We are delighted to share a momentous occasion in the history of Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School! The school proudly announces the launch of its inspiring new school song, an anthem that beautifully embodies our rich heritage, core values, and aspirations for the future. This launch marks a significant chapter, celebrating our commitment to inclusivity, transformation, and diversity.
While the previous school song has been cherished for 130 years and will always hold a special place in our hearts, the new song offers a fresh and vibrant reflection of our evolving identity. Composed by Babette Viljoen and Olga Leonard, with valuable input from staff, the School Governing Body (SGB), students, and alumnae, the new anthem captures the spirit of unity that lies at the core of RGJS.
Reflecting the diverse nature of our community, the new song integrates English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa—the three languages most spoken in the Western Cape—ensuring that it is inclusive and representative of our school.
Hendrik Marais, Head of the Creative Arts Department, shared insight into the song’s evolution, saying, “Since the song is now specific to the junior school, with a younger audience performing it, we’ve changed the musical style to a ballad. This allows the song to tell a story, making it more engaging and appropriate for the students.”
The chorus of the new school song powerfully declares, “Rustenburg Girls’ Junior where we all belong, Here all our differences make us strong.” As SGB Chair Unathi Stofile remarked, “The new school song resonates with African proverbs—’You plant trees that you will not enjoy the shade of.’ We hope that the message of the song will continue to impact the girls’ lives even after they leave RGJS.”
Principal Belinda Petersen expressed her excitement, saying, “This is something worth celebrating and embracing. The song will hold great significance for our girls in the years to come. The new song reflects our current position and our future aspirations…”
To celebrate this launch, we are pleased to share a special podcast conversation featuring Principal Belinda Petersen, SGB Chair Unathi Stofile, and Head of Creative Arts Hendrik Marais. You can watch the podcast here for more insights and to listen to the new school song.
The new school song is a testament to Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School’s enduring values and a forward-looking vision. We are confident that generations of “Rustybugs” will continue to carry our legacy into the future with pride and joy.
Warm regards,
Belinda Petersen
RGJS Principal