125 years of Holy Cross education in George

GEORGE NEWS - Holy Cross Primary School celebrated its 125th birthday on Tuesday 14 September. When the Holy Cross sisters left Menzingen, Switzerland, they embarked on an incredible journey.

They arrived in Durban on 12 July 1883 - and 12 years later, in 1885, six sisters took charge of a little school in George, St Joseph's Convent, now known as Holy Cross Primary School.

Unfortunately, due to Covid regulations, the school could not congregate for Mass on the Feast Day of the Triumph of the Cross. However, the pandemic did not stop other celebrations from taking place. The festivities began with a treat for every learner. The Foundation Phase children celebrated on the school grounds, in the garden, on the Astro Turf and on the jungle gyms.

The Intermediate and Senior Phase children celebrated on the sport field. All had some fun with their friends in the sunshine, while maintaining social distance. A pre-recorded assembly was held at school.

Prayers were followed by a message from Jane Askew, the principal. The children sang the school song and National Anthem from their classrooms and their beautiful voices could be heard throughout the grounds.

Grade 7 learners with the principal, Jane Askew, at the hoisting of the flag made for the occasion. From left are Sonia Matshaya, Tristan van Zyl, Lelam Mhlakaza, Askew, Lia Fivaz and Lily Lan.

A PowerPoint presentation on the school's history was compiled by the Grade 5 educators. After watching this, learners and educators tested their memories with a Holy Cross History Quiz. Finally, everybody enjoyed taking part in the long-standing tradition of a "Beetle Drive" game.

Once the children had gone home, the staff were treated to champagne and eats to celebrate this huge milestone.

Festivities continued the next day with a touching flag-raising ceremony. A flag especially made for this occasion was raised in the front garden as the Grade 7 learners stood to attention. A new tradition has been established and the learners felt very proud of their "second home of childhood".

May our Lord continue to bestow His blessings upon this school for many years to come. What a beautiful and happy birthday it was!

Traditional treat! A group of Grade 7s enjoy their ice lollies on the field. From left are Rachel Harris, Mika Viljoen, Madison Austen, Helen Reuter and Kelsey Draai.