SACPS  extra mural offering and philosophy

SACPS has a unique extra-curricular programme that runs throughout the week, both during the school day and after hours. The school utilizes its own facilities as well as nearby municipal facilities, where most practices and matches take place. Despite the proximity, the school provides bus transport for learners to and from the municipal playing fields every Monday and Wednesday.

For learners wishing to participate voluntarily in cultural and sporting activities, SACPS offers a wide range of options in the afternoons. Learners who represent the school in teams are supported with transport for away matches, and parental assistance is welcomed whenever necessary.

At SACPS, sport and culture are offered primarily for enjoyment and personal development, providing staff with opportunities to engage with learners beyond the classroom. Our philosophy prioritizes maximum participation and enjoyment over winning at all costs, with most competitive activities contributing to inter-house points. Even by simply participating, learners contribute to their house’s success.

Cultural activities carry equal importance and value alongside sporting activities. Through these programs, senior learners are encouraged to develop leadership skills as coaches, umpires, referees, and club leaders, broadening both the range of activities offered and leadership opportunities within the school.

Recent investments in improved practice facilities allow for more sport during the afternoons, creating an environment where learners can explore and develop multiple skills. We encourage parents to support their children in joining these activities, helping them grow into well-rounded individuals.

SPORTS

SA College Private School, located in the heart of Pretoria, takes great pride in offering a diverse and enriching sports and extra-curricular program that reflects its commitment to holistic education. As an inner-city school, we understand the importance of fostering not only academic excellence but also physical, social, and emotional growth in our students. Our sports and extra-curricular journey is designed to provide opportunities for students to explore their passions, build teamwork skills, and develop a healthy and active lifestyle, despite the space constraints typically associated with urban schools.

Through strategic partnerships with local sports facilities and community organisations, we ensure that our students have access to a wide range of sporting activities, from soccer and netball to athletics, swimming, and more. Our dedicated coaching staff work tirelessly to nurture the talents of each student, regardless of their starting level, promoting the values of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship. These sports programmes not only build physical fitness but also instill life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience, essential for success in all areas of life.

Beyond sports, our extra-curricular offerings include a rich array of cultural, academic, and creative activities. Students can engage in debate clubs, music, drama, and art, ensuring that their talents and interests are nurtured in various fields. These activities are vital in developing well-rounded individuals who can thrive in both their academic and personal lives. At SA College Private School, we are committed to creating a dynamic and inclusive environment where every student can discover and develop their full potential.

Despite being in an urban setting, we have successfully crafted a vibrant, supportive, and resourceful community that provides every child with the chance to excel both inside and outside the classroom.

Over the past years we have expanded on our sports offering and have a solid plan in place to improve the offering to our learners over time.

Foundation Phase (Grade R to 3)

Our Foundation Phase learners actively participate in the KFC Mini Cricket program, which provides a fun and engaging platform for developing cricket skills while fostering a love for the game. The program emphasizes teamwork, sportsmanship, and active participation, laying a strong foundation for future involvement in sport.

Since its inception, our learners have competed against schools such as Loreto Queenswood and taken part in various internal and external events. The program includes participation in Mini Cricket events and the annual KFC Mini Cricket Festival, providing opportunities for exposure, growth, and enjoyment of the game.

We are committed to seeing our young cricketers continue to develop their skills, enjoy the sport, and embrace the spirit of competition as they progress in their sporting journey.

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Currently our primary school fielded U7 and U8 teams to compete in the U8 and U9 competitions. This early participation aims to prepare our young learners for the U9 level, where the focus shifts to tackling skills. The two teams had the opportunity to showcase their abilities at the Loftus annual day, as well as the GIR day at Loftus. These experiences are invaluable in building confidence and readiness for the upcoming challenges in rugby.

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Our rugby program provides learners with opportunities to develop their skills, teamwork, and understanding of the game from an early age. Since its inception, our teams have competed in the Blue Bulls Rugby Union leagues, including both 7s and 15-man formats, as well as friendly matches against schools such as Jacaranda International.
The program emphasizes skill development, sportsmanship, and competitive experience, with a focus on preparing learners for higher levels of play. Through league participation, friendly fixtures, and structured training, our goal is to nurture a passion for rugby, build strong team dynamics, and give learners exposure to diverse playing experiences.

