From the Office

On Wednesday, groups of excited learners departed on the annual grade camps and what a wonderful experience it has been! Not only are they taken out of their comfort zone, but they spend time getting to know their peers and educators better and get a much needed break from their devices - all important parts of the journey to maturity!

We will include feedback reports in next week's blog, but see how much fun they are having ...

Metro North Awards

Apart from receiving the certificate for the Top Performing School in the Metro North Education District, we were also recognised as the top performing school in:

• Mathematics

• Life Science

• Economics

Congratulations to the Class of 2024, but also to our amazingly dedicated and committed educators.

Communication & Information

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

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

WE HAVE MOVED LINKS TO CAMP INFORMATION PAGES TO THE OPERATIONAL INFO TAB.

School and Leisure Uniform Suppliers

We are writing to update you on our school uniform supplier, School and Leisure, and how to best navigate your uniform needs.

ONLINE ORDERING

To make things easier, School and Leisure offers online ordering, where you can register an account and purchase your uniforms with ease and convenience.  School and Leisure will also deliver your order to the College free of charge.

QUALITY OF ITEMS

School and Leisure prioritizes quality; however, if you find any issues, they will work to rectify the problem immediately.  Your feedback is always appreciated and parents are encouraged to contact Craig Basson at School and Leisure directly, at craig@schoolandleisure.co.za.  If you do not receive a timely response or resolution, follow up with the Craig to ensure your issue is being addressed.

AVAILABILITY OF STOCK

Stock control will be closely monitored to keep all uniform requirements available wherever possible.  Craig is available to assist with any queries regarding quality and size. Additionally, Head Office (021 2051951) is also available should you require assistance.

Please note that some items of clothing may be more costly, as a few of the College garments are unique and the fabric is specially manufactured and imported specifically for the uniform, for example, the Blazer.  The tracksuit is made from a superior fabric to ensure durability.

Remember to use your Loyalty Card when purchasing in-store.

Thank you to parents who bring uniform matters to our attention as it is only through open communication that we can address and resolve these issues promptly.

Assuring you of our best attention at all times.

Cashless Campus

We try to avoid handling cash on campus, so kindly request that you download the SnapScan App for your children to use.  It can be used at Kauai and we have a QR code for learners to scan when we sell tickets for events (e.g. the upcoming social), cake sales and charity collections.  Read more here:  https://www.snapscan.co.za/user

Mandarin Chinese in 2025

The Confucius Institute at UCT contacted us with an opportunity for learners to learn Mandarin Chinese as a co-curricular activity.  

We are excited to report that we have started a class for beginners.  The lessons take place during the utility session on a Wednesday.

If you are still interested in signing up your child, please mail ssteyn@parklands.co.za The cost will be R1000 per quarter.  

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.

ACADEMICS

Additional Support

Additional support in 2025: Mathematics

Learners from Grade 7 – 12 have the opportunity to receive additional support in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy on campus, should they feel the need for one-on-one or small group support.  Our Mathematics Department will continue to offer tutorials as per the tutorial schedule and these tutorials are covered by the tuition fees.

Mrs Priscilla Brijlal is an educator with over 40 years experience in teaching Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy at various schools.  Her patient and caring nature, her commitment to her calling and her willingness to go above and beyond what is expected, especially with struggling learners, make her a very valuable Independent Contractor to support our team.

Support sessions will work as follows:

1. Remedial/extra sessions may be scheduled before school or during the utility session.  Evidence shows that morning sessions are more conducive for such sessions.

2. Learners who fall behind may be withdrawn from some Mathematics sessions during the academic day to assist them with catching up.

3. Individual sessions cost R250.

Should you be interested in signing up for this or need more information, kindly mail  secondary@parklands.co.za

Additional support in 2025: English for Second Language Speakers

Mrs Angel will be assisting Foreign Language learners who need extension classes in English as an Independent Contractor. She is well-known to many of our existing learners who got to know her as a member of the Preparatory Faculty. She is knowledgeable about teaching the foundation of language acquisition, she is kind and she is patient.

Remedial/extra sessions will be scheduled during the utility slot on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or in the mornings before school and will cost R250 per session.

