FROM THE OFFICE

This past week has been a vibrant celebration of talent, creativity, and achievement across our school community.

Our House Plays took centre stage, showcasing not only the dramatic flair of our learners but also their teamwork, dedication, and courage to perform. Each house brought something unique to the stage, and the standard of performance continues to grow year on year. Thank you to our parents for their continued support - it plays a vital role in the success of initiatives like these.

We also marked World Book Day with great enthusiasm, as learners and staff alike embraced the joy of reading, with many dressing up as their favourite book or movie characters. The day highlighted the importance of literature as the foundation of all learning.

Beyond our campus, we remain incredibly proud of the individuals who continue to impress on national and international international platforms. Their achievements reflect not only personal excellence but also the values and commitment nurtured within our school. 

On Sunday, our Robotics team, the Hyperion Bots, ill depart for the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship in Houston, Texas. We wish them every success as they represent our school on this prestigious international stage. 

And it is with immense pride that we celebrate our alumna, Laura Wolvaardt, whose outstanding innings of 115 off 53 balls in a dominant win against India at the Wanderers is yet another reminder of her exceptional talent. Her recognition on the world stage as one of the best female cricketers is a moment of immense pride for our community and continues to inspire our learners.

It has truly been a week that celebrates the richness of school life - from the stage, to the page, to the global arena.

STAFFING

We welcome the following educators to the teacher team at the beginning of next quarter. We are excited to have them and look forward to the experience, energy, and expertise they will bring to our classrooms and broader school environment.

FEEDBACK

HYPERION BOTS ON THEIR WAY TO HOUSTON!

This week, eight of our incredible Secondary learners pack their bags and head to Houston, Texas, to compete at the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship - and we couldn't be prouder. The HyperionBots have poured countless hours into their robot, their engineering portfolio, and every aspect of this competition, and they've more than earned their place on that world stage. Go show Houston what Parklands is made of - we're cheering you on from Cape Town! 

MEET OUR ROBOT

The Hyperion Bots have designed, built, and refined their robot with dedication and teamwork, and they are now ready...

COUNSELLOR JONATHAN MILLS MEETS LILY HOWE

UCT MATHS OLYMPIAD

On Thursday evening, 72 learners from Parklands College proudly participated in the UCT Mathematics Olympiad, a prestigious event that attracts between 7 000 and 9 000 learners from Grades 8 to 12 across the Western Cape. Our learners embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and determination, representing the College with distinction among a highly competitive field. A sincere thank you to each participant for your commitment and exemplary behaviour throughout the event - you were outstanding ambassadors for the College. We now eagerly await the results and remain hopeful for excellent achievements.

WORLD BOOK DAY

We celebrated World Book Day with great enthusiasm, as learners and staff embraced the joy of reading, with many dressing up as their favourite literary or film characters, highlighting the importance of books as the foundation of all learning.

MISS DELPORT'S CLASS - FOTO FUN ON WORLD BOOK DAY

GRADE 10 MATHEMATICS

On Tuesday, our Grade 10 Mathematics learners took their understanding of trigonometry beyond the classroom through a hands-on investigation. After constructing their own astrolabes, they headed outdoors to apply their knowledge in a practical setting. Using these instruments, learners measured angles of elevation to determine the heights of the Innovation Centre and the flagpole. The activity not only reinforced key trigonometric concepts but also encouraged problem-solving, collaboration, and real-world application, highlighting how mathematics can be both engaging and meaningful.

The questions were tough, but we came prepared. With two matric students and four Grade 11s, we approached the challenge strategically, pairing a Grade 11 with a matric at key stations to maximise our combined knowledge. 

Once the rounds were complete, we took a well-earned break and enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Gift of the Givers, giving us a chance to relax before the final results. As the prize-giving began, third place was announced, resulting in a three-way tie. At that point, we were convinced we hadn’t placed. The tension only grew as second place was revealed, and still, our name hadn’t been called. At last, the moment for first place arrived. The drumroll built, and suddenly, the words “Parklands College” filled the room. We looked at each other in disbelief, excitement washing over us. I was completely frozen in my seat, my jaw on the floor. We eventually put ourselves back into reality and made our way up to the stage to receive our trophy and accolades, still laughing in disbelief and happiness. This experience was truly unforgettable. It not only allowed us to uphold and display the high academic standards of our school, but also to be part of the beginning of what promises to become a highly successful competition. 

