A MARCH MADE IN HEAVEN - WPMA’s program is making a big difference on the Cape Flats

THE Schools Drill Squad Marching program has become a source of pride for many government schools in the Western Cape.

It was initiated by Saeed Ruiters in 2006. He then went on to form the Western Cape Marching Association (WPMA) with affiliates from all over the Cape Flats. 

The organisation has since grown to include schools from West Coast, Overberg, Cape Winelands and Eden, and Central Karoo.

To date, the WPMA has formed partnerships with the City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Directorate and the Western Cape Education Department (WCED).

The activity has been introduced into schools as part of the Life Orientation for learners.

The WPMA is the sole service provider and oversees recruitment and introduction, coaching workshops, teacher training, team coaching, drumming sessions and drum major training.

It also arranges school marching festivals, local district competitions and inter-district competitions. 

Ruiters explained: “Our coaches travel to all these areas and train these rural and farm schools…”

Drill squad marching can instill laaities with discipline, respect, teamwork and punctuality. 

I spoke to Fatima Veldsman, team manager for Mitchells Plain High School, who will be participating for the first time. 

She said: “My squad is unbelievably dedicated, and are extremely excited to take part in the competition. 

“This has become their home away from home, their family and a safe place.

“Many youths come from broken and troubled homes, and the squad is their refuge. They live for it…

“I am so proud of how far my squad has come and I must thank their two coaches, Waheed Moses and Enrico Josias for sacrificing their time to teach these children…”

Mense, over the years I have seen these squads march. Ons kinders is aan die brand! The Drill Marching Program of WPMA and other similar marching initiatives, have become a meaningful activity for our schools and has provided a simple and effective platform to offer them an alternative to the social ills our communities face.

This Saturday, 29 November, the WPMA hosts The Western Cape Provincial Marching Championship 2025 at the Erica Park Sport grounds in Belhar, from 8am to 5pm.

Tickets are only R20 and can be obtained from all 42 participating schools. 

The squads will participate in three categories: Best Dressed, Grand March Past and Exhibition Drill march. 

River View Primary School are the defending primary school champions and Goodwood College lifted the high schools trophy last year.

Be prepared to be amazed!