Not by design, both Revd Rakgadi and I have written often about community in our messages this term. The inspiration has come from our values of love, community, integrity which guide the school in all aspects of strategy, ethos and daily routine. The three values are equally important to us and powerful in harnessing and guiding our school.

Community has been front of mind for me because I have witnessed it in so many moments and events this term. It is only through the strength of community, in the good and bad times, that we have been able to thrive as a community this term.

On Sunday, I attended the South African Schools’ Rowing Championships, where there was a wonderful display of our St Mary’s community. The rowing parents were catering for the event which attracts hundreds of people from around the country over three days – it is a real challenge to provide good food and efficient service with only basic facilities. The rowing girls and their coaches were able to enjoy the rewards of many months of training and careful preparation, when St Mary’s School was announced as the top girls' rowing school of the championships. I was delighted to support the rowing team and observe their courage and perseverance with other members of staff and their school friends who had come to Roodeplaat dam to support.

It was a true display of community and the different layers that it takes to form a happy and successful community.

I congratulate our sports department on a successful summer season. We have enjoyed many sporting events and successes, which have included basketball, swimming, diving, water polo, equestrian, rowing and tennis, which ended with a win at inter-high.

DEANNE KING
HEAD OF SCHOOL