Hoërskool Bergvlam se eie skoolblad - Die Onderonsie

die

Bergvlam se eie skoolblad

2020

REDAKSIESPAN: 1
Uitvoerende Redaktrise: Mev. Joan van Tonder
Bestuursredaktrise: Mev. Mandy Barnard
Media bestuurder: Bejané du Plessis

Uit die hoof se
kantoor

Met elke Onderonsie raak ek so opgewonde.
Ek weet ʼn pragstuk word weereens aan ons voorgesit.

My dank aan ons personeel en redaksiespan. Elke artikel en
foto getuig van uitstekende joernalistiek. Julle hande werk

weerspieël en beeld elke faset van ons Vlammies ten volle uit
vanaf Januarie, met die aankoms van ons Graad 8 Sparkies,
ons tuis Interhoër byeenkoms tot nou met die COVID-19
pandemie waarmee ons gekonfronteer word.

Aan elke ouer, leerder en ondersteuner van Bergvlam wil ek my opregte dank
uitspreek. Saam vorm ons die hartklop van Bergvlam.

Geniet die Onderonsie en laat die Vlam Brand!
Aan God al die eer!

Deon Visser
SKOOLHOOF

Brief van Juf. Van Tonder

Dear Vlammies
During this LOCKDOWN I have realized that there is always a first time for everything. This edition of the
ONDERONSIE is our first ever online magazine. Let’s all embrace this transition and transformation.
As daar een ding is wat ek in hierdie tyd geleer het is dit dat sukses soos ons dit meet nie noodwendig die beste
manier is nie. As jy jou beste doen, is jy goed genoeg. Die enigste persoon met wie jy jou moet vergelyk, is die
persoon wie jy gister was. Begin na jouself kyk met deernis en waardering. Jy is geskape na God se beeld. Wees lief
vir jouself. As gister vir jou moeilik was, moet jy dit neersit en jou treë vorentoe vasberade en vreesloos stap. Veg
terug en begin weer waar jy is en met wat jy het.
I want to encourage you during this different and challenging time. Remember, life is not about only expecting, hoping
and wishing. It’s about doing, being and becoming. This time taught me to NEVER LOSE HOPE. There are far more
better things ahead than any we left behind. The future can be better and brighter.
Ons is geseënd met alles wat ons nodig het om suksesvol te wees in VLAMMIELAND. Kom ons
werk hard en bly gefokus op ons doelwitte en maak die meeste van elke geleentheid.
When we pay attention to the things for which we are grateful, you soon forget about what you think
you are missing.
Everyday is a gift. Let’s grasp it with both hands. Let’s appreciate our school, friends and most of all
thank God for what we have and may enjoy.
Mag jul elkeen die genadetyd en genadekanse benut en ‘n JUBELJAAR beleef!

Brief van Juf. Barnard

1 Korintiërs 13:13 En nou: geloof, hoop en liefde bly, hierdie drie. En die grootste hiervan is die liefde!
Die Onderonsie is ‘n spieëlbeeld van alles wat Hoërskool Bergvlam vir my verteenwoordig: GELOOF, HOOP en
LIEFDE.

Ek wil graag die volgende bedank vir hulle bydrae ten opsigte van hierdie uitgawe:
Juffrou Joan van Tonder vir haar rol as my mentor.
Juffrou Elmarie Bothma en Juffrou Louise Fullard as proefleser asook die tale onderwysers; Juffrou Simonè van
Graan, Juffrou Riette Nel, Juffrou Marike Strijdom, Juffrou Moniqe van Heerden, Juffrou Anseri Boje, Juffrou Chereze
Blom, Meneer Pieter Pretorius en Meneer Freddie Wells.
Dank aan Dries Venter en Lindy Knowles van O.H. Frewin vir die ontwerp van hierdie uitgawe.
My ongelooflike redaksie-span, joernaliste, fotograwe en mediaspan, julle is regte staatmakers.

And last but not least, Bejané du Plessis, you are worth far more than rubies and pearls.
Tot die volgende ONDERONSIE.
Baie liefde
Mandy Barnard

2

INDEKS 4
National teaching awards Ehlanzeni 2019

Our dear principal has made another full rotation 5
Verjaarsdae
Vlammies verwelkom nuwe personeel

Afskopjol 6 Tips to deal with academic stress: From one
vlammie to another
interhuis 7 Youth mentor training through the eyes of a newbie 23

interdistrik atletiekbyeenkoms 8 sokkies 24
demacon mtb series
tips for taking unique shots Geesvang cowboy styl 25

bloedskenk 9 Geesvang sokkie
Buitelugpiekniek en pretspele
seven study tips to help you pass matric! 10 27
vlammies vier pie-dag, of nee pi-dag!
Spirit week dress-up winners
why participate in extra-curricular activities? 11 My laat interhoër 28
Subject choices
My dirigent-droom vat in ‘n sweepslag vlam! 29
hoe goed ken jy die bk?
tik tok: the good and the bad 12 Interhoër 2020 30

valentyns 13 Geespan oomblikke 31

roses are red 14 Agter die skerms 32
A picture is worth a 1000 words
droom
hearts racing. knees shaking in brand new uniforms 15 negatiewe opmerkings op sosiale media
i call upon my parents to understand my teenage life
sparkie wees 16 how to have a better relationship with your parents 33

graad agts 17 dreamville 35

sparknet 18 vsco girl 101 36
disney fans
graad 8 inhuldiging 19
what does your handwriting say about you 37
vlammie word puzzle
hey, you! pick that up! 20 what is your birthday emoji
need a hairstyle for the matric farewell or just a function? 38
Sparki-toets flaters
something life would be meaningless without 21 wenke van ‘n matriek
what if the cure for cancer is lying in your hands
Waardes a tribute to kegan fensham 39
the 1st day of school from a matriculants point of view
Consider talking to the matrics 22

Media bestuurder
Redaktrise
FotograFIe
Bemarking
Borge

Bejanè du Plessis Erize de Lange Annie Britz Chanté Gordon Rochelle Harmse

2020 REDAKSIESPAN

REDAKSIE:

Alisia Reddy Ané Braun Dirk Hurter Jacques Klopper Joshua Knoesen
Lebogang Mokoena Lehlogonolo Mamogobo Lunga Nkosi Malise de Villiers Maryke Pienaar
Micola Geldenhuys Milde Cronjé Mintirho Mashaba Nina van Heerden Rachel van Vuuren
Riaan Holtzhausen Sariette Kuperus Shakti Daly Vanessa Ntlemo Velynne Hattingh
Wenzile Mncina Zelika van Wyk

Can you solve the riddle? - Lehlogonolo Mamogobo 3

1. What do you find at the end of the line?
2. Math teacher: I have two apples, one in my hand and the other on my lap but they don’t keep the

doctor away and cannot be eaten, what kind of apples do I have?
3. I call the trees my home yet I never go inside and if I ever fall from a tree I’ll be surely dead. What am I?

NATIONAL TEACHING AWARDS EHLANZENI 2019
- Shakti Daly

Our very own Juffrou Fullard had a very successful year in 2019. Described as a “national
agent of change” by the district Director, she really did start a change in how we learn when she
implemented her 4IR initiative. She is a brilliant woman, which is definitely why she won First
Place in the ICT Enhanced Technology category.

Name of candidate: Louise Fullard

Category: Excellence in Technology – Enhanced, Teaching and Learning

Province: Mpumalanga

Name of school: Hoërskool Bergvlam

1. What, or who, motivated you to apply for the ICT award?

I was nominated in 2015 by the school for the National Teaching Awards of the Department of Education. Three
years later, I was awarded a 3rd position nationally for the category Excellence in Secondary School Teaching
(High School Teaching). As a result of my presentations and teaching at national level, the Department of
Education nominated me last year for the category Excellence in ICT enhanced Teaching and Learning. The
confidence that was shown in me and the unconditional support of my District, Province, mentors, family,
friends and colleagues, encouraged me to pursue the challenge and to prepare for the NTA.

