15 May 2026

FROM THE OFFICE

As a Parklands College family, we are deeply grateful that all our learners, staff, and families are safe following the recent severe weather conditions across Cape Town. In moments like these, our sense of community becomes even more important as we reflect on the impact of the storm and the challenges it has brought to many. We continue to hold those affected in our thoughts and extend our care and support to all who are still dealing with the impact of the severe weather. Thank you to our maitenance teams for their hard work in ensuring our campus looks pristine.

SECONDARY CALENDAR

SPORT CALENDAR

FEEDBACK

GUEST SPEAKER RACHEL KOLISI

We were honoured to welcome Rachel Kolisi as our guest speaker. Having recently released her book, Falling Forward, Rachel shared insights from her personal experiences and spoke openly about resilience, vulnerability, and the importance of facing life’s challenges with honesty and courage. Her message reminded learners that strength is not about never falling, but about learning how to rise again, grow, and move forward with purpose.

Learners were also given the opportunity to ask questions and engage with Rachel during the session. It was a meaningful and inspiring experience for our school community.

ALUMNI FRANK SMUTS

It was our great privilege to welcome back Frank Smuts to Parklands College as a special guest speaker. A past learner, former Deputy Head Boy, and accomplished young scientist, Frank has continued to make a significant impact within the scientific community. Having once been taught at Parklands and now working alongside members of our staff in the South African Youth Physics Tournament and International Young Physicists’ Tournament community, his journey is an inspiring example of passion, dedication, and academic excellence. It was a wonderful opportunity for learners to hear from someone whose path began in the very classrooms and corridors they walk each day.

WE CELEBRATE KAYLEE-JADE MESTRE

Today, we had the opportunity to celebrate Kaylee-Jade Mestre during assembly and officially hand over her medal and certificate. Kaylee-Jade achieved first place at the South African Young Physicists Tournament, an outstanding accomplishment that reflects her skill and passion for physics. We are incredibly proud of her achievement and the way she continues to represent the school and South Africa with excellence.

WORLD INDIVIDUAL DEBATING AND PUBLIC SPEAKING CHAMPIONSHIPS

Read this article highlighting the recent World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships in Bristol, where Connor and Liat made us incredibly proud as representatives of South Africa and Parklands College.

https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sa-pupils-public-speaking/

"Public speaking and debating have the unique ability to bring together people from all walks of life to share their ideas, perspectives, and opinions. It’s built on a simple premise: that every person has a voice, and that every voice should be heard.

At WIDPSC, we were able to meet and compete alongside students from across the world, all with different cultures, beliefs, and experiences, yet connected by the same passion for communication and debate.

Being a part of the South African delegation was an incredible honour. But beyond the team’s achievements, what stood out most to me was the spirit and camaraderie we shared. Competing on the world stage gave us an even greater appreciation for the uniquely South African way of doing things. The warmth, humour, resilience, and gees that we bring into every room we enter is tangible."

Connor and Liat

CODING for CLIMATE CHALLENGE

Levi Scott-Hayward, Zayn Redelinghuys, Isabella Ankiah and Caitlin Hunt learners recently participated in the Coding for Climate Challenge, an international competition that encourages students to develop innovative, technology-driven solutions to real-world environmental issues.

As part of the Energy League, the team focused on researching clean and efficient energy solutions. They designed and presented a thoughtful proposal on how renewable energy could be made accessible to a rural community, demonstrating both creativity and a strong understanding of sustainability challenges.

MATRIC VARIETY SHOW

Our Class of 2026 entertained us with a memorable Matric Variety Show, featuring a fun and creative “2036 reunion” theme. Filled with humour, music, and plenty of personality, the performance gave everyone a glimpse into what the future might hold for our matric learners. It was a wonderful celebration of their spirit, friendships, and shared journey as a grade.

MOTHERS DAY BREAKFAST

The Grade 10 Hospitality learners treated their mothers to a special Mother’s Day breakfast — a wonderful morning of appreciation, gratitude, and celebration.

CULTURE ASSEMBLY

The Culture Assembly was a true celebration of arts and culture at the school, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of our learners through dance, public speaking, debating, drama, music, and so much more.

WITS MATHS OLYMPIAD

The Maths Department has been busy as always, and this week learners embraced the challenge of the Wits Maths Olympiad Round 1, engaging with a stimulating set of problems that tested their reasoning, perseverance, and problem-solving skills.

