Parkhurst Primary pupils ready for literacy quiz

Parkhurst Primary School’s Grade 7 quiz team is sharpening their skills ahead of a major interschool competition that will test their reading, vocabulary, and general knowledge.

The competition, hosted by Reading and Writing Solutions (RWS), a local non-profit in partnership with Athlone News, launched on Tuesday, August 5, and brings together 21 schools from across the Cape Flats. 

It aims to boost literacy by encouraging pupils to read regularly and stay informed. The event will take place at the Dulcie September Civic Centre in Athlone on Thursday, September 11 at 4.30pm, with the value of the top prize to be revealed closer to the day. Waltons Stationery will sponsor some of the prizes for the event.

“I enjoy practicing for the spelling bee and reading the articles,” said Grade 7 pupil Amy Uys to the Plainsman on Monday, August 25.

Her peer, Scott Abrahams, said he is excited about the opportunity to “meet new people and learn new words.”

Fellow pupil Ajwad Ganief said they are motivated to do well because success could benefit the school.

“We hope to achieve success in the quiz so that we can improve our school’s facilities and add resources to help with learning. Good luck to all the other schools,” he said.

Teacher Patricia Nel said this is the school’s second year participating in the quiz, but this group's first time. She credited retired teacher and principal Ivan Coraizin, for continuing to mentor the pupils. 

“He used to drive the spelling bee competition at the school, and even though he’s retired, he still assists us and motivates the children with his expertise,” she said.

Because Parkhurst Primary is based in Westridge, Mitchell’s Plain, Mr Coraizin, who lives in Athlone, brings the pupils newspapers from his area so they can practice reading and build their general knowledge.

Ms Nel said the team lives by Parkhurst Primary’s motto, 'second to none', excelling both in academics and sport.

“Prize money would mean a lot to us – it could help us buy textbooks and computers. We practice four days a week. We know it’s tough, but we are putting in our best,” she said.

Fellow teacher Zuleiga Achmat said the competition helps pupils grow.

“It enhances teaching and learning, builds confidence, and motivates them to enter more competitions in subjects like maths,” she said.

For teacher Caitlin Tobin, it will be her first time being part of the school’s quiz team. “We’re excited to take part again as a school. This quiz helps our pupils read more news and stay informed. Good luck to all the schools participating,” she said.