The small steps of giant leaps 

Thabazimbi – Ruddell’s playful poem came to mind when we visited Thabazimbi Primary to witness the first day of school for many of our little ones on Wednesday 11 January 2023. 

While proud – and perhaps a little nervous and tearful – parents waved their kids goodbye. Some of the kids bravely stepped through the gates of ‘the big school’ while others refused to cross the line without mommy holding their hand.

For all of them, these little steps they took, brought about a giant change to their everyday lives! Platinum Bushvelder spoke to some of Thabazimbi Primary School’s newest additions and were met with broad smiles and sharp pencils. 

Omphile Modise aims to be very diligent. 
“My teacher is teacher Melinda and I am very ready and excited about Grade 1! I’m not scared because soon I will graduate from Grade 7! I have two older sisters and they have already prepared me for Grade 1, and I am going to follow their advice. They told me that I should always listen to the Lord and listen to my teachers, and when my teacher speaks to another teacher, I should keep quiet.” 

Skyler Barnard is excited to start making new friends. 
“I have waited every day of my whole life for Grade 1! I never want to stop going to school! The school is exactly what I thought it would look like! I’m in teacher Kayla’s class and I like her a lot. I’m excited to start making new friends. I think that Grade 1 will last a week or something…”

Today is the day … a really big day … the very first day of school!  A get-yourself-dressed day, a looking-your-best day!  The very first day of school!  
Today is the day … a really big day … the very first day of school!  A brush-your-teeth-quick day, a camera-click day! The very first day of school! 
- Deborah Ruddell

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