Lotus High School pupils explored Kalk Bay mountains, while being introduced to their natural heritage, on Saturday February 11.
While the hiking convenor, Marvin Jutzen had to attend a district subject meeting where teachers gathered to discuss how to prepare matrics for the final NSC examinations to be written in October, principal Benjamin Pietersen stepped in to lead the hike and four other volunteers, which included former matriculants, led the group of 15 pupils through Kalk Bay mountains.
Mr Pietersen said: “The purpose of these excursions is to introduce young pupils to our natural heritage, but also to foster a sense of conservation and being able to enjoy our beautiful surroundings which is accessible without much effort.
“The group of high school learners enjoyed the hike as they were introduced to the flora (fynbos) which has recovered miraculously after the devastating fires of three years ago.
“As some of them are part of the environmental club at the school, they were afforded the opportunity to share their acquired skills with some of the new learners who find themselves in Grade 8 now.”
He said the idea of arranging these hikes is not only to create a love for nature and conserve natural resources, but to offer them an alternative to the social ills that deprive so many young people from becoming successful citizens.
“This hike is the first of many planned for the near future, provided that the hiking convenor will find enough time to fit them into their busy teaching schedule,” said Mr Pietersen. He invites all parents and volunteers who are interested in helping out in leading the hikes to call the school on
021 703 1544.