LRCs head to Goanikontes

Mariselle Stofberg
Natango Amadhila

Westside High School’s junior and senior LRCs recently held their annual LRC camp at Goanikontes campsite over the weekend of 14-16 February. The aim of the camp was to acquire leadership as well as communication skills and reinforce a spirit of teamwork.

For some like Shaznay Maletzky the camp was a new experience, “Although the obstacles were challenging it felt good because I was able to face my fears. I also developed a bond between my teammates that will last forever.”

The LRCs hiked, climbed up a mountain and took part in a gruelling obstacle course which required a lot of strength and determination. And according to many of the LRCs it was bonding experience which showed how well they could work together as a team and how supportive they are of each other. They also held discussion and mentorship sessions where they discussed the problems plaguing the LRCs and how to overcome them.

“I learned to face my fear of heights by climbing up and down the mountain without crying or anything. I also learned to have faith and trust in my teammates,” said Josefina Ankonga.

Many of the junior and senior LRCs agree that it was a great experience where they learned to conquer their fears as well as learn a lot about each other as teammates and step out of their comfort zones.

“Overall it was great fun. We talked, we laughed and we worked. I personally enjoyed it all,” said Mwale Nyambe.

According to Willeuterio Coetzee, it was a fulfilling experience, one of the greatest in his life and great teamwork experience. And for Titus Shihepo it was a one-of-a-kind experience that made learning enjoyable.

Angela Kaivara, a grade 12 learner at the school, believes that there was a slight improvement in the work of the senior LRCs especially our chairperson James-Dean Goagoseb.

“In general there is an improvement with their work. However, there is still a lot to do when it comes to maintaining discipline. Some do not sense the responsibility that comes with the role of being an LRC. Some of these learners are on board with their role and know what is expected of them when it comes to academics and unfortunately there are those that are not serious at all,” are the words of Mr Matroos a teacher at our school when asked whether the camp was effective or not.