La Rochelle Yearbook 2025

La

2025 | NR 119

HOËR MEISIESKOOL | GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL

Paarl

Boomsimboliek A tree is a powerful symbol of growth, steadfastness, and endurance – a living testament to time and tradition. Just as a tree sinks its roots deep into the ground to withstand storms, La Rochelle GHS has, over 165 years, built a foundation that stands strong across generations. Each year adds new rings of growth, just as each new group of Larries contributes to the school’s rich legacy. Die skoolhoofde, wat oor die jare die leisels vasgehou het, dien as die boom se sterk wortels. Hulle visie, leierskap en onwrikbare toewyding bepaal die rigting waarin La Rochelle groei. Onder hul leiding verdiep die waardes, versterk die kultuur en die takke – ons leerders – word aangemoedig om hoog uit te reik. Hulle dra die skool deur uitdagings, veranderinge en oorwinnings, altyd met die doel om ’n veilige, waardegedrewe en inspirerende tuiste vir elke leerder te skep. Thus, La Rochelle – like a century-old tree – becomes a place where growth thrives, where history and future meet. Here every learner and principal form a unique part of this living story.

INHOUDSOPGAWE

Contents

2 4

Opgedra aan Jaarverslag

20 22 24 25 26 28 32 34 36 38 42 45 48 50 58 61 67 83 91

School Governing body

Personeel

Congratulations A-Candidates 2024

Matrieks & Personeel

Message from the Headgirl

Message from the Deputy Head Girl

Valedictory

Matric Farewell Miss La Rochelle

Grade 12 Register classes

Ontluikende Skrywers

Budding Authors

Art

Hostel

Academic Prestige Awards Evening

165-Jaar/Years

Akademiese Prysuitdeling

Klasfoto’s Seniorraad

Clubs & Societies

108 110 115 139 144 150

Musical: Beauty & The Beast

Kultuur Prysuitdeling

Sport

Sport Prysuitdeling

All Girls’

Afskeidsboodskap

REDAKTEUR: Mev. Karin Leibbrandt PROEFLEES: Mevv. Carla Uys en Cindy McFarlane

PHOTOS: Nico de Wit, EJ Langner, Tinus Maritz, Aleit Academy, Tracy Meyer, Melina Smit, Lida Hendrikse, Nicky Albertyn, Gerhard Kroukamp, Mood Photographic, Ronél Strauss, Larike Schmidt, Annabel Roux, Helena Louw, Emma Coetzee, Nina de Wet, Jenna Hankey, Personeel & Fotografieklub PRINTING: Tandym Print 021 505 4200 | DESIGN AND PRODUCTION: Avant Garde South Africa 021 863 3165

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 1

TRIBUTE TO

Huldeblyk MEV. MARIANNA SCHOEMAN

En Avant

Elvis Blue se lied “ Spore” het Marianna Schoeman se hart diep geraak – en hoe gepas is dit vandag, waar ons die spore wat sy oor bykans 45 jaar by La Rochelle gelos het eer. Mev. Schoeman, “Schoemie”, of “Ziets” soos sy liefdevol bekend was, was meer as net ’n kollega en onderwyseres. Sy was ’n mentor, ondersteuner, en vriendin, ’n rots waarop baie van ons kon bou. Haar nalatenskap leef voort in die leerders, kollegas en oud-Larries wat sy oor die jare geraak het. Dit was duidelik sigbaar in al die boodskappe op sosiale media. ’n Familie wat sy diep lief gehad het Marianna se kinders en kleinkinders was haar trots. Sy het dikwels met glinsterende oë oor hulle gepraat – en oor haar familie in die Oos-Kaap waar haar wortels diep lê. Hiermee saam het sy ook ’n groot respek vir haar ontslape skoonouers gehad. Stories wat sy vertel het van die aanvanklike ritte met die Volla en ure op die pad sal my altyd bybly. Ek het in die laaste paar maande gesien watter eienskappe van haar in Annare en Burger, haar kinders, se volwasse lewe manifesteer: Annare: Jou positiwiteit, vrolike aanslag en hardwerkend heid; Burger met jou humorsin/kwinkslae soos jou ma en jou omgee en sorgsaamheid ... Koester dit! ’n Lewe van toewyding Marianna het haar loopbaan aan La Rochelle gewy – ’n lewe van diens, dissipline en passie. Haar kinders het op sportvelde grootgeword en selfs juf. Longland het van tyd tot tyd oppasser gespeel. Haar betrokkenheid was ongeëwenaar: • Eers as afrigter by netbal, later Elbie se bestuurder en toe as vurige ondersteuner en begeleier van atletiek en skooltoere wat plaaslik, provinsiaal, nasionaal en oorsee plaasgevind het. • Sy was ook begeleier by gr. 8-kampe, musiekblyspele, kooraande en talle All Girls-byeenkomste. Sy het selfs reëls neergelê tydens toere/kampe wat “gelate” (soms) aanvaar is.

“Ek weier om te glo dat ons kleur verdof. Dat die dinge hier ons uit sal stof.

Ons kan kies wat ons glo, ons kan kies wat ons dink. Ons kan kies hoe ons voel en hoe ons woorde klink. Kry my op die pad, die pad.

Waar die dromers loop. Die son oor ons skouers Ons oë vol hoop. Kom saam, kom saam Dis al wat dit kos

Ek en jy is gemaak Om spore te los!!” Elvis Blue, “Spore”

2 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

OPGEDRA AAN

• Marianna was ’n intergrale deel van die 4M wenne – van 2002 tot 2004, 2013 tot 2018, en weer die onvergeetlike wen in 2020. Aflosse was haar kos. Ek moes na 4M die opsommings maak vir die volgende dag, sy was soos ’n ballon afgeblaas. Haar woorde onthou ek baie goed: “Chief, dis joune”! • Haar toewyding aan Afrikaans Eerste Addisio nele Taal was legendaries. Jaar na jaar kon sy met trots uitwys dat haar leerders gemiddeld tussen 75% en 80% behaal het. ’n Persoon vol gees en humor Schoemie het die lewe met lag en lig gevul. Kollegas onthou haar rooi pen, haar lessenaar agter in die saal by “musical”-oefeninge, en natuurlik haar koffie wat leerders met trots gebrou het. Sy was nie ge-copy en ge-paste nie – sy was trots daarop dat oudleerlinge haar oral herken en sê: “Juffrou word nie ouer nie.” Sy het gereeld gesê: “Geld is nie my baas nie – ek is geld se baas.” Haar liefde vir die kleur geel – wat sy met flair in die sportdrag en erebaadjiekoord ingebring het – het haar die “Queen of Yellow” gemaak. Daarom was dit SEER om te sien hoe haar stem stiller raak. Na Januarie 2024 het haar tyd en seisoene vervaag. Sy het nooit oor die seer binne haar gepraat nie – sy was privaat oor dit wat haar pla. Op haar siekbed het sy bly glo sy gaan opstaan en huis toe gaan en ons gaan kuier en tee maak! ’n Blywende nalatenskap Prof. Jonathan Jansen het gesê: “ If you want to honour me, call me a teacher.” Marianna het dié titel met trots gedra. Sy het haar roeping geleef – met passie, harde werk, en die oortuiging dat onderwys lewens verander. Sy het inderdaad geblom waar sy geplant was, sy is deel van ons Larrie-ketting ... een van die stukkies rots (little rock: La Rochelle). Sy het haar eie unieke spore uitgetrap en saam met ons “voorwaarts gegaan” – En Avant! In Elvis se woorde: “Het jy al ooit gevoel jy wil oor begin Op ’n ander plek ’n nuwe lied gaan sing?” NOU SING SY HAAR NUWE LIED OP ’N ANDER PLEK ... EN ONS? ONS ONTHOU DIE SPORE WAT SY GELOS HET. RUS IN VREDE Me. Amanda Lochner Vrydag, 20 Junie 2025

Huldeblyke VANAF SOSIALE MEDIA (VERBATIM).

