Pretoria High School for Girls

Debating

Debating is a dynamic and intellectually enriching activity that empowers learners to think critically, communicate persuasively, and engage respectfully with a wide range of viewpoints. At our school, debating is a cornerstone of leadership and personal development, offering learners the chance to grow both academically and socially.

We proudly field two junior and two senior teams in the regional Debating League, where learners compete throughout the year in structured, competitive rounds. Our teams also participate in the prestigious All-Girls Festival, a national event that brings together girls' schools from across the country to celebrate excellence.

Through their involvement, learners develop vital skills such as public speaking, logical reasoning, research, teamwork, and time management. More importantly, debating builds confidence and poise—encouraging learners to find and use their voices with clarity and conviction.

Whether presenting arguments in front of an audience or working collaboratively behind the scenes, our debaters become thoughtful, articulate individuals prepared to lead and make a difference.

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New Voices

The New Voices choir is the school's beginners' choir. Every senior choir member first spends a year in this choir in order to train and improve their range before joining the seniors, after which they audition for the senior choir. They perform at several concerts throughout the year such as the Mother's Day Concert, and Night at the Proms, and they compete in the ATKV choral competition.

Orchestra

The orchestra is an inclusive group where musicians can improve their skills and widen their repertoire. The orchestra has regular performances and plays a wide range of music. The orchestra takes part in the annual Four Schools Concert, showcasing their remarkable talent under the leadership of Mrs Hohls. The Valentine’s Day Concert, Mother’s Day Concert and Night at the Proms are a few of the performances learners and parents can look forward to during the year.

Extract from "Heroes Unite" arranged by E. Clayton

"Circle of Life" arranged by M. Pienaar

Senior Choir

The Senior Choir makes great strides throughout the year. The choir competes in various competitions such as the Pretoria Eisteddfod and the ATKV competition. Several of the Senior Choir members are selected to be part of the University of Pretoria Youth Choir. The choir performs at the annual Four Schools Concert, Night at the Proms, Mother’s Day Concert and Valentine’s Day concert to name a few.

Public Speaking

The fear of death is said to be a close second to the fear of public speaking. At the public speaking club learners are taught how to overcome this fear and hone their communication skills. A club that has grown vastly over the years, learners compete in various public speaking competitions and showcase their talents. These competitions include the National All Girls’ Schools Festival and the Emalahleni English Orators competition.

Marimba

Bringing rhythm to life! As a vibrant marimba team at our all-girls school, we blend passion, teamwork, and musical talent to create unforgettable performances. With both Junior and Senior Marimba teams, we develop skills, confidence, and a love for music from a young age. Beyond school events, we proudly represent our school in national and international marimba competitions, showcasing our dedication and energy on a bigger stage. Join us as we make the world groove, one note at a time!"

Guitar Ensemble

Classical guitar ensembles at Pretoria High School for Girls perform at various school events and partake in annual classical guitar and ensemble competitions like the Pretoria Guitar Eisteddfod, AKV (Afrikaanse Kunsvereniging,) and the SASMT (The South African Society of Music Teachers) national ensemble competition. Members of these ensembles are either individually selected based on performance or pass an audition.

Visit the Guitar Ensembles on

Piano Ensemble

For a pianist, the journey can often lead to limited opportunities for ensemble playing, especially when compared to other instruments that can easily join orchestras or vocalists who harmonize in choirs. However, at PHSG, the narrative changes entirely. Here, we actively cultivate opportunities for pianists based on their hard work and dedication. Our piano ensembles are a testament to this commitment. Not only do these ensembles offer a chance to make beautiful music, but they also foster wonderful friendships among the girls. In fact, sometimes, amidst rehearsals, we find moments to savor delicious milkshakes!

Our piano ensembles not only contribute to school events but also actively participate in various festivals and competitions, such as the Pretoria Eisteddfod, Afrikaanse Kunsvereniging Eisteddfod, and the National SASMT Pretoria Ensemble Competition. This allows our pianists to showcase their talent on broader stages and further enrich their musical journey.