Secondary Faculty Weekly Memo

26 July 2024

Final shows this weekend!

Don't be that person who misses out on this wonderful production, because you left it too late.

Book on Quicket

It is a truly spectacular show with an impressive set, stunning costumes, talented actors and actresses and brilliant dancers. You will be blown away!

FROM THE OFFICE

Dear Parents and Learners

We have all been singing, "We're off to see the Wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz" this week. How very proud we are of this extraordinary production!

Our debating and sports teams have also been competing and flying the Parklands flag high. This is what makes our school such a special place - there is something for everyone to pursue and love.

Please be reminded that we have an eDay on Monday, where learners may work from home. Those who wish to work on campus, must please report to reception upon arrival.

ACADEMICS

Academic Links

Note the section at the top dedicated specifically to academic links. In this section you will find:

🎓 Winter Quarter Timetables, 🎓Assessment Calendars, the 🎓 Tutorial Schedule, the 🎓 Grade 12 Prelim Exam Timetable, the 🎓Grade 12 Prelim Study Guidelines and the 🎓Grade 12 NSC Timetable.

Principal's Academic Awards - Autumn Quarter

Well done to the following learners who received a special Principal's Award in assembly today as recognition for their dedication and academic commitment last quarter.

GRADE 7: Kayla Apalata, Ludiane Tanga, Kyle Watson, GRADE 8: Sihle Adams, Noah Fick, Joshua Kelly, GRADE 9: Markus Baptista, Alistair Hill, Keagan Michel, Madison Benjamin, Joshua Wenlock, GRADE 10: Simran Atwaru, Amelia Bishop, Ka Wai Hou, GRADE 11: Joshua Carrington, Sabrina Davids, Zizo Dilima, GRADE 12: Joel Apalata, Thomas Janisch, Alidjani Silva

Matric 2024

We encourage parents to monitor the matric timeline which can be found in the academic link section of the blog. Each academic item on the timeline contribute towards the final SBA mark and each social item is a highlight of concluding the school experience.

At the end of the matric year the SBA (school based assessment) component will count 25% of the final mark and the NSC examinations will count 75%.

Projects and Deadlines - How can I assist my child?

The Winter has many projects on the assessment calendar. Parents can assist children by going through the assessment calendar, helping with planning and prioritizing tasks to reduces stress of last-minute submissions. Staggering deadlines is crucial because it helps manage workload effectively, allowing team members to focus on one task at a time and at the same time enhances the quality of work, ensuring each project receives the attention it deserves.

Group work in the Innovation Centre Pod

Mathematics

UCT Olympiad Prizegiving

We were excited to attend the UCT Mathematics Olympiad Prizegiving where Parklands College was again placed in the top 20 schools (16th).

We are proud of these individuals and the Mathematics Department for their continued support.

Imrah Salie - Gold - 3rd: Gr12 Pair

Ronin Miller - Gold - 3rd: Gr12 Pair

Jennifer Zhou - Gold - 2nd Gr10 Individual

Aden van Rhyn - Gold - 1st: Gr9 Pair

Puneet Nagendrakumar - Gold - 1st: Gr9 Pair

SAMO Round 3

On Thursday Aden and Jennifer, participated in SAMO (South African Mathematics Olympiad) Round 3.

Aden at UCT waiting to start SAMO Round 3

SAMO Round 3

Jennifer writing SAMO Round 3

WITS Mathematics Olympiad

Four of our learners made it through to the final round of the WITS Mathematics Olympiad in September, placing them in the Top 100 in the country.

Jarryd Hunt

Gerhard Vosloo

WITS Mathematics Olympiad

Jennifer Zhou

Aden van Rhyn

LEARNER INFORMATION

FEEDBACK

The learners had the opportunity this week to watch a drone being used for collecting and delivering packages up to 40kg. One of the aims is to deliver medical supplies quickly in areas that are difficult to reach.

SERVICE

Blood Clinic

From Super Heroes to Thomas Janisch receiving an award for donating 9 times before the age of 19. Thank you to everyone who donated. WP Blood Services were happy to collect 24 units of blood.

