Curro 'Cats' and Panthera 'Cats’

On Tuesday, 1 July 2025, twelve learners from Curro Hermanus High School spent the day lending a helping hand at Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary just outside Stanford to give them a Fresh New Look - what an experience for them - Curro 'Cats' and Panthera 'Cats'!

Under the guidance of their Visual Arts Teacher, Vivienne Mitchley, and with the support of teachers Ester Venter, Nadia Viljoen, and Carli Joubert-Basson, the learners - aged 13 to 15 - worked hard to give the entrance and curio area of the sanctuary a much-needed facelift. “The learners were armed with shovels, gloves, paintbrushes, and lots of enthusiasm,” said Vivienne. “The group cleared spaces, planted water-wise indigenous plants donated by the teachers and students, and gave the jungle gym a fresh coat of paint.” And the results? The once tired-looking play area is now clean and ready to welcome visiting children again.

“But their kindness didn't stop there,” Vivienne said. “The learners also collected and donated cardboard boxes to help enrich the lives of the big cats.” These boxes are used in special enrichment activities that keep the animals active and mentally stimulated. 

To show their appreciation, Panthera Africa treated the group to a special Educational Visit, led by director Taryn Blows. She shared the sanctuary's story and explained its mission as a rescue sanctuary that gives big cats - rescued from difficult and often heartbreaking circumstances - a safe, forever home. Panthera Africa does not breed, trade, or allow interaction with the animals, and promotes responsible tourism.

Although the Foundation Phase learners from Curro Hermanus have visited before, this was the first time the High School learners joined - and it was a memorable one! “Another Curro Cats Day is already planned for later this month, and excitement is building for Stage 2 of the project, where Jacques Venter, husband of teacher Ester Venter, will lend a hand with the curio shop upgrades,” Vivienne said. She also said as the bus pulled away, the lions let out farewell roars - perhaps their way of saying thank you, Curro Cats! 

(Source: Curro High School, Hermanus)

(Pictures: Jacques Venter)

Hardus Botha

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