During the Term 2 holidays, a group of 11 Cannons Creek High School learners, Ms Bartosch (Deputy Principal and Head of Outdoor Club), and Mr Matts Van den Berg (Physical Education Coordinator), spent five days hiking the Fish River Canyon – 72km in total. They were accompanied by past learners Hannah Kline and Luke Bryant (Class of 2023). On the second day of the hike, the group spent a well-deserved long time in the warm water at the Sulphur Springs which provided some relief for their weary muscles. This year, the group even had an encounter with a scorpion and several first aid requests to assist with blisters.

Each evening, the group collected firewood to make campfires, where they shared jokes and admired the beauty of the stars. After the group had conquered the second largest canyon in the world, they spent some time relaxing in the Ai-Ais Hot Springs and enjoyed a braai. Ms Bartosch commented, “Cooler temperatures this year allowed us to walk a greater distance on day one. Plenty of flowing water in the river meant that we could sleep wherever we wanted to.”

Some comments:

“The Fish River Hike was definitely the highlight of my year, as I made so many amazing memories. It was a life experience to remember! We are very grateful to the school for providing us with this incredible experience and to Ms Bartosch and Mr Van den Berg for sacrificing a week of their holidays to enjoy the hike with us.” – Michael Sparks (Grade 12).

“I really enjoyed it. I love spending time in the beautiful wilderness, the sense of independence and self-responsibility, especially with good company. This is not a hike for amateurs, it’s not very easy, but definitely worth it.” – Ben le Roux (Grade 10)

Grade 10 pupils Luke Wong Ho and Ben Le Roux enjoying some time off to fuel up for the remainder of their hike.

The group enjoying some camaraderie around the fire.

The group during the hike, demonstrating that learning happens outside the classroom also.

The group of 11 Cannons Creek Independent High School pupils, with two past pupils Hannah Kline and Luke Bryant and Teachers in Charge, Ms Barbara Bartosch and Mr Matts Van den Berg.