Velddrif High School is celebrating a substantial improvement in its National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination results for 2023, achieving an impressive 82% pass rate. This marks a notable increase from the previous year's 74% and is a testament to the hard work and commitment of both learners and educators in the West Coast community.
The school, a cornerstone of education in this fishing town at the mouth of the Berg River, saw a rise in bachelor's degree passes, opening more opportunities for its graduates. This achievement is particularly significant for Velddrif, where opportunities for tertiary education can sometimes be limited. The improved results are expected to positively impact the aspirations of local youth, encouraging them to pursue further studies or skilled trades, potentially contributing to the local economy which relies on fishing, tourism, and salt production.
Principal Eleanor van der Merwe expressed immense pride in the collective effort. "Our learners, many of whom come from challenging socio-economic backgrounds in areas like Bokkomlaan and Port Owen, have truly excelled. This improvement is not just a statistic; it represents tangible futures for these young people," she stated. "We implemented targeted intervention programmes and extra lessons, especially in critical subjects, and the dedication of our teaching staff was unwavering. We are incredibly proud of what our Velddrif High family has accomplished."
The Saldanha Bay Municipality, which includes Velddrif, has also acknowledged the school's achievement, highlighting its importance for regional development. This success story provides a beacon of hope and demonstrates the potential within the community, inspiring younger students at primary schools like Laerskool Velddrif to strive for academic excellence.
