PRETORIA HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

A Nostalgic Journey: 45 Years of Spring Fair Memories

Ms SA Dorlas - Teacher and Old Girl

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I have attended every Spring Fair from 1978. That makes a total of 45 Spring Fairs.

My first Spring Fair was in Grade 6 at Brooklyn School. My Mom is an Old Girl. She felt I needed to see my future High School in all its glory.

My strongest memories were of the Ghost Chamber. This was set up in the cellar under the Stage. It was set up by one of the classes. Wet cold spaghetti was “brains”, cold wet litchis were “eyeballs”. It was really well done and everyone coming out did look a little scared!

The Tombola was also a major attraction. You bought a ticket which gave you a lucky number. The number determined what prize you won. Prizes ranged from small prizes ( sweets etc) to some impressive prizes (a radio, cassette player etc).

Mrs Lucky Legs was also held in the Hall during every Spring Fair. Every class in the school was represented by one girl who had the best legs. The entrants walked onto to stage with a special screen that only revealed their legs. There were always some “fun” entrants. Girls who wore long socks or had hairy legs- the hairs drawn onto their legs with a koki! There was a judging panel. A winner and runner-up were announced at the end of each competition.

It was a time when Mom’s still baked, knitted and sewed. So there were wonderful Sweet Stalls, Cake and Cookie Stalls, and a Needlework Stall. All the products were homemade.

There were International Food Stalls already in the 1970s. I remember loving the Chinese Food Stall. There were so many different nationalities at Girls High- the parents of a particular group got together and made the food representing their culture.

Book Stall was also a huge attraction back then.

Only one Spring Fair was ever disrupted by rain, and all the Stalls had to move into the School Building.

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A Stroll Through Spring Fair’s Vibrant Memories

Tolu Essien - Old Girl, Grade 12 2024

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The warmth of the atmosphere within the school embraces me the second I walk through the gates. The jubilation from the carnival zone is almost contagious as an unwarranted smile spreads across my face. The type that highlights every dimple, line and wrinkle but to no concern. As I quickly make my way through the buzzing crowd and flurry of lime green dresses, I wave at familiar faces, old and new. All different yet sharing a common gleefulness.

I arrive at the main hall entrance, that I first stood before at my commencement ceremony in Grade 8, to see it magnificently decorated by the many dedicated learners and staff. The diverse book range within catches the attention of not only a curious five year old but an inquisitive fifty year old as well.

The amount of musical acts, dances and our brother school’s pipe band’s performance have never failed to fill me with delight. Travelling through the formal gardens, I’m pleasantly overwhelmed by the serene scents that escape the food stalls from around the globe. Each inviting me to explore a new culture with the delectable treats, sweet baked goods and savoury dishes. The assorted mix of vendors, who boast a vibrant array of products, offering an eclectic mix of handmade crafts, unique gifts, and everything in between are buzzing bees.

As the festivities draw to a close, the vibrant purple blooms of the rows of jacaranda trees seem to mirror the vibrancy of the day, its delicate petals gently falling like confetti amidst the subtle glow of satisfied smiles, the lingering aroma of mixed cuisines, and the joyful chatter of friends and family, all basking in the memories of a day well-spent together.​

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High Expectations for the upcoming Spring Fair

Ms P Moodley - Teacher

As PHSG approaches its annual Spring Fair, I feel excited, nervous and a bit anxious about what to expect as a new teacher. From what I've heard, it sounds like a day in the sun filled with food, shopping and entertainment. I'm looking forward to experiencing this community event, especially as it will be my first time attending and participating in the Spring Fair. It sounds like a wonderful way to celebrate the school community and to connect with staff, pupils and parents. It's definitely going to be a new and exciting experience. I look forward to being a part of the excitement and having a memorable first Spring Fair.

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A Student Perspective

Reateigile Masha - Student, Grade 9

Spring Fair is the one day where school doesn’t feel like school, it feels like a full-on festival! The air is buzzing with excitement, music is pumping, and the vibe? Immaculate. It’s a chance to eat delicious food, dance like nobody’s marking your Life Orientation practical, and just enjoy being young and alive with your friends. For me, it’s more than just a market, it’s a celebration of our school spirit, our unity, and our joy. It’s the break we all deserve, the memories we’ll laugh about, and the moment that reminds us school can also be fun. So don’t even think about missing it, be there on 6 September from 8:30 to 14:00! Come hungry, come happy, and come ready to vibe!