Ilze Kriek Wright – Hierdie is voorwaar hartseer nuus. Ek het haar langs die netbalbane raakgeloop of liewer raak gewerk as netbalorganiseerder van Bloemhof. Jare lank het ons mekaar langs die bane gesien. My innigste meegevoel, familie en Larries. Retha Jordaan – Mag jy rus waar jy nou is Mariana! Jy het so groot rol in my kind se skoolloopbaan gespeel en steeds is jou entoesiasme vir netbal en atletiek vir haar ’n inspirasie nou later in haar lewe. Ons sal jou altyd onthou! Mandy Clayton – What a voice she had!!! Rest well Mandy McDonald – It’s always such sad and shocking news to hear about the passing of someone whose legacy was bigger than life. I have no doubt that every young lady who had the privilege of sitting in an Afrikaans class or was an athlete or netball player under her guidance was positively impacted by this force of a woman’s spirit, passion, devotion, commitment, fairness, compassion, determination and love for all Larries. I am grateful to have known her as an Afrikaans teacher and athletics coach ... she was so much more than that to many Larries. She will be sorely missed! Helene Coetzee – Liewe Marianna sal ek altyd onthou. Sy het ’n onuit wisbare indruk op my gemaak. Ons was kollegas en daarna het ons mekaar gereeld by atletiekbyeenkomste gesien. Sy was’ n ma-figuur vir so baie. Mare-Louise Botha – Sy was ’n lewenslyn en legende in sport vir elke larrie. Haar toewyding vir haar vak Afrikaans, die kinders en veral atletiek en netbal was aansteeklik. Sy was ’n ware vriendin, kind van die Here en hardwerkend en passievol in alles wat sy aangepak het. Ek gaan haar vreeslik mis. Sy was ’n hartsmens met soveel mooi in haar. Ek mis alreeds haar lag en gesels met daai vonkel in haar oë. Innige simpatie aan die familie en veral haar kinders en kleinkinders. Liefde altyd.x Ina Brink – A person is known by the legacy they leave behind. This beautiful soul dedicated her life to young women in the making and those touched by her will forever be better off for the privilege of knowing her. I am grateful for her caring and firm hand in my life. Forever alive in my heart. Maria Bellmunt – Ahhh so very sad. La Rochelle has lost a legend! The passion she had for this beautiful school is simply immeasurable! RIP beautiful soul. Sieyaam Hartnick – My heart is shattered into a million pieces. RIP Mrs Schoeman. Lientjie Olivier – Liewe Schoemie, Roomie jou positiewe energie, passie en lojaliteit vir die Larries, sal altyd ’n riem onder die hart en ’n groot bron van inspirasie bly... Hugo Engelbrecht – Marianna jy was een van die eerste mense wat ons 4j terug ontmoet het in La Rochelle. Jy het Monique en Imke eietyd onder jou vlerk geneem en hul laat tuis voel. Jy was so geliefd, ’n absolute steunpilaar en het ’n onvergeetlike impak op hul lewens gehad. Your legacy will live on in our memories. Rus sag Schoemie. Baie sterkte aan die familie. Morné Nicol – Rest in Peace, Mrs Schoeman. Forever grateful for being Zoe’s School Mom. Forever in our hearts. Shantelle Kotze van Schalkwyk – Juf. Schoemie, jy is ’n legend. Beste netbal en atletiek onnie ooit. My hart is ongelooflik seer. Jy het diep spore in my hart gelaat. Ek onthou jou met liefde. Delise van Wyk – Baie hartseer nuus. Wonderlike tye langs atletiekbaan saam met haar beleef. Ons laaste een by Potchefstroom SA’s in 2018. Sal haar met groot hartseer onthou. Elbie Keller – Ek sal haar liefde vir en toewyding aan La Rochelle altyd onthou. Sterkte aan haar familie en vriende. (Van ’n Bloemhof kollega) Candice-Lea Nortje – RIP SCHOEMIE!!! Such a legend! A fantastic teacher with the biggest Heart! Adele Cupido – Rest in peace, Ms Schoeman. Your legacy was bigger than life. Condolences to the Family. Coretha Odendal – Gedurende Elmie se tyd in La Rochelle; was Marianna die skool en die skool was Marianna. Groot impak gehad op vele terreine. Altyd voluit gegaan!

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 3

ANNUAL REPORT

Beste ouers, La Rochelle-leerders en vriende van die skool. The year 2025 marks a remarkable milestone in the proud history of La Rochelle Girls’ High School in that we celebrate 165 years of distinguished service as the oldest dual-medium girls’ school in South Africa. Founded in 1860 by Mrs Louisa Hugo, whose vision for the education of young women was far ahead of her time, La Rochelle has grown from a small private school for 40 girls into an institution of excellence that continues to educate and inspire generations of women. Throughout its 165 years, La Rochelle has stood as a beacon of progress and perseverance. From the early days of the ‘Ladies’ Seminary’ to the present, the school has upheld its founding ideal: to educate the head, heart and hand , in forming, not only capable students, but also compassionate and confident women. Each principal, teacher and learner who has walked these corridors has left their mark, shaping a legacy defined by courage, service and forward movement – true to our motto: En Avant ! This year, we were reminded of the depth and reach of that legacy when a record number of alumnae returned for our Women’s Day and Alumnae Reunion celebrations in August. The enthusiasm and pride with which they reconnected to their alma mater were deeply moving – a living testimony to the school’s enduring influence. Over the decades, La Rochelle has made an indelible impact on countless girls, and it continues to do so today, equipping young women to step boldly into the world, rooted in tradition, yet ready for the future.