2. What went through your mind when you were announced the winner of the award?

Wow, thank you Lord! I felt extremely grateful for the honour. My family, friends, supporters, my learners,
district and provincial officials and everyone who made the moment possible, went through my mind. I was
so aware of the fact that I wouldn’t have been there if not for each one’s contribution.
As I walked down the aisle to the stage, my heart filled with joy and praises to God Almighty, thanking Him for
the indescribably enriched five-year journey. As I walked up the steps to the stage, I contemplated, whether
I would do my famous dance or not since everything was so formal and prestigious. Then, when I reached
the top of the steps, I stood still, looked at the minister of Education, Mrs. Angie Motshega, and performed
my famous dance move. I then continued to walk across the stage to receive my award from the minister
and as I approached her, she opened her arms for a hug, asking, “What was that?” while she hugged me, I
whispered to her that I did it for my supporters. I had always wanted to shake the minister’s hand and so this
was my moment to thank her for the incredible privilege and honour to meet her as well as being fortunate to
be seated at her table.
Yes, I felt proud, honoured and blessed but at the same time humbled to know that it was by God’s grace
alone.

3. When you first started your teaching career, did you ever imagine that you’d become number one
in the country?

Definitely not. I started my teaching career 25 years ago and didn’t even think for a moment that I would
be part of such an event. I have always been passionate and driven in every quest that I have pursued
in my career in order to be better at what I do. Throughout my teaching
career I have worked hard, walked the extra mile, been driven to think out
of the box, and have been innovative and unconventional in my teaching
approach and methodology to include all. This has excited and inspired
me, and in time, I realised I wanted to be a change agent who is destined to
impact education as a whole, in order to change perceptions and lives for the
better. Therefore, I am extremely grateful to those leaders in my teaching
career, who recognised and empowered me, by showing appreciation and
confidence in me. Because of them, I was given the opportunity to excel to
greater levels of excellence and eventually receive this award.

I will close with one of my mentors, Prof. Mdhluli’s quotes: “Draw your mark,
make an impact and leave a legacy!”

We are proud of you, Mrs Fullard, and we hope your journey in teaching will
carry on being nothing but a success.

4

Our dear principal has made VERJAARSDAE

another full rotation around Mnr. Jacques KrUger

the sun and that is for sure. 16 Januarie
Wishing a fabulous
- Lebogang Mokoena birthday to a wonderful
teacher, friend,father,
On 16 January 2020 we celebrated Mr Visser’s second birthday at husband, son and
Hoërskool Bergvlam in style. colleague. May
happiness be your best
It is often said that the most important meal of the day is breakfast. friend and accompany
We made sure that our dearest principal was fed and ready for the you until the end of time.
festivities of the day. When I say in style, I mean it... Mr Visser
cruised through Mbombela in a GLE63s black Mercedes, later Mnr. Org van den Berg
accompanied by a white BMW. The SEs and the Vlammies from
each class gathered to wish him a happy birthday with helium 5 Maart
balloons and gifts. You have been such an
inspirational teacher. As you
We know we will never see him in party mode, but he is a one-of- celebrate this wonderful day, it’s
a-kind principal. He has taken our school up a notch through his our prayer that God will open
leadership and unwavering dedication. We want you to know that the gates of heaven and shower
we have noticed and we appreciate you. upon you unlimited blessings.
Wishing you the greatest of
birthdays until the end of time.

Mnr. Deon Visser

14 Januarie

Philosopher Socrates once said – “Under the guidance of
a strong general, there will never be weak soldiers”.

For us, you’re that strong leader who made us capable
subordinates. You are an example of determination and
courage for everyone. Always be healthy and cheerful.
Happy birthday, Sir.

VLAMMIES VERWELKOM NUWE PERSONEEL

NUWE PERSONEEL:

Monique van Heerden – Eng Home Language
Gr 9 & 10

“You’re never fully dressed without a smile.”

STUDENTE: Tristan Hurter - Student
“Take the risk or lose the chance.”
Cameron Pullen
Zèanri Grobler – Student
“My dag is altyd gemaak as ek iemand anders kon

maak lag!”

Charnè Oosthuizen, Deon Visser en Anseri Boje - Afrikaanse
Rehta Coetzee
“Jy kan enige tyd, enige iets by enigeen leer, solank jy

leerbaar is.” 5

AFSKOPJOL

6

INTERHUIS
- Rochelle Harmse

As jou stem nie weggeskree is of spiere styf is
na die Interhuis nie, was jy nie daar nie.

Red and blue colours spread the field to break
some records once again.

Die Vlammies het ons vanjaar beïndruk met
uitstekende opkomste, krete wat oor die velde
gestrek het en atlete wat ons harte laat brand
het met trots.

The red and blue teams fought it out on the
pavilion and the field, determining who will
take the trophies home this year.

Die rooi span het trots weggestap met beide
die sport- en geesbeker.

INTERHUIS REKORDS

Girls 17 Shotput,”MARITZ, CHINé”,Blue,11.32,11.22,” 7
Vorige rekord: (IHUI2019: M.- COETZEE , BLOU , 1995, )”
Boys 14 100m Hurdles,”MASHELE, KURHULA”,Blue,18.59,19.05,”
Vorige rekord: (IHUI2019: W.- KRUGER, BLOU, 2017, )”
Boys 19 LongJump,”REHMAN, KEMAL”,Blue,6.53,6.39,”
Vorige rekord: (IHUI2019: B.- D CLERCK , BLOU , 1992, )”
Boys 19 LongJump,”MAPHANGA, NJABULO”,Blue,6.77,6.39,”
Vorige rekord: (IHUI2019: B.- D CLERCK , BLOU , 1992, )”
Boys 19 TripleJump,”SIGUDU, SIHLE”,Red,13.31,12.72,”
Vorige rekord: (IHUI2019: C.- V D WESTHUIZEN , ROOI , 1994, “

Interdistrik
Atletiekbyeenkoms

- Riaan Holtzhausen Demacon MTB series #1 Casterbridge

Die leeders van verskillende skole het Vrydag, Christo van der Walt behaal 3de plek in die 25km en
28 Februarie, by Hoërskool Bergvlam aan die Bendré Kuperus ‘n 6de plek in die 25km.
Interdistrik atletiekbyeenskoms in die reën,
deelgeneem. Almal was sopnat, maar hardloop Hoe goed ken jy die BK? antwoorde
het hulle gehardloop.
Dwars: 1 Sumari, 4 Discombobulated, 7 February, 8 Maryke, 9 Italië
Hoërskool Barberton, Hoërskool Nelspruit, Af: 2 Culture, 3 Zandalee, 5 Bijzet, 6 Refiloe, 10 Hulk, 11 Laeveld, 12
Hoërskool Bergvlam, Lowveld High School, Samu
Penryn en Curro (net om ’n paar te noem) het aan
hiertoe byeenkoms deelgeneem. Tips for taking
unique shots
Dit was baie lekker om die glimlagte op die
leerders se gesigte te sien soos hulle hul items
voltooi het. Ek wil die res van die skool uitdaag
om aan te hou oefen vir volgende jaar sodat
meer van ons atlete kwalifiseer. Vlammies se
leerders wat daar was het met ‘n groot “who-
ha” klaargemaak en ek wens elkeen kon dit self
beleef.

#1. Use gridlines to balance your shot - Alisia Reddy

#2. Set your camera’s focus

#3. Capture small detail

#4. Embrace negative space

#5. Find different perspectives

#6. Play with reflections

#7. Use leading lines

#8. Use natural light

#9. Play around with colour blocking

#10.8 Create abstracts

BLOEDSKENK

- Lehlogonolo Mamogobo

Het jy geweet dat slegs 1% van Suid Afrikaners bloed skenk? Dit
beteken dat slegs 567 200 van ons bevolking van 56 720 000 in
Suid-Afrika aktiewe bloedskenkers is.
Our school prides itself by hosting blood drives about once every
three months, just like the one hosted on Wednesday the 29th
of January 2020. We kicked off the year on a good note and it
was highly successful with willing Vlammies donating blood. You
might be asking yourself what the importance of donating blood
is? Well, here are a few reasons:
• The simplest reason is that you get to be a hero by saving

lives of people in need of blood transfusions.
• One unit of your blood (about 480ml) can save up to 3 lives!
• Knowing that you have made a difference out there in the

world, even though it is a stranger’s, is the best reward.
In order to donate blood, you should meet the following
requirements:
• You need to be 16 years old or older.
• You have to weigh 50kg or more.
• You have to make sure that you eat breakfast on the day you

donate blood!
So, now that you know you could be a potential hero, make sure
to look out for the blood drives hosted at school. Become a regular
donor and save some lives!

