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I had a ball, says 43-year-old matriculant

Cape Argus

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July 14, 2025

HAYLEY Papier, 43, from Lavender Hill, is living proof that you are never too old to learn.

- MARSHA DEAN

I had a ball, says 43-year-old matriculant

Papier was one of more than 400 adult “Night Schoolers” who celebrated their matric ball and valedictory on Friday.

The mom of two dropped out of school in Grade 11 but thanks to Hopeful Leaders Night School, she was able to complete her National Senior Certificate.

"I failed Grade 11. A few years back, I would never have admitted that giving priority to having nice times and parties and not making time for school work and studying was the reason," Papier said.

"It led to me failing a grade for the first time in my school career."

She said she found out about Hopeful Leaders Night School through Facebook and classes started in September 2024.

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