As we celebrate 165 years of faith, courage and excellence, we do so with immense gratitude – for those who came before us, for those who guide the present and for those who will carry the La Rochelle torch forward into the next century. Op 12 Junie 2025 neem ons afskeid van ons geliefde juffrou Schoemie. Ons innigste simpatie aan haar familie en vriende. Marianna Shoeman was ’n absolute legende en haar toegewydheid en passie vir La Rochelle sal vir altyd onthou word. PERSONEEL “Onderwysers plant saadjies wat eendag kennis, karakter en drome laat groei.” Hierdie aanhaling – wat by ons leuse van “blom waar jy geplant is” aansluit – is voorwaar van toepassing op die personeel van La Rochelle en ons is dankbaar vir hul toewyding en harde werk. Aan die begin van die jaar verwelkom ons die volgende personeel tot die Larrie-familie: Mev. Vera Bestbier verwerf haar BA Taal-graad en Na graadse Sertifikaat in Opvoedkunde aan die Universiteit Stellenbosch. Sy sluit by ons Afrikaans departement aan en is ook betrokke by die redenaars. Me. Esmé Haggard studeer aan die Universiteit van Pretoria, waar sy die volgende kwalifikasies verwerf: BEng Chemiese Ingenieurswese, MSc Ingenieurswese, asook ’n Nagraadse Onderwyssertifikaat. Me. Haggard onderrig Wiskunde vir graad 8-11 en is in beheer van skaak by die skool. Me. Angelique Barnard studeer aan die Universiteit Stellenbosch en Leipzig Universiteit (Duitsland), waar

Babas

Ella-Mae Beneke

Asher Groenewald

Fleur Uys

Hugo Davids

Luan du Toit

Stella Maree Jani Neethling

Nuwe Personeel

Staff

L’nanda le Roux

Rentia Saayman

Esmé Haggard, Marissa Herbst, Vera Bestbier & Angelique Barnard

Annadene & Michael Venter

Elmarie Swanepoel

Michelle Dykman

Lodewyk Lusse

Peter Whitmore

4 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

JAARVERSLAG

André en Marna van der Burgh het in 1999 deel geword van HMS La Rochelle se atletiek-afrigtingspan, en vir ’n merkwaardige tydperk van 26 jaar was hulle nou betrokke by die skool se atletiekprestasies. Hulle het ’n sleutelrol in die sukses van talle atlete gespeel, en was instrumenteel in die 4M-oorwinnings van 2002-2004, 2013-2018 en weer in 2020. Marna se kundigheid in hekkie-afrigting en haar betrok kenheid by die werwing en ontwikkeling van jong talent was van onskatbare waarde, terwyl André in naellope oor 100m, 200m en 400m gespesialiseer het. Vir beide was die groei en ontwikkeling van atlete ’n hartsaak en dryfveer. Onder hul leiding het La Rochelle-atlete jaar na jaar medaljes by die SA-kampioenskappe verower. Uit hul geledere het, onder andere sterre soos Gezelle Magerman, Marné van der Burgh, Elke van der Westhuizen, Katinka Louw, Milan Horn en Brenda du Toit voortgespruit om maar ’n paar te noem – atlete wat nie net aan Wêreld- en Afrika-spele deelgeneem het nie, maar daar ook medaljes verower het. Huidige atlete wat uitstekend presteer; Cara en Mia Wilson, Kylie Basson, Cubin Marthinussen, Enya Binneman en Zia du Toit. In 2017 het hulle ’n groep atlete vergesel en afgerig om aan die Penn Relays in Pennsylvania, VSA, deel te neem – ’n uitsonderlike mylpaal vir die skool. In 2025 het die span verder geskiedenis gemaak deur tot die internasionale finaal deur te dring en ’n indrukwekkende 6de plek te behaal. Buiten sy rol as afrigter was André ook betrokke by talle fondsinsamelingsprojekte om leerders finansieel sy haar BA Taal en Kultuur asook Honneurs in Duits verwerf. Sy onderrig Duits en Afrikaans en is betrokke by swem, debating, die Duitse Vereniging, asook oorsese uitruilprogramme. Mev. Marissa Herbst matrikuleer in 2009 aan La Rochelle. Sy studeer Toerisme en Toerismebestuur by CPUT, waar sy ook haar Nagraadse Onderwyssertifikaat verwerf. Sy onderrig Toerisme en Geskiedenis en is betrokke by netbal en sosiale funksies soos die Valentynsokkie. Gedurende Mei 2025 sluit mev. L’nanda le Roux by ons aan in die Lewenswetenskappe departement. Sy verwerf haar BSc-graad in Sportwetenskap en Honneurs in Sielkunde aan die Universiteit Stellenbosch en is ’n geregistreerde psigometris. Sy is betrokke by hokkie, die groenkomitee, leerderondersteuning en beroepsvoorligting. Gedurende 2025 groet ons die volgende personeel en ons is dankbaar vir die verskil wat hulle by La Rochelle gemaak het: Aftrede: Ons terreinbestuurder, mnr. Peter Whitmore; mev. Hannatjie Naude (Fisiese Wetenskappe); mev. Lida Hendrikse (koshuisbestuurder); mev. Christa Vos (Afrikaans Huistaal). Ons groet!

Mnr. Lodewyk Lüsse (Lewenswetenskappe) immigreer na Nieu-Seeland; me. Kirsty Nel (Drama) sluit aan by die Universiteit Stellenbosch; mev. Madri Muller (Musiek) sluit aan by Hoërskool Parel Vallei; me. Rentia Saayman (Wiskunde) sluit aan by Hoër Meisieskool Bloemhof; me. Leonie Maree (Fisiese Wetenskappe) keer terug na die privaatsektor; me. Melissa Swanepoel sluit aan by Laer Meisieskool La Rochelle se sportkantoor; me. Michelle Dykman (Engels Huistaal en Eerste Addisionele Taal) verhuis na Johannesburg en mev. Elmaire Swanepoel verhuis na Japan. Die ooievaar was baie besig gedurende hierdie jaar en ons verwelkom nie minder nie as 7 klein lyfies: Stella van mev. Shanje Maree, Fleur van mev. Carla Uys, Ella-Mae van mnr. en mev. Beneke, Asher van mev. Hannelien Groenewald, Hugo van mev. Anmari Davids, Luan van mev. Jané du Toit en Jani van mev. Leani Neethling. Ons vier ook die verlowings van Maryke Muller en Richard Marshall, Leoni Maree en Christiaan Visser en die huwelik van Annadene Malan en Michael Venter.

te ondersteun met toergelde na Amerika, waardeur hy verseker het dat talent nie deur omstandighede aan bande gelê word nie.

