St Michael's

School for Girls
Old Girls

We cannot wait to connect with all our SMS Old Girls and see what you’ve been up to.

filled with laughter, memories

Old Girls’ Weekend of 13–14 September 2025

The Old Girls’ Weekend of 13–14 September 2025 was filled with laughter, memories, and the unmistakable sense of belonging that St Michael’s continues to inspire. Saturday morning began with a gentle drizzle, as if the heavens themselves wanted to sprinkle a touch of nostalgia on the gathering. But soon the clouds lifted, and the sun broke through, blessing everyone with the beauty of a perfect Bloemfontein Spring Day.

On the hockey astro, the Old Girls faced the First XI in a spirited match that had both players and spectators smiling, proof that the love of sport and camaraderie never fades. One cannot omit the magic of our own hockey coach, Mr Maddocks.  What a joy to watch him!

From there, friendships rekindled over breakfast in the staff room and the quad. Generations met across the tables, with alumnae from the classes of 1968, 1972, 1975, 1995, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2008, and 2015 sharing stories of school days long past and catching up on life’s journeys since. I would like to make special mention of Mmes Jill Spencer, Class of 1968, Margie Oosthuysen, Class of 1972, and Lorraine van der Linde, Class of 1975. It was wonderful to have these Old Girls present.  It is a very special year for Mrs van der Linde as she celebrates her 50th reunion since her final year at SMS, a wonderful achievement.

Sunday morning brought everyone together in the quiet beauty of the Chapel for the Old Girls’ Eucharist. The Chapel Choir, under the direction of Ms Ilané van Wyk, sang with such grace and purity that it stirred hearts and filled the space with a sense of peace. A reunion Eucharist will just not be the same without another faithful past teacher, parent to three daughters who finished their school careers at SMS and now a loyal friend, Mrs Virginia Scott. With her presence, the picture was complete. After the service, over cups of tea, there were more smiles, more goodbyes, and a promise of “until next time.”

As the weekend drew to a close, one could not help but feel that the walls of St Michael’s had absorbed every laugh, every story, and every hug, keeping them safe until the Old Girls gather again. The weekend was more than an event; it was a celebration of friendship, shared history, and the enduring spirit of sisterhood that makes St Michael’s School forever home.

A big thank you to Mmes Lee-Ann Thompson and Carla Hugo-Ranger for all their help and support to make the Old Girls’ weekend a memorable occasion.

Keep your eye on the website and Facebook pages to find out more details about our next reunion.

A History to Celebrate 150 years

A Legacy of Excellence…
The History of St Michael’s School for Girls

Celebrating the sesquicentennial anniversary of St Michael’s School for Girls in Bloemfontein, a prestigious institution that stands as the oldest girls’ school north of the Orange River and the third oldest in South Africa.

Founded as an Anglican church school by Bishop Allan Becher Webb in 1874 and transitioning to a government school in January 1977, St Michael’s has consistently upheld its rich traditions and outstanding academic standards.

With an unparalleled 45 year streak of a 100% matric pass rate, this beacon of education continues to shine brightly in the Free State and beyond.

Journey through the remarkable history of a school that has shaped the lives of countless young women, fostering excellence, resilience, and a commitment to learning.

In loving memory

With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to one of our cherished Old Girls, Ann Trinder-Smith,née Carter – Class of 1958. Her legacy and spirit will always remain a part of our school family.

May the angels guide you gently on your final journey.

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St Michael's School
for Girls

Choosing the correct school for your daughter is always a difficult yet important decision. Let us help you make that decision easier. With an academic track record that speaks for itself, St Michael’s School for Girls should be at the top of your list.

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