Kindly mail secondary@parklands.co.za if you would like to sign up for lessons.

2025 Exam Dates

Mid-year GET Examinations (Grade 7, 8 & 9):  2 June until 24 June

Mid-year FET Examinations (Grade 10, 11 & 12):  26 May until 24 June

Preliminary Examinations (Grade 12):  25 August until 22 September

End of year GET Examinations (Grade 7, 8 & 9):  11 November until 2 December (last day of quarter 5 December)

End of year FET Examinations (Grade 10 & 11):   3 November until 2 December (last day of quarter 5 December)

Grade 12 Final National Senior Certificate Examination:  We await confirmation of the specific dates and timetable from DBE.  All candidates must be available until the last day of the examination, regardless their subject timetable.

Absenteeism during Exams and Assessments

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 should the SBA component be 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.

Digital Bookshelf

A Call for Prize Donations

The English Department has launched its first internal Creative Writing Competition and Book Bingo Competition.  We are looking for book vouchers to be donated for the top 3 winners for both FET and GET, as well as 3 additional prizes for the Annual Book Bingo. If you would like some more information about the competitions, please click HERE. 

If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact Mrs J Biermann (jbiermann@parklands.co.za)

FEEDBACK

Celebrating Our Incredible HyperionBots! 

This past Saturday, our fantastic First Tech Team (FTC), the HyperionBots, competed in the National Championships and secured an amazing 2nd place finish!  Their hard work, creativity, and determination truly shone in this year’s "Submerged" theme, where teams were tasked with designing robots to tackle underwater-inspired engineering challenges. 

In the FIRST® Tech Challenge, students collaborate with mentors to design, build, and program robots, applying their STEM skills to compete in dynamic matches. After programming robots to follow autonomous commands, students take control in two-on-two matches! HyperionBots showcased incredible teamwork, technical skill, and innovation throughout the competition.

We are thrilled to announce that their remarkable performance has earned them an invitation to the World Championship in Houston, Texas, this April!  We couldn’t be prouder of their achievement and are excited to cheer them on as they compete on the global stage! 

#HyperionBots #FTC #Submerged #Nationals #WorldChampionshipBound #STEM #Innovation

Grade 8 Art

In Art this week, our Grade 8 learners were tasked with creating an artwork using their names.  The brief was to use organic patterns, natural colour, and include two animals or objects. 

Valentine's Assembly

On Friday we were entertained by the Grade 11s in celebrating the month of love and friendship ...

LEARNER NEWS

Kauai

For your convenience, the Karri App can be used to place an order at Kauai.  Please see the poster below.

To opt out of receiving notifications, please click on the link and enter your information:  https://forms.gle/atv84QQ8LureNScn9

For information about what is on offer:  PC Menu & Prices_Jan 25.pdf

HOUSES

The Inter-house Bake Off

From our sports department

This week we took a short break from the sporting programme as all our learners made their way to their Grade Camps on Wednesday. 

Our summer sports programme is still our main focus for the next two weeks. As we begin our transition towards winter sports training, please take note of the following:

Winter sports

• A letter regarding winter sport was sent to all Secondary Faculty parents on Wednesday 19 February.

• Our training sessions for winter sports begins on Monday, 10 March.

• Use this link (or the link in 2025 Winter Sports Sign Up letter) to sign your child up to their winter sport:  2025 Winter Sports Sign Up

Netball trials

• Our U19A netball coach this season is Mrs Tania Matthee.

• Our U16A netball coach this season is Mrs Carmen Wessels.

• Our U16 and U19 netball trials will take place on Wednesday, 26 February from 15h00 - 16h30

All Grade 10 - 12 learners have been notified about trials via email.

Hockey training (Garden Route Tour)

• Our 1st team girls' hockey coach this season is Mrs Samantha Scott.

• Our 1st team girls' hockey coach this season is Mr Stuart Muchuweti. 

Mrs Scott and Mr Muchuweti will also coach our players on the Garden Route Tour.

• The first training session for players attending the Garden Route Tour will be on Wednesday, 26 February, from 15h00 - 16h30

• On Wednesday, 5 March, all Grade 11 and 12 learners who have signed up for hockey will have the opportunity to attend a training session from 3 - 4.30pm. 

