Seven matric learners from William Pescod High School recently made their school proud by clinching first place in the St John District First Aid Competition. Pictured (back, from left): Emile Dawson, Sasha Forsido, and Razeem Appie. (Front, from left): Thaaniyah Kleinsmith (Teacher), Jennilee Badenhorst, Emmanuel Macanda, Naledi Kok, and Lameez Jood.
Image: Danie van der Lith
SEVEN determined learners from William Pescod High School have brought pride to their school by claiming first place in the St John District First Aid Competition, held on March 28-29.
This impressive achievement not only qualifies them for the regional round in Bloemfontein, set for June or July, but also comes with a major bonus – a full year of free training for the entire school’s First Aid team.
Even more remarkable is the fact that this was the school’s debut in the competition, and that its First Aid team was only formed just over a year ago. The journey began in January 2025 when the St John Kimberley branch reached out to the school with an offer to train a small group of learners. The vision was simple yet impactful: to empower seven learners with hands-on training each Friday, who would then share their skills with the rest of the team.
What followed was a journey marked by hard work, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to learning. Their success stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when opportunity meets dedication.
A Competition that Tested Mind and Skill
The competition unfolded over two demanding, high-energy days. On day one, each learner completed an individual written test, followed by a team presentation on epileptic seizures, delivered by team chairperson Emmanuel Macamo. Although Emmanuel took the lead, the presentation was a true group effort – every team member played a part in the research, slide design, and preparation.
Saturday brought the highlight of the event: a simulated emergency scenario. Learners were confronted with realistic challenges, including an open wound, a broken kneecap, and a responsive casualty. With little time to think, the team had to stay calm under pressure and apply their training with confidence and professionalism.
Learners were presented with real-life emergency scenarios, including an open wound, a broken kneecap, and a responsive casualty. Under pressure, the team had to think fast and act professionally using their first aid training.
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“They were nervous before the simulations,” said their teacher, Thaaniyah Kleinsmith, “but once they were in the moment, they performed like true professionals. They remained calm, collected, and focused on assisting the patients while ensuring their safety. That’s what made me most proud.”
Meet the Team
The winning team is made up of seven passionate and driven learners: Emmanuel Macamo (chairperson), Naledi Kok (deputy chairperson), Emile Dawson, Sasha Forsido, Lameez Jood, Jennilee Badenhorst, Razeem Aapie.
Each of them contributed to every part of the competition – from the test to the simulations – and their synergy was evident in the way they handled every challenge.
More than Just a Trophy
This win goes beyond medals and certificates. “For us, this victory means recognition of our hard work; it shows how far we’ve come as a team, and it motivates us to keep striving for excellence. For our school, it’s a proud moment. It proves that our learners have the talent and commitment to compete at high levels,” said Razeem Aapie, one of the team members.
The prize of a year’s free training is another major win. Not only will it boost the learners’ skills in practical settings and future competitions, but it also equips them to respond to real-life emergencies within the school and the broader community.
“First aid training is essential,” Kleinsmith added. “It empowers learners with life-saving skills, teaches responsibility, and builds confidence. Our learners are already assisting during school sports matches – under supervision – and this recognition just strengthens the faith we have in their ability.”
Training, Teaching and Teamwork
Currently, the seven matric pupils attend training sessions every Friday at St John’s. On Tuesdays, they meet with the rest of the school’s first aid team to share what they’ve learnt. Their training doesn’t stop there – extra sessions are scheduled after school or even on Saturdays when needed. Despite the pressures of matric, these learners continue to put in the hours.
“We try to be flexible because of their academic responsibilities, but their commitment is unwavering,” Kleinsmith explained. “They work hard, revise often, and take their training seriously – but they also know how to enjoy themselves. It’s about balance.”
Looking Ahead to Regionals
With regionals on the horizon, preparation is already under way. The team plans to refine their presentation using feedback from the district round and continue practising scenarios to increase their confidence.
Their hope is not just to perform well but to represent William Pescod with pride.
“Our focus is on improving, supporting each other, and giving our best. We want to show what we’ve learnt, work well together, and hopefully win.”
Whether or not they bring home another trophy, one thing is certain – these seven learners have already achieved something remarkable. They’ve laid the foundation for a lasting culture of safety, responsibility, and excellence at William Pescod High School.
Their journey is a testament to what can happen when opportunity meets commitment – and the result is nothing short of inspiring.
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