Lettie de Klerk school celebrates top achievers

NIEU-BETHESDA — The community hall in Pienaarsig, Nieu-bethesda was packed to capacity last Thursday when proud parents, friends and community members attended Lettie de Klerk School's annual prizegiving.

Principal Barbara Vaaltyn welcomed the crowd, expressing gratitude towards the community for working in harmony with the school. In her speech, she stressed the fact that the staff of Lettie de Klerk "werk aan die toekoms van Nieu-bethesda."

Guest speaker, Nazley Swiers, an accomplished artist who works at the Bethesda Art Centre and who has recently exhibited his work in London, spoke passionately to the children on how they should never stop believing in themselves.

He said that his talent for drawing and believing that he could achieve great things has given him wonderful opportunities. He expressed gratitude to those who believed in him and gave him the chance to achieve what he has, even growing up in this remote village of Nieubethesda. The rousing applause from the audience made evident how proud this community is of Swiers. The Lettie de Klerk prefects for 2018.

Tanya's dance group performed a moving piece on the effect of addiction to drugs and alcohol on children. Through dance and movement, these talented children showed the joy that can be found through overcoming these obstacles.

The top achievers in each grade were acknowledged with the presentation of beautiful diplomas. Proud moms and grannies ululated with delight when their children received awards. Learner's faces beamed when they received their certificates, acknowledging the hard work that they had put in over the year.

One of the highlights of a ceremony such as this is the 'graduation' of the grade Rs into grade 1. New shoes, smart gowns and academic hats were the order of the day and the cuteness factor kicked in as the Grade Rs underwent their first real rite of passage. Glowing with pride they marched up to receive their certificates and a gift from their proud parents.

Another special moment was when the leaders and prefects for 2018 were announced. Tyron Bosman and Caitlin April were elected to be the Head Boy and Head Girl of Lettie de Klerk, much to the delight of their community.