Russell High School

What a performance from our U15 Basketball team! The girls took on Riverwood College and came away victorious in every game.
Their hard work on the court truly paid off, and we couldn't be prouder of the way they represented our school.

Happiness Day 2026

Friday, 7 August, was filled with laughter, creativity, delicious treats and so much happiness as we celebrated one of our most loved annual events.

Our girls, together with their teachers, put an incredible amount of time, love and creativity into creating wonderful stands, and it was truly amazing to see their hard work come to life.

From beautiful, creative henna and face painting to spicy nachos, delicious dumplings, creative mocktails and an endless selection of sweets, snacks and yummy treats, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

And then there was our very own coffee shop, a little escape from the noise and excitement of the day, where the girls could sit back, enjoy a slice of cake and an iced coffee, and simply take a moment to relax.

The photobooth was buzzing, the stands were full of colour and creativity, and everywhere you looked there were smiles, laughter and girls enjoying time together.

Happiness Day was also about giving. We were incredibly grateful to welcome the South African National Blood Service to our school for the day. Many of our staff members and eligible girls generously donated blood, giving something that could make a real difference in someone else's life.

It was a wonderful reminder that happiness isn't only found in the fun we share, but also in the kindness we show to others and the difference we can make when we give of ourselves.

What makes Happiness Day so special isn't just the food, activities or beautifully decorated stands, it is the love, teamwork, effort and imagination that our girls pour into making the day what it is.

The effort they put in was absolutely incredible, and they should be incredibly proud of themselves. Happiness Day 2026 was a wonderful reminder of just how much joy, creativity and community can be created when we come together.

A huge thank you to all our girls and staff who helped make the day so special.

Russell High School is looking for a professional, friendly and organised individual to join our team and help create a welcoming and efficient front-office environment.

📌 Closing date for applications: 28 August 2026

For full details about the position and application requirements, please click the link below:
https://russellhigh.co.za/vacancies/

We look forward to hearing from suitable candidates!

Our hearts are heavy today as we come to terms with the heart breaking loss of not only a valued member of our staff, but a friend and a much-loved member of the Russell family, Anathi Samantha Njoko.

Sam’s passing has come as a shock, leaving a profound sense of sadness and a void that will be felt throughout our school community.

Sam was, in many ways, a Russell girl through and through. She matriculated from Russell High School in 2009, and when she returned to our school as a staff member, her bubbly personality, her deep love and respect for Russell, and her genuine understanding of our girls quickly became part of the very fabric of our school.

Sam had a remarkable way of connecting with people. She offered guidance, support and kindness to so many of our girls, always taking the time to understand their circumstances, listen to their concerns and check in on them. She cared deeply, and she often went above and beyond simply because that was who she was.

She was also a cherished colleague and friend. Sam had a special connection with those around her, and somehow, whenever there was a question or a problem that no one else could answer, there was a good chance that Sam knew exactly what to do. Her warmth, her laughter, her wisdom and her willingness to help will be deeply missed.

Today, we remember not only the colleague Sam was, but the person she was — someone who brought light, energy and love into the lives of those around her.

Our deepest love, thoughts and support are with Sam’s husband and son, her family and friends, and with every person whose life was touched by her.

Thank you, Sam, for the light you brought to Russell and for the lives you touched along the way.

You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
Once a Russell girl, always a Russell girl.

There is something powerful about women lifting one another up, creating opportunities for each other and helping to make the path a little easier for those who follow.

When we work together, support one another and lead with kindness, we help create a brighter future, one girl at a time.

A huge congratulations to the class that raised the most funds for the SPCA Pietermaritzburg Your incredible effort, enthusiasm, and generosity earned you a well-deserved pizza celebration.

We are so proud of every single Russell girl who supported this initiative. Together, you not only helped raise valuable funds for the SPCA but also created awareness for the important work they do in caring for animals in need.

Our much-loved School Happiness Day is taking place on Thursday, 7 August and the excitement is already building!

This special day is all about celebrating joy, kindness and community. Each class runs its own stand, with the girls spending time planning, decorating, promoting and managing their stalls. They also get to explore all the other stands, supporting one another and enjoying the wonderful treats, games and activities on offer.

💛 How you can help 💛

We are always incredibly grateful for the support of our school community. If you or your business would be interested in sponsoring Happiness Day through donations, prizes, products or financial support, we would love to hear from you. Your generosity helps us make the day even more special for our girls and ensures they have the best possible experience.

If you are interested in supporting Happiness Day, please contact the school office. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.

Today, as we celebrate let’s remember that big changes start with small acts of kindness. Whether it is volunteering, helping a neighbor, or sharing a smile, it is in our hands to build a better world.

Today we celebrate all the fathers, father figures and the amazing mentors who guide, support and inspire. Thank you for the love, strength, wisdom and encouragement you share each day.