Wynberg Boys’ Junior School (WBJS) marked its 185th anniversary on Thursday 20 August. Heritage Week celebrations took place at the school’s campus in Wynberg.
The annual August celebration brings together the junior school, Wynberg Boys’ High School and the Old Boys’ Union. Together, they honour their shared history through cultural performances, sporting fixtures and other commemorative events.
WBJS headmaster Cedric Poleman said the celebrations allowed the school community to reflect on its history and look to the future.
“Heritage Week has been an inspiring one for our school as we mark our 185th year,” said Poleman.
Musical talent takes centre stage
The annual Arnold Lorie Concert was also one of the highlights of the celebrations. It drew an audience of 570 to the Arnold Lorie Memorial Hall on Tuesday 18 August.
Pupils performed in ensembles, bands and choirs. “The Arnold Lorie Concert was nothing short of exceptional,” said Poleman. “Our boys took to the stage with such confidence and delivered outstanding performances across all ensembles, bands and choirs.”
Poleman said every boy’s dedication and musical talent had made for an unforgettable evening. He also thanked the school’s music staff for their guidance and support of the young musicians.
Similarly, Grade 6 teacher Marc Sabatta said being an Old Boy and current staff member during the 185 celebrations was an amazing feeling.
“Having a role to play in the various events is a privilege and something to be cherished,” said Sabatta. “I hope to be a part of these events for many more years to come.”
Tree planted for future generations
Furthermore, as part of the anniversary celebrations, the school planted a pin oak on Wednesday 19 August.
The school song includes the line: “As an acorn to an oak tree, Wynberg school has proudly grown.”
Poleman said the tree they planted was not just a tree. Instead, it was a promise — the same promise from 185 years ago.
“We will not see it in its full height,” he said. “We won’t sit in its shade at its widest spread, or watch generations of boys play beneath branches that don’t exist yet.”
However, he said that work belonged to those who came after, just as those who came before planted today’s shade.
School motto drives growth
“This is what our school motto asks of us: Supera Moras: Overcome the difficulties,” said Poleman. “Growth takes time. We cannot rush it, only nurture it, year after year, term after term, boy after boy.”
Grade 7 pupil Ahmad Kamedien said you do not simply receive a legacy but must protect and pass it on.
“What we do today will shape the future of Wynberg Boys’ Junior School, and that is the planting of the pin oak tree,” said Kamedien.
A history dating back to 1841
Wynberg Boys’ Junior School shares its founding date with Wynberg Boys’ High School.
In fact, in 1841, Scottish teacher John McNaughton opened the “Established School at Wynberg” at Glebe Cottage. Sixteen pupils enrolled.
The school’s motto, Supera Moras, meaning “Overcome the difficulties”, reflects an ethos of resilience. Therefore, it has remained part of the school’s identity throughout its history.
As the school marks 185 years, Heritage Week has allowed it to celebrate its past and the generations who will carry it forward
ALSO READ: 2026 Student Leadership – Wynberg Boys’ High School
