Arts and Culture at GHS
Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School prides itself on its commitment to the arts: Drama, Visual Arts and Music are offered as subject choices to take through to Grade 12.
The study of Drama can help develop many qualities and life-skills: enthusiasm, confidence, self-esteem, conversational competence and social skills. Furthermore, drama lessons stimulate learners to be motivated and involved.
Visual Arts is an enormously rewarding and enjoyable subject which develops learners’ ability to manage their time and to manage processes from the start through to the final product.
To do Music in Grade 10, learners should have demonstrated consistent work and progress in Grades 8 and 9, in both the theoretical and practical components of Music. Learners have to practise their instruments daily.
Trained educators have been appointed in each of the subjects with specialist musicians in the Music Department.
While these subjects are offered in the school curriculum, aspects of them can be pursued on a more social level: learners can join the Drama, Dance or Art Societies, and the musical learners can be members of the School Choir, Gospel Choir or the Wind Band.
Societies and Clubs
We cater for an extensive range of interests with over 20 societies.
We encourage girls to be a part of at least one society in order that they develop their interests outside the classroom and beyond the sports field.
ART
The Art Society is a creative and welcoming space where learners can explore their artistic side, develop their skills, and experiment with new ideas beyond the classroom. It encourages self-expression, collaboration, and creative thinking in a relaxed and supportive environment while contributing to the school’s cultural life in a fun and meaningful way.
DEBATING
The Debating Society is a vibrant space for learners to develop confidence, critical thinking, and public speaking skills. Members engage with real-world issues, construct persuasive arguments, and compete in interschool debates. The society fosters teamwork, quick thinking, and the ability to express ideas clearly and respectfully in a variety of contexts.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
The Entrepreneurship Society is dedicated to fostering a new generation of confident, independent young businesswomen. By introducing learners to the world of business at a young age, the society provides a practical platform for girls to move beyond the classroom and “be their own boss”.
MATHS AND SCIENCE
The society is involved in creating a stronger passion in the school for Maths and Science. The learners take part in quizzes, games, competitions and experiments to increase the love for Maths and Science. The essence of maths and science is not to make simple things complicated, but to make complicated things simple in a fun way.
AUDIO VISUAL/ TECH THEATRE CREW
This is the behind-the-scenes team in charge of the lighting and sound setup for all school productions as well as any event or activity requiring audio-visual support.
BLOOD BUDDIES
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CROCHET CLUB
Our Crochet Club creates a space for creativity and a feeling of accomplishment with every stitch! Through a fun and inclusive environment, girls connect, socialise, learn life skills and work together towards a common goal. This year we are doing squares to create blankets to donate to a charity.
EMPOWERHER
EmpowerHER is a student-led society that creates a safe and supportive space for girls to build confidence, find their voice, and uplift each other. Through open discussions, activities, and shared experiences, we focus on self-growth, leadership, and sisterhood. It’s about being real, speaking up without fear, and becoming confident, strong young women together, while learning to support, encourage, and empower one another
RECYCLING
The Recycling Society is a group of learners committed to caring for our environment by promoting and practising recycling. Through daily duties and awareness, we encourage our school and community to reduce waste, protect nature, and make responsible choices – working together to create a cleaner, greener future for everyone.
DANCE
Dance incorporates seven genres; African Zumba, Latin and Ballroom, Contemporary, Modern-Indian Dance, Hip-hop, Kwaito and Irish. Girls from different genres work on routines and performances for the school’s annual Dance Show. This is a very exciting society where a lot of creativity and talent is revealed.
ENVIROCARE & GROW A COMMUNITY
The society aims to develop awareness, skills and knowledge of various aspects of the natural environment, through fun activities, awareness campaigns, and teamwork, and help create a healthier planet for the future. Small, collective changes lead to a big environmental impact.
FIRST AID
The First Aid Society serves both the school and community at large. Girls have the opportunity to earn their Level 1, 2, and level 3 First Aid Certificates through an accredited Institution, equipping them with both life-saving skills, as well as knowledge that is valuable for their careers, leadership, and everyday life. At the heart of our society, however, is a simple goal: We encourage every member to serve others with a willing heart.
LEGO WARRIERS
The LEGO Society brings builders and creators together twice a week to design, construct models, and challenge each other with various themes. Our goal is to spark creativity, teamwork, fun, and allow students to express their imagination through the power of building blocks.
LIBRARY MONITORS
The Library Monitor Society is made up of a team of responsible and reliable learners from all grades who assist in the daily operations of the library and are involved in activities and events which contribute towards promoting a culture of reading within the school. Being part of the society helps students develop leadership qualities and improves organisational and communication skills
MARKETING
The Marketing team work across the school contributing to story-telling and generating visual and written content for a wide range of platforms. Through developing personal creativity and individual communication skills, they actively promote the school brand and image, engaging at a professional level with a wide range of stakeholders.
MODEL UNITED NATIONS
Model UN is a simulation of the United Nations where students take on the role of diplomats representing different countries, and debate global issues, propose solutions, and work together to resolve conflicts. Model UN helps students understand international relations and the complexity of global challenges. Our mission is to shape the next generation of leaders, and in a world of shifting politics and corruption, develop informed, ethical, and globally aware individuals who can lead with integrity
GHS AWAKE
GHSAwake is the birthplace of courageous conversations. We aim to challenge outdated ways of looking at the world, while constructively contributing to the betterment of ourselves and the world around us.
GIRLS FOR GOD
Our aim is to help grow the learners in their Christian walk, to bring them into a closer relationship with God and to be servants of Christ in the school and the wider community.