Deur die loop van 26-jaar was André en Marna nie net afrigters langs die baan nie, maar ook

belangrike rolspelers in die strategiese beplanning om HMS La Rochelle as gerekende atletiekskool te vestig. In hierdie 165ste bestaansjaar van La Rochelle is dit duidelik dat hulle nalatenskap diep spore laat. Hul toe wyding het onmiskenbaar bygedra tot die skool se visie om jong vroue toe te rus, te versterk en voor te berei vir ’n suksesvolle toekoms. Namens HMS La Rochelle, die personeel, oudleerders en elke atleet wie se lewe julle aangeraak het, sê ons dankie. Dankie vir ure langs die baan, elke opoffering, elke aanmoediging, elke traan, elke oorwinning – groot én klein. Julle het nie net kampioene ontwikkel nie, maar jong vroue met karakter en dissipline. Mag die nalatenskap wat julle geskep het voortleef in elke voetspoor op die tartan, elke medalje, en elke selfversekerde jong vrou wat haar potensiaal ontdek. Ons eer julle werk, julle passie en julle onwrikbare geloof in ons atlete. André en Marna – julle het ’n verskil gemaak wat nie gemeet of vergeet kan word nie. En Avant

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 5

ANNUAL REPORT

Instandhouding

MAINTENANCE AND INFRASTRUCTURE The upkeep and improvement of our attractive and historic school remain a constant priority. La Rochelle’s buildings carry both heritage and heart – and preserving them requires ongoing commitment, care and attention to detail. This year saw significant progress in maintaining and upgrading our facilities. The bathrooms in the quad and in the school hall for the learners received a much-needed upgrade, resulting in a more modern and comfortable environment. The north side of the school was freshly painted, brightening and protecting our iconic building. Several more classrooms were fitted with air conditioners to provide relief during Paarl’s extreme summer heat, ensuring that teaching and learning can continue productively throughout the year. The paving in front of and behind the hostel was replaced and now looks beautiful – a practical and aesthetic improvement that was long overdue. Two of the tennis courts were resurfaced, providing our learners with safe, high-quality facilities. The stage floor in the school hall was sanded and restored, ready to host future assemblies, performances and celebrations. Numerous smaller maintenance projects were also undertaken – as always, a historic building demands ongoing care and attention. A special word of thanks goes to Mr Frans Botha-Visser and Mrs Luzanne Oosthuizen for their creativity and dedication in beautifying the Learning Centre. Their efforts have transformed the space into an inspiring environment that reflects La Rochelle’s commitment to excellence. Thank you to Mrs Cindy McFarlane, Pamela Tashner and Ludwig Roses for bringing the La Rochelle rose back to La Rochelle. A total of 165 La Rochelle roses were cultivated and sold to alumnae, parents and friends of the school. An exquisite new rose garden, which was created, was officially inaugurated on 24 October 2025 as part of our 165-year celebrations. We are deeply grateful to our Ground Staff for their unwavering dedication and the many extra hours they give to the school – maintaining the grounds, assisting with functions and ensuring that every corner of our campus is clean and welcoming. Their hard work often happens quietly, yet their impact is seen and felt every day. An exciting project currently underway is the construction of a new annex behind Navarre, made possible through the generous bequest of Miss Christa le Roux, our beloved former principal. On completion in December 2025, this new building will provide accommodation for Mrs Christien Marais and her family, an additional teacher, and 42 learners. We are deeply grateful for this gift, which will serve future generations and honour Miss le Roux’s lasting legacy. Our sincere appreciation goes to Mr Quinton Meades, who oversees the project on behalf of the school with dedication and professionalism, and to Mr André Wessels, our contractor and builder, for his commitment to quality workmanship and excellence. Despite the progress made this year, the school remains in urgent need of additional classrooms to accommodate our growing number of learners. Unfortunately, there has been no indication of financial assistance from the Department

Personeel presteer op die volgende gebiede: Mnr. Frans Botha-Visser: IEB/NSS-eksaminator en hoofnasiener vir Frans Vraestel 1. Mnr. Quinton Meades: Hy was aktief betrokke by die aanbied van opleidingsgeleenthede vir onderwysers en hy tree op as ’n spreker by Schoolscape One, die SOS Nasionale Kongres en die aanbieding van verskeie Fisiese Wetenskappe-vakgerigte webinare vir SOS. Hy is die mede-voorsitter van die Paarl Robotika-kluster, gekoöpteer tot die WRO Wes-Kaap Raad en die hoofbeoordelaar van die Junior-afdeling tydens die WRO Nasionale Finaal. Me. Madri Muller: Begeleidster van die wêreldbekende Tygerberg Kinderkoor. Mrs Cindy McFarlane: Serves on the examining panel for the Cape Winelands Education District Common Paper. Mrs Tracy Meyer: Grade 12 Tutor and one of the examiners for the Cape Winelands Education District. Me. Rentia Saayman: Naaswenner van die Nasionale Onderwysprestasietoekennings vir uitnemendheid in hoërskoolonderrig. Me. Mandy Hermanus: Gekies as afrigter van die o.14 Netbal Wes-Kaap Oakes-span wat 6 de by die All Ages toernooi geëindig het; verkies tot die Kaapse Wynland Senior A-Netbalspan; verkies tot die Boland Vroue Senior rugbygroep en die Central Wolves rugbyspan. Mag elke onderwyser onthou: jou werk is nie net ’n beroep nie, maar ’n roeping – ’n lig wat die pad vir ander verlig – gebaseer op Spreuke 31.

6 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

JAARVERSLAG

Akademie

of Education to address this pressing need. The School Governing Body will, therefore, have to think creatively and explore innovative ways to raise the necessary funds to ensure that La Rochelle continues to offer a quality learning environment for every learner. As we look back on a year of substantial maintenance and forward to new developments, we do so with deep appreciation for all who contribute to keeping La Rochelle beautiful, functional and visionary. AKADEMIE Die matrieks van 2024 het ons stoutste verwagtinge oortref. Die 115 kandidate het weer eens vir ’n 100% slaagsyfer gesorg met ’n klasgemiddeld van 75,6% en ’n B-graad toelating van 98% en 39 gemiddelde A’s. Wat die uitslae nog meer merkwaardig maak is die feit dat die Larries in die kategorie van die meeste onderskeidings per kandidaat behaal, nasionaal 9 de geplaas word met ’n gemiddeld van 3,1 vak-A’s per leerder. Die vakke wat besonder goed gevaar het met die persentasie onderskeidings vir die betrokke vak en wat deur die Skole Ondersteuningsentrum vereer is, is as volg: Afrikaans Huistaal (3 de nasionaal), Fisiese Wetenskappe (12 de ), Ingenieursgrafika en -Ontwerp (18 de ), Engels Eerste Addisionele Taal (2 de ) en Wiskunde (17 de ). Drama word aangewys as die nommer 1 in die Wes-Kaap met ’n gemiddeld van 89,1%. Kelsey van Sitters is 5 de in die provinsie vir Drama. Op 30 Januarie 2025 word La Rochelle by Leeuwenhof vereer en word die 2024 matriekklas 12 de op die Wes Kaap Onderwysdepartement se top 20-lys geplaas. Baie geluk aan ons Dux-leerder, Erin Meyer, met haar 8 onderskeidings en ’n gemiddeld van 92,71%. Die Akademiese Prestige Toekenningsaand het op 21 Januarie 2025 in die En Avant-sentrum plaasgevind. Tydens hierdie geleentheid is die matrieks van 2024 vir hul uitstekende prestasies in die Nasionale Senior Sertifikaat eksamen vereer, terwyl die huidige graad 9–12 leerders erekleure vir akademiese uitnemendheid ontvang het. Ons toegewyde onderwysers volg ’n gebalanseerde benadering deur beproefde onderrigmetodes te kombineer met innoverende e-leer tegnieke om te verseker dat ons leerders ’n holistiese en moderne opvoeding ontvang. Die verbintenis tot beide tradisionele en hedendaagse onderrigpraktyke stel ons leerders in staat om ’n omvat tende stel vaardighede en kennis te ontwikkel, wat hulle voorberei vir die uitdagings van die toekoms. Ons is trots op die skool se voortdurende strewe om onderwys van die hoogste gehalte aan elke leerder te bied. ’n Verder uitstekende akademiese prestasie in Gasvry_ heidstudies: Suné Kruger (graad 12), ontvang ’n Gasvryheid studies Olimpiade-sertifikaat as die Nasionale Toppresteerder in die Wes-Kaap met ’n persentasie van 92%. On 10 April, Mmes Luzanne Oosthuizen and Soné Ackerman 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 which combines