9

Seven study tips to help you pass matric!

- Shakti Daly

This one is for the class of 2020, 4. Be confident about the work you know well and
from a member of the class of 2020. spend more time on the work you find more
It’s a new decade, our high school difficult.
career is almost over, and a new
chapter lies ahead. 5. Repeat, repeat, repeat. Repetition is a helpful tool
Key word: almost. Getting through to retaining information, so go through your work
this year is going to take some more than once.
serious blood, sweat and tears, but
we will definitely get there. 6. Get enough sleep! Going to bed at 22:00, knowing
what you have studied and not cramming what
Here are seven pieces of advice to hold onto as you haven’t, is better than going to bed at 02:00
prelims and final exams approach: and forgetting everything you’ve “learnt” by the
time you wake up. Try to get a minimum of seven
1. Organise all your study material beforehand. This hours of sleep so that you are properly rested and
will help save time and allow you to start studying ready for your exam.
as soon as possible.
7. Lastly, be positive! You can only do as well as you
2. Keep study sessions short and sweet, but also believe you can; believing in yourself is your key
effective. Our brains can only concentrate fully for to success.
a certain amount of time before needing a break.
Good luck
3. Teach your friends. The only way to truly know if Mx’20!
you understand the work is when you are able to
teach it to someone else. But don’t confuse your
perhaps-already-confused friends; teach it to
someone who knows a little about the subject.

Vlammies vier Pie-dag, of nee PI-DAG!

Pi Day is celebrated on March 14th (3/14) around the world. Pi (Greek letter “π”) is the symbol used in Mathematics to
represent a constant — the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter — which is approximately 3.14159.
Pi Day is an annual opportunity for math enthusiasts to recite the infinite digits of Pi, talk to their friends about Math, and
to eat pie.
Dit is ook presies wat Hoërskool Bergvlam se wiskunde onderwysers en -leerders op Vrydag, 13 Maart gedoen het.

10

Why Participate in
Extra-curricular Activities?

- Mintirho Mashaba

Here at Hoërskool Bergvlam, when it comes to participation in after school activities, there are
always those students that choose to not partake in anything. This, I have found, is an issue because
the learners that usually do nothing, are the ones that actually have talent in a specific activity. So here’s the question
we all sometimes ask ourselves: What do I benefit from participating in after-school activities?

Reason #1. Activities such as sport, enhances your body’s ability to transport oxygen to the lungs, heart and

brain. This means that not only will your cardiovascular system get the work out required, but that you will be able to
think more clearly after exercise as more oxygen is transported to the brain.

Reason #2. Participating in various activities gives you the platform to create new friendships with other people in

your school. It allows you to find yourself and improves your mood daily. Your social skills will therefore be developed
and you will find it easier to talk to people in the future. This is a skill that you might need when starting your career.

Reason #3. When you’re not at home so much, your parents can’t give you that many chores. Trust me, it works!

You get home everyday after four, and before they can tell you to wash the car or clean the kitchen, they see the
exhaustion on your face. If you’re lucky, they might even ask you what YOU need.

Reason #4. For matrics, it is actually vital to do something in your school. Why, you ask? When universities look

at your application, you don’t want it to look like any other regular Joe. There are thousands of students that enrol at
varsities every year in SA, and it is possible that there are a lot of them that have the same results as you. So what
makes you stand out? What more can you offer them?

Reason #5.. I don’t know about you, but when I feel like I am a part of something bigger than myself, part of a

group of kids that share the same goal with me, I feel special. Being part of a team is a wonderful experience. These
people become your family, and even if you don’t talk everyday, the shared memories will always connect you in
years to come. Feeling special is something everybody needs from time to time to boost self-confidence.
So the next time you decide to do nothing, I hope you remember that the school offers these activities to create an
environment with happy and healthy Vlammies.

SUBJECT CHOICES
- Jacques Klopper

High school is an exciting and valuable time for discovering your interests, passions and aspirations.
You may find yourself pulled in many different directions during this time, and it can be hard to decide
what to focus on, especially when it comes to your class schedule.
In grade 9 you will learn about the different subjects that will fit your distinct personality. During the
course of your grade 9 year, you will be making a lot of essential decisions that will affect the rest of
your high school career. You will also be writing an aptitude test that will help you see where your
strengths and weaknesses lie, and then, finally, at the end of the year, you will be faced with the
inconceivable task of having to choose your subject.
I conducted some interviews with the grade 10 learners of Bergvlam and here are their thoughts about their new
subjects:
“I absolutely love my subjects that I have chosen. I enjoy the subjects that are interesting. My subjects have motivated
me to work much harder. I realised that the subjects I have chosen are more challenging that I had anticipated, but it
forces me to set my goals higher than before” ~Taniel Leverington.

“I am very fond of my new subjects. I didn’t have much say when deciding which ones to take, but I am still very happy
with my subjects. The teachers are all amazing at making the lesson interesting. I enjoy not having to study those
subjects I hated in grade 8 and 9 and now I can finally do well in the subjects I like. Though we have fewer subjects,
the workload increased exponentially from grade 8 and 9 and the work is also a lot harder.” ~Anonymous

Choosing subjects is very important to determine your success at school and even your success in your future career.
Here are a few tips to help you make the right decision:

• Choose subjects you enjoy.

• Choose subjects that offer a challenge.

• Make a list of all the subjects you want to take, and narrow it down.

• Finally, consult your parents, and get their insight. 11

Hoe goed ken jy die BK?
- Sariette Kuperus

AF 11
2 Of which portfolio is Minthiro the chairperson?
3 Wie was in Laerskool Goedehoop? 86
5 Spel Christiaan se van
6 Whose birthday was the first one this year?
10 Who’s Bonga’s favourite cartoon character?
11 In watter laerskool was Braam?
12 Whose birthday party will be the last one of the year?

Dwars 2 3
1 Wie is die beste langafstand atleet?
4 What is Buhle’s favourite word? 1
7 In which month was Lebo born?
8 Wat is die naam van die sekretaresse van die BK?

9 Watter land sal Erize graag wil besoek?

12

5

4

10
7

9
Answers on Pg 43

Tik Tok: the Good and the Bad
- Nina van Heerden.

Tik Tok. There is no teen alive that wouldn’t look up in interest when they hear that name.
Many people have to come to question its safety due to dangerous trends associated with this app.

Tik Tok has many benefits and one of them is that it is a great place to learn new skills, such as dancing, acting and
exercise. Another good benefit is that it is a great source of entertainment as well as a place to find inspiration and
creativity. Self-expression, positive and negative, also plays a part in the Tik Tok world.

The down-side of this app, like many of its social-media counterparts, is that many people get addicted to it as well
as depressed by lack of likes or positive comments. Negative and dangerous
content is also one of the main problems with this, and many other, social-
media platforms. Bullying and peer pressure have become much more prevalent
because of it.

It’is all about self-control and common sense.

You decide how much, how long and what you watch as well
as how you react to it.

You are responsible for your own actions.

12

Valentyns

- Zelika van Wyk

Die jaar het begin
en die ouers kla die geld is min-

al waarvoor die kinders wag
is vir die sokkie om te begin.
Vir die graad 9’s was dit ‘n eerste keer
en na die aand was die voete maar seer.
Die musiek is maar bietjie goor,
want dis nie wat ons wou hoor,

maar versoek ‘n liedjie
en langarm dan ‘n bietjie.
Die aand is gou-gou verby
en die ligte van die karre kom ingery,

dis tyd om te gly.
Dankie vir die sokkie, -
sien jul Februarie in jou mooi rokkie…

13

ROSES ARE RED

- Wenzile Mcina

Leap Years are interesting for a number of reasons, but mostly
because we get a whole extra day every four years. That’s because
a standard calendar year is 365 days, but Earth technically takes 365
days, 5 hours, 48 minutes, and 46 seconds to navigate completely
around the sun. To keep the calendar year synchronized with the
seasons, an extra day is added every four years, so everything
adds up.
Around the world, many superstitions, traditions and celebrations
surround Leap Day on 29 February.
A common tradition in many countries was for a woman to propose
or ask out a man on Leap Day, whereas the conservative way would
have been for it to be the other way around.
These days, though, anyone is free to ask anyone out of course.
We thank Mrs C. Blom for her idea of coloured bows to showcase
our relationship status:

Pink for complications
Purple for you are cute
Red for I simply love you

14

DROOM ‘n plek gehad het, ‘n duidelike identiteit. Al die stalletjies en al die
- Nina van Heerden Vlammies was net die laaste hupstoot wat ek nodig gehad het.

