40 DAYS (37 actually): On19 August, there were only 37
school days left before study leave in preparation for the
final exams. The Matrics celebrated by dressing up,
sharing pizzas, playing music and dancing on the Sacred
grass!
VALEDICTORY: Possibly the biggest event in any learner's
school career, is ironically the ending of it. The
Valedictory ceremony is the culmination of twelve years
of schooling, a recognition of development and success,
and a final farewell to what for many has become more
than a school, a home. Wynberg's valedictory ceremony
was all this and more. It started, as usual, with the
Matrics in costumes, parading the grounds and relishing
the child-like joy which comes from dressing up. At the
informal assembly, the Matric Memories Committee
screened their moving film which captured five years of
highlights and memories. The second video was a
cleverly designed thank-you video and a good luck video
from teachers. Lauren Gildenhuys' words - that leaving
the school was like leaving a 900-strong family - rang true
with many.
PRIZE-GIVING: At last, the Matrics led into the hall to join
their parents and families already seated in there. Mr
Burrell introduced our guest speaker, Capt. Jane
Trembath, who delivered an entertaining speech. She
challenged us to stand apart from the crowd and be in
charge of our own destinies. During the prestigious
matric prizegiving which honours certificates, subject
prizes and special awards were handed out. Lauren
Gildenhuys' speech captured what it meant to be a part
of the Class of 2013 and the spirit of Wynberg. After this
the leaders handed over their badges to Mrs Harding,
symbolising their handing over the mantle of leadership
to the Class of 2014. Then Mrs Harding reflected on what
had been unique about the Class of 2013, what they had
achieved and her hopes for their futures. Matrics then
made their way to the Sacred Grass and, surrounded
by the staff, looked on as Lauren released a bunch of
gold balloons into the sky, symbolising the Matrics
setting off into the greater world.