoyable and humorous performance. Die volgende hoogtepunt was die 2024 All Girls-Fees in Potchefstroom gedurende Mei. Larries neem deel aan 17 kategorieë. On 14 May, our music department presented a Chamber Concert in our Learning Centre, wowing the audience with superb musical performances by our learners, concluding with a show-stopping, spunky ABBA Medley by our orchestra. Koor: Ons koor tree op 26 Julie in die Kaapstad stadsaal by die ATKV Applous Finaal op. Dit was ’n asemrowende skildery van musikale elegansie aan die hand van Madri Gerber (afrigter & dirigent) met die besonderse sensitiewe begeleiding van Ilze Myburgh. Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle word as die beste hoërskool meisieskoor in die Meriete Afdeling aangewys en wen ook die uitvoeringstoekennings vir die beste voorgeskrewe lied en die beste Afrikaanse lied. Daarna wen hulle ook die hoërskool koorafdeling by die PVE eisteddfod met ’n 100% beoordeelstaat. Our Vocal Ensemble, Con Spirito , is unmatched in its genre. They were the category winners of the prestigious Stellenbosch University National Ensemble Competition on Saturday, September 21. Orchestra: Our orchestra has almost doubled this year, boasting new instruments and also a brand-new name: “L’armonia”. They were the winners of the PVE School Orchestra Category. Our new kid on the block, the Marimba Band, had the audience on their feet at several events. Their song choices and pizazz were evident even though it was their first year performing. Drama: Die toneelstuk Sien word by die by die ATKV tienertoneel en KunsteVenster opgevoer. Die produksie Secret Cities neem deel aan die Playhouse Drama Festival, KunsteVenster en die Tygerberg Internasionale Eisteddfod. This year, we enrolled a few of our best drama performers in the South African National Eisteddfod. Our learners did exceptionally well with our original script production, Sien, awarded a Diploma Commendation, the highest accolade cited on this platform. Klara Durr-Behrens was the captain of the Drama Club, and she participated in the National All Girls’ Festival 2024 in Potchefstroom. She also played a lead role in the school production, Secret Cities . Among her many accolades was Cum Laude for Grade 12 English Poetry at the Western Cape Virtual Eisteddfod and she was announced as a top achiever in the speech and drama category in English Poetry in the Western Cape. Redenaars: Ons redenaars het vanjaar deelgeneem aan die Radikale Redenaars-, Podium Pret en die ATKV Redenaarskompetisies. Drie van ons senior sprekers, Lea Prinsloo, Kayla van Niekerk en Megan Jansen het deurgedring na die semi-finale rondte van die ATKV-kompetisie, waarna Kayla algeheel sesde in die Wes-Kaap in die Afrikaans Addisionele Taal Voorbereide-afdeling geplaas is. Lea Prinsloo en Martinique Meyer het ook deurgedring na die streeksfinaal van die Radikale Redenaarskompetisie. Die Podium Pret Finaal vind hier op die Larrie-kampus plaas. Martinique Meyer en Elena Kritzinger vaar uitstekend tydens hierdie kompetisie. Debat: Die junior debatspan, met Paula Jacobs, Anya van

