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Feb 28
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Observing Ash Wednesday Across the School

By School News

This year our school came together on Ash Wednesday to observe the beginning of Lent through both Mass and liturgy. Our primary school students gathered in the morning for a special Mass in the chapel. It was a powerful experience for our younger students to prayer and receive ashes on their foreheads. The ashes serve as an important reminder to have a repentant heart and reflect on how we can grow closer to God during the Lenten season.

High school students took part in an Ash Wednesday liturgy. The liturgy allowed students to pause and reflect through scripture readings, songs, and the distribution of ashes. Students were able to start their Lenten journey through prayerful contemplation and meaningful symbols of their faith.  Though the primary and high school had different services, it was a coordinated effort across our school to come together and spiritually prepare for the Lenten season. The Mass and liturgy set the tone for an important time of personal growth and renewal in our community. It was a blessing to begin the Lenten season united as a Marist school community.

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Jan 31
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Academic Mass 2024

By School News

Our Academic Mass was a sacred gathering. We came together in prayer and reflection, guided by the theme “Striving for Better Things.” The spiritual atmosphere filled our hearts with gratitude for the past 100 years, dedication to the present, and hope for the future of Sacred Heart College.

Following the Mass, the blessing of the newly revamped Macartin Centre brought an extra layer of divine joy. This updated space, now consecrated, symbolizes our commitment to excellence in academics and community engagement.

Grateful for the presence of our incredible school community, we look forward to the continued journey of growth, knowledge, and faith at Sacred Heart College. The centenary celebrations and blessings mark a meaningful milestone, inspiring us to strive for even better things in the next 100 years.

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Jan 18
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Matric Results 2023

By High School News, School News

Sacred Heart College Celebrates a Century of Educational Excellence with the Class of 2023

Sacred Heart College, a beacon of educational excellence for a century, is thrilled to announce the remarkable achievements of its Class of 2023 in the recent final exams. This milestone year is a testament to the institution’s commitment to nurturing resilient, well-rounded individuals who are prepared for future challenges.

Celebrating Individual Stories of Triumph

Beyond academic accomplishments, Sacred Heart College takes pride in celebrating the unique narratives of each student. These individuals have not only met academic milestones but have also demonstrated exceptional character, diverse talents, and a remarkable ability to navigate challenges with determination and grace.

Every Child, Every Story Matters!

Central to Sacred Heart College’s century-long legacy is our commitment to fostering excellence and unlocking every student’s potential. In 2023, The High school Principal Mr Dhiraj Bharuth had the opportunity to welcome students from Dominican Convent School who transferred into Sacred Heart College’s Grade 12 cohort in January. Though unprecedented for independent schools which rarely accept new students so late in their schooling, this decision aligned with our values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Despite merging two distinct groups only 10 months before exams we were confident in the students’ resilience and saw this as a valuable chance to strengthen unity. As Mr Bharuth reflects, “The diversity of talents and perspectives has created a dynamic and mutually supportive blend. Though there were initial challenges, together the students, parents, and teachers turned bumps into opportunities to build community and forge ahead.” By opening our doors and focusing on the individual child over metrics, Sacred Heart College lived out its enduring commitment to shaping capable, compassionate matriculants. We could not be prouder of how this group embodied our motto “In Meliora Contende” – striving for excellence.

Join Us in Congratulating Our Achievers!

We invite the entire Sacred Heart College community to come together and applaud our students’ hard work, dedication, and resilience. This achievement is a collective success, made possible by the unwavering support of parents, our exceptional teachers’ guidance, and our students’ determination. This achievement is a collective success, made possible by the unwavering support of parents, our exceptional teachers’ guidance, and our students’ determination.