In Graad 7 was die vraag op almal se lippe: “Na I chose Bergvlam because of the homely feeling it gave me. The
watter Hoërskool toe gaan jy?” Baie van ons was feeling that I belonged. I don’t think I’ll ever regret my decision!
100% seker oor watter Hoërskool die regte keuse
vir ons sou wees.

I on the other hand, was unsure of where I was
heading. Most of my friends were set on other
schools, but I didn’t want to pick a school because
all my friends were going there. The whole point of
High school, in my opinion, is to meet new people
and start afresh.

Ek was onseker… maar toe kom die Opedag. Die
oorweldigende gevoel van samehorigheid het my
onsekerheid weggevat. Ek kon sien dat almal hier

H earts racing .

Knees shaking in brand new uniforms

- Nina van Heerden

Hearts racing. Knees shaking in brand new uniforms. The hall, big and intimidating in front of us. Excitement was in
the air… The grade 8s began this year wondering how the “big school” was going to be. For the record, High School
Musical is a lie!

We were quite shocked and frankly a bit frightened by our SEs whose volume buttons seemed stuck on 83. We were
at the bottom of the food chain and we had to work our way up with hard work, respect, a concert and a test. We were
taught that this school is a place of acceptance and respect, a place where no one was judged for who they are, but
respected for it.

We learned that integrity should show in your work, respect should be clear in your attitude and you should take
responsibility for your actions. You should earn the right to wear your school uniform with pride and that you should
always remember, you are nothing without UBUNTU.

Now, after a month of being Sparkis, we are Vlammies and all of us have expressed our excitement about this. We will
carry this school’s name with pride and pass the flame on to the Vlammies still to come.

As U wil en ek leef.

15

SPARKIE WEES
- Milde Cronje

Nou ja, wat presies beteken dit om as ‘n nuwe “Sparkie” by Vlammieland in te stap?

Wel, laat hierdie Sparkie vir julle probeer verduidelik.

Op 14 Januarie 2020 het ek as nuwe Sparkie met my Vlammiedrag, gewapen met
my tas, by die hekke van Hoërskool Bergvlam ingestap. Mag ek byvoeg - dit was nou
nadat my ma oordadig foto’s geneem het.

As ek nou moet eerlik wees, hierdie Sparkie se hart het ‘n duisend maal per uur
geklop, of dit nou van pure opgewondenheid of vrees was, sal ek self nie kan sê nie.

So ontmoet ons toe die BK’s, vir die eerste week moes ons maar ons ore spits om te
weet presies watter BK met ons gesels, want hulle in die oë kyk ... dit kon ons glad
nie!

Ons is op ‘n toer deur die skool geneem en daar is aan ons Sparkie bundels uitgedeel.

Dit is soort van die Bybel van Sparkie-wees, geen Sparkie kon kla dat ons nie presies
geweet het wat daar van ons verwag word nie, want hierdie bundel was propvol
inligting van hoe om die beste Sparkie te wees.

En sommer gou het ons, ons mede-sparkies ontmoet en daar is vining nuwe
vriendskappe gesmee, wat ek glo ‘n leeftyd gaan hou.

Iets wat reeds op dag een al ‘n groot indruk op ons gemaak het, maar ons broeke laat
bewe het, was Edelagbare Jason wat ons sommer gou op ons plek gesit het!

Van ongemanierde Sparkies wou hy niks weet nie!

Ek was die bangste vir hom, maar op die ou einde was hy die vriendelikste en kon
elke nuweling iets by hom leer.

Ek is skaars ‘n week in Hoërskool Bergvlam, maar my hart is alreeds potblou en klop
saam die ritme van ons skoollied.

Daar is ‘n vuur hier binne my en dit brand, ja dit brand!

Dit brand vir ‘n skool soos Hoërskool Bergvlam.

16

Graad Agts
- Annie Britz

So begin die aand op ‘n hoë noot met die ouerbraai wat tot agtuur geduur het.
Daarna het die pret begin waarop elke graad agt leerder hulself voorberei het.
Met hope energie het ons na die veld beweeg waar Juffrou Erasmus die graad agt seuns
geleer het om die hekkies op te stel, terwyl die meisies hard aan die hol was op die
netbalbaan.
Die Bk’s het daarna saam met hulle afbeweeg veld toe waar elke Sparki aan sport
deelgeneem en hulle talente gewys het. Langs die pad was daar ‘n paar wat aan die slaap
geraak het, maar daarvoor het die BK voorsiening gemaak en hulle met watergewere nat
gespuit, wat ook ‘n lekker afkoel-sessie was.
Teen eenuur se kant het ons saal toe beweeg waar Juffrou Immelman die graad 8’s vertel
het van die groentjiekonsert waarna hulle dadelik begin oefen het. Teen drieuur was almal
se energie op hul laaste. Toe het hulle met die “Sparki run” begin, waar die BK hul groepe
na die onderskeie stasies vergesel het om aan aktiwiteite deel te neem. Om sesuur was
ons almal klaar en doodmoeg, veral die BK wat hier en daar nog ‘n “powernap” probeer
vang het.
Na so opwindende en pretvolle aand, kan ek beslis met sekerheid sê dat geen Sparki ooit
hierdie aand sal vergeet nie.

17

SPARKNET
- Shakti Daly

The grade 8s brought their A-Games with
their well-prepared performances.
Based on a family watching TV, each class
was assigned a different channel that a family
member would want to watch. The show
started with 8C introducing the family through
a dance.
Going through the different channels, each
class gave a unique and fun twist on how
they interpreted the channel. The channels
included: Zumba Dance (8D), Trace Music
(8E), Rugby (8A), Boer Soek ‘n Vrou (8B), the
News and Weather channel (8F).
After the 8Fs performed the closing scene
and the play finished, all of the Sparkis went
back on stage and sang the school anthem.
The SEs also had a surprise performance in
which they entertained the parents by dancing
to the song Ndihamba Nawe.
The concert is an event that parents and
their children will certainly not forget anytime
soon.

18

GRAAD 8
INHULDIGING

- Sariette Kuperus

Ek is ‘n nuwe graad 8 leerling by Hoërskool
Bergvlam. Vir my was een van die
opwindendste ervarings in die afgelope tyd
om die klok te lui. Dit is een van Bergvlam
se tradisies waartydens die graad 8’s, nuwe
leerlinge en ook die nuwe onderwysers
ingehuldig word.
Voor die inhuldiging was ek maar net ‘n
Sparkie, maar nadat ek daardie helder
klank van die klok in my ore hoor lui het,
het ek geweet dat iets nou anders is. Die
BK’s het elkeen wat die klok gelui het by
Vlammieland verwelkom … die keer as
mede-Vlammies.
Graag bedank ek Juffrou Erasmus wat
ons só goed gelei, ondersteun en touwys
gemaak het. Ek wil ook baie dankie sê
vir ons BK’s, onder leiding van Lebo,
Bonga (presidente), Erize en Braam
(visie-presidente), wat ons die volgende
Vlammiewaardes geleer het: INTEGRITEIT,
RESPEK, VERANTWOORDELIKHEID,
TROTS en UBUNTU. Dankie Meneer
Visser vir hierdie wonderlike ervaring en
elke tradisie, klein of groot.
My stem kan nou met trots in die gange
weerklink, want ek is nou ’n trotse Vlammie-
kind!

It is an honour to welcome our new generation and we are sure that they too will live
out our values, traditions and motto: ‘’As U wil en ek leef. ‘’ - Alisia Reddy

19

1

2

Vlammie Word Puzzle 3

Across 4
4. Wat was die tema van dié jaar se groentjiekonsert? 5
5. On which day is there JAM at break?

Down
1. Wat was die skool se tema by Interhoër 2020?
2. Name the tree opposite Oom Boom.
3. What is the name of our revue?

HEY, YOU! PICK THAT UP!

