Cedar High School of Arts teachers have created a school readiness programme for their Grade 8 pupils.
On Saturday September 17, the pupils enjoyed a prom night at their school hall. Due to Covid-19 lockdowns, most of the pupils were not able to attend a prom at their respective primary schools.
Grade 8 teachers Danii Kempshall and Tashreeqah Salaam were eager to prepare their pupils for their remaining school year by creating this event for them.
Ms Salaam said they try to create a different culture at school which focuses on pupils, their academics and school culture.
“We tried something different. They enjoyed it. We want to keep this group together until they get to matric. This created a domino effect as other grades are interested in doing the same,” she said.
Ms Kempshall said their pupils may not be familiar with formal etiquette and in doing this, “we can help them and teach them some life skills too in a controlled environment.”
In a formal setting they went all out, she said.
“We are laying the foundation with the Grade 8s. By the time they get to matric they will already know the formal environment. We will be able to use it as an incentive. We are also looking to promote positive behaviour,” said Ms Kempshall, a Grade 8 head.
Principal Belinda Groeneveldt said most of them did not have their prom at primary school.
“This mix is important. This makes them more excited, getting together as a group and making it to matric together. They can now form relationships with each other and make friends. We made it to be inclusive as some couldn’t leave their areas at night due to load shedding or crime in the area. Even though it was load shedding, the party still went on,” said Ms Groeneveldt.
Grade 8 pupil who attended the prom, Kyle Esterhuizen said it was important to attend the prom so that he could meet the rest of his grade. “Last year Covid-19 happened and we couldn’t attend our prom. It was so amazing being a part of it. I learned that we need to stick together, to be creative and teamwork will help us in the long run.”
Grade 8 pupils Sergio Cloete and Janaan Abrahams won prom king and prom queen on Saturday. They were delighted to have won as both of them did not expect it. They are excited for the future and look forward to being the matriculants of 2026.