Top Achievers:

  1. Russell John Davis (6 distinctions) – Maths, Dramatic Arts, English, Information Technology, Life Orientation, Further Studies Maths (Statistics, Calculus and Algebra)
  2. Sikelela Monakali (6 distinctions) – Maths, Dramatic Arts, English, IsiZulu, Life Orientation, Life Science
  3. Annarosa Mae Payne (6 distinctions) – Maths, Dramatic Art, English, History, Life Orientation, Visual Arts
  4. Yusayrah Adam (5 distinctions) – Maths, English, Life Orientation, Life Science, Visual Arts
  5. Ayanda Siphosethu Ludonga (5 distinctions) – Maths, Dramatic Art, Business Studies, IsiZulu, Life Orientation
  6. Cassidi Summer Opperman (5 distinctions) – Maths, Dramatic Arts, English, Life Orientation, Life Science
  7. Keynan Naidoo (4 distinctions) – Maths, Geography, Life Orientation, Life Science
  8. Benel Grace Bedi (4 distinctions) – English, Life Orientation, Life Science, Visual Art
  9. Sheena Sielinou Nkamankeng (4 distinctions) – Business Studies, English, Life Orientation, Life Science

What’s Next? A Future of Infinite Possibilities!

As we celebrate this significant achievement, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in our students’ journeys. With unwavering belief in their potential, we are confident that they will continue to uphold the legacy of excellence and make us proud. The future is theirs to shape, filled with infinite possibilities. In the dynamic landscape of education, where Sacred Heart College has stood as a pillar of stability and excellence for a century, our students have navigated challenges and emerged as resilient individuals ready to embrace the ever-evolving world.

As Head of College Ms Heather Blanckensee affirms, “This year’s matric results are not just a celebration of academic achievements but a continuation of a century-long commitment to social justice and fostering the growth of exceptional individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world.”

Congratulations, Class of 2023, on your outstanding achievements and for being an integral part of Sacred Heart College’s rich legacy of educational excellence!

For media inquiries, please contact: Sibusiso Ndlovu at email address sibusiso.ndlovu@sacredheart.co.za 011 081 2200

Aug 30
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Stacey Fru a young novelist!

By School News

We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible talent of Stacey Fru, a young novelist in our school. Her new book, Middleburg East, is a captivating read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Inspired by a creepy experience, Stacey has crafted a story that follows three determined teens who

set out on a mission to find their missing friend. Along the way, they face unexpected challenges and make difficult choices, ultimately becoming clouded by secrets, lies, bickering, betrayal, and regrets.

Middleburg East raises important questions about loyalty and sacrifice. As readers, we are left to ponder: if you had to choose between saving your sister and saving your best friend, who would you choose?

Aug 23
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Tuckshop Tender

By School News, Tenders

Sacred Heart College invites tenders from parties interested in running the school tuck shop.

Previous experience of running a tuck shop within a school environment will be important and of advantage to the applicant.

Sacred Heart College intends to enter into an agreement with a service provider who is to provide the services required. The services rendered will be for the service provider’s own account, taking responsibility for all risks including profit/loss, stock, and cash control.

1. SCOPE

To sell legally permitted, quality, healthy, wholesome foods and refreshments to the Sacred Heart community in an efficient and professional manner.

2. MARKET

i. Students
ii. Staff
iii. Parents
iv. Visitors

3. DURATION OF THE CONTRACT

i. The initial term of the contract will be for the period 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024 (12 months). Sacred Heart College reserves the right to renew or re-advertise for a new service provider.
ii. Either party may cancel the contract at any given time by giving 90 days’ notice in writing to this effect.

4. MONTHLY RENTAL

The rental will be negotiated based on a percentage of turnover and will be payable at the beginning of each month. The rental will be reviewed on an annual basis, taking inflation into account. Any increase will be communicated timeously.

5. OPERATING HOURS

i. Monday to Friday excluding certain periods in the school holidays.
ii. Official school events taking place over weekends or holidays.
iii. Standard operating hours – Monday to Fridays 06h00 – 18h00
iv. Furthermore, tuck shop management and staff must be available to provide catering services for school events and meetings, which might be after hours, if requested.