SOUTH AFRICAN MATHS OLYMPIAD ROUND 2

And then on Thursday, the momentum continued as 39 learners participated in the second round of the SAMO Maths Competition - a prestigious mathematics competition aimed at identifying and developing mathematical talent.

GRADE 8 ENGLISH with MRS GOVENDER

Grade 8 learners put their creative skills to practice and designed advertisements and cartoons in English. They learned more about the purpose of advertising and cartoons by creating their own visual literacy texts and gained a new appreciation for and better understanding of the planning, intention, and details involved in visual literacy pieces.

Learners thoughtfully integrated AI and designing tools, combined with their own pixellated designs and original text choices. These are a few of our amazing advertisements and cartoons.

GRADE 9 ART DISPLAY

Our Grade 9 learners treated us to a mini art exhibition in the foyer of Curie Hall, showcasing their creativity, talent, and unique artistic expression.

"SOMETIMES THE MOST PRODUCTIVE THING YOU CAN DO IS RELAX"

When the weather is cold and wet, it is often the perfect opportunity to slow down and simply relax with friends.

PRESIDENT'S AWARD - THE RESIDENTIAL PROJECT

The President’s Award for Youth Empowerment is a premier South African development programme, challenging participants to build skills, improve physical fitness, volunteer in their communities, and undertake adventurous journeys. Participants progress at their own pace through Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels, fostering self-reliance, resilience, and meaningful community impact.

Connor Niske completed his Silver Award in 2025, primarily through his service in sound engineering at school events. He then progressed to the Gold Award level, where he tested his strength and endurance by completing an 80km hike. Connor is now embarking on the next stage of the programme, the Residential Project. His President’s Award journey has been recognised as a “powerful example of intentional growth,” and we follow this young man with great pride and admiration as he continues to challenge himself and grow.

OPPIE TONG PUBLIC SPEAKING

Congratulations to the following participants on their excellent results at the Oppie Tong Public Speaking Competition!

Casey-Lee Kruger (Persuasive) A+
Akhanya Ngqongwa (Entertainment) A+
Liat Demissew (Entertainment) A++
Aisha Salie (Entertainment) A++
Jorja Hoppé (Persuasive) A+; (Motivational) A++
Lily Howe (Persuasive) A+
Zakey Mooin (Persuasive) A
Nokukhanya Khumalo (Persuasive) A++
Caitlin Smith (Persuasive) A++
Yihan Angelina Dai (Persuasive) A+
Lexi Torlutter (Persuasive) A+
Diyana Manga (Persuasive) A+

The following learners have been selected to participate in the provincial semi-finals running from 25 - 30 May. Well done!

Liat Demissew
Aisha Salie
Nokukhanya Ngqongwa
Caitlin Smith
Jorja Hoppé

WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO...

OUR DANCERS ARE PERFORMING AT ARTSCAPE

CENTRE STAGE 2026

Book Your Tickets Now!

On 16 June 2026, prepare for an extraordinary celebration of dance as Centre Stage takes over the Artscape Opera House for one spectacular evening only.

Parklands College is joining 300 dancers from 20 studios across seven diverse genres, for a dynamic showcase of talent and creativity. From classical ballet to contemporary and beyond, the stage will come alive with energy, rhythm, and breathtaking artistry.

With ambassadorship from Cape Town City Ballet’s retired principal dancer, Laura Bosenberg, this special fundraising event supports the continued growth and sustainability of the company (CTCB). This special evening not only celebrates the artistry of Dance but also honours those who shaped its legacy.

Tickets are available at @webtickets or Artscape Dial-A-Seat on 021 421 7695.

SPACE EDUCATION

We are excited to announce that we will be hosting a Space Educators Conference during World Space Week in October.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Punctuality Expectations

We believe in developing essential life skills, and punctuality is one of them - a key expectation in any future workplace.

We therefore expect all learners to arrive at school on time:

Learners should be seated in class by 07:50 when the first lesson begins
Learners must clock in by 07:45 at one of the biometric stations, allowing time to transition to class.

