As newly elected Teacher Liaison Officer, I attended a training program to be better equipped to act as a liaison and mentor for the RCL.

The South African Schools Act states that the RCL is the only legitimate, legal learner leadership structure in schools. Currently, the RCL fulfills only a minor function with the councilors taking the lead role.

RCL hopes to improve this by becoming more pro-active, more involved and visible in years to come.

A core function of the RCL is to assist in building unity and promoting good relations among the learners themselves, between learners and the staff, the school and the community. School spirit has been a continuous topic at meetings. A priority of the RCL is to see the re-introduction of houses competing at events such as inter-house athletics. When this becomes a reality it will be a major event for the RCL to take charge of.

The RCL have discussed other issues such as litter, uniform suggestions and healthier food options at the tuckshop. Nomtha Notche and Sivuyisiwe Mdidimba have been chosen to represent the RCL at governing body meetings. The RCL was also well presented with some of our grade elevens (Lee van der Linde, Nomtha Robyn Wynford, Nomtha and Sivuyisiwe) assisting Mrs. Van der Walt at the Matric Farewell.

We look forward to 2009 which holds many challenges and new events for the RCL.

Nadia Meistre