BUITESPORT

Helena Louw

Buitesportsoorte Triathle and laser-run: Mia van Zyl behaal ’n vierde plek in thriathle gedurende die Wes-Kaap-kampioenskappe vir dogters o/17 en sy kwalifiseer as lid van die Suid-Afrikaanse span. Vir Laser run behaal Mia ’n vierde plek in die Wes-Kaap kampioenskappe vir dogters o/17. Karate: Rebecca Shelly represented Western Province and received a Gold Medal for Bunkai and a Bronze Medal for Kumite, Team Kumite, and Unison. Luanne du Plessis was chosen for the South African team and earned her Nida – second black belt. Ritmiese Gimnastiek: Die tweeling Megan en Mia Koch vaar uitstekend by die WP-kampioenskappe en by die SA kampioenskappe. Krieket: Cornelia Destroo was lid van die Boland 0/19-krieketspan. Sport Aerobics: Almarie Joubert represented Western Province at the South African Sport Aerobics Championships. Canoeing: Whitney Appolis took part in and finished the Breede River Canoe marathon. Aksienetbal: Daar is agt van ons dogters wat deelgeneem het aan die Wes-Kaap Aksie Netbal-toernooi in Johannesburg. Hulle is Theresa Botha, Lisa Snowball, Zu-Marie Barnard, Dané Meintjes, Tiana Meyer, Hayley Calitz, Annabelle Mostert en Mikayla Visser. Cycling: Kendra Kitching placed 3rd at the Western Cape Mountain Bike Championship and the Western Cape Track event, and she received 7 silver medals. Natalie Goosen took 1st place at the final cross-country marathon race in the Western Cape XCM series. Toutrek: Ilze Munnik was lid van die Westelike provinsie se toutrekspan. Walmari Crous kwalifiseer as ’n toutrek skeidsregter. Perdry: Helena Louw word gekies as lid van die SA junior span vir die Swakopmund Desert Challenge-uithourit in Namibië. Helena eindig individueel sewende en haar span eindig eerste. CULTURE Kultuur het hierdie jaar in sierlike hoofletters gepronk. Ons leerders neem amptelik aan vyf uiteenlopende Eisteddfods deel: die Wes-Kaapse aanlyn eisteddfod, die Tygerberg internasionale eisteddfod, die Paarlvallei plaaslike eisteddfod, die Stellenbosch eisteddfod en “The National Eisteddfod”. Ons

8 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

JAARVERSLAG

Jaarsveld en Suzaan Viljoen as lede, het vanjaar uitstekend by die debatskompetisies gevaar. Hulle neem deel aan die ATKV-debatskompetisies en Dink-of Sink. By die Historium debatskompetisie behaal die span van Paula Jacobs, Anya van Jaarsveld en Timia Williams ’n tweede posisie. Debating: In 2024 La Rochelle GHS entered two junior and two senior teams into the Boland Debating League. While the league underwent some restructuring, the girls used every opportunity to build on their experience. The teams fared well at Provincials, with the Grade 8 learners truly rising to the challenge and Zarah van Zyl being selected to attend provincial trials. The highlight of the calendar was the National All Girls’ Festival, where our team delivered outstanding arguments against tough competition. Music: We are extremely proud of Erin Meyer, who won 2 categories at the Paarl Best Solo, as well as Best Senior Duet. She was a category winner at the Tygerberg Inter national Eisteddfod for best performance in Classical and Contemporary, as well as best performance of a Musical Theatre Solo. Ander prestasies: Riley Leewner, Alexia Koch en Anmi Slabbert, lede van die Tygerberg Kinderkoor, is uitgenooi as een van ses kinderkore in die wêreld om in Oktober deel te neem aan die 55ste Tolosa-koorkompetisie in Spanje. Onder begeleiding van Madri Gerber, ons eie musiek-opvoeder en koorleier, is die kinderkoor onlangs as die beste koor in die wêreld vir gewyde musiek gelys. Hulle word ook as die derde beste koor in die kinderkoor- en jeugkoor-afdeling aangewys, en algeheel die tweede beste koor in die wêreld. Voortrekkers: Walmari Crous ontvang die Presidents verkenner-toekenning, die hoogste eerbewys wat ’n Die buitelugklub het vanjaar ’n handjievol uitdagende staproetes aangedurf. Die buitelugklub het nie nét die tradisie van Paarlberg-staptog voortgehou nie, maar ook ‘n strandskoonmaak-uitstappie in Strand voltooi. Kaappunt het ook mooi geblom nadat die Larrie-meisies dié roete beman het. Die wind het die stap ekstra uitdagend gemaak, maar die uitsig het dit die moeite werd gemaak. Die buitelugklub nooi alle Larries wat van die natuur, stap en samesyn hou om in die komende jaar by die klub aan te sluit en in die vreugde te deel. The Green Committee visited the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town. For a more environmentally-friendly Valentine’s Day, the committee hosted a creative workshop where learners were taught to fold paper flowers from magazines and newspapers. Die Filmklub het ’n suksesvolle en genotvolle jaar gehad. Hierdie klub het ’n wye reeks van films besigtig en bespreek. Van die droomagtige Japanese anime, Spirited Away (2001) tot die eksistensiële, The Truman Show (1998), wat gelei het tot baie insig rakende sosiale media in ons moderne samelewing. Die filmklub leer ons leerders om nie net dieper te delf in die wêreld van film nie, maar om stories te waardeer. Leerders analiseer, lewer hul opinies en vind hul stem in vriendelike redenasie wat lei tot die aanvaarding van mekaar se sienings. Drama and Dance Club: The Drama Club had a busy year, participating in Eisteddfods and two productions, namely Secret Cities and Sien . Voortrekker in Suid Afrika kan ontvang. KLUBS EN VERENINGINGS

