Five schools in Mitchells Plain have demonstrated the power of youth-led action, diverting 2.58 tonnes of recyclable waste from landfill through a community-driven schools recycling competition supported by Petco, Grandmaster Ready D, and his programme, G-CAP.
Building recycling habits through friendly competition
In September 2025, five local schools took part in Petco’s Get In The Loop Schools Recycling Competition. The initiative encouraged learners to take responsibility for their environmental impact while fostering healthy competition among schools, teachers, and families. The focus was practical and straightforward: recycle correctly, work together and build habits that last beyond the competition.
Liesbeeck Primary crowned overall winner
Liesbeeck Primary School emerged as the overall winner, recognised for consistent participation, strong community involvement and a clear commitment to environmental responsibility. The school’s performance highlighted the impact of collective action and the role schools play in driving change at a community level.
Top three schools
1st place. Liesbeeck Primary School. 674.80 kg recycled.
2nd place. Wavecrest Primary School. 587 kg recycled.
3rd place. Caradale Primary School. 487.10 kg recycled.
2.58 tonnes diverted from landfill
The campaign successfully redirected recyclable material away from Western Cape landfill sites, many of which are under severe capacity pressure. Through proper sorting and collection, packaging that would otherwise have contributed to landfill overflow was sent to certified recycling hubs instead. This diversion supports South Africa’s circular economy and keeps valuable materials in use.
Education that reaches beyond the classroom
Throughout the campaign, learners received hands-on training in correct recycling practices. Sessions covered separating recyclable packaging from general waste, identifying recyclable materials and understanding different waste streams. Supported by Petco and G-CAP, the workshops equipped learners with practical skills they took home, extending the project’s impact to households across Mitchells Plain.
Grade 4 teacher Mrs Kassiem shared how collaboration drove success.
“We sent out multiple letters to parents to keep the hype up. It became a collaborative process between teachers and learners. We reminded them frequently to stomp bottles, remove caps, and empty plastic. Other educators guided learners, too. It boosted their confidence and enhanced teamwork.”
Learner pride and school spirit
Grade 7 learner Salmaan Hendricks described the experience simply.
“I always felt proud of myself. We had so much fun sorting the stuff.”
School principal Mr Gasant reflected on the significance of the win.
“This victory came during a difficult emotional period for our school after losing a staff member. We involved younger teachers who brought energy and enthusiasm. This was a collective effort between learners, teachers and parents. Our school culture makes us special, and we are extremely grateful.”
Partners praise learner impact
At the prize handover, Petco’s Junaid Francis congratulated the Liesbeeck Primary community.
“Your efforts have kept bottles and jars out of landfill, out of the environment and out of the oceans. When we work together, we make a real difference in South Africa.”
Grandmaster Ready D highlighted the lasting value of early education.
“The excitement from the learners was clear. When children understand why recycling matters, they influence their households too. This win shows what’s possible when schools, partners and communities work together.”
Looking ahead
Petco encouraged learners to continue recycling beyond the competition, reminding them that recyclable materials have real value and support livelihoods while protecting beaches, wildlife, and oceans.