Our Mini Netball program focuses on skill development, fun, and participation for our young learners. Since its inception, emphasis has been placed on ensuring all coaches
are qualified and skilled, which has been vital in developing players’ abilities and understanding of the game.
Learners have participated in Mini Festivals, such as competitions against Curro Thatchfield, gaining valuable match experience and exposure. Under the guidance of Ms. Mulungula and Mr. Gwete (Skills Coach), our young players continue to receive enhanced training and skill development. Moving forward, we aim to increase participation in Mini Festivals throughout the year, providing more opportunities for learners to grow, compete, and enjoy the sport.

Our Foundation Phase athletics program provides learners with opportunities to develop speed, coordination, and field event skills in a supportive and competitive environment. Participants have competed in the Interhouse Athletics Competition, as well as external events at Eduplex and against Eben Swemmer Primary, gaining valuable experience and confidence.
The program emphasizes skill development, healthy competition, and sportsmanship, with a focus on expanding participation across multiple track and field events. Looking ahead, we aim to continue growing our athletics program, offering more competitions and events to further nurture our young athletes’ abilities.

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Starting in 2026, our school is introducing Mini Hockey for girls, focusing on fundamental skills, teamwork, and enjoyment of the sport. The program will be guided by Ms. Jackel, Ms. Mulungula, and Ms. Mitchell, who will work together to provide a strong foundation for our learners.

Through Mini Hockey, we aim to develop coordination, game understanding, and a love for hockey from an early age, giving learners opportunities to grow in a fun and supportive environment.

Intermediate Phase (Grade 4 to 6)

Our Primary School Rugby Program provides learners with opportunities to develop their skills, teamwork, and understanding of the game from a young age. Teams have competed in both 7s and 15-man formats within the Blue Bulls Rugby Union leagues and have participated in friendly matches against schools such as Jacaranda International and Uitsig Primary, giving players exposure to higher levels of competition. The program emphasizes skill development, sportsmanship, and a love for rugby, with the goal of nurturing future talent and preparing learners for competitive play in structured leagues.

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The Primary School Soccer Program focuses on teamwork, discipline, and competitive growth. Our teams have participated in interschool friendlies and internal competitions, gaining experience against schools such as Crawford International, Cornwall Hill, Eastside Primary, Rietondale Primary, and Jacaranda International. Learners compete across multiple age groups (U10–U13), and the program aims to provide consistent league participation, exposure, and skill development, with plans to join the FAPPS League to further challenge and grow our players.

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Our Grade 4 students participate in the annual KFC Mini Cricket, hosted at SuperSport Park in Centurion. This event provides a fantastic opportunity for young cricketers to showcase their skills and enjoy the game in a fun, competitive environment. We are committed to fostering a love for cricket among our learners and look forward to continuing this tradition in the coming years.

Our Netball Program offers learners opportunities to develop individual skills, teamwork, and competitive experience. Teams compete in the Daisy League, with A teams participating in league fixtures and B teams playing friendly matches, as well as in the Jacaranda League. The program is supported by skills coaches Ms. Mulungula and Mr. Gwete, helping learners enhance their abilities. Successes include improved league rankings across age groups, demonstrating growth and development in both individual players and the program overall.

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The Primary School Athletics Program provides learners with opportunities in track and field events, fostering talent, confidence, and sportsmanship. Learners participate in competitions at Eduplex, Cluster Meets at Wonderboom High School, and against schools like Eben Swemmer Primary. Standout athletes, such as Nelson K. Nelson and Ben Nwaivu, have achieved exceptional results at District and Gauteng Championships, reflecting the program’s focus on identifying and nurturing promising talent. Through continued participation and development, the program aims to cultivate a strong athletics culture within the school.

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Our Primary School Intersen Phase Chess Program provides learners with opportunities to develop strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and competitive experience. In 2025, our learners competed in friendly matches against various private schools, performing admirably across all fixtures. Under the guidance and support of Mr. Sambo, the program has focused on skill development, teamwork, and exposure to competitive play, helping learners gain confidence and enjoy the challenge of the game.

High School (SP and FET – Grade 7 to 12)

Our High School Rugby Program has grown significantly, with both U15 and U18 Boys’ teams competing in the Blue Bulls Rugby Union Division 5 League. Teams have participated in both league and friendly matches against schools such as Wonderboom High School, Rietondale High School, Jacaranda College, and Uitsig Primary, gaining valuable competitive experience. Notable achievements include the U18 team winning the Voortrekker Hoogte Expo Cup and multiple players being selected for Blue Bulls Trials, with some advancing to provincial representation. The program focuses on skill development, teamwork, and fostering a love for the sport, with ongoing efforts to strengthen coaching expertise and develop the next generation of players.

