The next few weeks begin a time of transition for our students. The Form II girls are thinking about their subject choices and their further studies; the Form IVs are contemplating their final year of schooling and their roles as leaders in the school and the Form Vs are preparing for exit examinations and the world beyond school.

These are all exciting transitions but, for many individuals, such times also result in heightened anxiety and feelings of trepidation. I want to remind parents and our students that there is support available through the house tutors, mentor teachers, subject teachers, and the Open Door department. The deputy heads and I also welcome meetings with parents and individual pupils.

I met with the Form IV group last week to acknowledge the beginning of the application process for leadership positions. It was a good opportunity for us to reflect on leadership and what it means in a school context before they apply for the various leadership positions. There is much material available on the topic of leadership – books, articles, workshops, courses, evaluation tools and assessments – and yet, successful leadership continues to pose a challenge, not only at student level. The Form IV girls will have time in the first week of Term III to participate in a leadership seminar on campus, which aims to further their understanding of their roles as leaders, the expectations of those they lead, and the accompanying responsibility.

On Monday 18 July, the school will celebrate Mandela Day. We shall reflect on the life and leadership of Nelson Mandela, and we will participate in service activities to honour his legacy. This is an opportune time to focus on why Mandela remains a revered global leader and role model. In the words of Archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane, “We are inspired by [Mandela’s] faith in humanity, his trust in Ubuntu and his love for our land and all its people.”

DEANNE KING
HEAD OF SCHOOL