Herschel in 2011/2012
The year of 2011:
Preparatory School building expansion: The year of 2011 was started off on a high note with the newly completed buildings at the preparatory school. Mrs Heidmann, the headmistress of Herschel’s preparatory school, commented on the buildings, saying that it will allow teachers from now on to teach in a more cooperative manner. Forming a part of these new renovations is the Ernie Stempel building, described as light and modern in design. This building acts as a meeting place for girls at the preparatory school throughout the course of a school day. Along with the Ernie Stempel building, the new renovations also include two new technology classrooms as well as a renovated pool area.
The Field: Anticipation and excitement decorated the first three quarters of the year 2011, with the project of “The Field” being undertaken to serve as an astro-turf for hockey in winter, as well as two tennis courts for tennis in summer. The official opening of the new astro-turf was on the 24th of October 2011, but before this exciting project was completed, a big raffle took place to act as a fund raiser for the costs of the project. Many parents bought raffle tickets and various prizes were won. After it was completed, “The Field” was a new focal point within the high school and the preparatory school of Herschel. As a frequently used sports facility, it increased and created a new sense of camaraderie among the girls of Herschel. Throughout 2011 much spirit and enthusiasm was witnessed at various matches that took place on the field, including the annual Herschel-Springfield first team match, supported enthusiastically by a large portion of the high school girls.
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| The Herschel Field |
Ilex Tree monuments: Within Herschel’s past lived a large Ilex tree which, like our present day field, was a focal point in school life for the girls and staff at the Herschel High School. It was decided in 2011 that two of the branches would be used and carved into monuments that would be displayed around the school. The first monument was erected at the end of Enrichment week in the third term of 2011, to signify the closing of this week, and is displayed against the wall of an open corridor next to the present day matric lawn and staff room. The second monument followed in the fourth term of 2011 and is displayed in the garden, contributing to its pleasant atmosphere. The excitement for both these monuments began before they were completed, as the girls and staff at Herschel high school were able to witness the two monuments being created, as the carpenters chiselled away at the Ilex tree branches on the school premises, in the atrium.
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| Ilex Tree Monument |
Mr Probyn’s contribution to Herschel in 2011: A significant part of Herschel’s success in the year of 2011 was thanks to Mr Probyn, our headmaster and his supportive, positive and uplifting attitude regarding all spheres of school life at Herschel sport, culture and academics to mention a few. Girls have become fond of his optimistic and encouraging “Just for today” messages in assembly that cease to fail in giving everyone something to think about during the upcoming week. His innovative, creative and fervent attitude and mind set contributed essentially towards projects like the opening of “The Field” and the construction of the two Ilex trees.
The year of 2012:
Herschel turns 90: On the 20th February 2012, Herschel celebrated its 90th birthday. It was established in 1922, and so it was commemorated on the 16th by dressing in 1920’s costumes. Both staff and pupils dressed up for this fun event. On the 17th, the school and Herschel’s precedent pupils gathered at St Saviours for the annual founder’s day service. To end off the celebration, the drama department put together “EAT DREAM DANCE” at the beginning of the 2nd term. 90th birthday. This show consisted of various performances, which showed off the cultural side of Herschel. This included past pupils performances, various dancing styles and singing. | ||||
| Dancers performing at "Eat Dream Dance"
Facilities: A bell was placed outside the school Chapel this year, to mark the beginning of chapel services. WIFI connection has recently been installed in the library, and is now available to all pupils who wish to bring their laptops to school. The students have their own private access codes.
Building: Herschel is planning on building a cafeteria for pupils (and staff) just outside the atrium. We are therefore demolishing the geography classrooms to build this cafeteria. The geography department will be on the upper level.
Mr Probyn – 2012: 2012 will be Mr Bruce Probyn’s last year. Being his 5th year, his dedication to our school was really seen through his actions and innovations. He has continued to support every individual girl here at Herschel, and has managed to attend every sport and cultural event through the years. He has continued to encourage enrichment week’s system which is to interact more than listening to speeches. His idea to change ‘Stepout’ this year was very successful. This 6 day adventure for the grade 10 girls now consists of canoeing, hiking and cycling rather than a four day hike. His influence in this was very successful and will be acknowledged for future ‘Stepouts’.
Announcement of Herschel’s new Headmaster: The Herschel council has announced in May this year that Stuart West will be appointed as the new headmaster of Herschel from 2013. He is currently the college principal of Dainfern College in Gauteng and has previously worked with Mr Probyn. Although there are big shoes to fill, Mr Probyn is confident that he is capable, and we look forward to meeting him at the end of the year.
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