South Peninsula High School: A legacy of excellence and community

Since its founding in 1950, South Peninsula High School (SPHS) has stood as a pillar of education in the community, nurturing generations of pupils while evolving into a modern institution committed to excellence.

The school’s first principal, Mr F Hendrickse, played a key role in establishing SPHS, welcoming 124 Standard 7 pupils in its inaugural year. Mr Hendrickse, previously principal of Battswood Training College, was succeeded in July 1950 by Mr AG De Villiers, who led the school until 1967, helping to lay the foundations for its academic and cultural ethos.

Faadiyah Samsodien-Myburgh, principal of SPHS, said the school’s vision and mission are committed to developing the potential of every pupil while instilling the values of responsibility, honesty, and respect. 

“Pupils are encouraged to serve the community, reflecting the school’s motto: Non Ministrare, Sed Ministrare - Not to be served, but to serve.

Reflecting on her journey from pupil to teacher to principal, SPHS’s first female principal shared her experience: “The foundation of our school remains steadfast, rooted in tradition, values, and a culture that embraces social, political, and global awareness. Gender was never a barrier; I was consistently encouraged to grow, give generously, and pursue excellence in service of others. True success lies in serving others, and I am humbled to carry forward the legacy of the visionary leaders who came before me,” said Ms Myburgh.

As a pupil, Ms Myburgh recalled a nurturing environment shaped by strong values, religious grounding, and a communal ethos of “all children are our children.” Her education was enriched not only academically but also through sports such as athletics, volleyball, and squash, and through engagement with the country’s history and political landscape.

As a teacher, she benefited from mentorship and collaboration, learning the importance of adaptability, empathy, and relationship-building. Now, as principal, Ms Myburgh emphasised the need for consistent collaboration between school, parents, and pupils, a key focus of her leadership.

"From modest beginnings with brick structures, mobile units, and limited specialist facilities, SPHS has grown into a campus of fully brick-built buildings with a wide range of specialist rooms. The most recent addition, unveiled in 2024, is the Science Teaching and Learning Centre, generously sponsored by Professor Shaheed Hartley and John Hartley,” said Ms Myburgh.

The school’s buildings have witnessed the passage of decades, political shifts, and the journeys of thousands of pupils.