Thank you for Reach for a Dream Foundation

"Thank you for being part of Slipper Day 2024! Your support and generosity helped to raise over R 7.5 million, making a significant impact to the Foundation. All funds raised will go towards fulfilling dreams for children battling life-threatening illnesses, bringing hope and inspiration to their lives."

Oz cast members visit the other campuses

On Monday morning some of the cast members travelled to our other campuses to promote the show.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Mandela Day initiative

Educators and learners got together to knit beanies for premature babies at Mowbray Maternity Hospital.

The knitting project was a great way to teach learners a new skill, loom knitting, and also use that to reach out to the most vulnerable people in our city. Learners who had never knitted before were soon finishing their own hats and had such a sense of pride and accomplishment knowing that their handiwork was going to keep a needy baby warm. Thank you so much to all those who knitted (whether successfully or not!), or donated wool, hooks, needles and their time.

We handed over 107 beanies and 5 blankets!

Comments from the learners

"Knitting little beanies was so much fun, I absolutely loved making them and seeing each stitch turn into a beautiful little hat. At the beginning of the holidays, I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to stick to making hats and keep myself motivated, but knowing it was for such an amazing cause, I couldn't stop. (I also gained a new hobby along the way.) All of the hats were made with so much love and creativity and I hope that it keeps all of the lucky, small babies extremely warm this winter."

"Being able to learn a new skill was an amazing experience. It definitely was very creative and fun way to help others. Knitting was quite a challenge, which I loved. I’m extremely glad I got to be part of this experience and I'm so happy that these babies will be warm during these times."

Another feel good story ...

On Saturday, 20 July, Mr and Mrs Thomas arrived at the matinee performance of The Wizard of Oz. They informed us that it was their 58th wedding anniversary. They heard about our show on Fine Music Radio and decided to celebrate their anniversary by attending one of our performances and they loved it!

"The performance was excellent and professionally done. We were so impressed with the costumes, sets, and special effects but more especially the performance itself. You have a wealth of talent in the College, in drama, music and dancing: you must be very proud."

SPORT

external_sports_news@parklands.co.za

Head of Sport: tpillay@parklands.co.za

Rugby and Girls Soccer Coordinator: dviljoen@parklands.co.za

Chess, Boys Soccer & Cross Country Coordinator: mviljoen@parklands.co.za

Netball and Hockey Coordinator: sbloem@parklands.co.za

From the Secondary Head of Sport

Despite the interruptions from inclement weather, this week was a resounding success. On Wednesday, our College was buzzing with hundreds of learners and spectators as we hosted the Western Province Cross Country league. Runners from across the city gathered for the final race of the season, and we were fortunate that the rain held off, allowing everyone to enjoy a fantastic afternoon.

Simultaneously, our U19A Soccer team faced Elkanah House in an "unofficial" derby against our long-time rivals, emerging victorious with a 2-0 win. On the Astro, our U19A Boys took on Curro Century City. Riding high from their previous week’s win, they dominated the match, securing a 7-0 victory.

It was an incredible day for our learners and a perfect showcase of the spirit and excellence we strive for in our department.

Weekly Sport Highlight Video

Weekly Sport video Q3 week 2.mp4

Looking Ahead

This weekend our Girls Hockey teams take on El Shaddai whilst our Boys play Rondebosch at home. Next week sees most of our teams play matches at home and away. Our Netball girls travel to De Kuilen which will be a challenging afternoon for all our teams. Parents are encouraged to support our learners during the week and the weekend.

Physical Education

Physical education plays a crucial role on the school level by promoting both physical and mental well-being among learners. It enhances lifelong habits of regular exercise and physical activity which are essential for maintaining good health. Beyond physical fitness, PE fosters social skills such as teamwork, communication and sportsmanship through team sports and group activities. It contributes to academic success by improving concentration, reducing stress levels and enhancing overall mood. Physical education lays the foundation for a healthier and more active future generation. We are looking forward to busy, fun-filled PE sessions across all grades.

Rugby

Under 14 Sea Hawks continue their winning streak

The U/14 Sea Hawks continued their unbeaten run to seven matches in the fixture against Hottentots Holland High School on Saturday. At half-time the score was 0-31 and the final score was 0-50 in favour of the Sea Hawks. Up to now the Sea Hawks have only conceded one try in all of their matches, while extending their aggregate score to 286 that includes 47 tries. Tries scored: Xolani Gobinca (2), Christo Strydom (2), Joshua Kelly, Hassan Sabra, Daniel Yema-Y’Okungo (2). Man of the match: Joshua Kelly

The boys showed no rust after the holidays, however, they did look rather dirty from all the mud by the end of the match. Hopefully a few washes will have restored their kit to an acceptable standard before tomorrow’s match against Busy Bees!

Thank you to Ms Michelle Lea for the lovely photographs of Saturday’s match.

Sport Results

Learner Sporting Achievements

Kyle Warrender - Indoor Cricket

Kyle Warrender was selected to represent Western Province U18 indoor touring team. They brought home lifelong memories and friendships. Most of all they progressed with an end score of WP 108 vs MPU 67 to the bronze final. Kyle was also the runner up of Best Bowler at the interprovincial tournament (loosing by only one wicket). However, the best achievement for the WP Team was when Kyle was selected as a “All Star Player” being one of the top 10 action cricketers! Well Done Kyle. We are so proud of your achievements.

Learner Sporting Achievements

Isabella Louw - Indoor Netball

Isabella along with her Indoor Netball team “Fireballs” won Gold in the Junior 1 Action Netball League on Monday evening. Congratulations Isabella.

Sport Kit

DEBATING

Our junior and senior debating teams participated in the Western Province Debating tournament last weekend and won the majority of their rounds. We are waiting for final result.

They are also competing in the National Debating League and Rotary Debating quarter final rounds. Well done and fingers crossed for more good results.

MUSIC

We are trying something new..

If you would like to chat with your child's music instructor, feel free to book an ONLINE meeting time with them. Please see their calendars for availability. Due to their part time nature, we request that bookings be made with 24 hour notification for planning purposes.

Music Educator Meeting Slots (please click on the link)

LEARNER SUPPORT

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

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

Psychometric Assessments - Quarter 3 assessment slots fully booked. Accepting bookings for Quarter 4

The learner support department offers psychometric assessments at the school for subject choice and career counselling. This process includes an initial interview with the learner, aptitude, personality and interest assessments, as well as a feedback session with an assessment report that is a useful guidance tool for informed decision making and clarity in one’s career or subject choice process. The assessments are done at school and during school time. Please contact Samantha Scott sjscott@parklands.co.za for more information or to make a booking. There are limited assessment slots each quarter so please enquire early to avoid disappointment. (Please note assessments are a billable service). The assessment slots for Quarter 3 have already been filled. If you are interested please let us know and we will put you on the waiting list. Assessment slots in Quarter 4 are available.

Tertiary Studies

ACTUARIAL SCIENCE INFORMATION SESSION WITH SANLAM

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. 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.

The session will be held both in-person at the Sanlam Head office in Cape Town and virtually through a webinar.

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: 13 August 2024
Time: 08:30 for 09:00-13:00

Kindly RSVP by 1 Aug 2024.

WSAS - International Study-Brochure and International study seminar on Saturday 24 August

WSAS are very happy to invite your students who are thinking about studying overseas to an international seminar on 24 August.

International Study Seminar

Date: Saturday 24 August-no charge to attend

Time: 90 minute time slots available for booking - by appointment only

Venue: Protea Hotel Breakwater Lodge

https://www.wsas.co.za/our-team ( highly experienced Tracey Morgenrood will be running the seminar)

Students can either apply at www.wsas.co.za by completing an online assessment or email us directly at wsasservices@mweb.co.za

Parent Business Directory

Parklands College and Christopher Robin Pre-Primary parents who are in business are able to list their businesses in our Parent Business Directory – www.parklands.co.za/parent-business-directory/

LISTINGS ARE FREE and include contact information as well as the opportunity to include a business logo or advert. Listings are available 24/7 on the College website and will be updated each quarter.

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...