Meet the matric class of 2029. For many of the grade-8’s, this was the beginning of the final years of their schooling journey, a pivotal time full of possibilities, challenges, and dreams for the future.
Ithiel De Beer, a confident yet slightly anxious 13-year-old, summed up the feelings of many of his peers.
“Entering the final chapter of my schooling is exciting and a little intimidating. It’s a time to meet new people, explore my interests, and take on new challenges.
“I am also feeling nervous, but I think it's probably normal,” he admitted.
Ithiel had a clear vision for his future. “I would like to be an accountant after I complete my education. I love mathematics,” he added with a shy smile, his eyes lighting up at the mention of numbers and calculations.
Not far away, Riley Valentine, another 13-year-old stepping into this new chapter, radiated a mix of enthusiasm and determination.
“I’m so excited about this new chapter,” he shared.
“I’m going in a little nervous, but I’m sure I will be fine. I look forward to the experience and the change of environment. I hope to make new friends and build a good academic record because I want to work with animals one day. I want to be a vet.”
Autumn Riley Webb, a thoughtful and reflective soul, described her emotions about the transition.
“I felt very emotional but very excited. Being in high school is really different from being in primary school,” she said, her voice tinged with nostalgia.
“I miss my friends, but I’m really happy about making new friends.”
Autumn’s future plans, she said, are still taking shape.
“I’m not totally positive about what I want to be when I grow up. I think of different things that I’m interested in doing, like a paediatrician, but I’m not completely sure.”
Her openness to possibilities mirrored the spirit of many young learners still discovering their paths.
13-year-old Jordan Abrahams who one day dreams of becoming a robotic engineer, was filled with so much emotion that his heart was racing on his first day of high school.
Caydon Williams, 13, is just as excited and nervous as his peers, but looks forward to the endless possibilities of working towards his future.
“I really want to be a chief engineer. To venture into this industry, I know I must work hard and working hard means there will be challenges, but I know God willing I will finish my matric year in 2029 and move forward to become a chief engineer just like my pa.”
Logan Meyer said he is excited to have the opportunity to learn new subjects and make new friends.
“I also get to play new sports and be part of the gaming club. My goal in the future is to be an engineer and professional gamer.
