Celebration of South African Matric Results Shows Resilience and Achievement
Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, South African matric class of 2024 is celebrating remarkable achievements, combining hard work, dedication, and the invaluable support of teachers. This year has highlighted the resilience and determination of students across the nation as they aspire to new heights.
Mila Frates, making waves from Hermanus High, stood out among her peers with near-perfect scores, achieving 99% not only once but twice, for her proficiency in Visual Arts and Tourism. Her aggregate score of 88.7% included five distinctions, including noteworthy marks like 91% in Afrikaans Additional Language and 83% in Pure Mathematics. "These five things—passion, hard work, dedication, combined with support and advice from great teachers—were some of the key factors," Mila shared with pride, and she is now heading off to the University of Cape Town to pursue medical studies.
Chloe Kahts, the top performer at Hermanus High, also achieved impressive results with 89.8% aggregate and seven distinctions, including phenomenal scores of 97% for Afrikaans, 93% for History, and 90% for Design. Similarly, Migael Davel and Lara Strydom showcased their talents within the top ranks, each accomplishing seven distinctions. Lara scored 96% for her Afrikaans Home Language, with Migael excelling at 95% for Engineering Graphics and Design.
The pride shared by the school's administration is also apparent. Principal Mike Smuts congratulated all students, noting the impressive 99.4% pass rate for the school. This included 174 subject distinctions and 75.6% achieving Bachelor’s passes. Smuts attributed the achievements to the hard work not only from students but also from dedicated teachers who consistently supported and motivated their learners beyond the classroom.
Apex High School, located in Eerste River, echoed similar sentiments about the 2024 class, often referred to as the "Covid Cohort" due to starting their high school careers amid the global pandemic. Principal Renate van der Westhuizen expressed immense pride, stating, "These young men and women proved perseverance and hard work can overcome any obstacle." The school also celebrated its remarkable 95.4% pass rate and its highest ever Bachelor pass rate at 62.9%. Van der Westhuizen shared, "These results are more than numbers—they are the fruits of resilience, determination, and teamwork."
Apex High recorded 110 Bachelor passes and 67 subject distinctions across various subjects, boasting 100% pass rates for Afrikaans, Dramatic Arts, English, Geography, Religion Studies, Tourism, Visual Arts, and Life Orientation.
The affirmative impact of these accomplishments is evident as many students have already secured university placements. Celebrations across both schools encompassed not only the commendations for their academic hard work but also the friendships and community bonds created over years of companionship through their school journeys.
Both schools have become shining examples within their respective communities, inspiring other educational institutions to uplift their standards and support their students through adversity. While the individual students are now set on distinct paths, they carry with them the legacy of perseverance and excellence, setting benchmarks for future classes.
The successful matric results of 2024 signify more than just grades; they represent the culmination of years filled with challenges and achievements—an extraordinary reminder of the potential of youth and the role education plays in transforming lives.