First day chaos and lifetime memories

By Mishkah Anthony, Mikhaila Crowie
and Sasha Forbes

21 January 2009

After a 6 week summer break, it was back to school, back to reality for learners of the Western Cape. Bush Radio news reporters were sent out to different schools in their communities to find out how educators, parents and learners were feeling about the first day of school.

Bush Radio reporter Mikhaila Crowie attended Denegeur Primary School situated in Strandfontein. She described the atmosphere as quiet at first, but chaotic as time grew closer to 8am. “The amazing thing is that I saw nobody crying and learners were more excited about their first day of school.” said Mikhaila. Mikhaila also spoke to some teachers, who expressed their challenges for the academic year ahead. The most noted challenge was the new curriculum.

Sasha Forbes went to Kenwyn Primary School where she described that mood as being busy and buzzing with enthusiasm. Not long after 8am the school settled for assembly in the school hall, where Principal Eric Right welcomed educators and learners back.



Mishka Anthony was out at Fairview Primary in Grassy Park. According to Principal Aubrey de Wet, things were less chaotic this year except for a few late registrations. The grade 1 who were kitted out in their new school uniforms, seemed ready to tackle the task lying ahead. However the parents were more to reluctant to let go of their children.

We also spoke to educators about the obstacles that may arise during the 2009 school year. The most common challenges that got educators anxious for the year ahead was the lack of discipline, and the huge amount of learners in a single classroom. Educators also urge parents to support them in their children’s development.