District Six

Graad 12 (2024) Top 3

Holocaust Centre

The National English Olympiad

Leeuwenhof

WCED Visual Arts Competition

Varsity College Quiz

Wiskunde Olimpiade

Wiskunde UCT kompetisie

Skole ondersteu ningsentrum toekenning (SOS)

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 7

ANNUAL REPORT

Sport

text, archival photographs, film footage, documents, multimedia displays and recreated environments that commemorate the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. The purpose of the visit was to enhance the learners’ understanding of the drama by further educating them on its historical context. In addition, Mmes Oosthuizen and Ackerman took the Grade 11 English First Additional Language learners on an educational outing to the District Six Museum in Cape Town in May. The guided tour was very worthwhile in allowing the learners to picture the novel – “‘Buckingham Palace’, District Six” – they were reading in class. Both these outings were successful in enriching the learners’ feelings and appreciation of their setworks. La Rochelle het 10 leerders wat aan die eerste rondte van die Old Mutual Wiskunde-olimpiade deelgeneem het. Vier leerders dring deur na die tweede rondte. Ons is baie trots op almal se prestasies. ’n Verdere 55 Larries het ook aan die jaarlikse UCT Wiskunde-kompetisie deelgeneem. Die leerders het die besoek aan die kampus en die kompetisie baie geniet. The WCED celebrated ten students from La Rochelle for their artwork in a project presented to the Senior Phase learners in the Western Cape. ‘Celebration’ was the theme of this year’s South African National English Olympiad. Poems and extracts from a variety of literary sources formed the basis for the readings and research. Ten girls held workshops facilitated by Mrs Cindy McFarlane each week, during which they discussed their readings and thoughts on the theme. Kudos to all the learners, as La Rochelle garnered 3 Gold, 6 Silver and 1 Bronze certificates. A special word of congratulations to Amber Siebritz, who as a Grade 10 learner, already achieved a Gold Award. An outing to the Maynardville Open Air Theatre in February has become an established event on the Grade 12 English Home Language calendar. It was an evening of mystery and suspense with the production of Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest’, in which veteran actress, Antoinette Kellerman, put a feminist twist to the character of Prospero, becoming Prospera. The Grade 11 and 12 Larries who were fortunate enough to see the production, agreed that an evening of food trucks and theatre under the stars was a core memory maker! In August, the Grade 11 English Home Language learners had their first Jane Austen Evening, where Regency attire was acceptable and the food and décor period correct. The ladies learnt the Language of the Fan, as well as how to dance a quadrille. A lot of fun was had by all on the evening, and it will definitely become a permanent feature on the English Department calendar. SPORT (VERWYS NA DIE PRYSUITDELING EN SPORT AFDELING VAN DIE JAARBLAD VIR VOLLEDIGE PRESTASIES.) ATHLETICS Grade 8 Athletics Meeting: La Rochelle hosted its second Grade 8 Athletics Meeting at Boland Landbou this year. Seven events were presented and enjoyed in conjunction with the Landbou Grade 8s. The meeting served as talent

14A-netbal – SA’s

18A-span – SA’s

Action Netball

Adelmarie Barnard

Biathlon

Dane Meintjes

Helena Louw Liane Coetzee Hockey 14A Rising Cup

8 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

JAARVERSLAG

Rebecca McCarthy

Sienna Ellis

Tennis – Synergy Cup

Blomplaas baan

Tennis – CR van der Merwe Toernooi

Blomplaas veld

identification and formed part of the Grade 8 Orientation Week. It was an exciting day with enthusiastic participation, as every learner took part in all the events, ranging from high jump to a 600m run. The occasion proved to be a valuable icebreaker ahead of the Interhouse Athletics and the season. Interhouse Athletics: An excellent Interhouse Meeting was hosted and thoroughly enjoyed, despite temperatures climbing well into the high 30s! Entries were not restricted, which meant that learners could participate in as many events as they wished. The spirit of competition was strong as the girls aimed to secure maximum points for their houses, resulting in up to eight heats in certain events. Pride emerged as the overall winners with 415 points, closely followed by Cillie on 411 points. Murray claimed the Spirit Trophy for their unwavering and enthusiastic support throughout the day. Stellenberg Athletics Meeting: La Rochelle entered its largest team yet, with over 100 athletes participating in the annual Stellenberg Meeting. The school is extremely proud of each participant who competed with determination and delivered excellent results. Numerous podium finishes were achieved across the age groups and events, including sprinting, hurdles, middle-distance running, jumping and throwing. Mia Wilson received the trophy for the Best Senior Track Athlete and Enya Binneman was the Senior Victrix Ludorum of the day. Curro Podium Athletics Meeting – Pilditch Stadium, Pretoria: Top athletics schools from across South Africa competed in this prestigious national event. Fourteen La Rochelle athletes represented the school with distinction, finishing 8 th out of 62 participating schools. This top

