Marching to a bright future
It’s been just over a month since a marching band started at Nerina Primary School in Bonteheuwel, but parents and teachers say they have already seen many positive changes in the pupils who are part of it.
The marching band was started by teacher Rusdia Cloete as a way to instil discipline and offer an extra-mural activity to those children who did not do a sport.
“We do lack discipline at our school. The socio-economic environment the children find themselves in at home at times means that they are left to their own devices. I started the marching band at the beginning of the second term, and with only three weeks of practice, we did an exhibition at our school’s food fair. This was very well received with much praise and enthusiasm from all those there,” Ms Cloete said.
She said she had already noticed some positive spin-offs for the children.
“They have shown behaviour and leadership skills in the past month that I could never have imagined. Every interval I am surrounded by them, as they want to practise every opportunity they get. I really think this is making a huge positive impact on them.”
Parent Aqeelah Abrahams said she too, had seen positive changes in her daughter, Nasreen, 12.
“She is very different now. In the past, she only wanted to be with her friends on the road. Since joining the marching band, she is excited to speak to me about it and to demonstrate every new move they’ve learnt. She is also spending much more time at home now and is focused on her schoolwork. She also listens to me now. I don’t have to nag her. I am very proud of her for making these changes, and I am grateful for the marching band,” Ms Abrahams said.
Another parent, Michelle Hill, said her daughter, McKayla, 9, was “sporty”, and the marching band added more benefits to keeping a healthy mind and body.
“She’s been doing gymnastics, so she is sporty. I also believe that children must do extra-murals. I have seen how McKayla has become more disciplined now. Her priorities are straight, she is eager and committed, and I have even noticed how tidy she’s become now. I would encourage any parent to allow their children to be part of a marching band. They travel beyond our community and will build relationships with children from other communities. It opens up a lot of doors for them,” Ms Hill said.
Ms Cloete said the band, however, struggled to cover its costs, including for uniforms and transport to workshops and competitions. If you can assist, email nerinaprimary@gmail.com or call 021 694 1005.
