FROM THE OFFICE

Despite the extreme heat we experienced this week, the energy and enthusiasm across the campus have remained truly remarkable. Our learners and staff have continued to approach their academic, cultural, and sporting commitments, although slightly adjusted, with resilience and positivity. 

It has been encouraging to see lessons continue with focus and activities take place with great spirit. These moments remind us of the strength of our school community and the commitment everyone shows to making each day meaningful, regardless of the circumstances.

CHRISTOPHER ROBIN PRE-PRIMARY

On Wednesday we celebrated a special milestone in the life of Parklands College as we marked the birthday of Christopher Robin Pre-Primary, 46 years of excellence. Over the past four and a half decades, Christopher Robin Pre-Primary has laid the foundation for countless young learners, nurturing curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning from the very beginning of their educational journey. We are grateful to the founders, staff, parents, and learners, past and present, who have contributed to building such a special place.

CALENDAR

GENERAL

IMMUNISATION

We encourage parents and guardians to ensure that their child’s vaccinations are up to date. Keeping immunisations up to date plays an important role in protecting both individual learners and the wider school community from preventable illnesses. Parents are welcome to contact their local clinic or family doctor for guidance or to arrange any necessary vaccinations.

Our Grade 7s are excited and busy preparing for their camp at Bonamanzi on the Breede River in the last week of the term, a perfect way to end the quarter!  Parents, please ensure you check the letter that has been shared via email for all the important details and arrangements regarding the camp. 

Link Gr7 Camp site 

GLOBAL COLLABORATION for CREATIVE SOLUTIONS

Learners recently had the exciting opportunity to connect with learners from Junípero Serra High School in San Mateo during an engaging online meet-up focused on the theme “Creative Solutions for the Global Good.”

The virtual session was hosted by Rushton Hurley, who facilitated a dynamic and collaborative environment for learners from both schools. After an introduction, participants were divided into breakout rooms to interact more closely, share ideas, and discuss the development of their individual and group projects.

During these smaller discussions, learners exchanged perspectives on how design and creative thinking can address global challenges. They presented their project concepts, explained their design processes, and received feedback from their international peers. The conversations highlighted innovative ideas and demonstrated how collaboration across borders can inspire new ways of thinking.

The session not only encouraged creative problem-solving but also gave learners the chance to develop communication and collaboration skills while engaging with learners from another part of the world. It was a valuable cultural and educational exchange that broadened perspectives and reinforced the importance of working together to find solutions that benefit the global community.

Overall, the experience was both inspiring and enjoyable. Learners appreciated the opportunity to connect with peers from abroad and left the session feeling motivated to continue developing their projects and creative ideas for the greater good. 

Carike Cass

SPORT & 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)

SPORT SIGN-UPS

We are encouraged by the positive response to the winter sport sign-ups and are pleased to see so many learners committing to participate in the activities offered by the College. Participation in sport and cultural activities forms an important part of the holistic educational experience at Parklands College. 

As a reminder, all learners are required to participate in at least one summer and one winter sport or dance activity offered by the College. Exemption from sport will be considered strictly on submission of a formal application accompanied by supporting documentation. All applications must be submitted electronically to the Head of Sport or Principal.

PARKLANDS COLLEGE LEARNER DECLARATION

Every Parklands College Learner is required to agree to abide by the rules of the College and Information Technology as well as Terms and Conditions of the Learner Code of Conduct. Today, your child will bring home a copy of the Learner Declaration. We ask that each family sign the pledge and send the signed copy with your child to their homeroom educator on Monday. 

Classroom and Conduct Rules

In honour of our College and consideration of our community, I, as a learner, pledge the following:

1. Show respect for others 

2. Produce quality work

3. I will work to the best of my ability

4. I will respect the right of others to learn

5. I will not verbally, emotionally or physically harm anyone at the College

6. I will care for and respect the College environment, including its buildings, furniture, equipment, and grounds at all times

7. I will respect the person and property of every other member of the College Community

8. In order to arrive punctually for the start of the Academic day, I will travel to and from College by the most direct route without stopping unnecessarily

9. I will not bring into the College grounds, Campus or buildings e.g. alcohol, drugs, offensive or dangerous weapons, cigarettes, vaping devices, lighters or matches or use them on any College occasion (See Substance Abuse Policy)

10. I will show courtesy and respect towards all staff and I will meet their requirements in and out of the classroom

11. I will arrive at College on time and attend all classes punctually

12. I will wear my College uniform correctly and with pride

13. I will be properly equipped for all lessons and complete work set in each subject

14. I will follow exam procedures honestly as set out and not deviate from the correct process

15. I will behave responsibly when representing the College and will obey the rules set for College teams, functions and events

16. I will be courteous and helpful to College visitors and to members of the public on the street and on public transport

17. I will not bring/chew gum or dispose of it on campus

18. I will be responsible for the safekeeping of my personal possessions and sporting / academic equipment in the lockers provided

19. I will use technology responsibly and in accordance with the College's technology rules

STAFFING

At the end of this quarter, we bid farewell to three members of our Parklands College family: Ms Vanessa Phillips, Mr Vaniah Thomas, and Mr Peter Bates.