- Velynne Hattingh

You know how your kid brother or sister just annoys you or how your
parents nag you non-stop? Well, that is how the earth feels about us
when we litter and don’t recycle, except it’s a little bit more serious than
an irritating sibling.

Right now, our wasteful ways are damaging our home at an alarming
rate. Ice is melting and the arctic animals are losing their homes due to
global warming caused by waste. Oceans are being polluted by things
we only use once and then throw away. Landfills are increasing and
poisoning our river systems.

Huge amounts of energy are used when making products from raw
materials. Harmful chemicals and greenhouse gases are released
from the rubbish on landfills. Recycling requires much less energy and
therefore helps to preserve natural resources – that is why we must
recycle.

Calm down – recycling is not as difficult as you think: start by re-using
things you normally only use once. Place your plastic into the plastic
recycling bins (and do the same with glass, metal and paper). When
you walk past someone else’s litter, pick it up (or if they are still walking
in front of you, throw it at their head). See? Easy!

For more fun ways to recycle, check
out these:

On YouTube search “Awesome
recycling” for many cool life
hacks.

Go to www.4Ocean.com and
see how they are cleaning our

beaches.

Check out www.choosecartons.
com for more.

20

Sparki-toets Flaters

- Maryke Pienaar

Noem een van die hoofleiers se pligte by die skool?

Graad 8s

• Bonga-play for Springboks • Braam sky diving

• “Hulle moet ons kinders in toom hou” • Moet ‘n blazer dra

Wat is die onderhoofdogter se bynaam? Wat is die onderhoofseun se gunsteling

Graad 8s woord?

Dora the explorer Klaraber Ja-ja Graad 8s

Risy Pikkewaan Gogga Eboii Huh Sophisticated

Rieze Poppie Frikkadel Visvang Leonie Obese

Spongebob Pienkpien Pakovain Braampie Sê dankie Bart Simpson

Plakke Skapie BRA

REGTE ANTWOORD: PIKKEWYN REGTE ANTWOORD: SÊ BELOWE

Wat is die naam van die blom op jou skool- Wat is die naam van die skool se “Mascot”?

wapen? Graad 8s

Graad 8s Jock Smurf Vlamisie

Aalwyn Rose Protea Pizza Jan van Rebieek Flies

Vlammie Blom Kooldraad Darkwood James Sticks

REGTE ANTWOORD: BLOM VAN DIE KORAALBOOM REGTE ANTWOORD: BLAZE

Can you solve the riddle? Answers:

1. The letter E 2. Apple products (iPhone etc.) 3. A leaf

Something life would be meaningless without.

- Vanessa Ntlemo

What do you think life would be meaningless without? What would we ALL feel empty without? Ever took
the time to think about that? If not, think about it…

In the meantime, let’s consider this…

HUMOUR. In case you don’t know what that is or what it does, humour is the tendency of experiences to provoke

laughter and provide amusement. Yes, humour plays a huge and important role in our lives.

The feeling you get when your crush notices you, is awesome! You don’t know happiness if you’ve never been in a
conversation - reminiscing or just having a blast -rolling on the floor, eyes tearing and stomach hurting to the point of
breathing difficulties. This is simply the best feeling in the world.

With that said, humour is the only thing everyone knows and can relate to. Regardless of your ethnicity, religion, culture
or age, laughter is all the same. It began at infancy and with no doubt it will follow us into old age. Laughter brings
people together and strengthens relationships. It is also great meditation.

Life, as we know, is complex, but the minute humour crops up, intensity yields, irritations and resentment flit away and
a happy spirit takes over. A spirit that has the power to improve mental and physical health. That’s why we call laughter
the best medicine.

Any person can be burdened with life’s problems, but if that person laughs then that person can’t possibly be described
as a sad person. So, if you feel like the world is against you, don’t choose to be miserable. Smile more, move towards
laughter, laugh at your flaws and laugh alone if you must. Laugh at your bad situations rather than grieve and I promise
that you’ll be shocked at how happy you’ll turn out to be.

21

Consider talking to the matrics
- Wenzile Mncina

We all know starting a conversation with a person that you have never spoken to before is a bit tricky, so here are a few
matrics who are more than willing to have a conversation.
Answer each of these questions honestly and see with whom you are most likely to hit it off with.

Weather that best describes you: Subjects that you considered taking but didn’t:
A. Thunder A. Design
B. Cloudy day with sun hiding behind the clouds B. Life sciences
C. Sunshine C. Art

Place you would like to visit one day?
A. Iceland
B. Amsterdam
C. Rome

What is your favourite food?
A. Chicken Licken wings
B. Donuts
C. Pizza

Which events would you rather go to during the weekend? Mostly A answer: Mostly B answer: Mostly C answer:
A. School event
B. Church events consider starting a consider starting a consider starting a
C. Concert with my favourite artist
conversation with conversation with conversation with

Gomostang. Neo. Christaan.

Waardes The 1st day of school
- Micola Geldenhuys
from a Matriculant’s
Vind die Vlammie-waardes in die woordsoek point of view…

M I M K Z X N L X F A H S MWX V Z DWSWP H - Bejanè du Plessis
CYQU Z J L T V Z PAQKADAKAPMNQX
AG X I D N A L B F Y S HWN DMA S D Y F J U Some people would find it devastating
F Z Q T DU L I L DACAMF UUQ J B Y TWZ being back to the same old routine
F I T V D R A S CWHG Y O I X B S V H I S I E where they sit in a non-air-conditioned
J GQ B N I MAMAWE L C L L F KM J M L O K environment for longer than an hour,
P B R K BQ E AR C K LWH V X I T I T P E P P thinking about their holiday next to the
L X H TWAK H NWL MU B Z QH Z Z J GC T I swimming pool or at the beach and
AYYGX I HXKOBFDQXQF PEYHREO wondering why they can’t be done
RAGQ J LGT J I MSBMCDRO J TQA L L with school already… But school isn’t
OZ Z YCKORHOLGC J BT EQDYPE Z A all that bad, you just must make the
M Z B B Y X H O VWG E A A G C S G H J MWR E best of it. Join a club, play sports, do
T B X NWU L T V GO T D A L G P AD L T Z B E anything to keep your mind distracted
KAPMRHOS T A I S I RGUE L X P J KE P from drifting back to your long-lost
I DR J Z P U S Z NGN E EOMK I V DNMAO vacation.
UGYCS V L I VGT YAQTOBKQZ VQL S This is my year of lasts: my last first-
N Y O D I Z F FW I Q A D Q N I WQ R Y F YWK day-of-school, my last first-social,
O S U N S AN AUMRWUMV H R T D D B S GM my last interhouse… and so the list
S Z P YCMDBAV L BUACD J GNCG J AP goes on. This realisation made me
C J UVBSUE ZRGL E I L I UT EASHF E wonder what I am really doing with
S Z O S GNWH V B UMQR R C I CWT R F B Y my time. Time flies by and you can
C Z ZWT Z GWE L A V Z CWD K D TWN E Z S do nothing to get it back. It’s like that
D ZQUOOQCOLGY TWZ T X L P J B I V L toasted Chicken Mayo sandwich I ate
O Z J V WW N O L Q L N W K Q U X V I D D M K O at break: GONE!

respek integriteit ubuntu trots My advice to you is: catch up
22 verantwoordelikheid with friends that you never
talk to anymore, don’t miss
any opportunity to reach for
your dreams and remember,
time is precious.

Tips to Deal With Academic Stress: From One Vlammie to Another

- Lunga Nkosi

#1. Make a To-Do Lists

Outline the set of tasks that you need to complete. Once you can visualise what you must do, your assignments
won’t be so daunting.

#2. Plan Your Time

Plan out your day, minute-by-minute. With this schedule, you will have the confidence and tools to complete all your tasks.

#3. Reward System

Set up a system of rewards so that you can look forward to finishing a set of tasks. For instance, give yourself a Hershey’s
Kiss once you have read 10 pages of your textbook.

#4. Ask For Help and Move On

When you find yourself stressing over a seemingly impossible problem, text a friend. Then move on to other tasks. Don’t
spend hours focusing on this problem, however significant it may seem to be at the time. Wasted time will slow you down,
and you will be emotionally drained as a result of the energy spent.