Tweekamp

Lizandie van Zyl

Mia Wilson

Mignon Burger

Penn Aflos

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 9

ANNUAL REPORT

10 national ranking reflects the impressive standard of athletics at La Rochelle and our athletes’ commitment to high performance. Curro Podium Suid-byeenkoms: Die A-span, met hulle 2 de plek in die dogtersafdeling, kwalifiseer in Oktober 2025 vir die finaal wat gedurende Februarie 2026 sal plaasvind. 4G Athletics – Coetzenburg, Stellenbosch: A total of 92 athletes competed with pride in the annual 4G Meeting. Although the final results did not reflect our intentions for the day, as we came 3 rd , every athlete displayed resilience and sportsmanship. The school remains determined to reclaim the honours in future competitions. We commend our athletes for upholding the La Rochelle name with dignity and fortitude. Boland-, ASA- & SASA-uitslae: Van die Larries wat aan die Boland-kampioenskappe deelgeneem het, het 11 top 8-plekke verower. Tien Larrie-atlete het aan die ASA-kampioenskappe deelgeneem. Drie het top 10-plekke behaal. Drie van ons ster-atlete het aan die SASA-kampioenskappe deelgeneem. Twee behaal top 8-plekke. Mia Wilson is die SA-kampioen in die 400m. Ninke Coetzee, Zia du Toit, Mia Wilson, Kylie Basson, Enya Binneman en Cubin Marthinussen het die wonderlike voorreg gehad om in 2025 aan die PENN Relays in Pennsylvania, VSA, deel te neem. Hulle het ons trots gemaak en dring deur na die internasionale finaal vir die 4 x 100m waar ons 6 de eindig. A heartfelt thank you to Puma for their sponsorship of the gear worn by our team. SWIMMING The Interhouse Gala was held on Friday, 16 January, and showcased excellent participation and team spirit by all four houses. Congratulations to Cillie who emerged as the overall winner of the day. Boland B League The La Rochelle Team delivered strong results in the Boland B League, placing 2 nd overall. The u.16 team won their division, while both the u.14 and u.16 Teams qualified for the Super League swim-off, where they represented the Liané Coetzee placed 2nd in the u.14 individual division, missing first place by only three points. Congratulations to the team on this exceptional improvement. Ons is trots op die volgende Larries se prestasies: Adelmari Barnard het aan die SA vlak 3-kampioenskappe deelgeneem en behaal 2 x Goud in die 100m en 200m borsslag, 1 x Brons in die 50m borsslag. SA vlak 2-kampioenskappe: Zarah van Zyl behaal 4 de plekke in die 50m en 100m vryslag en Anmi Slabbert behaal Goud in die 50m, 100m en 200m rugslag, 200m IM, en 50m vryslag en ’n Silwer in die 200m vryslag. Congratulations to Mignon Burger who completed her first Robben Island Crossing, covering the distance of 7,4km school with pride. 4G Competition

from the island to Blouberg in the cold, open waters of the Atlantic.

BIATHLON The Larrie Biathlon Team, consisting of Lisa van Zyl (u.15), Anmi Slabbert, Kendra Kitching, Mia van Zyl, Petra Rossouw, Sienna Ellis (u.17) and Ariana Sassoli (u.19), represented Boland at the Boland Championships. The team secured the Bronze medal in the high school division. Congratulations to Sienna Ellis, Mia van Zyl and Ariana Sassoli on their selection for the Boland Team that competed at the South African Championships in Oudtshoorn from 21-23 March. LANDLOOP Die getal deelnemers by die landloop het verdubbel en ons Junior Landloopspan vaar uitstekend. Die Junior A-Landloopspan, met Sienna Ellis, Lumari de Beer, Emma de Kock en Lineka Rademeyer wen die spankompetisie. Lumari de Beer en Sienna Ellis was staatmakers en word gekies vir die Boland Landloopspan. Emma de Kock eindig 2de in die Redstone Hill Uitdaging naby Calitzdorp (9 km), terwyl sy ’n 3de plek in die Meiringspoort Uitdaging (9,5 km) behaal het. TENNIS Tennis at La Rochelle continues to show excellent growth, which is truly exciting for the future of the sport at our school. Our social tennis group is also expanding steadily, with a noticeable increase in participation. This growth has sparked greater enthusiasm among the Larries, which is reflected directly in their commitment and attendance at practices. Our First Tennis Team, which participated in the prestigious Groot Vyf Tournament in Nelspruit from 13-16 February, finished 5th overall. They also competed in the CR van der Merwe Tournament, as well as the Cradock Tennis Tour from 14–17 August. The team delivered a solid performance in Cradock, improving on last year’s result by finishing 7th. We also came 2nd in the Hartenbos Tennis Tournament. Our u.15 Team represented La Rochelle at the Stellen bosch Tournament from 26–27 September, where they gained valuable experience and exposure against competitive opposition. Ons tennisspan eindig 3 de by die Hoërskool Hugenote Tennistoernooi. Congratulations to the following learners who were selected for interprovincial teams: Cape Winelands Teams: u.15: Rileigh de Kock and Zikho Hanase (Zikho was also selected to represent the Western Cape Team at the National Tournament, where they won Gold.); u.18: Isobel Kröhn, Christine Kingsley, Tineke Louw and Amelie Pelham. NETBALL Netball at La Rochelle continues to grow from strength

10 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

JAARVERSLAG

to strength. This year, we fielded the most teams per age group, a testament to the passion and commitment of our players. The u.14 age group set a record with participation extending to a U-14H Team! The u.14A Team won all their matches at the Quest for the Best Tournament at Rhenish, where Linne Retief and Eva Petersen were selected for the Best All-Star Team. Die eerste Sigi Burger-netbaltoernooi word deur La Rochelle by Hoër Landbouskool Boland as deel van hulle Oesfees, aangebied. During the March holidays, all the A teams participated in the Waterkloof Tournament, while the u.14 and u.15B Teams participated at the Paarl Gymnasium Tournament. La Rochelle once again had the privilege of hosting the prestigious Rhodes Quality Netball Tournament. From 2-6 April 2025 we welcomed teams from across South Africa to our courts which featured top-class schools’ netball. The u.18 National Tournament: On the first day of the third term, our u.18 Team departed for the DSTV National u.18 Tournament. Representing La Rochelle on a national stage is a tremendous honour, and our players embraced the opportunity with determination and pride. After a tough start and a loss in their opening match, the team regrouped with resilience and fought their way back into strong contention. Facing some of the top schools in the country, they held their nerve, worked tirelessly and secured a superb 3 rd place. This podium finish is a historic first for La Rochelle Netball and we are incredibly proud of this exceptional achievement. The u.14 National Tournament: The u.14 Team departed for their National Tournament. For most of these players, it was their first experience at this level, yet they carried our school’s name with confidence and pride. The standard of competition was exceptionally high, but the team showed courage, teamwork and growth throughout the tournament, ultimately finishing in the 7th place. This is a performance that speaks to their talent and bright future. The year marked a significant moment in our netball history as two teams competed at national level in the same season. This extraordinary milestone reflects the upward trajectory of the sport at our school. Baie geluk aan al die netbalspelers wat die eer ontvang het om vir provinsiale en streekspanne te speel. Die volgende spelers is vir Wes-Kaap Aksienetbalspan gekies: Zu-Marie Barnard, Kalista van der Schyff en Mieke van Zyl. HOKKIE Die 2025-hokkieseisoen was een van toewyding, spanwerk en groei. Elke speler het ’n belangrike rol gespeel in ’n seisoen vol hoogtepunte en prestasies – op én langs die veld. Toernooie en Hoogtepunte Die o.14A- en B-spanne het hul jaar afgeskop by die Parel Vallei-toernooi, waar spelers in tente oornag het. Nuwe vriendskappe is gesmee en hul vaardighede vir die seisoen is geslyp.