GREEN ELLY
Green Elly is a dynamic journalism and creative writing club that gives learners a platform to share their voices and tell meaningful stories. Members report on school events and contribute articles to the Green Elly blog, keeping the school community informed and engaged. The club also nurtures creativity, offering opportunities to develop writing skills across different genres. Green Elly is a space for curious minds, aspiring writers, and storytellers to grow and be heard.
GOSPEL CHOIR
The Gospel Choir aims to enrich the human spirit through songs of gospel, drawing the listener closer to God. Having a history of receiving gold for the Eisteddfod (a musical exam) we pride ourselves on quality over quantity in various performance.
PRESIDENT’S AWARD
The President’s Award, also known as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, is an exciting journey of self-discovery. Through community service, skills development, physical activity, and adventurous expeditions, the society builds confidence, leadership, and resilience while making a difference. It’s not just an award, it’s a life-changing experience that prepares girls for future success. It’s not about being the best, it’s about becoming your best. Earn your Bronze, Silver, or Gold Standard on your path to greatness.
READING CLUB
The Reading Club is an engaging platform that encourages learners to develop a love for reading while improving their language, comprehension, and critical thinking skills. It provides a relaxed and enjoyable environment where learners can explore different books, share ideas, discuss stories, and build confidence in expressing their opinions. Through regular meetings and reading activities, the club promotes literacy, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for reading.
RUGBY REFEREES
Founded in January 2026, the Rugby Referees’ Society meets every Wednesday after school. The girls learn the theory of refereeing and touch-judging during the week, and get the chance to apply that knowledge on the weekends, as they carry out their duties at various schools in and around PMB. Girls participate under the mentorship of the local Midlands Referees’ Society, and are encouraged to write the national exam.
TABLE OFFICIALS
Table officials ensure matches run smoothly by managing scoring, timekeeping, and completing match records. They track disciplinary actions such as yellow and red cards, and help maintain order in the technical area, including substitutions. They support referees during games and represent the school professionally at district and provincial fixtures, upholding standards and contributing to fair, well-organised competitions.
HINDU STUDENTS’ SOCIETY
The HSS provides a welcoming space for those interested in Hinduism, Indian culture, and related traditions. Members learn about Hindu beliefs, values, and practices, and aim to live by them. The society also celebrates Hindu culture through festivals and activities, fostering friendship, community, respect, and a shared sense of identity.
INTERACT
The aim of the society is to be a blessing to our local community and to give our girls an opportunity to give of themselves for the benefit of others. We aim to instill, in the heart of each girl, a desire to be a blessing and to help make this world a better place by giving what they can to help others around us.
MUSLIM STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION
The MSA exists to create a supportive and inclusive space for learners to practice their faith, connect and build community. Weekly meetings include motivational talks and educational content linked to Islam, as well as fun events, fundraising and support of the GHS community to promote a sisterhood with the general life of the school.
PERFORMANCE COMPANY
The Performance Company is a powerhouse team of performers who light up every stage. From intense rehearsals to big festival performances, we don’t just dance — we perform, we tell stories, and we own the spotlight. Pushing the limits, showing up with discipline, balancing books and growing in confidence while representing the school with pride. This isn’t just another society. It’s a team, a family, a movement.
SAICE WATER & BRIDGE-BUILDING COMPETITION
The South African Institution of Civil Engineering hosts annual competitions in water systems and bridge design, where learners solve real-world problems using model kits. Working in teams, they develop design, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, supporting future careers in engineering and project management.
SOCIAL BOARD GAMES
Our Social Board Games Club is a welcoming space where learners can relax, unwind, and connect with one another in a fun and inclusive environment. Through a variety of board games, members have the opportunity to socialise, build friendships, and develop skills such as teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking. Whether you enjoy classic favourites or discovering new games, the club offers something for everyone. It’s a chance to take a break from academic pressures, engage in friendly competition, and be part of a supportive community where everyone feels comfortable and included.
STRING ENSEMBLE
Violins, violas, cellos, guitars and percussion are what you find in the GHS String Ensemble. The musicians rehearse twice weekly and perform a range of music from classical to pop. The group performs regularly at a variety of concerts, either by providing background music to special events or the main focus of the concert, often collaborating with other schools. The ensemble is a place where musicians come and enjoy making music together.
JAZZ BAND
The GHS jazz band is a lively ensemble featuring different instruments. Practices focus on groove, improvisation, and musical interaction. Players explore various styles like swing, funk, and blues, with the aim of growing creativity, playing expressive solos, performing on stage, and collaborating in an energetic, engaging group.
POETRY
This is a society where the genre of poetry is explored inside and out. Girls learn about freedom of expression and respecting the dignity of every living being.
ROBOTICS
The Coding & Robotics Club is where innovation meets creativity! Whether a beginner or already loving technology, learners develop their coding, problem-solving, and creativity skills through coding platforms. They learn how to build devices that can run successfully through set projects.
SCHOOL CHOIR
The choirs give girls an opportunity to come together with others who share their love of singing. They learn how to work in a group, as well as self-discipline and how to work towards a long-term goal. They also learn about other cultures, all through sharing the joy of singing with others. Throughout the year, the choir maintains a busy schedule with regular rehearsals and numerous performances, fostering discipline and friendship among the members.
WIND BAND
The Wind Band is a high-energy group of woodwind, brass, and percussion players. Rehearsals build precision, power, and tight teamwork, while the learners perform bold music, from driving marches to modern hits. It takes commitment, focus, and regular practice to sharpen skills, perform live, and be part of a dynamic, powerful musical team.