#5. Take Breaks to Breathe

I know, I know; this seems a little excessive. Go online and find something to laugh about- maybe read a popular meme page.
Whenever you find yourself worrying, put your pens and pencils down and BREATHE. Try closing your eyes while breathing
in through your nose and out through your mouth. Moments like these are necessary to recharge.

#6. Eat Healthy

While you may be tempted to reach for that slice of pizza, putting the right food in your body will boost your energy, thereby
giving you the stamina you need to get your work done. Foods with high fat and sugar content will make you sluggish and
unmotivated. Focus on fruits, veggies, and other high-fibre foods.

#7. Restful Sleep

Obviously, you won’t be able to focus or work your best without a good night’s sleep. While I understand that sometimes
sleep is the first thing to go when school work is piled high, there are a few tips to make the most of those precious hours of
slumber. First, don’t do your work in your bedroom; it will lead to an association between your room and your work, which will
make it harder for you to fall asleep. Do the homework that does not require screen time last.

#8. Exercise

Experts say that everyone needs at least a half an hour of exercise each day. Not only does exercise help you with restful
sleep but also boosts endorphins, which, in turn, make you happier and less anxious.

#9. Days to Relax

Just like a good night of sleep, you need a day of fun to recharge from a week of school. Set aside time to spend Friday or
Saturday with friends or family. Do not focus on anything relating to work or school during these times.

#10. Seek Help If Necessary

If you find that academic stress has consumed your life, talk to a teacher, guidance counsellor, parent, or another trusted
adult. While a certain amount of anxiety is normal, no one should worry alone.

Youth Mentor Training through the eyes of a Newbie
- Jacques Klopper

Dedication, passion and the ability to help others Preparing to be a Youth Mentor was no easy task. It took
are all qualities of a successful young Youth long hours of committed attentiveness and storing as much
Mentor. During the 2019 December holiday, the information as possible. Although the training was a lot of work,
Youth Mentors of 2020 already started their training especially having to cover so many topics in such a short period,
so that they could perform their duties as Youth we enjoyed ourselves every step of the way and were eager to
Mentors to the best of their ability the following learn more as the days went by.
year. We also had a lot of guest-speakers covering a few topics. Some
Doubt and anxiety were some of the emotions of the topics that we covered included:
that describe the feelings the newbies felt before • Basic Facial profiling and neuro-linguistic programming
starting their Youth Mentor Training, but soon after, • Human-Trafficking
Mrs Bekker, along with the ice breaker, alleviated • How to look after yourself
the tension and made us all feel at ease. • Substance abuse and Different Types of Bullying

At the end of Youth Mentor Training, the newbies had a little task
awaiting them. They had little time to prepare and perform a play
that contained everything they have learned throughout the past
few days at Youth Mentor Training.

Eventually, after a few exhausting, but exciting, days of training,
the newbies were finally the new Youth Mentors of 2020 We are
ready to tackle the year and to be the change you wish to see in
the world! #25ForChange!
23

INTERHOËR GEESVANG

HOU OP BEKOMMER EN WEES SO KOEL SOOS ‘N KOMKOMMER

SOKKIES

24

GEESVANG
COWBOY STYL

25

GEESVANG INTERHOER:
SOKKIE

Al die danse kry ‘n kans, die samba,

vastrap en seties.

26

BUITELUGPIEKNIEK EN
‘PRETSPELE’

27

Spirit Week Dress-Up Winners
- Malise de Villiers

I think we can all agree that spirit week was absolutely amazing, from the dress-ups to the social
evenings to the prizes won and even just the overall “gees” that week. It was an amazing build up to
Interhigh.

We were the winners, and I say winners (plural) because we were a group of four in a so-called team
on that first social evening on the Tuesday, and it was an unforgettable experience. Winning wasn’t
everything. Sure, receiving the awesome prizes and being called up for a photo had its moments. I just
loved having fun with my friends.

Obviously the dress-ups weren’t all that was going on that Tuesday evening. Prizes were awarded for the best times
in the “minute-to-win-it” games that were played, as well as a prize for the team with the best spirit. The team with
the best spirit was Friends. They really enjoyed every moment and you could see it on their faces and hear it in
their voices. Our team, the “Shorties”, (we were all below average height for a seventeen-year-old girl) participated
in those games. Now you might think that the games were super easy, but they were actually quite challenging.
Everyone who participated had great fun, but there always has to be a winner, right? Sadly it wasn’t us, but I’m happy
for the team that won. I mean, doing those things in 4 minutes and 24 seconds was not easy. I thought our team
was pretty good and we completed the whole route in almost 7 minutes, but the winning team, the “Swart Mambas”,
Brendan Robinson and his teammates, were beyond amazing!

A lot of effort went into these evenings. On Thursday more prizes were awarded to the best dressed cowboy of the
evening. They were: junior boy: Dandré Olivier, junior girl :Scyla Doran, senior boy: Marcel Smuts, senior girl: Malise
de Villiers. Thursday evening was the perfect climax for a wonderful week. The music was good, there was a “braai”
and the overall atmosphere was just great. Not even a little bit of rain could bring down the spirit!

Spirit week or “geesweek” was awesome and sure ended with a bang: Interhigh!

MY LAAT INTERHOËR - MildeCronje(Gr.8)

Kyk, laat ek julle vertel van my eerste Interhoër… dit was ‘n kattestrofe!

Die aand voor die tyd het ek rustig in die bed geklim en 17 wekkers gestel, maar nee nie één het af-
gegaan nie. Ek het uit my eie droomwêreld wakker geskrik, met my ma wat die hooflig aangesit en die
duvét van my afgeruk het met: “Ons het verslaap! “. Daardie presiese woorde laat my dink aan die vroeë
skoologgende, waar ek 7:15 nogsteeds my skoolklere soek.

Ek spring toe op, en val oor alles op pad badkamer toe, net om uit te vind dat ek nie my hare gewas het nie.
Ek kon nie veel daaraan doen nie. Ek het so vinnig as moontlik my hare vasgemaak en my atletiekklere
gegryp. Daar staan ek toe nog met die slaap in my oë voor my ma se spieëlkas, ek kyk met skrefies na my-
self. Iets het nie reg gelyk nie... ek het my laerskool atletiekklere aangehad en twee nuwe puisies oornag
bygekry.

Net toe ek dit besef, gil my ma met krullers in die hare van die kombuis af: “kom ons gaan laat wees!”
Vinnig pak ek toe my rugsak met die die regte klere en spring in die kar. My ma jaag toe soos ‘n mal mens
skool toe. Nog nooit het ek so vinnig aangetrek nie. Ek het by die kar uitgespring met my ma wat toe op
die toeter lê en kliphard skree: “Ek is lief vir jou!”

Met die spoed van die Heilige Wit Hadida, hardloop ek
toe na die span en gaan staan in my ry vir die optog.
Ek was nog besig om my asem terug te kry, toe ek
besef dat ek net die regte hemp aangetrek het! Ek was
maar min gepla, want na alles waardeur ek die oggend
is, met my ma se vernederende liefdesverklaring, my
hare, die verkeerde klere en die twee puisies wat ek
steeds gehad het, was ‘n verkeerde atletiekbroek die
minste van my bekommernis en dink ek persoonlik ek
het ‘n medalje daarvoor verdien.

Dit was nou nie die beste begin vir ‘n Interhoër nie,
maar dit was beslis een vir die boeke!

28

My dirigent-droom vat in ‘n sweepslag vlam!
- Zandré van Niekerk

Van graad 7 af het ek gedroom om eendag ‘n Interhoër dirigent te wees. Hierdie jaar, by die
71ste Mediclinic Nelspruit Interhoër, het my droom waar geword! Ek het die voorreg gehad
om as dirigent, Hoërskool Bergvlam te verteenwoordig.

Zandrè: Die gras is groen Dit het nie sommer net so in my skoot geval nie … Nee, ek moes werk vir my stem in die
waar jy dit water gee skare. Om in aanmerking te kom vir ‘n dirigent is daar die vereiste dat jy voorheen in die
Geesspan moes gewees het; daarom was my stem elke jaar héés geskree! Soveel so dat
ek in 2019 gekies is as die “Mees Entoesiastiese graad 11-Geesspanlid”. Dit het my die
nodige hupstoot gegee om hard te werk om as dirigent verkies te word. Aan die einde van
2019 is ek na afloop van verskeie oudisies gekies as deel van die dirigentspan vir 2020! Ek
was ‘n bondel vreugde!

