Battswood Primary School pupil Danielle de Jager was elated when she received a full bursary to study at the International School of Cape Town from next year.
Danielleandherteacher Najermoenisa de Kok, shared the good news with Southern Mail on the day of the Grade 7 graduation, on Thursday December 6.
The bursary will cover her studies from Grade 8 to Grade 12.
The International School of Cape Town approached Battswood Primary and four pupils were chosen to write an examination to be considered for the bursary.
Danielle came out tops which wasn’t a surprise for her proud teacher, Ms De Kok.
“Danielle excelled in all subjects during her school years. She gives 110% in everything she does.”
Ms De Kok said Danielle was a perfectionist who never gave up trying.
“Once she was shown how to stitch and she couldn’t do it, but kept on doing it over and over, until she was satisfied with it.”
Danielle is also known as a friendly child who greets everyone with a hug.
“She does that to everyone, every day,” said Ms de Kok.
Danielle said her mother, Jolene De Jager, is her role model and is always there for her.
While she isn’t very athletic, she loves to read.
Asked what her message is to other young pupils, Danielle said: “It doesn’t matter where you come from, work hard and persevere.”
Ms De Kok, a teacher for 23 years, said she has known Danielle since she was in Grade R.
“Danielle always pushed to do her best and I don’t know what I will do without her,” said Ms De Kok, who gave Danielle a big hug.
Principal Gavin Thomas said there were so many things he would want to say about Danielle, but in short: “I am proud of her and she deserves it.”