Please take note of the following:

We can excuse one late arrival per week — life happens
Two or more late arrivals in a week indicate that morning routines may need to be adjusted
Clocking in is a mandatory safety requirement. Learners who fail to clock in will receive one warning email, followed by a demerit for repeated occurrences
If your child is absent, please notify us before 08:30 by emailing secondary@parklands.co.za so that their record can be updated

Punctuality reflects preparedness and respect. Let’s continue to encourage and model these important qualities together.

LEARNER LEADERSHIP

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 2

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.

CONSOLIDATION DAY

Please note that our examination period begins on Monday, 18 May 2026, with our Grade 11 learners.

All Grade 10 and Grade 12 learners are expected to attend school on Monday, 18 May 2026, and Tuesday, 19 May 2026. The consolidation day for Grade 10 and Grade 12 learners is scheduled for Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

Grades 7 to 9 will continue with lessons as normal. Their scheduled consolidation day will take place on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, and they will begin their examinations on Thursday, 28 May 2026. Teaching and learning will continue as normal up until this date for our GET learners.

AFRIKAANS EXAM PREPARATION WORKSHOPS

Please find information regarding available exam preparation workshops. Learners who are interested in attending are invited to email Mrs Bailly directly at abailly@parklands.co.za with the date and session they would like to sign up for.

WORKSHOP AFRIKAANS FIRST ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE workshops (1)

EXAM INFORMATION

📝 Exam Timetables

Please see the examination timetables below. Grade's 10 to 12 have also received their timetables in a PDF format.

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

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 Outing: Annie Jr

Some of the FET Drama learners and cast members of High School Musical 2 went out to support Trista and the cast of Annie Jr. It was an amazing performance.

MUSIC LESSONS

We’ve just had the best week and a bit in the Music Department

Collaborating with the Hospitality Department for the Mother’s Day Breakfast is always such a highlight and a wonderful opportunity to showcase our musicians while giving them real-world performance experience. Providing a two-hour live set featuring our learners alongside our incredible teacher band made for a truly memorable morning filled with warmth, energy, and music.

The celebrations continued at our Culture Assembly, featuring four fantastic young musicians:

✨ Tyler Fredericks had the audience fully engaged with a Bruno Mars favourite, and of course, he couldn’t resist adding some dance moves too.

🎹 Sesona Mbovane transported us into the world of jazz with Mind Games, bringing sophistication, groove, and musical maturity to the stage.

🎸 Joshua Crosson paid tribute to South African guitarist Ernie Smith with Seven Years Free, delivering a performance full of style and feel.

🌙 Gabby Fredericks performed Lover Girl by Laufey, a modern song blending pop and jazz influences with charm and elegance.

Moments like these remind us of the power of music to build confidence, connection, creativity, and joy within our school community.

Marimba Fest: TONIGHT!

We are looking forward to our Senior Marimba Band and Grade 9/10 Marimba Band’s performances at tonight’s Marimba Festival at the Baxter Theatre Centre 🎶🥁

The bands have worked incredibly hard in preparation for this event, and we know they are going to wow the audience with their energy, musicianship, and stage presence.

Here's the Senior Marimba Band performance of a Rihanna Medley, specially prepared alongside their marimba coach, Grant Adams.

Wishing all our performers the very best for an exciting evening of music! 🌟

Creative Arts: Music

Our Grade 8s have been exploring all things Piano this quarter 🎹

We’ve seen so many budding musicians showing real determination — practising consistently and even racing to find available practice venues during breaks and after school.

Beyond simply learning notes and songs, they are discovering what it truly means to develop a skill: patience, perseverance, teamwork, discipline, and time management. These are lifelong transferable skills that music and the arts nurture so naturally when fully embraced.

It has been incredibly encouraging to watch their confidence and enthusiasm grow week by week, and we are excited to see where their musical journeys take them next. Take a listen to Inathi Mbambe and Siphosethu Kama's feedback of this assessment challenge.

Upcoming Quarter 2 Music Events & Opportunities

Not to be missed ...

Cape Town Eisteddfod (Live Performance at Parklands College)
Taking place in Quarter 3 (20–21 August), this is a wonderful opportunity to perform live and grow in confidence and stage presence.

Entries close: 22 May
Please refer to the Entry Form link for entry details: https://forms.gle/GuuUhWt7ZvxptFAq6

More Details to Follow

Join us by completing this link: https://forms.gle/jPSsQZBjjvLPw2jq7 by Monday 20 April 2026.

