Schools

Grade 6s enjoy unforgettable veldskool at Mankele

Grade 6 learners from Laerskool Barberton Primary had an unforgettable veldskool at Mankele near the Sudwala Caves!

The pupils were all divided into groups that had to work together at all the activities.

The Grade 6 learners of Laerskool Barberton Primary recently returned from their annual veldskool adventure, a highlight on the school calendar that once again proved to be an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, teamwork, and new friendships.

From October 20 to 23, the excited group of pupils headed to Mankele near the Sudwala Caves, where a variety of outdoor activities awaited them. Paintball battles, thrilling foefie slides, blindfolded team games, swimming, archery, and high-energy war cries set the tone for four action-packed days. The group also enjoyed a scenic hike to the Sudwala Butterfly Park, an experience that combined fun with an appreciation for nature.

Getting ready to hit the target with a bow and (right) having complete trust in the friend guiding you while walking a thin rope blindfolded.

A huge thank you goes out to the Mankele team for their exceptional hosting and for helping to create memories that will last a lifetime. According to Grade head and organiser Cindy Freitas, this was the second consecutive year the school made use of Mankele’s facilities, and once again, it was a perfect fit.

Volley ball was enjoyed by everyone and (right) one of the groups.

“For many years, our learners attended veldskool at Amsterdam, but since the department closed it down, we had to look for new alternatives,” Cindy explained. “Last year’s camp at Mankele was such a success that we didn’t hesitate to return. The learners absolutely love it, and so do the teachers!”

Joining Cindy on the trip were teachers Johan Venter van Zyl, Mari Piso, Chrisnia Venter, and Vinnie Jordaan. Together, they ensured that the learners were guided, motivated, and most importantly, safe throughout the entire camp.

Beyond the fun and games, veldskool serves a deeper purpose. It’s a time for learners to grow in confidence, build friendships, and discover leadership potential. “This camp plays a vital role in identifying the strong leaders for next year’s Grade 7 group,” Cindy added. “We get to see the learners in a different environment, one where teamwork and perseverance truly shine.”

There was also time to simply relax and (right) chow-time was the best time of the day.

At Mankele, a successful school camp begins with excellent facilitators, and Barberton Primary’s staff could not have asked for better. Known for their enthusiasm and professionalism, the Mankele facilitators kept the learners active and entertained from sunrise to sunset, creating an atmosphere where learning and laughter went hand in hand.

From the left is one of the facilitators, Chrisnia Center, Chef Boom Boom. Cindy Freitas, Johan Venter Van Zyl, Vinny Jordaan and in front Mari Piso. Right: Getting ready for paint ball fun, which obviously also left a few blue marks….

Of course, no camp is complete without good food. Mankele’s resident chef, affectionately known as Chef Boom Boom, made sure everyone was well-fed and satisfied with delicious meals that became a talking point of their stay.

By the end of the four days, the learners returned home tired but inspired. For the teachers, it was another successful veldskool that captured the true spirit of Laerskool Barberton Primary: teamwork, growth, and joy in learning.