Beyond the victory, it gave us the opportunity to branch out, connect, and communicate with others who share the same passion for Life Sciences, making it an experience we will never forget. Most importantly, it reminded us that unexpected opportunities and victories can come at any moment, often when they are least expected. Because of this, we are reminded to remain resilient, to keep going even when outcomes feel uncertain, and to never stop reaching for the opportunities that come our way. 

Alexa-Rose Schreuder

WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO...

🥁 DRUMROLL PLEASE... HOUSE PLAYS 🥁 

GENERAL INFORMATION

LEADERSHIP CAMP FOR GRADE 11 - CLASS OF 2027

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” ~ John Quincy Adams.

Investing in leadership development is a key priority at our school, as we believe every learner has the potential to lead with purpose and integrity. Leadership is not limited to formal roles, but is developed across the entire grade, empowering all learners to contribute meaningfully in their final school year and beyond.

Communication has been shared with parents regarding the Grade 11 leadership camp - an opportunity for the entire grade to develop key skills such as communication, teamwork, and decision-making. Traditionally, it is also a camp where we see the group come together as a unified entity, while enjoying an important experience of bonding and shared growth.

Parents are requested to return the indemnity forms as soon as possible.

DATES AND HIGHLIGHTS

We encourage parents and learners to refer to the school calendar shared at the beginning of the blog. However, as our Grade 12 and Grade 11 learners enter an important and exciting period, we would like to highlight a few key dates.

22-24 June Grade 11 - Leadership Camp - all Grade 11s

23-25 July High School Musical

31 July Leadership Voting

7 August Grade 12 - 40 Day Breakfast

15 August Derby Day

18 August Leadership Induction Ceremony

18 September Sport Awards tbc

19 September Matric Dance

22 September STCL & Honors & Leadership Awards

23 September Valedictory & Locking the Legacy

13 October Grade 12 NSC Exam Start

SCHOOL & LEISURE - FREE DELIVERY

A reminder that our Uniform Shop, School & Leisure, offers free delivery on all online orders, making it easier than ever to get what you need.

For free delivery to school, in the address block, please insert school name and address and add discount code before check out

• Junior Preparatory - 91 Raats Drive, Parklands 7441

• Secondary Preparatory - 50 Wood Drive, Parklands 7441

• Secondary Faculty - 1 College Avenue, Sandown 7441

Discount Code : PKLSCHOOL (both upper and lowercase works)

DROP-OFF AND COLLECTION TIMES

During drop-off and collection times, we ask that parents please respect the traffic flow and avoid stopping in drive-through areas. We encourage making use of designated parking to ensure the safety and smooth flow of traffic for all.  The safety and security of our learners, remains a priority at all times.

EXAMINATION QUARTER

This quarter marks our examination period, an important time in the academic calendar. We kindly ask that parents avoid making travel arrangements during this time.  Learners are required to fully participate in their exams and make the most of their preparations. 

Your support in maintaining a smooth, focused exam schedule is greatly appreciated.

ABSENTEEISM FORMAL SBA ASSESSMENTS & EXAMINATIONS

A complete assessment portfolio (SBA - school-based assessment), including all November examinations, is required for promotion into the next grade. 

A learner can not be permitted to write the final exam if the SBA component is incomplete.

Should a learner be absent for the final examination without a valid reason, the learner will not be promoted to the next grade.   A valid reason in this context includes the following:

a) illness, supported by a valid medical certificate issued by a registered medical practitioner;

b) humanitarian reasons, which include the death of an immediate family member, supported by a death certificate;

c) the learner appearing in a court hearing, which must be supported by written evidence; or

d) any other reason as may be accepted as valid by the Head of the assessment body.

Note that extended holiday breaks and travel do not constitute a valid reason.

SUBJECT CHANGES 

Please note the following important WCED dates for subject changes:

Grade 10 Subject Changes

The last date for subject changes is Monday, 27 July 2026.