Ms Vanessa Phillips has been an inspiring presence in the Music Department, sharing her talents as a pianist and nurturing the beautiful voices of our learners. Her dedication to music and her ability to bring joy through song will be greatly missed.

We thank Mr Vaniah Thomas for his contributions as a Debating Coach and as an English and History teacher during his time with us.

Mr Peter Bates has contributed both as an English teacher and through his integral role in the Diversity and Inclusion portfolio, enriching our school community and supporting an inclusive environment for all.

We wish these educators all the very best as they embark on new adventures. 

FEEDBACK

DEBATING

National Debating League Round 2 at Edgemead High

​

Our debaters stepped up for a night of high-stakes rhetoric. While the scoreboard was split, the performance in the rooms was elite.

Junior Division

​Motion: THW Ban Beauty Contests.

​Result: Both teams lost narrowly in two hard-fought rounds.

​Senior Division

Motion: THBT Sporting Leagues should ban Government-Owned sports teams.

​Result: Both teams won their rounds with clinical execution.

​Standouts: Huge congratulations to Caitlin Smith and Connor Crighton for being awarded Best Speaker in their respective rooms.

Next Up: We are heading back to Home Turf for Round 3! Join us at Parklands College for the next round as we look to build on this momentum.

INTERNATIONAL KID'S LIT QUIZ

Once a year, we have the pleasure of participating in a competition, which is a real treat for our avid readers. Initiated by Wayne Mills, a lecturer in children’s literature in Auckland, the competition has grown into a worldwide event, with world finals in July every year. We always enter two teams from Grade 6 and Grade 7, and on Thursday afternoon the teams travelled to The Grove school in Claremont where the regional finals took place.  

Our teams faced 100 questions in 10 categories, competed for individual and team prizes, learned lots about books and generally had an exhilarating afternoon.  Congratulations to the Grade 6 team, Nicholas, Taylor, Kahlia, and Ardni, and the Grade 7 team, Brynn, Sophia, Luyanda, and Ben, on an excellent team effort. 

EXAMINATION QUARTER

Next 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.

AFRIKAANS

Die graad 8's het opstelle geskryf oor die natuur en ons omgewing. Lees gerus dié skryfstukke deur Thandiwe en Phoebe. Hier is voorwaar skryftalent!

Upcoming Week of Music: From Brunch-Time to Summer Evening Sounds 

We are looking forward to two exciting concerts next week that celebrate the wonderful music-making of our learners. Our Quarterly Brunch-Time Concert will take place on Tuesday, 17 March during Utility, followed by our Summer Evening Concert on Wednesday, 18 March at 18:00.

The performing list is available to view, and we warmly invite friends and family to join us for these special showcases. We look forward to sharing an evening and morning filled with talent, dedication, and great music. 

Dance

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

Dance Enrollment 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!

Results from the last few House events:

Inter-house Athletics Results Big Brag Bake Off

1. Oxford 1. Harvard 1. Oxford

2. Yale 2. Oxford/Yale 2. Cambridge

3. Cambridge 3. Cambridge 3. Yale

4. Harvard 4. Harvard

CAREER EXPO 2026 - Wednesday 11 March 2026

Despite the heat, Collab 2 buzzed with curiosity and excitement as learners attended the annual Career Expo, featuring both local and international exhibitors. The event provided an excellent opportunity for learners to explore a wide range of study and career pathways while engaging directly with knowledgeable representatives from various institutions and organisations. Learners were encouraged to ask questions, gather information, and gain insight into potential future opportunities. One learner reflected on the experience by saying, “I’m not sure exactly what I want to do yet, but I’m a whole lot closer to figuring it out after visiting the expo.” 

The event proved to be a valuable step in helping learners think more intentionally about their future study and career choices

Public tertiary institution application dates for the class of 2026

Actuarial Science Career 

We are contacting you on behalf of SANCAS at Sanlam Life Insurance.

We would like to extend an invitation to your high school learners doing Mathematics and Science to an Actuarial Science Information Session. This is a session held annually by the SANCAS team from Sanlam. For teachers registering on behalf of students in their class, we request that you limit the number of students to 5.

*Note that this Information Session invites grade 11 and 12 students who would be interested in the Actuarial career path.

This session aims to inform learners of the broad and fruitful career path of Actuarial Science.

The session will comprise of a variety of speakers from qualified actuaries to university students doing Actuarial Science, with panel discussions where learners can ask any questions about becoming an actuary.

For those attending virtually, a phone or laptop and internet connection will be needed to join.

The date and time of the session are as follows:

•  Date: 26 March 2026

•  Time: 12h00 for 12h30-16h00

Attached is the invitation (Act Sci Info Session 2026) with a link to register and RSVP for the session where learners can indicate if they will be joining us virtually or in person.

Kindly RSVP by 13 March 2026.

Please distribute the invite to all who will benefit from the session.

Sanlam also offers bursaries to learners wanting to pursue Actuarial Science, the bursary applications are still open and close on the 30 June 2026.
For more information, please click on Bursary Application

We look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards,

Sanlam SANCAS Committee

On-campus Open Day: Saturday 18 April 2026

On our annual SU Open Day, we welcome Grade 11 and 12 learners, their parents, teachers and guidance counsellors to our Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses. Come view our exhibitions, attend demonstrations and information sessions, and engage with our faculty staff, all while experiencing our vibrant campuses and student communities and exploring the available housing options.

Time: 08:00 - 15:00
Place: SU's Stellenbosch and Tygerberg campuses
Ticket Bookings: Open to all, free of charge, but remember to book your tickets for information sessions on Quicket (available from 18 March 2026, from 09:00)

This is a chance not to be missed!

For more information, contact us:
WhatsApp "Hi" to 061 729 8858
Call us on 021 808 9111
Email info@sun.ac.za

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

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.  

Athletics - WP Championships

Well done to Steffan Hillebrand (Grade 11) and Lexi Torlutter (Grade 8) for their outstanding performances at the Western Province Athletics Championships.

Steffan competed in the demanding 2000m Steeplechase, while Lexi took on the 1500 m event. Both athletes represented the school with determination and pride against some of the top young athletes in the province.

We wish them every success as they compete this weekend.

Cycling - Cape Town Cycle Tour

This past weekend, Lea Botha (Grade 7) took part in one of South Africa’s most iconic cycling events, the Cape Town Cycle Tour.

Lea completed the full 109 km route around the Cape Peninsula riding on a tandem bicycle with her dad, an experience that requires excellent teamwork, communication and trust between both riders.

Together they crossed the finish line in an impressive 4 hours and 34 minutes, a fantastic achievement over a demanding course that winds through some of the most scenic parts of the Cape.

The Cape Town Cycle Tour attracts thousands of cyclists each year, and it is wonderful to see our learners embracing opportunities to challenge themselves while sharing special sporting moments with their families.

Karate - JKA

On Saturday, 7 March, Luka Reyneke (Grade 8) competed in the JKA Western Cape Provincial Championship and delivered an outstanding performance.

Competing in the Blue Belt Under 14 division, Luka took part in both Kata and Kumite, finishing the day at the top of the podium with double gold medals. His results have earned him qualification for the upcoming JKA South African Karate Championship, which will take place in Johannesburg in May.

What makes this achievement particularly special is the journey behind it. Luka spent several months away from karate after suffering a hip injury, which unfortunately meant missing much of the 2025 season and the national championships last year.

To return from injury and perform at this level shows tremendous determination, resilience and commitment.

Congratulations to Luka on an excellent performance, and we wish him every success as he prepares to compete at the South African Championships next quarter.

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

Sport Uniform

Sports Department 

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

Chess, cross country, golf 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)

Home and Away...

Swimming - A Record-Breaking Performance at the Finals Gala

A huge congratulations to our Parklands College swimming team for their outstanding performance at the Finals Gala at Herzlia.

Our swimmers delivered an incredible showing in the pool, finishing 3rd overall against strong competition from schools across the region. One of the highlights of the gala was our swimmers breaking four of the nine new records set on the day. This is an exceptional achievement and a testament to the dedication and hard work our swimmers have shown throughout the season.

This result also reflects what has been a truly phenomenal swimming season for Parklands College. The commitment, perseverance, and team spirit displayed by our swimmers has been remarkable, and it has been wonderful to see the team continue to grow stronger with each gala.

Congratulations to the entire team on such an amazing achievement. We look forward to building on this success and keeping the momentum going in the seasons ahead.

Parklands College currently hold the following records in the B-League Finals Swimming Gala:

Past Learners Cricket Day

U/19A CRICKET

PARKLANDS COLLEGE 1st XI vs PARKLANDS COLLEGE OLD BOYS

SATURDAY 7 MARCH 2026

MATCH REPORT

OLD BOYS won the toss and chose to bowl first.

Batting first, PARKLANDS 1st XI scored 272/7 in 40 overs. 

Batting second, OLD BOYS scored 172/10 in 29.2 overs.

PARKLANDS 1st XI WON BY 100 RUNS

Fielding catches:  Julian Gardiner, Ethan Randall (wk, 3) Bryce Gilder, Liam Russell (c&b)

Man of the match:  Ethan Randall

The Vikings produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat Parklands Old Boys by 100 runs.

After winning the toss and electing to field, the Old Boys were soon made to rue their decision as opener Ethan Randall set the tone with a blistering 76 off just 43 balls. The captain-wicketkeeper struck 13 fours and 3 sixes at an impressive strike rate of 176.7, forming a solid 105-run opening partnership with Joshua Neil before falling in the 13th over. Joshua provided crucial support with a patient 53 from 73 deliveries, while Liam Russell's aggressive 35 off 30 balls kept the momentum going. Late contributions from Blaine Fisher (23) and the two youngsters at the tail, Bokamoso Lukhele and Sabelo Ntuli who ran eagerly for their singles, helped the Vikings post a formidable 272/7. Kyle Warrender was the pick of the Old Boys bowlers with 3/55, while Nathan Holmes claimed 2/23.  Of course, it was wonderful to see everyone in the Old Boys line-up getting a chance to bowl and it certainly brought back wonderful memories, watching the likes of Torden (‘T-Bone’) van Rensburg and Aaron Berry (‘Scholes’) running in to bowl.

Chasing 273, the Old Boys were rocked early, losing Kyle Warrender for a duck, edging his delivery to Julian Gardiner in the slips who took the catch with ease, to the delight of his team-mates. At 17/4 by the middle of the fifth over, it looked like the match would end really early but there was something of a recovery after that.  Despite a spirited counter-attacking partnership between Seth Swart (41 off 54) and David Wood (71 off 38, including 4 fours and 7 sixes), who added 87 runs for the fifth wicket, the run chase never looked comfortable. It must be said that David looked as cool as James Bond himself, and his explosive innings briefly threatened before he fell in the 15th over.

Liam Russell was outstanding with the ball, claiming 4/28 from 4.2 overs to wrap up the tail, while Adam Muller (3/56) and Bryce Gilder (2/25) provided excellent support. The Old Boys were eventually dismissed for 172 in 29.2 overs, handing the Vikings a comprehensive victory and a nice way to end the season with 7 victories from 8 matches in 2026.

ICT ACCEPTABLEE USE POLICY

Every month we will look at our ICT Acceptable use policy and highlight an area. For February we will look at Social Media:

Navigating the Digital World: A Shared Responsibility

At Parklands College, we pride ourselves on being at the cutting edge of technology. From our Innovation Centre to our dual status as an Apple Distinguished and Google Reference School, our learners are constantly pushing boundaries. However, with great digital power comes the need for great digital responsibility.

Social media is more than just a place for "likes", it’s where our learners build their first professional reputations. We believe that digital citizenship isn’t just a school subject; it’s a partnership. While our educators provide the technical and ethical foundations, our parents provide the real-world wisdom.

The following checklist is intended as a conversation starter. For learners, it’s a guide to navigating these platforms safely and respectfully. For parents, it’s a reminder of the boundaries that protect our community's privacy and your child's future.

📱 Social Media Checklist: A Guide for Learners, A Reminder for Parents

1. The "Public Forever" Rule

• Learners: Before you hit post, ask: "Would I be okay with this appearing on the Innovation Centre's main TV for everyone to see?"

• Parents: Remind your children that "Private" settings are never 100% secure. Screenshots can live forever.

2. The Power of the Disclaimer

• Learners: If your bio mentions you attend Parklands College, you should include a disclaimer: "I attend Parklands College. Everything here, however, is my personal opinion."

• Parents: Help your child understand that even personal accounts reflect back on their school community and their own future professional brand.

3. Respect the Privacy of Others

• Learners: Never post photos or videos of others, especially in school uniform or on campus, without express written permission from all parties and a Director.

• Parents: Reinforce that data privacy is a legal and ethical boundary. Proprietary info about learners or staff is strictly off-limits.

4. Constructive vs. Antagonistic

• Learners: Disagreements happen. Stay polite. If a conversation turns "toxic," step away and ask an educator for advice rather than becoming defensive.

• Parents: Encourage your child to "think before they type" and to represent themselves as a respectful member of our digital community.

5. Protect Your Personal Brand (and IP)

• Learners: Don't use the College logo on personal sites without permission. Keep your home address, phone number, and personal email private to stay safe from identity thieves.

• Parents: Audit your child’s profiles occasionally to ensure they aren't over-sharing personal data that could compromise their safety

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

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

We wish our Pre-Primary Principal, Mrs Riëtte Pieterse a very happy birthday for Sunday. 

Wishing all our families a happy and restful weekend. 

Ancia Vosloo

Principal: Secondary Faculty

avosloo@parklands.co.za