RBCS Grade 8s welcomed into the big pond

FROM being a big fish in a small pond to becoming a small fish in a big pond, can be a challenging transition, which is why Richards Bay Christian School (RBCS) appointed their matric pupils as tour guides to settle in the Grade 8 newbies.

They were warmly welcomed to their ‘home away from home’ on Thursday, with a bumper packed orientation programme, including an obstacle course, treasure hunt, ‘eat the doughnut’, a war cry march, lip sync battle, grab the flag and an epic bonding session.

Headgirl, Maryke le Roux, recounted an inspirational quote by Andy Rooney: ‘Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you’re climbing it.’

‘As a Grade 8, it may feel like you are at the bottom of the mountain, challenging and intimidating, but with the right people by your side the climbing is so much easier.’

Principal, Bev Chambler, welcomed the Grade 8s on behalf of the teachers and said, ‘We want you to enjoy school and hope you wake up every morning motivated to learn more about God, purpose, life, yourself, and others.’

She urged them to make the most of every opportunity, whether that be in the classroom, leadership portfolios, in arts or on the sports field.

‘Five years go by very fast, so we encourage you to take hold of every good thing that God has prepared for you, and to find your place in the sun and to shine.’

Welcoming the parents, she said they should refrain from ‘advice giving’ – a difficult thing for parents.

‘Work on setting a personal growth goal with your young adult – pursuing a dream, changing a habit, a spiritual discipline – anything you would like to work on right now.’