* Note that some of the subject groups have reached full capacity and changes to these subjects will not be possible.   

* Any subject change requests received after Friday, 8 May, will only be processed/considered for implementation next quarter.

Grade 11 & 12 Subject Changes

There are no more changes permitted for Grade 12.

13 April 2026 is the final date for Grade 11 subject changes. Requests to do additional subjects must also be submitted before this date as there will be no opportunity to register extra subjects when the candidate is in Grade 12.

Note that all subject changes are subject to space availability and the educators' agreement.

In order to initiate a subject change, please submit the subject change request form to Mrs Tromp.  Forms are available from Reception.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

📅 Assessment Calendars:

Use these calendars to plan ahead for tests, tasks, and exams.

Grade 7 Assessment Calendar,     Grade 8 Assessment Calendar,     Grade 9 Assessment Calendar,     Grade 10 Assessment Calendar,     Grade 11 Assessment Calendar,     Grade 12 Assessment Calendar 

🎯 Tutorial Schedule

Tutorials are available to support learning throughout the term: 2026 Autumn Tutorial Schedule

🕒 Class Timetables

Find your class times, days, and subject allocations for Quarter 2:. 2026 Quarter 2 Timetables, Times and Day Allocation

📝 Exam Timetables

Please use the examination timetables below to prepare effectively for your upcoming assessments. Ensure that you are aware of your exam dates, times, and any specific requirements.

JUNE EXAM TT 2026

📑 Exam Study Guidelines

Grade 12        Grade 11       Grade 10       Grade 9        Grade 8       Grade 7

Study Timetables

Grade 7 Study Timetable        Grade 8 Study Timetable        Grade 9 Study Timetable

GRADE 12 NATIONAL BENCHMARK TESTING (NBT) TRAINING

We are pleased to offer NBT Training for Mathematics for our Grade 12 learners.

Details

• Date: 25 June and 26 June

• Time: 08:00 – 11:00

• Venue: To be confirmed

Registration

Learners who would like to attend must register using this Google Form no later than 20 May to confirm attendance.

What is the NBT?

The National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are assessments used by many South African universities as part of their admission process. They help universities evaluate a learner’s readiness for tertiary study and may be used together with NSC final results when making placement or acceptance decisions.

The NBT consists of:

• AQL – Academic and Quantitative Literacy

• MAT – Mathematics

This training will focus on the Mathematics (MAT) component.

Important Note

NBT requirements differ from one university to another. Learners are strongly encouraged to check the admission requirements of each institution to which they plan to apply.

This training is highly recommended for any learner considering university study, particularly in fields requiring Mathematics.

Learners are still welcome to join most of our clubs and societies on offer at the College. Please email the educator in charge of the respective Club or Society, speak to Teneale or Isaiah, our Clubs and Society prefects or email Mr Steinmann.

SCHEDULE

2026 Schedule - 2026 Time table

Important information:

• Some clubs and societies require a fee.

• A consent form must be collected and signed by a parent.

• The full fee structure is available in the Parent Directory.

Drama Lab Production - Annie Jr

We congratulate Trista, who has been cast in the Drama Lab of Annie Jr that will be running in May 2026. We also have two of our prep school learners, Olivia and Lela in the cast.  Please see details if you would like to support them and book tickets. 

Dance

Please find the link below to enrol for Secondary Dance 2026.

Dance Enrolment Link

Inside the link, you’ll find the full timetable and all the details you need. Whether you’re passionate about dance or keen to try something new, we would love to have you join us.

Don’t miss out! Sign up and be part of the energy!

Freedom Day marks a powerful moment in South Africa’s story,  27 April 1994, when, for the first time, all citizens could vote. It was a shift from division to democracy, and towards a shared future.

But for us today, especially as young people, freedom isn’t just history, it’s something we’re still learning how to live. Freedom isn’t only about rights on paper. It’s about what those rights feel like in everyday spaces. Do you feel safe to speak? Comfortable to be yourself? Supported as you grow?

You see it in classrooms, on sports fields, in music rooms, and among friends. It’s the freedom to learn your way, express who you are, make mistakes, and still feel like you belong. And here’s the important part: freedom isn’t just personal, it’s shared. It asks us to notice others too. The quieter voice. The learner who experiences things differently. The person who hasn’t quite found their place yet.

Because inclusion is what makes freedom real. Belonging doesn’t just happen, it’s built through awareness, kindness, and openness to difference. It looks like a learner inviting someone new to sit with them at break, and a teacher intentionally creating space for every voice in the classroom. It’s choosing to listen when someone shares a different perspective, and adults modelling respectful conversation even when opinions differ. It’s being patient when someone learns at a different pace, and structuring lessons or rehearsals so everyone can participate meaningfully. Sometimes it’s as simple as noticing who’s left out, and doing something about it, whether you’re a learner or an adult.

So Freedom Day isn’t only about looking back. It’s about recognising that we’re still shaping what freedom looks like, together. And every time we include, listen, or make space for someone else, we strengthen it.

Maybe the real question is: what does freedom look like when it’s something we don’t just have, but something we choose to give each other every day?

TERTIARY STUDIES

Public tertiary institution application dates for the class of 2026

90 Bursaries available in Shoprite's 2026 bursary programme - now open for application

Applications for the Shoprite Group’s 2026 bursary programme are officially open.

Application details and requirements

In order to be eligible, applicants must be South African citizens under 27 years old, and are registered for undergraduate or post-graduate degree study at an accredited university.

Further qualifying criteria is specific to each bursary - for more information or to apply, visit the Shoprite bursary programme page here.

Applications close on 31 May 2026.

Read more: bursary, Shoprite Group, bursary programme, bursary applications, Shoprite Group bursaries programme

https://www.bizcommunity.com/article/90-bursaries-available-in-shoprite-2026-bursary-programme-now-open-for-application-062755a

SANDWICHES - SALT INITIATIVE

SENSORY AND SPORTS ITEMS FOR GOOD HOPE SEMINARY SCHOOL

Families who have items to donate or contribute to the Sensory and Sports Drive are welcome to drop them off at the reception desk.

Home and Away...

U19 Girls Soccer

 Our U19 soccer girls after their game against Reddam Durbanville where they drew 1 - 1.

U16A Girls Hockey vs El-Shaddai

U19 Rugby vs Camps Bay

U19 Boys Soccer vs Camps Bay

AJ Sportweek Tour Feedback

On 27 March, 82 learners travelled to Mossel Bay to take part in the AJ Sportweek Festival. Our rugby players competed in three matches, while both the boys’ and girls’ hockey teams each played six fixtures. The U17 netball side played seven games, with the U19 team completing eight matches across the week.

It was a valuable and enjoyable experience for all involved, and a strong early-season test against quality opposition. The tour gave our learners an important opportunity to measure progress, build combinations, and set the tone for the season ahead.

U16 Rugby Feedback

When we first set off on our tour, I think we were all feeling that mix of excitement and nerves that’s kind of hard to put into words. As captain, I felt that even more because I knew I was responsible for a group of guys who were genuinely ready to push themselves.

From day one, this wasn’t just about winning rugby games. It was about growing together and making memories we’d actually remember.

After what felt like the longest drive ever, we pulled up at our accommodation in The Wilderness and, honestly, first impressions were solid. Beautiful surroundings, a super chilled atmosphere, and the food which did the job and kept us fuelled for what was ahead.

That set the tone straight away. The energy in the group was electric, and you could tell everyone was locked in and ready to go.

Off the field, we spent a lot of time just being together. Eating, talking, laughing, relaxing. No pressure, no performance, just us as people. And I think that’s where the real magic happened. Somewhere between those meals and those random night-time conversations, we stopped being just teammates. We became brothers.

That’s not something you can plan. It just happens when you’re real with each other.

Now, rugby.

Our matches were tough, no sugar-coating it. Our first game was against an undefeated Jan van Riebeeck. We fought hard after being level on scores at half time, but came up short. It stung.

Game two against Curro Hermanus was different. We came back sharper, more connected, and we got the win. That felt good.

Our last match was against Hoërskool Punt, the hosts, and we lost by a heavy margin. But honestly, each of those three games taught us something we couldn’t have learned any other way.

The hardest part wasn’t just the losses, it was dealing with the physical and mental exhaustion afterwards. That’s when you really find out what a team is made of.

Instead of falling apart, we pulled closer. We adjusted, we stayed together, and we came out the other side stronger than we started.

By the time we got to the final days of the tour, I looked around and saw a completely different group from the one that left home. We had grown as rugby players, yes, but more importantly as people.

What I’ll take from this tour is simple: success isn’t just about the scoreboard. It’s about how you grow, how you respond, and how tightly you stand with the people next to you.

I genuinely believe that when we stand together, there’s nothing we can’t handle.

To our coaches, our organisers, and everyone who made this possible, thank you. This tour didn’t just shape us as players. It shaped us as people.

Lihlume-Boyana Ikhaya

U19 Rugby Feedback

This year’s sports tour saw our netball, hockey, and rugby teams travel to Hoërskool Punt to take part in the annual AJ Sports Week.

We departed early on Friday morning, 27 March, and from the moment we got on the bus, there was a real sense of excitement and anticipation. Even at 7am, the bus was filled with chatter, music, and laughter. It was clear that everyone was ready for what lay ahead.

After a five-hour journey, we arrived in Mossel Bay with that same energy still very much alive. The accommodation was excellent, with great meals and incredible views. Everything was well organised, and as the day went on, the atmosphere gradually settled as teams began to focus on the competition ahead.

The festival kicked off with an opening ceremony on the morning of the 28th, followed by our first match against Hoërskool Punt Rugby U19B Team. Being part of the opening game was a privilege and gave us an early taste of the intensity of the festival. It was a tough match, and although we went down 39–14, the scoreline didn’t fully reflect how competitive the game was. The rest of the day was spent supporting the other college teams, which really added to the sense of unity across all our sports.

On the 29th, we checked out and spent the day relaxing and enjoying Mossel Bay Mall. Later, we made our way to Gourikwa Nature Reserve, where we stayed in comfortable cabins. The setting was incredible, and the team enjoyed time together at the braais, which created a great atmosphere and strengthened our bond as a group.

On the 30th, we faced Curro Hermanus Rugby Team and secured a well-deserved 19–12 victory. The team showed real determination and intensity, and the win gave us a big boost going into our final match.

The 31st was more relaxed, spent supporting our other teams and enjoying a team breakfast. At the same time, there was no denying the physical toll the matches had taken. We were carrying a few bumps and bruises, and there was some uncertainty about how we would respond in the final game.

On the 1st, we took on Paul Roos Gymnasium Rugby U19D Team. Despite the fatigue, the team showed real grit and determination, pushing through to the final whistle and giving everything we had in the last match of the tour.

For me personally, this was my first time captaining a rugby team. I went into the tour unsure of what to expect, but it turned out to be one of the most valuable learning experiences I’ve had. It taught me a lot about leadership, about trusting my teammates, and about understanding the game on a deeper level. More importantly, it helped me build strong relationships within the team.

I would like to sincerely thank Mr Hunt for planning and managing such a well-run tour, as well as the bus drivers for getting us there and back safely. A special thank you also goes to my coaches, Marc Viljoen and Liam Maharage, for their guidance and support.

This tour was nothing short of incredible, and it’s one that I’ll remember for a long time.

Mischan Francis

U16 Netball Feedback

As captain, I can confidently say that the AJ Sports Tour to Mossel Bay was an amazing and memorable experience for both me and the team. From the start of our journey, everyone was excited, yet nervous, with new faces to meet and a challenging tour ahead. As it was my first tour, I did not quite know what to expect.

We stayed at the Wilderness Hotel and Gourikwa Nature Reserve, and both venues were beautiful. The calm and relaxing environments helped us rest and recover between matches. However, the accommodation was about an hour away from our playing venues, which made for early starts. Waking up at 05:00 for a 05:30 breakfast was not easy, but we still gave our best in every match.

During the tour, we played nine matches against U19 first teams. Although we did not achieve all the results we had hoped for, I am incredibly proud of our performances, especially considering that most of our team is only 16 years old. We played with determination in every game and never gave up, despite the demanding schedule.

The first day was intimidating as we faced strong opposition, but we used the experience to grow. One of our matches was lost by just one point, and in three others we lost by only five points. We also secured one win. Unfortunately, injuries reduced our squad by two players, which made things even more challenging. Despite this, we proved to ourselves that we are capable of competing at this level.

One of the highlights of the tour was training with a professional sports scientist. The sessions were tough but extremely valuable, teaching us the importance of fitness and conditioning. These are lessons we will definitely carry into future netball practices.

We were also fortunate to be coached by Erin Burger, a former Protea player with an outstanding career. Her sessions focused on proper warm-ups, footwork and movement, accurate passing, and game strategies. Her knowledge and experience added real value to our development as a team.

Overall, this tour meant a great deal to me. As captain, I have seen genuine growth in our team. We have improved not only as individuals, but also in how we work together. I am extremely proud of everyone’s effort and attitude throughout the tour.

A sincere thank you to our coaches for this opportunity, and especially to Mrs Bloem. We truly appreciate everything you have done for us and the way you have pushed us to become better players. We could not have done it without her support. Thank you as well to my teammates for always giving their best in every match.

This tour was filled with laughter, challenges and growth, and it is something we will all remember and learn from going forward. I am incredibly grateful for the experience.

Zara Gilder

U19 Netball Feedback

The journey to the sports festival in Mossel Bay began on Friday, 27 March. We were set to take part in a popular and competitive festival, bringing together netball, hockey and rugby teams from across the country. After a long but lively trip, we arrived at the Wilderness Hotel, which became our home for the first part of the tour. The calm surroundings gave us a moment to breathe and prepare mentally for what lay ahead.

The Wilderness Hotel offered excellent facilities that made our stay even more memorable. From the generous buffet meals to the tennis courts, swimming pool and paddle courts, there was always something to do. There was never a dull moment, and it allowed us to grow closer as a team.

Saturday marked the real start of the competition, beginning with the opening ceremony. There was a strong sense of pride in wearing our school colours, reminding us of the occasion ahead. The first day of matches was intense, with several games played back-to-back. Our first match against Vredendal served as an important benchmark, helping us settle into the competition and understand the level of play. From that moment on, we used the experience to improve our teamwork and grow stronger with each game.

Although the matches were tough, we continued to push through and learn something new from each one. After a long and exhausting day, we attended the AJ Sportweek model competition, which gave us a welcome break and an opportunity to interact with learners from other schools, experiencing the social side of the tour.

After spending the first few days at the Wilderness Hotel, we travelled on Sunday to our final accommodation at Gourikwa Nature Reserve. The reserve was a peaceful and beautiful setting, close to the beach and surrounded by nature, making it the perfect place to unwind. Ending the day with a braai alongside learners from all the teams was a great way to bond and create lasting memories.

From Monday to Wednesday, we returned to Point High School to continue with the festival. We faced a demanding series of matches that required energy, focus and teamwork each day. The early mornings and long hours tested us, but every player continued to show up and give their best.

As the days progressed, our performance improved noticeably, with better communication, stronger teamwork and growing confidence on the court. Even when matches did not go our way, we remained positive and supported one another. This made me especially proud, as everyone kept their heads up and continued to give their all. Our determination made each day more rewarding and highlighted how much we had improved throughout the tour.

Our final match took place on Wednesday against Wagpos. It was a highlight of our tournament, as everything we had worked on came together in our performance. There was a sense of sadness knowing it was our last game, but also pride in how far we had come as a team.

After the match, we made our way home, carrying with us the memories, lessons and experiences from an unforgettable tour.

Looking back, I am extremely proud of this team and how we performed throughout the tour. We faced strong competition, adapted when needed, and consistently showed determination and a positive attitude.

A big thank you to Mr Hunt for organising the tour, to our coach Ms Walker, and to all the other coaches and teachers who gave their time to travel with us and support us throughout the journey. Most importantly, thank you to the bus drivers for ensuring we travelled safely.

As a matric learner, this was my last opportunity to experience a tour like this, which made it even more meaningful. I strongly encourage future learners to take part, as the memories, friendships and experiences last long after the tour ends.

Morgan Holmes

U19 Girls Hockey Feedback

On 27 March, after months of anticipation, six Parklands College sports teams set off on the long-awaited AJ Sportweek Tour. A total of 82 learners attended the tour, making up U17 and U19 Netball teams, U16 and U19 Rugby teams, and U19 Girls' and Boys' Hockey teams. It was obvious from the beginning that this tour would leave a lasting impression on all of us. 

Following the five-hour bus ride, we arrived at Wilderness Hotel, which would be our place of rest for the next two nights. The hotel provided us with delicious buffet breakfasts and a soft and safe place to rest our heads each night. After arriving at the hotel, we met up as a team to discuss our goals and expectations for the festival ahead. 

The hockey girls each stated a goal that they would like to work towards achieving over the next few days, which I believed really helped us to start shifting our mindsets towards hockey and the coming matches. We were then able to enjoy a few hours of bonding as both teammates and peers, which included chats, walks to Spar, and games of tennis. 

The morning after arrival, we had to wake up bright and early, as the AJ Sports Festival was beginning. Our first two matches were against Klerksdorp and Wolmaransstad. Us hockey girls definitely had to dig deep on day one, as we were not used to playing two matches practically back-to-back. A special congratulations to Sesona Mbovane, who was selected, by the opposition, as Player of the Match for both matches. Later that evening, we attended the Mr and Ms Sportweek Competition, where players compete against one another, not on the sports field, but in a pageant-like setup. This provided us with the opportunity to meet and talk to students from other schools in a casual atmosphere.  

During our second full day of the tour, we did not play any matches, as this was a break day in the festival's schedule. On this day, we travelled to our next accommodation, Gourikwa Nature Reserve, where we would be staying for our final three days of tour. This night, we came together as a group and all attended a braai / bonfire at one of the cottages. 

This experience definitely brought us closer to one another and allowed us to get to know people we might never have spoken to before.  The third day of the tour proved to be slightly easier, as there was ample time between our matches to recover and rejuvenate. Here, it felt as though our chemistry as a team was starting to develop well, and when facing tough opposition, we managed to keep our heads up and give it our all until the final whistle. 

The following day, we returned to Point High School to continue the final two days of the festival. Faced with early-morning wake-ups and tough matches with aching bodies, we had to push ourselves right until the very end. After the final game, we were both glad to be getting back home, but sad about having to say goodbye to such an unforgettable experience. 

At the prizegiving, we were delighted to hear that our goalkeeper, Amy Muller, was awarded with both Goalkeeper of the Tournament for our pool and the Most Promising Goalkeeper of the tournament. These are outstanding achievements that further prove Amy’s importance to and impact on our team. A huge thank you to our coach, Mrs Scott, for her constant guidance and support, and for always pushing us to be better. Another thank you to Mr Hunt for organising and implementing this incredible experience, and to all the coaches, managers and organisers involved in making this tour happen for us. It was an unforgettable five days and an amazing way to begin my last season of hockey at Parklands. 

Dominique Yuill

U19 Boys Hockey Feedback

We woke early on Friday, 27 March, to depart from the campus for a quick 5-hour bus trip to Mossel Bay. By mid-afternoon we had arrived at our first residency, the Wilderness Hotel, where we were well-accommodated and offered a generous buffet for dinner and breakfast. Our opening hours at the hotel saw the hockey boys discuss our approach towards the unique structure of the tournament: teams received 2 points for a draw with goals scored, 1 point for a draw without goals or a loss by one goal, 3 points for a win and 0 points for a loss by two or more goals. We understood that we needed to score often in order to place well.

Our inaugural game of the tournament began at 10:25 on the Saturday, when our mixed U16/U19 touring side equalised to draw 1-1 with Edgemead.  We had the remainder of the day to watch sports matches and rest before leaving for Gourikwa Nature Reserve on Sunday.

Although our first impressions of the reserve were dominated by the lack of a reliable mobile signal, we soon took notice of the beautiful landscape that surrounded us. Our accommodations were modern, kept chalets with kitchens and patios. Many learners spent the evening braaing by the lodges next to the stone beach.

Matches continued from Monday through Wednesday and every player contributed to our successes against a few challenging opponents. We gelled as the tour progressed and managed to construct pockets of very impressive hockey. There were also a handful of extraordinary moments, including Mackenzie Newman’s impossible overhead tap-in that left both defences asking ‘Wait, was that a goal?’ Our team concluded the tournament in the middle of the table with 2 losses by one goal and 3 draws with goals, as well as a 1-0 win over Hoërskool Wagpos.

Many thanks to Coach Stu, Mr Gilder and Mr Hunt for their guidance and their patience over the course of the week. On behalf of the team I must also thank our goalkeeper, Adam Muller, whom we learned to appreciate deeply over the course of each match.

Jarryd Hunt

Learner Achievements

We always love to hear of our learners' external sports achievements. Please email a short blurb along with 3 high-quality photographs (1 Mb minimum) to External Sport News.  

Swimming

Winter Sport Sign Up

Learners are required to sign up for one summer and one winter sport code. 

Please sign your child up for a Quarter 2 and 3 winter sport if you have not yet done so. 

Link: 2026 Q2 and 3 winter sport sign up form 

If your child is unable to take part in College sport due to College dance commitments, College robotics competitions, a medical reason that prevents participation, or participation in non-College sport at Provincial or National level through an accredited sporting body where training clashes with school sport, we kindly ask that you complete the form below and attach the relevant supporting documentation.

Please note that involvement in the school play does not exempt learners from participation in sport. However, consideration has been made with regard to training sessions.

Link: 2026 Excused Learner Form 

Winter Sport Timetable 2026

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

Please contact Mr M Viljoen (mviljoen@parklands.co.zas) to enquire about Golf lessons and practice days.

Sport Uniform

Sports Department 

Girls' hockey and netball: Rebecca Walker (rwalker@parklands.co.za)

Chess, cross country, and boys' soccer: Marc Viljoen (mviljoen@parklands.co.za)

Rugby and girls' soccer: Darin Viljoen (dviljoen@parklands.co.za)

Head of Cricket and Boys' hockey: Gary Gilder (ggilder@parklands.co.za)

Head of Sport: Darryn Hunt (dhunt@parklands.co.za)

Klikd is working on something NEW, but they can’t build it without asking first. What do YOU need? What does your family actually need? How can we help you get this right?

Take 5 minutes and tell us honestly, specifically and in your own words. Your perspective is the whole point.

As a thank you, everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win a R500 Sorbet Voucher and a 1-hour Family Screen Consultation with Pam.  

Take the Klikd survey

General

PARENT BUSINESS DIRECTORY

College parents are able to list their businesses in our Parent Business Directory for free – www.parklands.co.za/parent-business-directory/.

Should you be interested in marketing your business to over 1000 families, email: marketing@parklands.co.za to get started.

All listings will be subject to the College’s final approval.

This week's feature business is...

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.

2026 DATES

Summer Quarter:  20 Jan - 26 March

Autumn Quarter:  8 April - 24 June

Winter Quarter:  22 July - 23 September

Spring Quarter:  14 October - 4 December

Proposed 2027 Dates for Learners

Summer Quarter: 19 Jan 2027 -  18 March 2027

Autumn Quarter: 7 April 2027 -  23 June 2027

Winter Quarter: 21 July 2027 - 22 Sept 2027

Spring Quarter: 6 Oct 2027 - 3 Dec 2027

SOCIAL MEDIA 

Please follow us on social media

Parklands College & CRPP on Facebook

Parklands College & CRPP on Twitter

www.instagram.com/parklandscollege/?hl=en

MEMOS FROM OTHER FACULTIES

PP: https://ppblog.parklands.co.za

JP: https://jpblog.parklands.co.za

SP: https://spblog.parklands.co.za

CONCLUSION

Wishing all our families a wonderful and restful long weekend.

Ancia Vosloo

Principal: Secondary Faculty

avosloo@parklands.co.za