George matrics celebrate their last exam

Video

GEORGE NEWS AND VIDEO - Matric fever swept through George on Friday 21 November as learners from several schools celebrated the end of their final joint exam.

At George High, excitement spilled into the corridors as the Class of 2025 walked out of the exam room to an honorary guard of applause.

George Herald joined the celebrations and caught up with the Representative Council of Learners (RCL) leaders to ask them about the year behind them and the future ahead.

Dwayne Gelderbloem, chairperson of the RCL, shared some heartfelt advice for next year's matrics, while vice chairperson Devon Bell reflected on a year filled with challenges and growth. Matric learner Crystal Windwaai spoke about the emotional milestone of finishing school and gave a peek into her plans for life beyond the classroom.

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Across town, Glenwood High's matrics marked their final day in true summer spirit. After writing their last paper, they headed straight for the beach and plunged into the ocean still dressed in their full school uniforms. Their laughter echoed across the shoreline as they soaked up the moment and celebrated the end of an era.

Among the jubilant ex-Grade 12's were Amber de Jager, Mia Hugo, Sofia Glynos, Bianca van de Wetering, and Sumari de Villiers, photographed just after returning to the beach, dripping wet but beaming with excitement.
Photo: Supplied

York High once again honoured one of the most meaningful traditions in the district. For many years, the Yorkies have ended their matric journey by leaving their school shoes at the exit of the exam hall. The donated shoes are given to children in the school and wider community who need them most.

In 2021, this tradition expanded into a second-hand uniform store. The learners donate gently used uniforms that are then sold at low cost or offered to families facing financial struggles. Every cent supports York's Pastoral Care systems and assists those Yorkies experiencing hardship.

Kerilyn le Roux and Tyler Kyd making their contribution. Photo: Supplied

The deputy principal and head of Pastoral Care, Lyndsey van Rensburg, says this spirit of service is the heart of York. "It is the York way: kindness, community and ensuring no learner walks alone," she said.

As the Matric Class of 2025 wraps up their final exams, George Herald would love to showcase your learners' celebrations on its online gallery. Send in photos of your matric learners marking the completion of their exams, special moments at school, or any fun end-of-year activities. Selected images will be featured on the paper's website for the community to enjoy. Send your photos, along with the learners' names and a brief description of the event to school@groupeditors.co.za by Tuesday, 2 December.

George High School students, Dwayne Gelderblom, chairperson, and Devon Bell, vice-chairperson of the RCL. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel