Dear Parents and Learners

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!  What an incredible time we had hosting Somerset College for Derby weekend.  The best part was welcoming so many parents, past learners and friends of the College to our beautiful campus.

DERBY FEEDBACK

Day 1 Activities

Derby weekend is not only about competition; it is also about collaboration, building friendships and sharing new experiences.  Our Head of Sport reports about all the sports matches in the Sport section lower down, but here is a glimpse of what happened on our campus on Friday.

LOOKING AHEAD

Spring Day Civvies

All the best to our eSports teams

We wish our Counter-Strike teams all the best as they travel to Gauteng next week to take part in the final rounds to retain our title as South African champions.  Trust your comms, trust your aim, trust each other. You’ve got the win in you!

Peace Project

ACADEMICS

Academic Links

Note the section at the top dedicated specifically to academic links.  Click on the links below to find: 

🎓 Winter Quarter Timetables,  🎓Assessment Calendars, the  🎓 Tutorial Schedule, the  🎓 Subject Change Deadlines, the   🎓Promotion Requirements and   🎓 Absence during Assessments or Exams and 🎓 Exam Dates 

Science Expo Results

We are immensely proud of our learners and congratulate them on their excellent results at the 2025 Regional Science Expo held at UCT this week.

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Logan De Araujo:  Silver

Ella Frielinghaus & Alexa-Rose Schreuder:  Silver

Zayn Redelinghuys:  Bronze

Computer Sciences and Software Development

Gerhard Vosloo:  Gold

Energy

Noah Abbott:  Silver

Caterina Frazzitta:  Bronze

Puneet Nagendrakumar & Aden van Rhyn:  Silver

Zacchary Rawat:  Gold

Engineering

Madison Coleman & Lyla Crighton:  Bronze

Environmental Studies

Shihan Huang & Arabella Fox:  Bronze

Jenna Simpson:  Bronze

Physics, Astronomy & Space Sciences

Liat Demissew:  Bronze

Kaylee-Jade Mestre:  Silver

Dristhi Ramkelawan & Naeha Naidu:  Gold

Special Prizes

Best project in Physics, Astronomy and Space Sciences:  Naeha Naidu & Dristhi Ramkalawan

Best Senior Chemistry Project:  Zayn Redelinghuys

Mayor's Choice Trophy for Innovation and cash prize:  Madison Coleman & Lyla Crighton

Assessment Calendars

Grade 12 Academic Timeline, Exam Timetables and Important Dates

Please find below a link to the academic timeline, preliminary examination timetable, final NSC timetable, and other important dates for the Class of 2025.  We would like to highlight that there are very few teaching days remaining for our matric students.  These remaining weeks include several critical DBE SBA submission and moderation dates.  We urge all parents to ensure that full attendance and a strong commitment to meeting deadlines remain a top priority during this crucial period.

Grade 12 2025 Academic Timeline and Exam Timetables

NSC 2025 Timetable

Grade 12 Prelim Study Guidelines

Attendance

The greatest loss of learning occurs when a child is not present in the classroom, which is why regular school attendance is essential to academic progress. Consistent attendance supports both continuity of learning and effective monitoring of progress. Frequent absences, even when occasional, can disrupt learning, make it more difficult for learners to keep up, and add unnecessary pressure. While we understand that this time of year often brings illness, we kindly ask for your support in encouraging strong attendance so that every learner can benefit fully from the opportunities provided at school.

Grade 10 2026 Subject Choice Information Evening

From the English Department

Unicorn Awards

The Grade 10s are invited to an exclusive screening of the top 10 movies from their English Movie Project. This annual event is a wonderful showcase of the incredible talent this grade has to offer. The top 10 films will be judged by 4 outside judges, who are currently working in the film industry in Cape Town. There will be many prizes and accolades awarded on the evening. 

Please note that this event is not open to the public, but exclusively for the Grade 10 learners. 

We look forward to seeing them there!

From the English Department:  Digital Bookshelf

HOUSES

Spelling Bee

The annual Inter-House Spelling Bee buzzed with excitement as the competitors showcased their linguistic abilities. Nearly 100 junior and senior participants represented their houses, eager to demonstrate their spelling skills to earn glory for their respective houses.

Thank you to Ms O’Toole, Mr Dicks, Mrs H, Joshua da Silva as well as House prefects Amber and Matt and the House captains for helping make the event happen.

Mr L Baker

ROBOTICS

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

Exploring Passions, Finding Purpose – Clubs & Societies in Quarter 3

At Parklands College, we believe learning doesn’t stop when the bell rings. Some of the most meaningful growth happens outside the classroom through conversations, collaboration, creativity, and curiosity. That’s why we’re so excited about our Clubs and Societies programme.

If you take a walk around the campus during utility or after school, you’ll feel the energy.  Whether it’s learners deep in strategy during a gaming tournament, sharing ideas in an Interact Club meeting, or debugging code in App Development, there’s a real sense of purpose and passion. These clubs are more than just activities; they're safe spaces for learners to explore who they are and what they love.

In Quarter 3, we have made slight changes to the Clubs and Societies Timetable, which is attached below. From wellness and creative arts to innovation and outreach, there’s something for everyone.

We look forward to seeing even more learners get involved this Quarter. It’s not about adding another item to a to-do list, but it’s about belonging, leading, and growing.

Let the exploring continue.

Link to timetable

SERVICE

LEARNER AFFAIRS

Learners driving to school

Every year, we receive requests from learners driving themselves to school to park their vehicles on the school grounds.  We will not allow that for the following very important and well-considered reasons:

1. Safety:  Hundreds of younger learners are dropped and picked up in the parking lot daily and the danger of allowing an additional approximate 100 inexperienced drivers (by the second half of the year) onto campus, is a risk too big to take.

2. Insurance:  The school has public liability insurance for injuries due to school-related events.  Driving a car is not a school-related event and will therefore not be covered by our insurance.

3. Necessity:  There is close enough access to public transport (MyCiTi) for there to be no need for learners to drive themselves to school if their parents are unable to do so.

4. Unlicensed driving:  Some parents allow their children to illegally drive vehicles to school.  As learners arrive and leave during peak times, it is impossible for the security guards to check licences without causing massive congestion.

There are parking embayments in College Avenue for learners to park their vehicles and when that is full, there is ample parking space available at Checkers.  The parking area on the East side of the gate is also available for parking.  This can be accessed from Sandown Road.

Learners missing school

The College prioritises academic/ tuition time.  Failure to comply will ultimately compromise a learner's academic performance.

We ask for your cooperation in not arranging activities and appointments during school hours.  Should disruption of the school day be beyond your control, e.g. appointments with a specialists, we ask that you inform the grade head timeously in order for us to make the necessary academic arrangements.  There is no such thing as a "free" lesson.  In the event of an educator being absent, a substitute educator is provided and work is set for that lesson.

Learners should be at school every day until at least the end of the academic day, including until after assembly on a Friday.  

You are reminded to email ssteyn@parklands.co.za directly to obtain permission to miss assembly on a Friday.

Please note that the Learner Attendance Policy has been updated in the Parent & Learner Directory.

College blazers

Please be reminded that all learners need to wear the new striped blazer from the start of 2026, with the obvious exception of those who wear Honours Blazers.  To ensure timely delivery, we advise you to place your order with our uniform supplier, School and Leisure, early.

Second hand school uniforms

Please contact Tania Fourie if you would like to buy or sell good quality second-hand uniforms.  She is also the supplier of Froggy School shoes.  Contact details:  +27 83 631 7683 or tania@sportstudio.co.za

Emergency Contact Details

We would like to remind you that it is imperative for us to be able to contact you or a member of your family or a close friend in the case of an emergency. Kindly visit the Edana App and check the contact details in the fields provided. To ensure that the information is complete and correct, it is vital that the contact numbers are accessible at all times by the College.  

This is a very important request, and we are asking you to comply immediately as a safety precaution.  

Please select your profile, then "Contact Information"  update, and "Emergency Contacts" and update accordingly. Please click on the link for step by step guidance.

Communication & Information

Please use secondary@parklands.co.za if you are unsure about who to contact.  Your mail will be directed to the correct person.

Please click on the tabs at the top of the Memo to access useful information:  Calendars, Academic info and Assessment Calendars, Uniform requirements and Operational Information (including Parent&Learner Directory, EDANA app instructions and KARRI app guidelines for use at Kauai)

We have updated the Parent & Learner Directory on 7 August 2025 with a revised Learner Attendance Policy.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

Two opportunities for international travel in 2026

To travel and explore different countries and cultures with your friends is an experience you carry with you for the rest of your life.

Cultural Tour for Juniors to Paris in September 2026

Parklands College is planning a Cultural Tour to Paris in September 2026 for our current Grade 5, 6 & 7 learners.  (Grade 7 and 8 learners from the Secondary Faculty).  

Should you be interested in your child participating in the tour, or require further information, please email Mme A Bailly at abailly@parklands.co.za.  A truly memorable cultural experience awaits!

Cultural tour for Seniors to Budapest and Vienna in March 2026

Mr Baker (lbaker@parklands.co.za) is the tour leader for this tour.

Kindly scan the QR code to reply if you are interested.  This tour is going ahead, but we would love a few more learners to join!

• This tour is for Parklands College learners only and they will be accompanied by our own staff members in addition to the tour guide.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

This Indaba left us with new insights and a renewed sense of responsibility to lead with courage, empathy, and inclusivity..

FROM THE SPORTS DEPARTMENT

What really stands out from a Derby Day weekend is the connection. Across sports, culture and activities, learners, families and educators come together — and the photographs in this blog capture that spirit perfectly. Smiles, raised arms, shared celebrations. These moments remind us why we gather, why we cheer and why these weekends leave a lasting mark. 

It was also wonderful to see some of our alumni return, supporting siblings and showing their ongoing commitment to the school community.

An incredible 44 fixtures were scheduled across two days — 15 preparatory, and 29 secondary fixtures — in hockey, netball, rugby, soccer, and chess. Add in drama, public speaking, mathematics challenges, cooking, face-painting, and music, and you’ve got a celebration of everything our learners can do — and a reminder that their talents reach even further, into areas like robotics and eSports.

What gave it real meaning was how it was done. Our learners competed with respect, played with commitment and carried themselves with dignity. Those are Parklands College values in action — integrity, respect, responsibility and inclusivity — lessons that stretch far beyond the scoreboard.

The Olympics, an event held once every four years, show us the same truth. Derek Redmond, a British sprinter, tore his hamstring in the 400m semi-final at the 1992 Barcelona Games but famously crossed the line with his father’s help, showing sheer determination. Liu Xiang, China’s world champion hurdler, limped out of the 110m hurdles at Athens 2004 due to injury, a heartbreaking moment for a nation cheering him on. And Linford Christie, the British sprint legend, saw his final Olympic chance end with disqualification after false starts in 1996 — a reminder that even the best can falter. It’s not the setback we remember, but the courage to rise again. 

Derby Day is no different.

Looking ahead, this is the future of sport at Parklands College. It’s not just about producing athletes, but leaders. It’s about innovation, opportunity and respect. We’re building something that will carry our learners into tomorrow — and Derby Day shows we’re already on the right path.

We are incredibly proud of the respectful manner in which our learners conducted themselves and hope that the memories made will last a lifetime. For more coverage and photographs capturing the excitement of Derby Day, please visit our social media sites.

SECONDARY SPORTS CALENDAR

Please remember to subscribe to the Secondary sports calendar for upcoming fixtures.

DH

Feedback

DERBY DAY 1 - SPORT

Girls' Soccer

Boys' Soccer

A special mention to the u19 Boys' Soccer team, coached by Mr Luke Baker, who remain unbeaten in two consecutive Derby Day encounters. 

This year they won 4-1.  Well done, team!

Girls' Hockey

Boys' Hockey

DERBY DAY 2 - SPORT

Netball

Rugby

Learner Achievements

Indoor Cricket and Chess

Connor Swartz (Grade 9) has had a busy and successful month! From 3 - 7 July, he represented his team at the WP Action Cricket CPL U14 tournament in Pretoria, helping them secure a Bronze medal – a fantastic achievement at such a competitive event.

On 19 July, Connor switched from bat to board, participating in the African Chess League (ACL). He showed great strategic skill, winning 3 out of his 7 matches against strong opponents.

Well done, Connor, on excelling in both the physical and mental arenas – a true all-rounder!

WP Cross Country

Steffan Hillebrand (Grade 10) competed at the Western Province Cross Country Championships this past weekend, finishing 5th. He has earned a place in the WP team for the Western Cape Interprovincial Championships in Stellenbosch on 30 August 2025. 

Well done Steffan!

Dance

Congratulations to Leela Trimalley (Grade 8) on her outstanding achievements in both dance and singing. Leela, a committed member of the B2D dance group, recently won at the National Dance Competition in Roodepoort, earned her provincial colours for dance sport, placed 3rd at the Global Dance Supreme Competition, and qualified for the South African Dance Team. 

Beyond the dance floor, Leela is also a proud member of the Tygerberg Children’s Choir and has been selected as one of only 30 singers to perform in the Worldclass Mosaic Production: Unbroken in Germany and the Netherlands in March 2026.

Well done Leela!

CPL Hockey

The Cape Town Premier League (CPL) is a private franchise outdoor hockey league featuring six teams in a tournament format. It attracts top players from Western Province, Boland and Southern Cape, with divisions for U12, U14, U16 and U18 boys and girls. 

The CPL offers a high-level platform for youth hockey, with 100 players per age group selected from thousands of applicants. 

This year, over 2000 applied, and we are proud that six Parklands learners – Amy Muller, Adam Muller, Trent McCulloch, Blaine Fisher, Sabelo Ntuli and Connor Swartz – were chosen. 

Matches take place in September at top Cape Town venues.

If you are interested in joining this league please email - hockey@ctpremierleague.co.za

Sports department coordinators

For general enquiries about specific winter sports, contact:

• Chess, Boys' soccer, cross country, golf and First Aid mviljoen@parklands.co.za

• Rugby and Girls' soccer dviljoen@parklands.co.za

• Netball and Girls' hockey sbloem@parklands.co.za

• Head of Cricket and Boys' hockey ggilder@parklands.co.za

• Head of Sport dhunt@parklands.co.za 

2025 Sports Prefects

• Erin Langenhoven

• Nicole Apsey

• Nic Farquhar

Winter sports managers (educators)

Winter sports captains 

Winter sports timetable

Please remember to subscribe to our Secondary sports calendar using this link:  Secondary sports calendar 

Please click on the link:  https://sites.google.com/parklands.co.za/parklandscollegedance/home

Three of our dancers, Alexa-Rose Schreuder, Ella Frielinghaus & Clara-Mari Vosloo will be performing as part of the Cape Junior Ballet company in their production "Elements".  Tickets are available via Quicket.

Cape Town Eisteddfod

There's lots of buzz in the Music Department ...

Supporting our Musicians at The Cape Town Eisteddfod
Family and friends are warmly invited to attend the Cape Town Eisteddfod performances. Please note: a R20 entry fee applies for non-performers. SnapScan and card facilities will be available.

We kindly ask all audience members to kindly observe concert etiquette:

• Please put your cellphones on silent 

• Please stay for the full duration of the performance class 

LEARNER SUPPORT 

Mrs Scott (C block):  sjscott@parklands.co.za

Mrs Kistan (Resource Centre):  skistan@parklands.co.za

VARSITY COLLEGE GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ

Last week four of our Grade 11 learners: Rayah Moodley, Connor Crighton, Jordan Leca and Teneale Moodley, went to Varsity College for the first round of the national General Knowledge Quiz. This is done as a Kahoot quiz where all questions are multiple choice questions and the learners get more points the quicker they answer. Only the top 10 progressed to the next round. The learners did exceptionally well and Rayah Moodley secured her place in the next round by coming first in this round. Well done, Rayah Moodley! 

Guest Speakers and Workshops

This week Monday, the Grade 8 and 9 learners recently had the opportunity to hear from Melissa Bosch, a professional dietician, who shared valuable insights about the importance of healthy eating. The session highlighted how nutrition impacts energy levels, concentration, and overall well-being, especially during the teenage years. Learners engaged enthusiastically and asked thoughtful questions about balanced diets. It was an informative talk that encouraged our learners to take ownership of their health and make mindful choices in their daily lives.

Our Grade 7, 8, and 9 learners recently enjoyed inspiring sessions with Duane Lew and his team from Winning Edge who spoke on the importance of leadership and values. Each grade had its own interactive session, where learners explored different aspects like respect, that your behaviour reflects your character, embracing diversity, communication, and the role these play in building strong relationships within the school and beyond. The talks encouraged learners to reflect on how leadership is something you start now and can be practiced daily through respect, responsibility, and positive influence.

Financial Aid Opportunities - Bursaries 

CONCLUSION

Important reminders for parents

College Crest and Logos

The College Crest and logos are registered trademarks and may not be used without permission from the Head of Marketing: cdevos@parklands.co.za 

Access to Campus

Please note that for security reasons, no parents or visitors are allowed past the Admin building during the week without reporting to reception.  We have instructed our learners and staff to ask anyone without a Visitor's Badge to report to reception.

No Dogs Allowed

Please note that the College does not allow animals, especially dogs, on campus, except in the following cases:

• Officially registered guide or support dogs (with the necessary harness).

• Pets owned by personnel residing on campus for security purposes.

Lost Cellphones

Almost on a daily basis we are asked to assist with finding lost cellphones.  It has become an impossible task and we simply cannot expect staff to actively look for misplaced cellphones.  We provide adequate facilities for the learners to lock their devices away.

If a learner misplaces or loses their cellphone, parents are required to report the missing device to the local police station.

Learners need to complete a report about the missing device at reception of the ICT desk in the event that it is handed in.

AirPods

We do not look for missing AirPods.  Learners have been told that they should rather not bring AirPods to school, as they get lost easily.

TERTIARY STUDIES 

Open Days and Application Dates 2025 for Universities and Colleges 

CONCLUSION

I was filled with so much pride and joy this past weekend.  Thank you, Parklands College!