As the school gates opened to a fresh batch of excited Grade 8 students, behind the scenes, there was a meticulous process of planning, co-ordination, and teamwork already in full force. The orientation wasn’t just an event; it was the culmination of weeks, if not months, of preparation aimed at ensuring every new student felt confident and ready to undertake “big school.” Here’s a look at the efforts put in place by the Student Council to ensure a successful introduction to high school.
“Work hard for what you want.” Mario Tladi
The Student Council utilised excellent collaboration with staff to ensure adequate planning for the day. In an interview with Kelly Plunkett, Co-captain of Ignus, she highlighted that teachers entrusted the Student Council with the process of deliberating on effective team-building activities to cement the success of the Orientation period. Plunkett mentioned, “It was liberating to be part of the process and to give our input.”
“Have fun, don’t care too much about what people have to say.” Kelly Plunkett
While presenting excellent teamwork, the Student Council managed to agree on activities that encouraged comfort for the Class of 2029. Rethabile Ramadibane, a member of the Student Council, highlighted the usefulness of the 2024/2025 councillor camp the councillors embarked on, stating, “We took some team-building activities from our camp that helped us grow closer as colleagues, and we concluded that these activities would also be helpful for the Grade 8s.” The success of these activities was highlighted by the inclusive atmosphere displayed on the day.
“Try everything, do what you want.” Masego Selamolela
The logistical co-ordination of the days included the student body coming together as early as December 2024, where they tested each activity themselves to see if it would be a success. Rethabile mentioned that the councillors used materials such as ropes, balls, and pipes to set up the games, which then led to the councillors successfully running each game. The games of the day included activities such as “CIA,” “ice-breakers,” and “the marble game,” where Aqua Co-captain Botjhabela Mokoena stated, “The marble game was a game that required teamwork, communication, and concentration.” Other games included “Warrior, Lion, and Sangoma,” service activities, and “the ball game,” in which the Grade 8s had to co-operate with one another to bring each ball down all the pipes.
These games formed the basis of successful team-building skills among the Class of 2029. It allowed each of them to grow fond of one another while also growing their confidence as individuals. In addition to the technical aspects of the planning process, councillors encouraged Fourways High School’s spirit by introducing the new students to the school anthems, “Ngiyaziqenya (the school song)” and “Fourways Call,” from as early as 08:45 to awaken that drive in both the students and councillors.
While providing the “newbies” with a tour, a sense of excitement was enticed, and a treasure hunt was encouraged during the tour to ease the tension of the Grade 8s. Risuna Mashele, Co-captain of Terra, stated, “We encouraged the Grade 8s to sing war cries throughout both days in order to lighten the mood and so that they felt hyped up.”
“Understand yourself and be authentic, don’t follow the crowds.” Resegofaditwe Boikhanyo
Furthermore, the councillors were faced with minor challenges such as the opposing personalities of learners, with some being introverted while others extroverted. The student body, however, managed to make the Grade 8s more comfortable. Aqua Co-captain Masego Selamolela mentioned how the councillors had small conversations, or in her words, “chit-chats,” with the young ones, asking general questions to ensure they felt safer and also to allow them to get to know each councillor so they would have someone to lean on.
While highlighting the significance of discipline, Resegofaditswe Boikanyo, Ignus Co-captain, when interviewed, highlighted the importance of the “man management” aspect of the day so that councillors understood who they were dealing with. In addition, he mentioned the different approaches in accommodating both sides of the spectrum, whether it was a shy learner, where they were able to watch the learner step out of their comfort zone, or, in contrast, an outgoing learner who was already out of their shell. Resegofaditswe further emphasised, “It was crucial for me to ensure that my teams and the learners understood that we are a team in order to succeed.”
In this way, students felt inspired to actually engage, as they did not feel compelled but rather did so willingly. In the midst of the tough job and demanding tasks of the orientation days, the student body did not fail to acknowledge how exciting it was to watch the learners transition from being secluded in their shells to starting war cries on their own.
The gala was the main highlight of this union of the learners. Councillors mentioned how liberating it was to see the Class of 2029 coming together despite the stress of entering a new school. “Seeing all the Grade 8s cheer together was very heart-warming and exciting,” exclaimed Kelly Plunkett.
In conclusion, it is accurate to say that it was a successful Grade 8 orientation. The orientation days were not just events; they marked pivotal moments that defined the first impression of the Class of 2029. Behind the scenes, the Student Council played an instrumental role in ensuring the success of a welcoming, organised, and unforgettable experience.
Their dedication as leaders and examples is evident in their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure that every learner was accommodated and secure so that they are confident in their high school experience. From planning to leading and engaging in activities with the learners, it is with the collaboration and trust of staff that the councillors were able to set the foundation of comfort as the Grade 8s entered high school. As we reflect on the orientation, let us take a moment to appreciate the efforts of the councillors and their co-operation with staff in order to ensure the success of this day, leaving an everlasting impact on the Class of 2029 and the school community as a whole.
“The spirit of Fourways High School is in good hands with the Class of 2029.” 2024/2025 Student Council