Message from the Head of School, Mrs Odelle Howard

Dear St Mary's DSG Community

Welcome Back to a Promising Year

As we step into 2025, we extend a warm welcome back to the entire St Mary's DSG community. We hope that the holiday season was filled with rest, joy, and meaningful moments with loved ones. It is with immense pride and joy that we celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Class of 2024 on their matric results. Their dedication and hard work have brought great honour to our school, and we thank the parents for their unwavering support throughout this journey. To our exceptional staff, we are deeply grateful for your commitment to creating a nurturing and dynamic learning environment that has allowed these young women to flourish and reach their potential.

The Class of 2024 was a true reflection of the holistic education we value at St Mary's DSG. They participated wholeheartedly in all aspects of school life, from academics to sports, arts, and community service. Their achievements affirm that those who embrace opportunities fully create pathways to excel. As we look to the future, we are equally excited about what the Grade 12 cohort of 2025 will bring. These young leaders have already demonstrated deep thinking, clear goals, and a strong vision for the year ahead. We commend them for reaching this milestone and pledge to walk beside them as they navigate their final year of school, celebrating their contributions and milestones along the way.

We also extend a heartfelt welcome to the new families joining our senior school. We look forward to building rich, collaborative relationships as we journey together to nurture the development of your daughters. A special appreciation goes to our support staff, whose tireless efforts have ensured that our school is beautifully prepared for the new year. From maintaining our grounds to readying our facilities, their dedication enhances the spaces our girls occupy and elevates their schooling experience.

This year is particularly significant as we welcome the Grade 00 cohort into our school community. Having these young learners join us is a testament to our commitment to lifelong learning and underscores the joy of being part of a vibrant, interconnected educational environment. At the same time, we bid farewell to our Bishop, who is retiring from the Pretoria Diocesan. We are profoundly grateful for his support and guidance during his tenure and wish him every blessing in the next chapter of his life.

Change is a constant in life, and it challenges us to be agile and resilient. This important school value is not only vital for navigating transitions but also serves as a powerful example for our children. Our response to change—embracing it with grace and determination—shapes the legacy we leave for future generations. At St Mary's DSG, we remain steadfast in our mission to empower young, confident women who will positively impact society. Every action we take is geared toward strengthening character and preparing our girls to thrive in the world beyond our gates.

The year ahead promises excitement and growth, and we recognise the importance of partnership in achieving our shared goals. Theodore Roosevelt's words from "The Man in the Arena" resonate deeply: it is not the critic who counts, but the one who steps into the arena, faces challenges, and works to create something great. As a united community, we will rise to the occasion, participating fully and ensuring that 2025 is a year of excellence and joy.

Here's to a vibrant and successful year at St Mary's DSG. Let us embrace the opportunities before us and make this year unforgettable.

Mrs Odelle Howard

Head of School