Tuesday, 15 September 2026

Masipumalele Primary serves about 1,365 learners and has become a school of choice through sustained improvements in literacy and numeracy, extracurricular success and strong community involvement.

Principal Brenda Simani Pike was recognised for excellence in primary school leadership and is competing nationally after transforming the school during her 15th year as principal.

The school’s choir, sports and chess programmes give learners alternative ways to excel: its 60-member senior choir recently won a local competition, while chess players have reached national level.

A vegetable garden functions as a practical science classroom, supplies the school feeding scheme and sells surplus produce to help sustain the project.

Australian creators Eva Amores and Matt Cosgrove explained how the seven-book Worst Week Ever series uses humour, illustrations and relatable mishaps to encourage reading, optimism and resilience.