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Our High School Soccer Program fields U15 and U20 boys’ teams in the Magalies Soccer League, complemented by friendly matches against schools such as RTC, Rietondale High, Jacaranda College, Rosemary Hill, and Voortrekker Hoogte, as well as participation in the annual derby against Eduplex. The program emphasizes individual skill development, teamwork, and exposure to competitive play, with the goal of improving league performance and providing learners with opportunities to attend trials and gain valuable match experience.

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The Netball Program includes U14–U19 teams competing in the Emerald League, supported by B teams and friendly matches against schools such as Wonderboom High, Rietondale High, Jacaranda College, Curro Thatchfield, and Dirk Postma. Learners have achieved impressive results, including undefeated seasons and strong league rankings, while participation in trials has allowed standout players to compete at higher levels. The program focuses on skill development, match exposure, and fostering teamwork, guided by dedicated skills coaches.

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Our Basketball Program includes U15 and U18 Boys and Girls teams participating in the Development League, the Pretoria Basketball League, and tournaments such as the Lusaka Tournament at Crawford. Friendly matches against Rosemary Hill provide additional exposure. The program emphasizes team dynamics, individual skill improvement, and competitive experience, with a focus on expanding participation and exploring higher-level competitions.

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The Athletics Program provides learners with opportunities in track and field events, competing at Wonderboom High School, Eduplex, and against Southdowns College. Field events such as Long Jump, Shot Put, and Discus complement traditional track competitions. Plans include the addition of an external athletics coach to enhance training and support continued growth.

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Our Choir actively participates in key events such as Derby Day, Merit Awards, Top 10 Ceremony, assemblies, and the Valedictory Service. Learners have delivered standout performances, including presentations on Gender-Based Violence, under the guidance of Ms. Ngubane. The program aims to expand participation, showcase talent, and engage learners with the broader community.

Our Chess Program has achieved notable success, including winning the Voortrekker Hoogte Expo Cup and defending titles at competitions such as Derby Day at Eduplex. Learners have represented the school at District level, highlighting the program’s focus on strategic thinking, competition, and skill development.

The Table Tennis Program competes in the Gauteng North Table Tennis League, fielding mixed teams of boys and girls. Internally, the program fosters a spirit of friendly rivalry, while external competitions provide exposure and skill development opportunities.

Our Volleyball Program, guided by Mr. Lubisi, includes teams competing in tournaments such as the Goliath Cup. The program focuses on skill development, team cohesion, and fostering interest in the sport, with the goal of improving results and providing competitive experience for learners across multiple age groups.

The Debate and Public Speaking Program is guided by Ms. Muchenje, Ms. Monareng, Ms. Mlambo, and Ms. Ndlovu, focusing on communication, critical thinking, and public speaking skills. Learners participate in Derby Day competitions and friendly matches against schools including Eduplex, Woodhill, RTC, and ProEd, gaining exposure and experience while building confidence and proficiency.

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staff , van niekerk , m

Sport Coordinator

Mr M van Niekerk
Tel: (012) 326 4580 ext 214
Email: VanNiekerkM@sacps.co.za
Parents or other schools are welcome to contact our sports Coordinator Mr M van Niekerk for further information.

important explanation to parents

Extra curricular arrangements

The accompanying schedule contains activities of a sporting and a cultural nature. Your child should choose which of these activities he or she would like to participate in, so please discuss this with your child.

Please be advised of the following: There is a weekly timetabled Municipal Sports Grounds session and the cultural period on the school that can be found in your child’s diary. This means that your child must attend school in the prescribed sports clothing of SA College. Learners not wearing the prescribed clothing will be sent home to change.

  • Sporting teams participate in practices/matches at the Municipal fields. Only learners who apply to be on the sporting teams and are selected will be required to attend these practices/matches.
  • Athletics is predominantly offered in the first term,  likewise in the fourth term while the other sports will be offered in the 2nd and 3rd term. 
  • You will note from the programme that there are many other activities taking place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays on the school campus and we encourage your child to take part.
  • Included in the programme are also English, Afrikaans and Mathematics remedial classes.
    Please encourage your child to participate in as many activities as possible. We strongly recommend that he/she audition for one of the 3 choirs that operate in the school.