Enrolment Form: https://forms.gle/gRidchZx8Q5nubVi6

📚 For timetables, teacher details, and all Music Department info, please visit our Music Department Learner Website.
💌 For any other questions, contact Mrs Alexis Matsimela.

https://sites.google.com/parklands.co.za/sec-music-department/home

Those still interested in getting started, we have space in the vocal, cello, drums, saxophone, trumpet, & piano departments. All relevant details, including lesson offerings, durations, and costs, can be found in the Music Tuition

Google Form link: https://forms.gle/uV4j9ChV4TDG8tuU9

Get ready to make some music! 🎹🎷🎤

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!

As we approach Africa Day on 25 May we’re gearing up to celebrate the continent we call home, its history, creativity, and global impact.

Africa Day marks the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963 (now the African Union), created to unite African nations following independence movements across the continent. It was built on the idea of unity, identity, and a shared future.

But Africa’s story is not only historical, it’s very much alive and shaping the world today:

Ancient brilliance: Civilisations such as Kush, Great Zimbabwe, and the Mali Empire were global centres of trade, architecture, and learning long before the modern era.

Knowledge heritage: The University of Al Quaraouiyine in Morocco (founded 859 CE) is recognised as one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world.

Language diversity: Africa is home to over 2,000 languages, making it one of the most linguistically rich continents on Earth.

Modern innovation: From mobile money systems like M-Pesa in Kenya to rapidly growing creative industries, Africa continues to lead in innovation and entrepreneurship.

Global music influence: African music continues to shape the world stage. South African DJ and producer Black Coffee made history as the first South African solo artist to win a Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Album for Subconsciously, while performing on some of the world’s biggest stages from Ibiza to New York. His work highlights how African sound, rhythm, and identity are influencing global music culture.

As we head into Africa Day, we encourage learners and families to take a moment to explore, share, and celebrate African culture — listen to African music, learn a new fact about a country on the continent, or wear something that represents your heritage with pride. Let’s make it a day of curiosity, connection, and celebration

A Walk for Home

Last week, our school community had the opportunity to engage with the inspiring work and story of Wandile Mthiyane through his initiative, A Walk for Home.

Drawing from his experiences growing up in an informal settlement in Durban, Mr Mthiyane has dedicated his work to advocating for “dignified homes” spaces where safety, opportunity, and belonging are not privileges, but rights. His journey highlights how access to housing and opportunity can shape the course of a person’s life, while also challenging us to think more deeply about inclusion, compassion, and the role we each play in creating a more caring society.

At the heart of the initiative is a powerful reminder: meaningful change begins when ordinary people choose to care, act, and contribute in small but intentional ways. Through A Walk for Home, Mr Mthiyane is walking across South Africa, connecting with communities, listening to stories, and raising awareness around housing dignity and social impact.

Learners and families who would like to follow and support the journey can do so here:

• Support / follow the walk: Walk For Home

• Host or get involved in the Western Cape: Western Cape Host Form

Inter-house Public Speaking

Last Tuesday we hosted our Inter-house public speaking event in the Minor Hall. Each House was represented by one junior and one senior who had to go through a preselection process. Each learner had the opportunity to show off their public speaking abilities through one reading and one speech. We are so privileged to have such an incredibly high standard of speakers at the College and we were all so impressed by the confidence and quality of each, from junior to senior.

Well done and thank you to our panel of speakers who turned out and gave their all. A massive congratulations must go to Mr and Mrs Dicks for all their work and effort for creating such a formidable team of speakers and for organising the event. Thank you to Ms O’toole and Ms Delport for judging the evening.

The Inter-house public speaking awards:

Junior

Best Speaker: Lexi Torlutter (Oxford)

Best Reader: Nokukhanya Khumalo (Harvard)

Public Speaking: Trophy Nokukhanya Khumalo (Harvard)

Senior

Best Speaker: Aisha Salie (Yale)

Best Reader: Jorja Hoppe (Oxford)

Public Speaking: Trophy Aisha Salie (Yale)

Mr L Baker

Please contact the counsellors for any learner support queries or information:

Samantha Scott: sjscott@parklands.co.za

Lara Rust: lrust@parklands.co.za (Counselling support Mondays and Thursdays 09:00-11:00)

MAY/JUNE EXAM ACCOMMODATIONS -

Please note this is only for Approved accommodations for READERS/SCRIBES/PROMPTER/PLANNER or SEPARATE VENUE

Google form to confirm accommodations (link)

Please note that Readers and Scribes for exams must be organised directly by the parents and an external qualified Reader and Scribe. The College is not responsible for sourcing Readers and Scribes, nor for any financial arrangements.