Siya: Jy is jou eie mens 2020 het afgeskop met oefen, oefen en nog oefen! Vir ses weke het ons ons lywe op die
spel gesit, talle kere geval, talle kere laat val, talle kere opgestaan en weer probeer. Ons
wou ‘n punt bewys en beter as die beste wees! Dít het ons ook van ons Geesspan verwag.

Samu: Beloftes maak Mev. Ané Bekker het deurentyd aangemoedig, uitgedaag en ondersteun. Sy het ons geleer
skuld dat dit wat jy op die dag insit nie die helfte is van wat jy gaan terugkry nie, daarom moes ons
meer as 100% insit. Boonop, het dit gewerk! Ons dirigentspan se energie het oorgevloei
na die pawiljoen en hoendervleis oomblikke veroorsaak!

Die oggend van die Interhoër was daar nie ‘n bang haar op my kop nie. Ek het geweet ons
het ‘n fantastiese span en dat Vlammies mens nooit in die steek laat nie.

Ons opkoms het met drie reuse sweepslae begin en dit was asof my liggaam net in ‘n
ander dimensie inbeweeg het. Bewegings wat voorheen sistematies en forseerd was, het
natuurlik gebeur. Voor ek my oë kon uitvee was dit verby. Interhoër 2020 is iets van die
verlede. Ses weke se intense voorbereiding … VERBY.

Buhle: Ons is gemaak om My hart het in my keel gaan sit met die laaste aankonding van die dag … “Die Beste dirigent
van Hoërskool Bergvlam gaan aan … Zandré van Niekerk!”. Ek kon amper nie my ore glo
verewig te hou

nie! Na jare se hoop en droom, was dit uiteindelik my beurt!

Ek wil graag die volgende mense bedank vir hulle aandeel in my ervaring as dirigent van
Hoërskool Bergvlam:

• Mev. Ané Bekker, vir u geloof in ons en dat u met elke tree daar was om ons weer op
te tel, af te stof en die pad verder saam te stap. Natuurlik ook vir die visie wat u hierdie
Zandalee: Geluk is verniet jaar vir Bergvlam se Geesspan gehad het.

• Mej. Zèanri Grobler, Mej. Christelle Vermeulen en Mej. Adie Albasini, vir u bystand
gedurende die laaste vier weke.
•
Mnr. Brian Trebbleen en Mnr. Roeale Strijdom (van Hino Mbombela), vir ons Geesspan
• se pragtige rugsakke, pette en waterbottels. Ons is “siekverlief” op hulle!
Sihle: ‘n Boer maak ‘n plan •
Mev. Daleen Opperman (van Dolphin Printing), vir die uitstaan banier.
•
Mev. Tania Botes (van Fantasy Flair), vir ons pragtige, kleurvolle en unieke
Mintirho: Elke hond kry • dirigentkostuums, Blaze se nuwe hoed en die beffies.
sy dag
• Mnr. Werner Steinmann en Mev. Rosalina Vieira (van Pulse Dance), vir ons dirigente
• se uithalerdans.
•
• Purple Lime Balloons, vir ons omgewingsvriendelike ballonne. Ek wou nog altyd so’n
gróót ballon gehad het!

Vineyard on the Hill, vir die dirigente se bederf en kuier.

Panarottis vir al die dirigente se kos tydens die Interhoër.

Besoekende skole, vir die fantastiese gees op die pawiljoene.

My mede-dirigente en Geesspan, julle was werklik beter as die beste!

Alex: Byt vas 29

INTERHOËR 2020

Inter-high 2K20. What did it mean to us? - Mintirho Mashaba

For many, such as the competing schools and the spectators, Interhigh#71 took place on the 22nd of February.
For Vlammieland and its residents, it started at the end of Interhigh#70. It started when Mr Visser made the first phone call to com-
mence the arrangements for #71. It started when the cheerleaders began practising during the 2019 November exams.
So what exactly was Interhigh#71 to us? #71 was not just a glorious event to Vlammies, it was a journey and an effort. Interhigh#71
was the annual Interhouse, where the ‘best of the best’ athletes were picked out to form an elite team of Bergvlam representatives.
Interhigh#71 was when the theme for the cheerleaders was chosen. It was when the teachers worked day and night in preparation. It
was spirit week, all the ’sokkies’ and that moment of relief that the spirit team shared when the Opkoms was finally completed.
Hence, when the 22nd of February arrived, each and every one of the 720 Vlammies that participated- and I quote (Mr Dreyer) – “het
hoendervleis gekry”.
That morning, for the others sitting on the grand stands, it was the beginning of Interhigh#71. However, for our fellow Vlammies, it was
the conclusion of a long, stressful and yet joyful road. And so, by the end of the 22nd of February, our athletes had made us extremely
proud and our spirit team had lost their complexions and voices. Then, we all gathered together one more time as athletes, spirit team,
cheerleaders, SEs and RCLs, helpers and educators for one more moment of pure bliss singing with happy hearts, our wonderful
Vlammie-lied.

30

GEESSPAN OOMBLIKKE

31

AGTER DIE SKERMS
VAN INTERHOËR 2020

a PICTURE IS WORTH A
1000 WORDS

32

Negatiewe opmerkings op sosiale media

- Milde Cronje (Gr. 8)

Sosiale media is so deel van ‘n tiener se lewe soos huiswerk en Netflix. Hierdie tegno-monster neem die oorhand in
baie huishoudings en kan lei tot talle negatiewe aspekte. Gevolglik is dit belangrik dat ons, as Vlammies, hiervan bewus
moet wees en hoe om dit te hanteer.
Tieners besef nie altyd dat die besluite wat hulle neem op sosiale media ‘n langtermyn effek op hulle en ander mense
kan hê nie. Negetiewe opmerkings op sosiale platforms is ‘n vorm van kuberafknouery. Dit mag dalk vir ons soos
‘n onskuldige grappie lyk, maar ons besef nie die impak wat dit op die leser het nie. Die polisie moet juis sake van
selfmoord ondersoek as gevolg van die mag van woorde oor sosiale media.
Hierdie tegno-monster kan verskillende vorms aanneem. ‘n 15-Jarige skooldogter is wetlik aangekla en suksesvol
gevonnis omdat sy onvanpaste foto’s van haarself gestuur het. Voordat ons die “send”-opsie kies moet ons twee keer
dink oor die effek van ons besluite. Werkgewers beoordeel ook kandidate op grond van hul sosiale media interaksie
voordat hulle vir ‘n pos gewerf word. Soms voel dit asof niemand ons dophou in die wye wêreld van sosiale media nie,
maar daar is kwaaddoeners wat tegnologie op ‘n verkeerdelike wyse gebruik.
As iets eers op die internet opgelaai is, is dit bykans onmoontlik om dit weer te verwyder omdat dit in ‘n oogwink versprei
kan word na talle ander platforms. Die verantwoordelikheid begin by die ouers, maar berus op die tieners, wat hul eie
sosiale media en publieke profiele moet bestuur.
Plaas jouself in ander se skoene, voordat jy jouself en onskuldige mense seermaak. Sosiale media hou soveel voordele
in, maar wees bewus wat die tegno-monster in ander se lewe kan veroorsaak.
Bronne: www.edu-psych.co.za

I call upon my parents to understand
my teenage life. - MaykePienaar

Being a teenager is already a full-time job and a stressful one at that. Now imagine having someone who doesn’t
understand what you go through during the 6 plus hours you spend at “work”, someone who adds stress to your stress.
Yes, I am talking about our beloved parents. Parents are the STRONGEST support system you have and, yes, you
love them, but we also sometimes just need a hug, a kind reminder that “you will get through it , you are stronger than
you think you are”, all while taking a trip to McDonald’s, of course.
To all the parents out there, you need to understand that life is not the same as when you were our age. You cannot
compare two completely different eras and you also cannot raise us as if we are living in that era. You need to
understand that although you have survived it, we are still bent under the truck loads of home and assignments and
your pressure is not helping the situation at all. Please realise that slamming my door after an argument about who
will wash the dishes, is actually a cry for help and attention.
Teenagers, you also need to realise that parents won’t magically understand you over-night. This means you need to
communicate your feelings with them. In addition, you can try:
• Greeting them first in the morning.
• Doing the chores before you are asked.
• Showing them your busy school schedule.
• Giving them a random hug.
• Having an open relationship.
You only have one set of parents, don’t ruin a relationship because of your stubbornness.