Die o.16A- en o.18A-spanne het in Maart aan die SPAR toernooi deelgeneem en waardevolle ervaring opgedoen. Die o.14A-span het hulself verder uitgedaag deur deel te neem aan die Quest for Best, SALT-toernooi en Belgotex Challenge. Tydens die April-vakansie het die o.16A- en B-spanne aan die Fairtree-toernooi by Bloemhof deelgeneem, en die o.16A’s het in Mei by die Hockey Challenge hul spel verder ontwikkel. Die o.18A-span het in April aan die Belgotex-toernooi in Kaapstad deelgeneem en in Julie aan die Cape Town International Festival, waar hulle uitstekende spel en sportmangees getoon het. ’n Hoogtepunt vir die jonger spelers was dat die o.14-span vir die tweede agtereenvolgende jaar genooi is om aan die Rising Cup-toernooi, aangebied deur St Cyprian’s School in Kaapstad, deel te neem – ’n besondere eer en prestasie vir ons jong talent. La Rochelle was weer eens trots om vir die derde agtereenvolgende jaar as gasheer vir die Challengers Cup in Augustus op te tree. Hierdie geleentheid bly ’n belangrike hoogtepunt op die hokkiekalender en bevorder uitstekende sportmangees tussen skole. Congratulations to the following dedicated First Team players on displaying true sportsmanship and achieving their respective milestones: Cara Wilson – 120 caps; Mia Wilson – 100 caps; Aninka Muller – 100 caps; Gretha du Toit – 100 caps and Claire le Roux – 100 caps. Baie geluk aan die volgende Larries met hul Boland verteenwoordiging: o.14C-Streekspan – Kaylene Engelbrecht; o.14B-Streekspan – Emily Geswindt; o.14A-IPT – Zoey Jahftas; o.16C-Streekspan – Savanna Johannes; o.16B-IPT – Tebello Keketsi en Zahra Twigg; o.16A-IPT – Lakeisha Dudley; o.18C-Streekspan – Ilke de Villiers. La Rochelle se hokkie bly van krag tot krag groei – ’n bewys van die leerders se harde werk, deursettingsvermoë en ’n liefde vir die sport. SKAAK Vyf van ons leerders – Lienka de Villiers, Caylah Cupido, Inke Botma, Lara de Waal en Isabella Bandehorst – het aan die eerste 4M-skaaktoernooi deelgeneem en ’n 3de plek behaal. Vier Larries het aan die All Girls’ National Schools’ Festival se skaaktoernooi deelgeneem. Van die 20 wedstryde het hulle nege gewen en twee gelykop gespeel. La Rochelle het 7de van 14 skole geëindig, en ons is ongelooflik trots op elke speler. Lienka de Villiers, Caylah Cupido en Inke Botma is uitgenooi om aan die Wes-Kaapse skaakproewe deel te neem. Hulle het op 26-27 April in Vredenburg die Kaap Wynland-streek verteenwoordig. MUURBAL Dané Meintjes neem in Bloemfontein aan die Junior Ope SA Skoletoernooi deel, asook aan die SA Skoletoernooi in Johannesburg waar sy Boland verteenwoordig. Sy is die

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 11

ANNUAL REPORT

CYCLING Natalie Goosen completed the Attekwas 50km race, securing a 2nd place in the Youth Women Category. Kendra Kitching and Natalie Goosen represented La Rochelle at the Western Cape Interschools Cycling Competition and did extremely well, often finishing in the top 5 in the Youth Women Category. KLUBS EN VERENINGINGS (VERWYS NA DIE PRYSUITDELING BY KULTUUR EN DIE KLUBS- EN VERENIGINGSAFDELING VAN DIE JAARBLAD VIR VOLLEDIGE PRESTASIES.) Die Buitelugklub verken Paarlberg en die Banhoek reservaat.

plaatwenner vir dogters o.16 en is tans 17de in Suid-Afrika. Sy is verkies as kaptein van die o.16A Boland-muurbalspan en het ook die meeste punte vir Boland ingesamel. PERDRY Lizandie van Zyl en Maggie Kritzinger het aan die Nasionale Saalperdkampioenskappe in Bloemfontein deelgeneem. Lizandie is ook lid van die WP-Ruiterkunsspan wat die Interprovinsiale Driegang-kompetisie gewen het. Helena Louw neem deel aan die uithourit-kompetisies by Goudini. Rebecca McCarthy competed in the Graded Dressage and ranked 1st on her horse, Evergreen Foxtrot, and 3 rd on her horse, Capital Rouge. ROBOTICS La Rochelle proudly hosted the second edition of the Paarl Robothon in which 34 teams from across the Western Cape participated. BUITESPORT Onderwaterhokkie: Maggie Kritzinger is gekies vir die Boland o.16A-span. Jaggeweerskiet: Ilke en Lené de Villiers is verkies om WP te verteenwoordig. Jukskei: Timia Williams is gekies om die Kaapse Wynland by die SA Junior Kampioenskappe te verteenwoordig. Ritmiese Gimnastiek: Tydens die Wynland Distrik-kompetisie het Megan en Mia Koch onderskeidelik die algehele 1ste en 2de plekke verower. Hul Open Dance -groep het ook die 1ste plek behaal. By die Wes-Kaap Kampioenskappe behaal hulle ’n 2de plek in die Open Dance -afdeling.

Tradisies

Colour Run

Buitesport

Matrieks - Sonsopkoms

Kendra Kitching & Natalie Goosen

Ilke & Lene de Villiers

Maggie Kritzinger

Megan & Mia

Timia Williams

Mej La Rochelle finaliste

12 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School

JAARVERSLAG

Culture

Interact maak ’n verskil in die gemeenskap met verskeie projekte. Hulle deel, onder andere, paaseiers uit by skole vir Outisme tydens Paasweek. TRADISIES The first Colour Run was held in February and was an incredible day filled with vibrant colours, laughter and endless fun. The event kick-started the build-up to the 4G and was well supported. Me. Mariette Loubser was die spreker by vanjaar se Wêreldbiddag vir Vroue. The annual White Tea is a cherished tradition between the Senior Councils of La Rochelle and Paarl Girls’ High. The Guest Speaker was the erudite Mrs Ivy Oates. In an evening of glamour and splendour, Aninka Muller was crowned Miss La Rochelle, with Rebekha Morey as 1 st Princess and Lee Zaandre Wanza as 2 nd Princess. Miss Photogenic was awarded to Gabrielle Balie and Miss Personality went to Philippa Theron. The matric class of 2025 started a new tradition by gathering as a group to witness the sunrise at the beginning of the year. In the words of our Head Girl, Claire le Roux: “As the sun slowly rises above the mountain in front of you, take a moment to be present. This sunrise is more than a beautiful moment. It’s a symbol of hope, fresh starts and of God’s faithfulness in every season of our lives. We are reminded in Lamentations 3:22-23, that just as the sun rises without fail, so too does God’s love meet us every morning.” The annual Father and Daughter Evening was held at the end of Term 2 with the theme ‘Casino Royale’. All the dads and their daughters bonded well while having loads of fun. La Rochelle se 165ste bestaansjaar het ’n jaar van trots, tradisie en nuwe herinneringe geskep. Hoogtepunte soos die opening van Huis D.C. le Roux, die vernuwing van die Johanna Longland-Leersentrum, die feesnaweek met musiek, koor en reünies, en die herkweek van die Larrie roos, bevestig weer eens die diepgewortelde tradisies en susterskap wat oor 165 jaar by La Rochelle gevestig is, en het ’n hernieude gevoel van verbondenheid en trots by elke Larrie tuisgebring. On 24 October, we celebrated the Thanksgiving Service as a moment to pause and reflect on the meaning of gratitude and connection within our school community. On this occasion, learners were reminded that they matter, that they are valued, and that each of them contributes something unique to La Rochelle. As we entered the festive season, the message which was shared was one of encouragement: every learner carries a special gift to offer the world – a ‘song’ in their heart that only they can sing. This uplifting reminder reflected the spirit of giving thanks and reinforced the importance of recognising one’s worth, celebrating individuality, and appreciating the support of family and friends. KULTUUR Hierdie jaar was die musiekblyspel – A Theatre Adaptation of Beauty and the Beast – ’n asemrowende vertolking van die klassieke verhaal wat die gehoor van begin tot einde