Please contact Michelle Holdsworth: 0827209970 if you are looking for a certified Reader/Scribe for the upcoming exams. Please ensure that all Readers and Scribes have the correct certification and please forward that certification to the College (sjscott@parklands.co.za) before exams start.

Please contact Samantha Scott if you'd like to discuss the Exam Portal option (Reader and Scribe done digitally in a computer lab).

(All learners who make use of extra time or spelling accommodations will still receive their accommodation stickers and will write in their class venue as per usual - this form is just for separate venue arrangements.)

EXAM PORTAL - online exam platform for accommodation learners

We are pleased to share that our digital Exam Portal has now been successfully rolled out across the College for formal examination sessions. The system has proven to be secure, accessible, and user-friendly, offering an effective way for learners to receive reading and scribing accommodations without the need for in-person support. We will be moving towards all learners making use of Exam Portal in our efforts to support their potential in a sustainable and efficient manner.

How the Exam Portal Works

Learners who qualify for a reader and/or scribe are granted access to a secure online platform during examinations.

The portal reads the exam aloud at the learner’s preferred pace.
Learners may type their answers directly onto the platform or request a printed script, if needed.
It ensures fairness, independence, and consistency for all learners who require assistance.
Is recognised by the Education Department as being suitable for NSC Grade 12 exams.

Cost and Access

There will be a fee of R150 per exam paper/session, regardless of the length or duration of the paper.

The Exam Portal will be available for examinations only and, once enrolled, learners will be able to make use of the system for all exams up until the end of Grade 12.

Why We Are Moving in This Direction

As we continue to adopt more inclusive and sustainable assessment practices, the Exam Portal provides a modern, affordable alternative to relying on human readers and scribes, especially during busy examination periods.

In addition, this approach encourages greater independence and self-sufficiency, which is an essential skill for life beyond the school environment, where physical readers and scribes may not always be available. Learners can become more confident using digital support tools that are increasingly used at tertiary level and in the workplace.

We encourage parents to consider this option as the most efficient support process going forward. If you would like to register your child for the Exam Portal, or if you have any questions, please contact Samantha Scott: sjscott@parklands.co.za.

Thank you for supporting our ongoing efforts to provide effective assessment accommodations for learners at the College.

Letter to parents for Exam portal.pdf

TERTIARY STUDIES

Public tertiary institution application dates for the class of 2026

OnlineCareerGuidance_TertiaryApplicationsClassOf2026.pdf

Stellenbosch Engineering Winterweek

Stellenbosch University is excited to be hosting its annual Engineering Winterweek in-person again from 28 June - 3 July 2026. We invite your grade 11 and 12 learners to an unforgettable week’s experience of all things engineering.

The Engineering Winterweek will consist of visits to leading engineering companies, mini lectures, tours of the faculty and campus, as well as an exciting group project to give prospective students the perfect opportunity to collaborate with their future colleagues. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover whether engineering is their passion.

Applicable to Grade 11 and 12 learners who are taking Physical Science. The cost is R4800. Applications will be open from 18 April on https://www.su.ac.za/eng-winterweek, and will close on 15 May.

For more information or enquiries:

please contact the Engineering Winterweek director at winterweek@sun.ac.za,
visit our website https://www.su.ac.za/eng-winterweek
follow us on our Instagram @suwinterweek.

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.

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

Staying Active Through Exam Season

As we move into the examination period, the rhythm of the College begins to shift. Grade 11 exams start on Monday 18 May, with the remainder of the FET examinations beginning on Thursday, 21 May.

During this time, it is important for learners to remember that balance matters. Research continues to show that movement, exercise and healthy routines improve focus, reduce stress and support better academic performance. Sport during exams is not a distraction - it is part of staying mentally and physically sharp.

While we still have fixtures and sporting commitments to fulfil until Friday 5th June, the Sports Department will move onto a skeleton timetable during the examination period for all age groups. This adjusted schedule is designed to allow learners opportunities to stay active, connected and balanced. The schedule will be published in the blog next week.