The Dance Club had their first performance at the 4M athletics and were part of the Secret Cities production. Thank you, Ms. Nel, for your creativity and enthusiasm. Wetenskapklub: Een van die hoogtepunte was die besoek van die ruimtevaarder, dr. Sian Proctor. Interact: Die klub het weereens vanjaar uitgereik na verskeie instansies in en om die Paarl, van die Andrew Murray Kinderhuis, Rusoord ouetehuis, die Dierebeskermingsvereninging tot broodjies vir petroljoggies en leerders in minder bevoorregte skole. Dankie aan mev. Adéle Dun en Riana Otto wat aan die stuur hiervan was. Robotics Club: The growing strength of our Robotics Club is evident in the number of competitions in which La Rochelle participated. We competed in the inaugural WCED Hackathon as well as the World Robot Olympiad. Additionally, we hosted and competed in events such as Battle Bots, BrickJam, and the inaugural Robothon along with 48 other teams. Four of our teams competed in the World Robot Olympiad (WRO), Western Cape South Division this year. Our senior team (Farynn Cupido, Hanaan Gaffoor, Isra Moerat), the “Robo-Sapiens”, won gold in the Senior Robo-Mission category and were selected to compete in the WRO National Finals, where they were ranked as the 5th best high school robotics team in the country. The Coding and Robotics Coordinator, Mr Quinton Meades, has been instrumental in establishing the Paarl Robotics Forum – a professional teacher community that promotes and supports interest in Robotics in the Paarl. German and French Society: At the Mardi Gras, the annual Grade 8 French Hat Parade. The school was entertained with the creative ideas of our Grade 8 learners. The German society attended the Oktoberfest Festival in Paarl, and a movie night was organized for both societies. First Aid: This year, La Rochelle’s First Aid Committee demonstrated impressive commitment and service. Learners provided first aid support at all home games for hockey, netball, and athletics. Their presence ensured prompt medical assistance and promoted a safe environment for all participating athletes. The learners could learn from experienced medics during these matches. ‘n Hoogtepunt van die jaar was die noodhulpkursus wat in Julie 2024 by La Rochelle gehou is. Gedurende hierdie kursus het sewe leerders opleiding en sertifikasie in noodhulp vlak 1 en 2 ontvang, terwyl agt leerders vlak 3-sertifisering behaal het, wat hul vaardighede en kennis vir gevorderde mediese hulp versterk het. The First Aid Committee was organised into various portfolios managed by learners. These included Media, Blood Drive, Packing of First Aid Kits, and Sick Bay portfolios. Each team ensured their area of responsibility was effectively maintained, from promoting activities to keeping all first aid supplies ready for action. Die komitee het ook ‘n baie suksesvolle bloedskenkingsdag by die skool aangebied, waar leerders bloed geskenk het, wat hul bydrae en toewyding aan die gemeenskap versterk het. WELLNESS, CAMPS, SEMINARS AND TRAINING SESSIONS The year kicked off with the Grade 8s’ Daisy Camp. All the Grade 8s stayed in the hostel, where they got to know each other better. They attended lectures, danced, participated in athletics, swam, and formed strong bonds. The camp