Rugby training

Rugby pre-season training for all ages has started on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 16h30 - 17h30.

Please contact me should you have any questions.

DH

Feedback

Chukka Report 

From 13 - 16 February, Knysna hosted an exhilarating Chukka Festival, bringing together talented school water polo teams from across the region.  Parklands’ journey began with some unexpected challenges.  Thursday’s arrival was met with heavy rain, which was far worse than anticipated, adding to the fatigue of an early morning start and seven-hour bus ride.  The girls’ team played their first game against Woodridge. Whilst they tried to persevere, they struggled to get into the game and they lost 1-7.  The boys’ team faced an even tougher opponent in Merrifield, where they had difficulty keeping up and lost 1-14.

After a difficult first day, the teams finally got a chance to rest before attending the festival's opening ceremony, where Oakhills School's Head of College, Mrs Sharon Brown, warmly welcomed all teams. Her speech encouraged sportsmanship, resilience, and enjoying the spirit of competition. 

As the tournament progressed, Parklands pushed forward.  A highlight arose on Friday, when the girls secured a well-earned victory against Herzlia (10-8), and the boys came heartbreakingly close against Woodridge (3-4).  Our two coaches, Mrs Samantha Scott and Mr Michael Brookes, participated in the "coaches and managers" match that evening, which became a surprise spectacle, leaving players in awe of their mentors’ skill and strategy.

Beyond the scores, this festival was about growth, bonding and resilience. Mrs Scott and Mr Brookes provided unwavering support, sharpening their players' skills despite the setbacks.  Meanwhile, managers Mr Carel Steinmann and Ms Rayan Pillay worked tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the teams organised and prepared.

Though Parklands faced tough competition, the experience gained was invaluable, strengthening the bond within the teams.  Through hard-fought battles and deepened camaraderie, this festival was a journey of passion, perseverance and progress—one that will be remembered for seasons to come. 

Chukka Results

Thursday, 13 February

• Girls: Parklands vs Woodridge 1- 7 loss

• Boys: Parklands vs Merrifield 1 - 14 loss

Friday, 14 February

• Boys: Parklands vs Selborne 0 - 11 loss

• Girls: Parklands vs DSG Makhanda 6 - 11 loss

• Boys: Parklands vs Woodridge 3 - 4 loss

• Girls: Parklands vs Herzlia 10 - 8 win

Saturday, 15 February

• Girls: Parklands vs Herschel 3 - 12 loss

• Boys: Parklands vs Pearson 2 - 8 loss

• Boys: Parklands vs Hudson Park 3 - 18 loss

• Girls: Parklands vs Claredon 3 - 7 loss

Sunday, 16 February

• Girls: Parklands vs Westerford 2 - 13 loss

• Boys: Parklands vs Grey 0 - 8 loss

Chukka Most Valuable Players (MVPs)

The Knysna Chukka Festival was an intense and rewarding experience for the Parklands' water polo teams.  Every player gave their all, showing determination, teamwork and perseverance throughout the tournament.  While every individual’s contribution was valued and recognised, two players stood out for their exceptional performances.

Our Most Valuable Players (MVPs)—awarded to those who demonstrated grit, resilience, and tenacity—were Hannah Taylor for the girls’ team and Travis Schenk for the boys’ team. Hannah played with unwavering determination, constantly pushing herself and her teammates forward, no matter the challenge. Her ability to stay composed under pressure and fight for every ball made her a standout competitor.  Travis displayed remarkable strength and leadership, never backing down, even against the toughest opponents.  His work ethic and relentless drive to improve and uplift his team were truly commendable.

Their efforts inspired those around them, inspiring passion, perseverance, and commitment.  Their performances, along with the hard work of every player, showed the true spirit of Parklands water polo—resilient, fearless and always striving for excellence.

MVP Boys' Team: Travis Schenk

MVP Girls' Team: Hannah Taylor

Rayan Pillay

Chukka Tour Manager

Learner achievements 

Darshan Kisten

Darshan Kisten hit his maiden century on Saturday and set the tone for the Parklands innings against Parow High School. His 115 was achieved in 76 balls.

