Parkhurst Primary crowned champions of RWS Newspaper Quiz and Spelling Bee

Air fist pumps, cheers, and tears filled the Dulcie September Civic Centre in Athlone when Parkhurst Primary School was crowned the overall winner of the annual Reading and Writing Solutions (RWS) Newspaper Quiz and Spelling Bee Competition.

The event, in partnership with Athlone News and Wholesun Bread, took place on Thursday, September 11, where a total of 20 schools participated.

Pupils, parents, teachers, and community members packed the venue, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement.

Contestants were given just 30 seconds to write each answer in their booklets before a whistle and bell signaled the next question. The competition had three rounds: a spelling test, general knowledge, and a sports quiz, with all questions drawn from Athlone News editions published between Wednesday, August 13, and Wednesday, September 3.

The initiative was started by retired school principal Jeff Paulse. He said: “It’s always good when a plan comes together, an indescribable feeling bringing so many together". 

“We had our best attendance yet, with more than a thousand people. The feedback has been overwhelming - everyone was overjoyed and appreciative. Thank you to all who made this possible.”

The Parkhurst Primary School team from Westridge in Mitchell’s Plain walked away with R500 each and a R20 000 prize for their school, sponsored by Wholesun Bread, and they also received gifts from Gift of the Givers, Waltons Stationery, Literature for Africa, and Cape Flats Audio Visual.

Retired teacher and coach Ivan Coraizin, part of the team’s support structure, said he was emotional and ecstatic.

“I’ve been involved in quizzes for many years - this is the best they’ve ever done. After retiring, to return and help them achieve first place is something I’ll always treasure.”

Parkhurst Primary acting principal Stephan Visser said he was overjoyed.

“We don’t always realise what we have until we see it. Our pupils did fantastic work.”

Teacher Patricia Nel described the moment as nerve-wracking. “I was shivering during the countdown, but our hard work paid off.”

Parkhurst Primary pupil Etana Mboniswa said she felt confident from the start. “I knew we would win from day one. I am honoured to be part of Parkhurst.”

Her classmates Amy Uys and Ajwad Ganief agreed. “All the revising paid off,” said Amy.

Ajwad said, “I’m very proud of my school. Well done to my team, and to all the schools, because we are all winners.”