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 9

ANNUAL REPORT concluded with the Daisy-and-Milady picnic together with the new Grade 8 parents. Die Ignite-kringleiers het die naweek van 19-21 Januarie 2024 in die pragtige Jonkershoek deurgebring om vir die jaar voor te berei. Daar was baie gebid, gesing en vreeslik baie gelag. Dankie aan mev. Shanje Maree en mev. Elmari Swanepoel vir jul inspirasie. The Grade 11 seminar took place in Kleinmond. Over these two days, the Grade 11s attended seminars on mentorship and shared their vision as the school’s leaders for 2025. Die graad 9-kamp is by die pragtige Mispah-kampterrein in die Kogelberg reservaat naby Grabouw gehou. Die graad 9’s het spanbou-aktiwiteite gedoen, gaan stap in die berg en mekaar beter leer ken. SPESIALE TRADISIES Die baadjie- en pêrelseremonie vind plaas op 29 Januarie, waar die Miladies aan hul Daisies hul baadjies oorhandig en die matrieks elkeen ’n stelletjie pêrel oorbelle vanaf die gr 8’s ontvang. Die graad 8’s se Vrugtefees was weereens ’n spesiale dag, waar die Daisies nie teleurgestel het met hul kreatiewe uitrustings nie. The La Rochelle GHS Open Day, an occasion to showcase the school, took place on 13 February 2024, and once again, we realized that our proud learners are our best ambassadors. Thank you to everyone who served as tour guides. On 8 August 2024, Founders Day was celebrated. The rich traditions of our school over the past 164 years were remembered and admired, and Annemie Nieuwoudt, head girl in 1994, was our guest speaker. Valedictory Day on 11 October was a memorable occasion, highlighted by the new tradition of the matric class ringing the old bell in its new location as they walked through the school corridors for the last time. GLANSGELEENTHEDE Graad 11’s se Winterbal het op 12 Junie in die skoolsaal plaasgevind. ’n Baie genotvolle graad 10-dans is ook op 10 Julie in die skoolsaal aangebied.

Die pa-en-dogteraand was baie prettig en die pa’s het weereens nie teleurgestel met hulle uitrustings vir die tema “Iconic Duo’s” nie. Die matriekafskeid vind in 2024 by Ashanti plaas en die matriekleerders lyk pragtig en stylvol. Dankie aan mnr. Stephan Swart en die Aleit-groep vir hierdie besondere aand. The Hostel Dinner was once again a special occasion, with the matric hostel girls sharing their memories of the past 5 years in the hostel. Die 2024 KunsteVenster in Augustus, wat oor twee aande gestrek het, was ’n besonderse gebeurtenis. Ouers en vriende van Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle kon op ’n kunsreis deur die skool vertrek en die eb en vloei van die bruisende hartklop van kultuur in ons skool eerstehands beleef. ’n Interaktiewe kunsuitstalling, ’n oorspronklike verhoog-produksie, Sien, ’n feestelike kuier met “marimba-magic” en ’n lewendige versmelting van ABBA-treffers deur L’Armonia was die toonvenster vir ons Larries se uiteenlopende talente. Aan die einde van ’n sensoriese klanksildery deur die koor het die kykers hul reis afgesluit met ’n post-moderne “ devised theater ”– produksie, Secret Cities . Die Kobus Wiese-funksie is vanjaar saam met Laerskool Noord Eind aangebied. Dit was ’n stylvolle aand, met ’n interessante paneelbespreking deur Ryk Neethling, Schalk Brits, Marciel Hopkins, Success Lekabe, Jacques Lagrange, Marius Erasmus, CJ Stander en Kobus Wiese. Die bekende Nadine Blom en Albert Maritz was ons aanbieders vir die aand. The annual choir and music performance evening took place on 15 October in the lovely Audi Centre Paarl, with its beautiful silver and glass interior and amazing acoustics. It certainly was a truly memorable encounter for the audience. This year’s theme for the Mother-and-Daughter Tea was “Precious Pair.” Mothers and daughters had the opportunity to create beautiful earrings together, fostering creativity and strengthening their cherished memories. The Grade 11 Hospitality learners successfully hosted an afternoon tea for their guests on 18 October, showcasing their hospitality skills. Meanwhile, the Grade 10 learners organised a delightful breakfast on 10 October, providing valuable experience in event planning and guest engagement. Ses Larries vertrek tydens die September-vakansie op ’n akademiese toer na Amerika. Hierdie toer was vir hulle ’n eens-in-‘n-leeftyd-belewenis. Hulle het saam met leerders van regoor Suid-Afrika, onder andere, universiteite en bekende bakens in Amerika besoek. Tydens die September-vakansie het ‘n groep La Rochelle leerders aan die Oranjerivier-roei aangedurf en het met goeie herinneringe en nuwe vriendskappe van dié avontuur af terug gekeer. ’n Spesiale dank aan die personeel wat tydens die vakansie hulle tyd opgeoffer het om die leerders te vergesel. Julle bydrae het die leerders geïnspireer en hulle die waarde van samewerking en deursettingsvermoë geleer.