Con Spirito

Debat

Debat

Maggie Kritzinger

Geeskomitee

Orkes

Eisteddfod

Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School | 13

ANNUAL REPORT

betower het. Met pragtige kostuums, indrukwekkende verhoogstelle en ’n talentvolle rolverdeling, het die produksie weer hierdie geliefde sprokie op die planke gebring. Die Larries het met oorgawe gesing, gedans en gespeel, en die samewerking tussen die verhoogspan, musiekregisseurs en danskoördineerders het duidelik in elke toneel deurgeskemer. Dit was ’n ware viering van kreatiwiteit, harde werk en samewerking – en ’n hoogtepunt op die skoolkalender wat nog lank onthou sal word. Debating: The debaters had an excellent year, with 2 Junior and 2 Senior Teams competing in the Boland League. Our Junior A Team progressed to the League Final and finished 2 nd overall. Our Senior A Team competed at the National All Girls’ Festival, and our Junior A and Senior A Teams represented Boland at the Western Cape Schools’ Provincial Debating Championships. The Junior A side progressed to the quarter finals, finishing 6 th overall. A special word of congratulations to Leah Johnson who was selected for and attended Senior trials, and to Zarah van Zyl who was selected as a Junior triallist and placed 3 rd in the province in the individual Top Ten Junior ranking. Ons neem deel aan die ATKV se Uitklopspel Spel kompetisie, waar Janienike Olivier ’n 4 de plek behaal en Livia Lategan die Junior Idiome-afdeling wen. Maggie Kritzinger (graad 10), het hierdie jaar die La Rochelle-vlag hoog gehou toe sy aan die nasionale finaal van die ATKV-Uitklopspel Spelkompetisie deelgeneem het. Die finaal is by Grey Kollege in Bloemfontein aangebied. Maggie het meer as 1 250 uitdagende spelwoorde bemeester en haar met groot vasberadenheid en grasie teen van die land se beste spellers gemeet. Sy het uitstekend presteer en ’n indrukwekkende 12 de plek behaal. Die kamerkonsert het nie net die skool se musikale uitnemendheid bevestig nie, maar ook die Larries se passie vir hul kuns gevier. Ons is trots op elke deelnemer wat hierdie besondere musiekaand moontlik gemaak het. Die koor het ’n luisterryke optrede by die Applous kompetisie gelewer. Hulle het ook vanjaar saam met die Tygerberg Kinderkoor aan die Tapestry of Sound -kompetisie deelgeneem. Hierdie optredes het hul uitsonderlike talent, samewerking en passie vir musiek ten toon gestel en weer eens die skool se sterk musikale reputasie bevestig. Con Spirito, onder die bekwame leiding van mevv. Madri Muller en Elsabé Richter, het geskiedenis in die Endlersaal in Stellenbosch gemaak. Die ensemble is nie net as wenners van hul kategorie aangewys nie, maar ook as die algehele wenners van hierdie jaar se Stellenbosch Universiteit se Nasionale Ensemble-Kompetisie. Hierdie besondere prestasie getuig van hul toewyding, talent en samewerking. La Rochelle is uiters trots op Con Spirito se merkwaardige sukses. Die Dink-of-Sink-Debatskompetisie vind op 23 Mei 2025 plaas. Ons Junior debatspan wen twee van hul drie debatte en Timia Williams (graad 9), word twee keer as Beste Spreker aangewys en Anya van Jaarsveld word ook as Beste Spreker by ’n senior debat aangewys. Dans: Ons dansgroep behaal ’n Goud plus by die Paarl Vallei Eisteddfod en ontvang ook die beker vir die Beste Hip Hop-groep.

Ons Marimbas was deel van die grootste Marimba Guinness Wêreldrekordpoging by die Grand West Casino in Augustus. At La Rochelle, we make a point of enrolling our learners in local (Paarl Valley), provincial (Western Cape Virtual) and national (The National Eisteddfod of South Africa) Eisteddfods to broaden their creative experience and support the idea of a growth mindset. Our learners perform superbly in a myriad of categories, and we are proud to have trophy winners, category winners and exceptional results in all three of these tiers. The year commenced with the Grade 8 Daisy Camp, with all of the new Larries sleeping over in the hostel in order to get to know one another better. They attended lectures, danced, participated in athletics and swimming, forging strong bonds in the process. The camp concluded with the Daisy-Milady Picnic, along with the new Grade 8 parents. The Ignite learners enjoyed their annual seminar at Karmel, Franschhoek, from 20-22 January 2025. Thank you to Mrs Shanje Maree and Sarah and Dewald Scholtz for their leadership and inspiration. Die graad 11’s se kamp, met “Survivor” as tema, vind by Kleinmond plaas. Verskeie spanbou-sessies vind oor twee dae plaas om die groep vir hulle 2026-matriekjaar voor te berei. The Grade 9 Camp was held in the picturesque mountains at Mispah Camp Site. The learners participated in teambuilding activities, went for a hike and got to know one another better. THANK YOU We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every member of staff, learner, parent, alumnus and friend of La Rochelle for your unwavering support, loyalty and passion for our school. Your belief in our mission continues to inspire us to strive for excellence every day. A sincere thank you to former principals, Ms Amanda Lochner and Mrs Johanna Heydenrych (née Longland), for their continued encouragement and involvement in our school community. We are grateful to the Jack Meyer Art Centre and the Frank Petersen Music Centre for their valued partnerships which enrich the artistic and cultural life of our learners. Our appreciation also goes to the WCED officials, Mr Denver Cupido and Mr Noel Petersen, along with their dedicated teams, for their steadfast support throughout the year. To the Governing Body of La Rochelle Girls’ High School: We acknowledge and deeply appreciate the time, expertise and commitment that you, as parents and educators, selflessly offer in service of our school. Executive Committee: Sarel Rossouw (Chairperson); Elsabé Conradie (Principal); Andrew Rielly (Treasurer, Finance Committee); Marli Saunders (Vice-Chairperson, WELLNESS, CAMPS, SEMINARS AND TRAINING SESSIONS

14 | Hoër Meisieskool La Rochelle | Girls’ High School