6. TENDER PROPOSAL

Interested parties are invited to submit a tender proposal, considering the following:

i. The successful tenderer is required to ensure that the tuck shop stocks a range of healthy foods in compliance at least with the following – Halaal, limited processed products, wholewheat options.
ii. All items intended to be sold must meet the approval of Sacred heart College management.
iii. Distribution process – ordering process and distribution to our School Campus.
iv. An electronic daily, weekly, and termly ordering and payment system for staff and students must form part of the service offered.
v. All menu items are to be individually priced for sale (incl VAT).
vi. The tuck shop will not have the sole right to sell food and beverages at the school. Internal fundraising will take place from time to time in consultation with the Service Provider. An example of this would be PTA events and initiatives.
vii. An offering of “extra’s” – providing birthday cakes, selling frozen meals etc would be an added advantage if included. Colourings and flavourings are to be limited since many children have food allergies. to colouring agents and preservatives. Must cater for food allergies.
viii. The preparation and handling of food are to be done according to the Food Safety and Quality Regulations.
ix. The successful applicant is required to staff the tuck shop. Staff shall conduct their business in a courteous manner. Staff must comply with Sacred Heart College’s Child Safeguarding Policy and be available to attend Child Safeguarding training when required.
x. Staff to be remunerated in a fair manner, and in compliance with at least the minimums in terms of the South African Labour laws such as the Basic Conditions of Employment Act.
xi. The successful applicant will give serious consideration to taking into their employ Sacred Heart College’s existing tuck shop staff. Sacred heart college will comply with the necessary transfer obligations, if any.
xii. Sacred Heart College can offer a consistent electricity and water supply.

7. EQUIPMENT

i. Some fixed and electrical equipment is available for use by the successful tenderer but will remain the property of Sacred Heart College. Such equipment must be in place and in full working order upon the conclusion of the contract.
ii. Other equipment required will be at the service provider’s expense.
iii. Any damage that cannot be attributed to normal wear and tear must be paid for by the service provider.
iv. The school shall not be held liable for any loss of stock and equipment.
v. The service provider is to remove all waste (wet or dry) daily. Waste must be appropriately packaged for disposal with the use of proper refuse bags.
vi. We encourage the use of environmentally friendly packaging as well as recycling.

8. THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE TENDER PROPOSAL:

i. Copy of the company registration document.
ii. Copy of the business’s VAT registration document (if any).
iii. Certified copies of owner(s)/directors identity documents.
iv. Copy of the identity documents and Police Clearance certificates for the service provider’s management and support team who will be on site.
v. Please include your staff support organogram in your tender proposal.
vi. Please submit your tax clearance, BBBEE certificate and letters of good standing from the Department of Labour and your bankers.
vii. Please submit proof of having the relevant insurance cover.
viii. References and details of running similar ventures (prior experience in the running of a school tuck shop, catering business or any food services is a prerequisite).
ix. Full contact details of the service provider.
x. A proposed detailed menu of items and/or meals (Halaal) to be sold per day, including both the selling price per item and the portion size. Vegetarian and Vegan alternatives are to be stated. This menu must be adjusted in terms of the requirements of the Sacred Heart community, we recommend that a survey be done.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION

The deadline for the submission of tenders is 30 September at 17h00. These should be emailed to Sibusiso.ndlovu@sacredheart.co.za with the subject line ‘Tuck Shop Tender’.

If you have not heard from the school by 25 October 2023, please regard your application as unsuccessful.

The school reserves the right not to accept any bid and reserves the right to accept the whole or part of the bid or reject all bids and cancel the notice to tender.

Preference will be given to candidates who advance the School’s Employment Equity Plan. Being a member of the Sacred broader community will also be an advantage.

Jul 21
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Theatre Link

By School News

Sacred Heart College students show off their talents in scriptwriting, directing and acting.

Theatre Link is a programme run in collaboration with the Manhattan Theatre Club in New York. Sacred Heart College has been part of this programme for the last 9 years, and we are one of only 3 non-American schools that participate. Until 2021 SHC was the only South African school involved. Several of our students in Grades 7 to 11 participated in the programme that addressed social issues.

This programme allows Grade 11 students to write and direct plays while working alongside actual Broadway actors, scriptwriters and directors. The students also have the chance to exchange plays with different American schools. This means that the writers have a chance to interact with working professionals and schools from different parts of the world.

Students and theatre professionals interact via Zoom during the three-month writing process to question and develop scripts. We also offer American schools connected to us the opportunity to send questions or feedback. Once the final script is passed the production process begins. The performances are also live-streamed to the connecting schools, so we watch an American school perform a play written by SHC students and an American school then watches SHC perform their play.

The schools are not always the same every year and SHC has worked with schools from Washington DC, Texas, Mississippi and Tennessee over the years. This year SHC worked with Woodside High School in Virginia and FURR High School in Texas.