Uitstapdag

Die paneel.

10 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

JAARVERSLAG

CULTURE

GLANS GELEENTHEDE

All Girls’

Academic Tour

ATKV Applous

Europa Toer

Koor

Interact

Debat – Paula Jacobs, Anya van Jaarsveld & Timia Williams

Kobus Wiese Gala-aand

The Europe tour in September 2024 was an unforgettable adventure for learners and teachers. Every day was filled with excitement and discovery, from exploring historical landmarks to experiencing diverse cultures. The group immersed themselves in iconic cities, tasted authentic cuisine, and engaged with rich histories, bringing classroom lessons to life. Beyond the sights, the trip strengthened friendships and built lasting memories, inspiring students and teachers to see the world with new eyes.

Farynn Cupido, Isra Moerat & Hanaan Gaffoor

KunsteVenster

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 11

ANNUAL REPORT

Dear Larries, Colleagues, and Friends As I prepare to say goodbye after 31 wonderful years at La Rochelle, I find myself reflecting on the countless memories we’ve created together. Teaching here has been one of the greatest joys of my life. Each of you has contributed to my journey in ways I will always cherish. From the laughter in the classroom to the challenges we faced, every moment has shaped not only my career but also who I am as a person. I am deeply grateful for the support and camaraderie of my fellow teachers and the inspiring curiosity of my students. While it’s difficult to say farewell, I am excited to see where your journeys will take you. I will carry the lessons learned and the friendships formed here in my heart. Thank you for being a part of my life. I wish you all success, happiness, and a passion for learning that lasts a lifetime. Natuurlik kan ek nie die geleentheid laat verby gaan sonder om aan musiek te dink nie. Ek dink dat die koorgedeelte van die 1971 liedjie ‘We are Family’ deur Sister Sledge presies wat Larrie-wees vir my beteken het, opsom. [Chorus] We are family I’ve got all my sisters with me. We are family Get up, everybody, and sing. We are family I’ve got all my sisters with me. We are family Get up, everybody, and sing

Ons paaie skei, maar La Rochelle sal altyd ‘n plekkie in my hart hê. 9 Jaar gelede het ek as Graad 9 vanaf Citrusdal/Clanwilliam se wêreld, my tassies op Eendracht se trappies kom neersit om vir die volgende 4 jaar my hoërskool loopbaan by HMS La Rochelle te voltooi. Nooit kon ek myself indink watter skatkisse en lesse hier vir my gewag het nie. Being the German teacher for the past 3 years, I had big shoes to fill, but this privilege and opportunity have given me more than I can put into words. A few tears have already been shed, but I look back upon my journey, filled with gratitude and ready for the new chapter that awaits me. I’ll keep my message short and sweet as I have always done. Don’t see your high school years as something to rush, just to become an adult as quickly as possible. On the contrary, enjoy your childhood freedom while it lasts, and cherish the little moments of happiness during this adventure – you’ll be looking after yourself sooner than you can imagine. Bestaan vs leef. Dit klink soos sinonieme, maar is eintlik antonieme. Jy wil nie eendag terugkyk en wens jy het meer kiekies op kamera vasgevang en meer geleenthede aangegegryp nie. Dit is NOU jou kans om voluit te leef, so gryp dit met albei hande, maar moenie vergeet om hier tussenin ook dit te geniet nie. Dankie vir almal en alles, julle het diep spore in my lewe getrap. Auf Wiedersehen meine liebe La Rochelle! Mej. Carmari Marais

With warmest wishes, Mev. Sonnet Vorster

12 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School