As we conclude another busy sporting quarter, our values of communication, commitment, competition and community remain central to all that we do. Small habits matter: replying to invites, communicating when absent, honouring commitments and showing gratitude all help strengthen team culture and character.

Thank you to our coordinators, coaches, learners and families for your continued support and commitment throughout the quarter.

To all our learners writing exams over the coming weeks, we wish you every success. Stay disciplined, stay balanced and trust the preparation you have put in.

Lastly, please come out and support our hockey teams and U16 soccer team this afternoon as they compete at home. Matches begin at 3pm and continue through to after 8pm. A coffee truck will be available throughout the afternoon and evening, so come enjoy the atmosphere and support our learners from the sidelines.

Training schedule for next week:

Home and Away...

Our netball girls in action against St Cyprians.

Our U19 rugby players against Groote Schuur. They won the match narrowly 6 - 5.

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.

Our 2026 Winter Sport Captains

Winter Sport Captains

Chess: Lunje Mlaza

Cross Country: Steffan Hillebrand

Hockey (Girls)

U14B Thandiwe Radebe

U14A Lexi Torlutter

U16B Amy Muller

U16A Keira Chirnside

U19A Hannah van Zyl

Hockey (Boys)

U14B

U14A Haydn Naidoo

U16A Sabelo Ntuli

U19A Jarryd Hunt

Soccer (Girls)

U19A Dristhi Ramkelawan

Soccer (Boys)

U16A

U19A Cameron Makuzeni

Netball

U13B Mihlali Mdudu

U13A Nia Morule

U14B Hope Diango

U14A Lea de Sousa

U15B Nokhukanya Khumalo

U15A Kayle Fundira

U16A Zara Gilder

U17A Michelle Chifamba

U19B Tyra Gaetsewe

U19A Dominique Yuill

Rugby

U13A Karis Nyabadza

U14A Kaiden Segal

U15A Jared Jacobs

U16A Ethan Wüst

U19A Mischan Francis

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.

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)

Sport Results

CROSS COUNTRY - TOP 20 PLACING

RACE 3 - JG Meiring HS

U14 Girls

2nd - Lexi Torlutter

U14 Boys

7th - Mukundi Chiwati

U17 Girls

11th - Scarlett Papakostadinou

U17 Boys

4th - Steffan Hillebrand

15th - Zackery Day

BOYS HOCKEY

U16A v Protea Heights Won 3 - 0 POM: Lunje Mlaza

U19A v Protea Heights Drew 0 - 0 POM: Matthew Arluck

GIRLS HOCKEY

U14B vs De Kuilen Won 1 - 0 POM: Nica Bleumink

U14A vs De Kuilen Won 5 - 0 POM: Sophia de Carvalho Smee

U16B vs De Kuilen Drew 0 - 0 POM: Caitlin Hunt

U16A vs De Kuilen Lost 0 - 3 POM: Keira Chirnside

U19A vs De Kuilen Lost 0 - 1 POM: Owethu Motau

NETBALL

U13B vs Blouberg Ridge PS Lost 1 - 16 POM: Mihlali Mdudu

U13A vs Blouberg Ridge PS Lost 1 - 13 POM: Sophia de Carvalho Smee

RUGBY

U19A vs Groote Schuur Won 6 - 5 POM: Joshua Wenlock

U16A vs Groote Schuur Won 44 - 12 POM: Alex Pijoos

U15A vs Groote Schuur Won 38 - 22 POM: Kimani Dimbas

U14A vs Groote Schuur Lost 17 - 25 POM: Tomas Bazin

BOYS SOCCER

U19A vs Curro Sandown Lost 1 - 2 POM: Connor Russell

U16A vs Curro Sandown Lost 1 - 3 POM: Ayden Sudoi

Common Sense Media:

Your Digital Parenting Cheat Sheet Let’s be real: parenting a teen in the age of TikTok and AI feels like trying to build a plane while it’s already mid-flight. Common Sense Media is the manual we never got. It offers unbiased, age-based reviews on the movies, games, and apps your teen is obsessed with, plus "Parents Need to Know" guides that actually explain the risks without the panic. It’s the best way to stay informed without having to spend four hours on Urban Dictionary.

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 the 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.