The 2022 Plays:

1st Play: “The Comedy Club” was set against the backdrop of a comedy club and delved into several societal issues such as absent fathers, racism, sexism and nepotism. Holding up such heavy issues in that kind of space allowed it to display how comedy can be used to deal with everyday societal issues.

2nd Play: “The Situation” explored the racism that still exists in our society on a deep level, particularly in inter-racial relationships. The young actors of Sacred Heart College eloquently portrayed the story of two young people from different worlds and realities who are brought together by love despite racial discrimination and family feuds.

3rd Play: “A Sip Too Far’’ illustrated the sexism and harassment experienced by many women in the work environment, especially women of colour who are constantly expected to prove themselves and go the extra mile with an unequal start. It also addressed issues of substance abuse and generational trauma.

Jul 11
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Air Products Shows Support for Aganang Skills Development Training Program

By School News

11 July 2022

Air Products recently sponsored the Sacred Heart College’s Aganang Skills Development Training Program in Observatory, Gauteng. The donation will be utilized towards

upgrading facilities and enabling the training program to offer courses in catering and confectionary.

The program aims to benefit the youth who live in one of the country’s most diverse and fragile communities where severe economic obstacles exist. Aligning to the strategic focus of the corporate social investment (CSI) initiatives, which is focused on the youth and education, Air Products perceived this as an ideal opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the youth.

Located on the borders of Bellevue, Yeoville and Hillbrow, Sacred Heart College established a project called the “Three2Six School Project” in 2008 which provides education to refugee children as they realized there was a desperate need for safe learning spaces for the youth.  The project was founded to heed the Marist call to “look at the world through the eyes of a poor child”.

The areas surrounding the school caters for low-income households, including people who arrive in Johannesburg from different parts of Africa, as well as other provinces within Southern Africa.

The areas mentioned plays an important role in the survival of thousands of displaced South Africans and migrants who arrive in the city. Over time, this area has become home to many households who cannot afford to live in other central locations.

According to Heather Blanckensee, Head of the College, they have received tremendous support for their programmes from the Observatory community, other community groups and their alumni and is confident that they will continue to receive support for their new initiative.

Sacred Heart College is dependent on donor funding for the Aganang Skills Development Training Program, as is the case with the “Three2Six School Project”, and it will provide an opportunity for several unemployed youths to upskill themselves to a level where they would be able to access income generating opportunities.

Blanckensee further mentions: “The goal is to create a space where the skills and resources can be shared with the youth, where they will be provided with coaching and mentorship. We want to establish the Aganang Skills Development Training Program as a platform where the unemployed youth can build up their confidence and skills to successfully integrate into the job market or pursue business opportunities. In the long run, sustainable economic development is what this is about.”

Arthi Govender, Chairperson of Air Products’ CSI Committee comments on the project: “We have seen the magnificent work that Sacred Heart College has done to date with their “Three2Six School Project”

and how they have gone about rendering support for the project. They have not hesitated to make their own facilities available after school hours to accommodate these learners from the surrounding areas and to enable them to also access education. We are fortunate to form this partnership and support the College to the first step towards raising the funds they require for this program. We believe in their goals for this program and the difference it will make to the lives of many young people.”

For more information on Air Products, visit www.airproducts.co.za.

Jun 07
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The Marist Virtual Run 2022

By School News, Sport

On Sunday 5 June we launched our Team Marist 2022 Run/Walk at Sacred Heart College. Families walked or ran the 4kms that St Marcellin Champagnat, Founder of the Marist Brothers teaching order, walked between The Hermitage and La Valla-en-Gier (where his first school was situated) each day. A Zumba class added to the festive mood and had everyone getting in a cardio workout. Everyone enjoyed the day out in the sunshine.

There is still time to enter the Team Marist run. Participants can complete multiple distances of 4kms for their entry should they wish. In addition to the participation fee of R50, participants are invited to make a donation to accompany their entry fee, which will go to their school’s Champagnat Day Fund.

One-fifth of each school’s funds raised will go to either Marist Mercy Care (in the Eastern Cape) or to the Three2Six Programme.

All participants will receive a virtual medal upon completion of their event.

Please enter, using the link, https:// www.entryninja.com/events/77736-team-marist-2022