Wynberg Girls’ High School celebrates 141 years of eminence

Wynberg Girls’ High School (WGHS) will mark its 141st anniversary during a special Founders’ Day assembly on Friday, September 19.

Founded in 1884, the school boasts a rich history rooted in tradition and excellence, while continuing to empower the next generation of women.

The school’s first principal, Dominee P A Strasheim, was succeeded by Miss Stewart, who served from 1885 to 1890.

Today, Dr Jennifer Wallace, appointed in January 2020, continues to uphold the school’s mission. She highlights the importance of the motto, “Honour before honours,” which reflects the core values of integrity, respect, and moral character.

“Honour,” Dr Wallace explained, “means living truthfully and treating others with dignity,” while “Honours” refers to external recognition, achievements, and success.

Dr Wallace said: “The motto prioritises character over accolades, emphasising that who you are matters more than what you achieve.”

WGHS nurtures a value-based, eco-conscious learning environment designed to foster confident, compassionate women. Its six core values: integrity, courage, accountability, respect, empathy, and inclusivity, are woven into every aspect of school life, from academics and sports to cultural activities and environmental stewardship.

The school aims to produce inquisitive, self-sufficient thinkers and environmentally aware citizens. “WGHS combines a proud tradition with modern innovation,” Dr Wallace said.

“It ranks among the Western Cape’s top 20 schools of excellence based on Grade 12 results.”

Situated on a shared campus with Wynberg Girls’ Junior School, Wynberg Boys’ Junior School, and Wynberg Boys’ High School, WGHS provides students with a wide range of co-curricular opportunities. Facilities such as the eco-lab and the Shirley Harding Studio further enrich their education.

Despite challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, WGHS demonstrated resilience.

“The disruption of education was a challenge,” Dr Wallace recalled, “but through unwavering commitment and adaptability, our school thrived, maintaining high standards despite the adversity.”

In April this year, WGHS hosted the 2025 National All Girls’ Sports and Cultural Festival - an event that brought together 22 schools from across South Africa, with nearly 1 300 pupils and 400 educators participating. The theme, “Embrace Your Brilliance,” inspired pupils to recognise and celebrate their inner strength and creativity, said Dr Wallace,

The school’s sporting and cultural programmes are diverse, including netball, hockey, chess, e-sports, and cultural activities such as art, debating, drama, and dance. 

Notable alumni include Kayla Arnold, United Nations consultant; Hlumelo Marepula, environmental engineer; Kiara Ramklass, CEO of Marimba Jam and South African poet, Ingrid Jonker.

WGHS frequently features in media profiles, celebrating its pupils' achievements. The school aspires to remain the preferred choice for learners, staff, and parents, committed to shaping confident, compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

“As we look to the next five years, we will continue to evolve, innovate, and grow - always grounded in our values, always striving for excellence,” said Dr Wallace.