How to have a better relationship with

your parents #2. Learn to follow their advice
- Wenzile Mncina

#1. Take Responsibility for your part in the family

#3. Spend time with your parents #4. Seek and give forgiveness

33

- Monique van Heerden & Erize de Lange

Dreamville is a fictional town in the
60’s where everything is possible.
The place where dreams are born
and become a reality. Serah Somers
is die mooiste nooi op die dorp
en is geliefd deur sy inwoners.
Hierdie liefling maak die ouens se
knee lam wanneer sy haar voete
op die dansvloer vind. Dinge raak
warm wanneer Serah vir Dawid, die
skaam kameraman, ontmoet. Haar
ma, Emily, se verlede haal haar in
wanneer die popster Eddie Electric

34

sy verskyning na 25 haar maak…On Dreamville
the other side of town, we find chirpy
Tracy Turnblad, she is a little awkward
and she lives with her overprotective,
old-fashioned mother who disapproves
of her dancing dreams. Tracy’s passion
and talent for dancing makes her the
talk of the town when she auditions for
the well-known TV-show. In this town
full of aspirations and ambitions a lot of
drama, schemes and jealousy awaits,
but through it all- joy, love and hope
springs…

35

VSCO GIRL 101

- Lehlogonolo Mamogobo

If you’ve been on Tik Tok, Instagram or YouTube lately, you should already know
that we’re living in a VSCO girl summer. Named after the photo editing VSCO
app, a VSCO girl is someone who is active on the app and whose style matches the
aesthetic VSCO.

A VSCO girl is easy to spot. She tries to embody a ‘90s-meets-surfer-girl’ look. Although some love
to hate the cool girl, others aspire to be her. Here is the ultimate starter pack for being a VSCO girl.

1. HYDRaOFLASK 2. CARa MEX 3. SCRUaNCHIES 4. BIRKEaNSTOCKS 5. FUJaIFILM
- Hydration, hydration, CLASSIC LIP
hydration. Stay - Accessorise with - These have been INSTAX MINI 9
hydrated and keep BALM a VSCO girl’s most a comfy favourite
prized possession, CAMERA
need I say more? for decades so it

your water chilled for -VSCO girl beauty is is no wonder most - Make memories last
VSCO girls have and take cute pictures
hours with the ultimate all about being natural included them in their
to put on VSCO!
VSCO accessory. and using the classic wardrobe.

Carmex lip balm.

Most importantly, being a VSCO girl is all about having a positive outlook and having fun! Now that you know the ins and
outs of being a VSCO girl, you can now adopt your own VSCO girl aesthetic!

DISNEY FANS 4. What does Ursula steal from Ariel?
A. Her beauty
- Lebogang Mokoena B. Her crown
C. Her voice
Disney’s animated classics and popular franchises have
produced some memorable movies. Just how closely 5. Which Disney princess has a tattoo?
have you been paying attention to the Disney universe A. Pocahontas
over the years? B. Jasmine
What if we gave you a short quiz? Do you think you could C. Moana
ace it? 6. Which Disney princess is the only princess who does
Let’s see where you stand. not sing in her movie?
1. Who was the very first Disney princess? A. Mulan
A. Cinderella B. Merida
B. Aurora C. Rapunzel
C. Snow White 7. Which princess is a commoner?
2. What is the name of Jasmine’s tiger? A. Belle
A. Rajah B. Rapunzel
B. Apha C. Cinderella
C. Apu 8. What magic word does the fairy godmother use?
3. What are the names of Cinderella’s stepsisters? A. Abracadabra
A. Ella and Annie B. Bibbidi - bobbidi - boo
B. Camille and Eleonora C. Shazam
C. Drizella and Anastasia
Correct answers
36 1. C, 2. A, 3. C, 4. C, 5. A, 6. B,

7. A, 8. B

What Does Your
Handwriting Say About You?

- Lunga Nkosi

You’d be surprised to see what a handwriting analysis
says about you. Did you know strong,
outgoing personalities tend to write in large letters,
and shy, introverted types prefer to write using smaller
letters? Take a look at the following and see where
you fit in:

37

What is your BIRTHDAY emoji?
- Mintirho Mashaba

January February March

You are brilliant, techy and weird. You are creative, dreamy and you go You are fiery, competitive and
with the flow. energetic.
April
May June

You are earthy, luxurious and You are brainy, social and fun. You are nostalgic, sensitive and
indulgent. nurturing.
August
July September

You are glitzy, expensive and bright. You are conscientious, natural and You are stylish, peaceful and loving.
strive for perfection.
December
October November

You are sexy, secretive and deep. You are adventurous, lucky and You are ambitious, successful and
optimistic. classy.

Need a hairstyle for the matric
farewell or just for a function?

Don’t know what to do with your hair and you want something
creative and different?

Here are some ideas!

38

Wenke van ‘n A TRIBUTE TO
matriek. KEGAN FENSHAM

- Rochelle Harmse - Mrs. Chereze Blom

* NEEM NOTAS IN DIE KLAS. As a teacher, it is normal for me to say goodbye to
* LUISTER na MUSIEK. my students, because I know that they have now
* KRY GENOEG OEFENING. completed their school career and an exciting life is
* EET GESOND EN DRINK WATER. waiting for them. It’s normal for me to not see some
* SLAAP GENOEG. of those students again, sometimes for a very long
* FOKUS OP EEN VAK OP ‘N SLAG. time or sometimes never again at all. What is,
* BEOEFEN JOU STERKPUNTE. however, not normal is having to say goodbye at a
time that we didn’t plan.
What if the cure for No one ever thinks that they’ll be saying a final
cancer is lying in your goodbye to a youngster, a teenager. Teenagers
hands? seem so full of life and all the promise of things to
come. Their future is stretched out before them –
- Lunga Nkosi like a book waiting to be read – you don’t expect
to find yourself in a place like this, on a day like
If you were given the opportunity to invent something, today, to mark the end of a life that had hardly even
what would it be? Would it be something that you would started.
be known for, for generations to come? Or maybe But here we are, saying farewell to Kegan even
something that would earn you some big bucks one though it doesn’t feel right at all.
day? Those who knew him will attest that he was such a
Not all inventions require having to solve a complex loving person, who was always ready to give you
mathematical problem or balance scientific equations, a hug. Kegan was kind and caring and the type of
some inventions only require the time and dedication of person who would lend a helping hand, even if he
seeing your vision come to life. Steve Jobs, founder of didn’t really feel like it. He was so well mannered
iPhone, once said “If you’re working on something you and always showed respect towards others.
really care about, you don’t have to be pushed, it’s the He enjoyed chess and always gave it his all. And
vision that pulls you.” All we have to do is find that one if he lost, he stood up, dusted himself off and tried
thing that will someday cause our names to be written again.
amongst the world’s greatest inventors. He had such a clever, albeit dry, sense of humour
As we step into the 4th Industrial Revolution where and would go out of his way to cheer you up if you
almost everything is being controlled by computers were having a bad day. He always stuck around to
and robotics, it makes the inventing spectrum so much have a chat and just hear how your day was going
easier. It opens so many doors for young scientists who – and he showed genuine interest.
want their ideas to become world-class ingenuity. At a time like this, there are always so many
With organisations such as the Eskom Expo for Young different feelings and it is difficult to even talk of
Scientists and Tritech it makes exposing these young comfort – but in the months and years ahead, as
talents to the professionals in the field do-able and leads we remember Kegan, I hope that we’ll all gain
to great ideas being formed. strength from realising, as we look back on his life,
We all have the intellectual capability to invent just how much of an effect he had on us in the short
something, whether it’s as simple as a new study time we knew him.
method which you’ve proven to be effective or finding
a mathematical algorithm that can help calculate the 39
mass of a snowflake! The possibilities are endless. All
you need is a good imagination and a pile of junk.

Just remember: you never fail when it
comes to inventing,

you just found 10,000 ways that don’t
work.

#BERGVLAM