In a mock school class on Tuesday 31 October, “learners” from the age of 60 sat in “school benches” with their school satchel, books and pens during an Afrikaans lesson. Giggles, skipping and hand-made paper planes were the order of the day as the seniors spent an hour in class.
Hair plaited and dressed in “school uniforms” the seniors club of Reconciliation Ministries in Parkwood went down memory lane with a fun-filled day to remember the “good old school days” of the 70s.
In a mock school class on Tuesday 31 October, “learners” from the age of 60 sat in “school benches” with their school satchel, books and pens during an Afrikaans lesson.
Giggles, skipping and hand-made paper planes were the order of the day as the seniors spent an hour in class.
Organiser of the event and “class teacher” John Wilson said the event aimed to remind the elderly that their voice was still very much relevant.
“Today’s school theme was all about remembering your voice and appreciating the days gone by, when we had the privilege of having discipline in schools.
“When the club started in July, our main focus was the community and reaching out to grandmothers and mothers who are struggling.
Wilson adds that the role of mothers and grandmothers in society is something to be treasured.
“This is the mothers of virtue because they are the mothers who came through tough times. Every wrinkle and grey hair is a symbol of that virtue. We want to treasure them. We want to tell them how important they are in society and what a great role they play.”
Johanna Phillips (63), who created the school outfits for the group, said she had a lot of fun creating the uniforms.
“The dresses we are wearing are from off-cuts I received and I made all the dresses for the ladies and trousers for my husband.
“The day took me back to the 70s and the late 60s of my school days and I am grateful to God that he spared me to enjoy this day.
“We felt like children today and brought the toys and games we had as children.”
Since the inception of the club, Tuesday mornings are not as lonely as they used to be, she adds.
“If there are burdens, we can pray about them or if someone is sick, we pray for each other.”
Denise Bent (68) said being “back in class” brought the stark reality of how much schools have changed since the 70s.
“It took me back to my school days. Back then, we had corporal punishment and everything, including the chalk and duster thrown at us. Today, I’m grateful for those years because they made us stronger.
“What we see happening in schools today is very sad, my heart goes out to the teachers.”
