Pictured: Pre-primary learners at Pecanwood College completed a South African Flag mural for Heritage Day
September brought opportunities for learning, creativity and connection across ADvTECH schools, as learners explored the natural environment and the diverse cultural heritage that make South Africa unique.
At Maragon Mooikloof, learners welcomed spring on 4 September with a Spring Day and Arbor Day celebration, dressing in bright, nature-inspired colours and taking part in the planting of 22 indigenous False Olive (Buddleja saligna) trees across the school campus.
Pictured above: Maragon Mooikloof learners planting 22 Indigenous trees and showcasing their Arbor Month Spring Day dress-up
Well suited to the local biome, the indigenous trees will provide shade, support biodiversity and contribute to the school’s natural environment. Their planting also forms part of a longer-term plan to establish a natural wind and sand screen between the school and neighbouring properties.
At Pecanwood College, Heritage Day provided another opportunity for learners to explore the connections between people, place, culture and the environment.
Activities encouraged learners to discover South Africa’s diverse traditions and heritage through a range of hands-on experiences. These included creating a South African flag from recycled bottle tops, exploring traditional foods and spices, learning about Ubuntu, creating Ndebele-inspired artwork, and exploring traditional attire and heritage sites.
Pictured: Pre-primary learners at Pecanwood College sorting bottle caps and creating their SA Flag mural.
Learners also celebrated South Africa’s languages, music, dance and wildlife, reflecting the many different elements that contribute to the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Together, these activities demonstrate the value of creating opportunities for young people to learn through experience – whether planting an indigenous tree, exploring a cultural tradition or finding creative ways to reuse materials.
Pictured: Learners at Pecanwood with their Ubuntu poster for Heritage Day
By connecting learners with both natural and cultural heritage, schools can help nurture a deeper appreciation for the places, people and environments they are part of – and encourage a culture of care that extends beyond the classroom.