Kyle Warrender

Kyle Warrender was named Player of the Match for his extraordinary innings against Parow this past weekend where he scored 404 runs not out. 

The team is now seeking verification for their total score and Kyle’s individual performance as potential South African schoolboy records.  

Kyle’s batting and bowling figures in the five matches he has played for Parklands College in 2025 speak of a player in brilliant form:

Batting:  four innings with two ‘not-out’s

2025 Total runs 480

2025 Average 120.0

2025 Strike rate 195.9

Based on the custom of only dividing the total by the number of innings in which the player was dismissed, Kyle’s average would be 240. 

Bowling:  four innings

2025 Total overs bowled 21

2025 Total runs conceded 45

2025 Total wickets 7

2025 Economy 2.14

2025 Average 6.4

Kyle is a phenomenal all-rounder and as Captain, he has had a remarkable influence on the fortunes of his young team (which includes six players turning sixteen years old this year) as they remain undefeated in 2025.  

CF

1st XI cricket report

U/19A Cricket match v Parow U/19A 

On Saturday 15 February, we played a home match against Parow High School.  Parow won the toss and opted to bowl first. Parklands capitalized on the opportunity, amassing a staggering 694/2 in 50 overs. Captain Kyle Warrender led the charge with an unbeaten 404 off 161 balls, featuring 47 fours and 23 sixes. He was well-supported by Darshan Kistan (115 off 76) and Joshua Neil (71* off 54), setting a potentially record-breaking total, where the partnership of Kyle Warrender and Josh Neil amassed 434 runs.

Chasing an improbable target of 695, Parow struggled against Parklands' disciplined bowling attack. They were dismissed for just 24 runs in 17.4 overs, succumbing to relentless pressure. Adam Muller delivered the final blows, taking two wickets in consecutive balls to complete a historic 670-run victory for Parklands.

Craig Fortuin

U/19A Cricket Manager

Parklands College summer sporting programme 2025

Parklands College winter sporting programme 2025

Starts Monday, 10 March.

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

Secondary sports calendar 

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

This past weekend three of our dancers, Alexa-Rose, Ella and Clara-Mari performed as part of the Cape Junior Ballet company in the Rare Talent for Rare Disease showcase.  Well done!

LEARNER SUPPORT 

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

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

TERTIARY STUDIES 

🎤 Spotlight on Black Excellence in Africa
 

This week, our Learner Morning Announcements featured a Spotlight Segment, celebrating incredible Black contributors who have made a lasting impact in music, science, activism, sports, and beyond.

🚶🏾‍♂️ Freedom Walk to Freedom Exhibit – Limited Spots Available!

We’re excited to offer learners the opportunity to visit the Walk to Freedom Exhibit—a powerful, interactive showcase of South Africa’s journey to democracy.

📅 Date: Friday,  7 March (PLEASE NOTE DATE CHANGE)
💰 Cost: R60
🚌 Transport: The school bus will depart at 13:20 and return by 16:00.
🔗 Sign up: Spots are limited to 40 learners—secure yours by completing the Google Form!

Google Form Link: https://forms.gle/LtYQzuzE9tuBhiqm8 

🛋️ Couch Conversations – Let’s Talk!
Also happening on Friday, 28 February, our first Couch Conversations of the year! This is your chance to join a thought-provoking discussion on topics that matter. Stay tuned for details!

We’re looking forward to an engaging and inspiring month ahead! Get involved, join the conversations, and make your voice heard. 🎤✨

Your Voice Matters

Being part of the Learner Equity Council (LEC) is not limited to its elected members—we can all be agents of change. Creating an inclusive and thoughtful community is a shared responsibility, and each of us has a role to play.

This is more than just a celebration—it is a call to action. We encourage all learners to participate, share their ideas, and help shape these events. Whether you're an LEC member or simply passionate about making a difference, your voice matters.

We look forward to an impactful month of learning, sharing, and celebrating together. 

🔹 For any questions or to get involved, contact the Learner Equity Council.

CONCLUSION

Have a great weekend!

Kind regards

Sylvia Steyn

ssteyn@parklands.co.za

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Blogs from other faculties:

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

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

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