Secondary Faculty: 25 July 2025

Gr 11s at Waterval Country Lodge

Dear Parents and Learners

It is always a happy occasion when we welcome our learners back to the campus; they bring life and laughter to the buildings and the fields. We wish everyone a productive and successful Winter Quarter.

Our Grade 11s departed on the Leadership Camp this weekend, officially starting the journey to leading the school going forward. We wish our Debaters well as they participate in the WP Debating Championships this weekend.

Many of our learners were busy with various activities during the holidays and we take pleasure in reporting back in today's blog.

Early morning tranquility when everyone has gone to class ...

College blazers

Please be reminded that all learners need to wear the new striped blazer from the start of 2026, with the obvious exception of those who wear Honours Blazers. To ensure timely delivery, we advise you to place your order with our uniform supplier, School and Leisure, early.

Second hand school uniforms

Please contact Tania Fourie if you would like to buy or sell good quality second-hand uniforms. She is also the supplier of Froggy School shoes. Contact details: +27 83 631 7683 or tania@sportstudio.co.za

Emergency Contact Details

We would like to remind you that it is imperative for us to be able to contact you or a member of your family or a close friend in the case of an emergency. Kindly visit the Edana App and check the contact details in the fields provided. To ensure that the information is complete and correct, it is vital that the contact numbers are accessible at all times by the College.

This is a very important request, and we are asking you to comply immediately as a safety precaution.

Please select your profile, then "Contact Information" update, and "Emergency Contacts" and update accordingly. Please click on the link for step by step guidance.

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 updated the Parent & Learner Directory on 28 February with information regarding the security of electronic devices (iPads and Laptops.)

Parklands Learners participate in the “Physics Olympics”

Team SA at the Opening Ceremony

Declan

Connor Part 1

Connor Part 2

Liat

The 38th International Young Physicists’ Tournament (IYPT) took place in Lund, Sweden, from 29 June to 6 July this year. Three of the five members of Team South Africa were senior learners from Parklands College:

· Declan Saul (Grade 12), who captained the team,

· Connor Crighton (Grade 11), and

· Liat Demissew (Grade 10).

This was the third time that Team South Africa competed in this prestigious and intellectually demanding tournament. Participation required learners to investigate open-ended problems based on complex real-world phenomena, involving both theoretical exploration and experimental research.

The IYPT follows a unique format consisting of five simulated mini-conference debates called Physics Fights. In each round, teams take on rotating roles:

· Reporter, presenting their research findings;

· Opponent, critiquing another team’s work; and

· Reviewer, evaluating the discussion between the Reporter and Opponent.

All performances are judged by professional physicists, making this a rigorous and enriching academic experience. While the overall team performance was below what we were hoping for, each of the three participants from Parklands College did exceptionally well considering the context in which they were participating and who they were competing against, namely, some of the smartest children of their age group on Earth.

Please view the following video clips:

Declan Saul’s Report on Problem 4: Climbing Magnets which states:

“Attach a rod assembled from cylindrical neodymium magnets horizontally to a vertical ferromagnetic rod. Limit the motion of the magnets to the vertical direction. When the ferromagnetic rod is spun around its axis of symmetry, the magnetic rod begins to climb up. Explain this phenomenon and investigate how the rate of climbing depends on relevant parameters.”

https://youtu.be/ch5TM2DqjNQ

Excerpt from Connor Crighton’s Opposition to Team Sweden’s report:

PART A: https://youtu.be/wbcbOHxx7kE

Excerpt from Connor Crighton’s concluding remarks on his Opposition of Team Sweden’s report:

PART B: https://youtu.be/dErvJ_DLc-k

Liat Demissew’s Report on Problem 15: Wailing Bowl which states:

“When you strike the side of a metal bowl containing some water, you can hear a characteristic sound. The sound changes when the water in the bowl is moving. Explain and investigate the phenomenon.”

https://youtu.be/UzYj8_a7Roo

ACADEMICS

Academic Links

Note the section at the top dedicated specifically to academic links. Click on the links below to find:

🎓 Winter Quarter Timetables, 🎓Assessment Calendars, the 🎓 Tutorial Schedule, the 🎓 Subject Change Deadlines, the 🎓Promotion Requirements and 🎓 Absence during Assessments or Exams and 🎓 Exam Dates

Parent / Educator Meetings

Our parent / educator online meetings are scheduled for Wednesday, 30 July, Thursday, 31 July and Friday, 1 August. Click on the link to book an online meeting slot.

Booking Link: Parent/Educator Meeting Slots

Academic Report Cards - Autumn Quarter

Autumn Quarter Academic Report Cards

Parents will be notified via email once the reports have been published on the Ed-admin Multi Portal App.

The Ed-admin Multi Portal App (Ed-admin MP) is now available on the Google and Apple App stores. The features include access to your child’s reports, calendar activities and daily attendance records to mention a few.

To install the App please follow the below instructions:

1.) Download the Ed-Admin Multi Portal App by using the relevant link below:

● Apple App Store:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ed-admin-multi-portal/id6469108569

OR

● Google Play Store:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edana.edadmin&hl=en&gl= US

2.) Enter 230034 (Parklands College Code) and your email address to log in.

3.) The next step will require you to enter the login code sent to you via email.

Please ensure that you keep this App updated otherwise you will be logged out and will have to repeat the above process to regain access.

Winter Quarter Timetables

Please find a link to the Winter Quarter Class Timetables:

Winter Quarter 2025 Timetables

2025 Day Allocation

Assessment Calendars

Grade 7

Grade 8

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

Grade 12

Tutorial Schedule

Winter Quarter Tutorial Schedule

Grade 12 Academic Timeline, Exam Timetables and Important Dates

Please find below a link to the academic timeline, preliminary examination timetable, final NSC timetable, and other important dates for the Class of 2025. We would like to highlight that there are very few teaching days remaining for our matric students. These remaining weeks include several critical DBE SBA submission and moderation dates. We urge all parents to ensure that full attendance and a strong commitment to meeting deadlines remain a top priority during this crucial period.

Grade 12 2025 Academic Timeline and Exam Timetables

NSC 2025 Timetable

Grade 12 Prelim Study Guidelines

Subject Changes

Grade 10 Subject Changes

Grade 10 learners who wish to initiate a subject change are required to complete the form below and submit it to Mrs Vosloo as a matter of urgency. Learners are also reminded that they will not be permitted to start an 8th additional self study subject in Grade 11 or 12. All requests for additional subjects must be submitted during the Grade 10 year.

Subject Change Request Form

Grade 11 & 12 Subject Changes

The deadline for subject changes in Grade 11 and Grade 12 has passed.

Grade 12 Final Visual Art and Design practical dates

The Grade 12 Final Visual Art and Design practical exams are scheduled for Monday, 22 September until Thursday, 25 September.

From the English Department: Digital Bookshelf

Q3 EHL Digital Book Shelf 2025

We’re delighted to announce an exciting new initiative — our Career Connection Evening, where parents and guardians will have the opportunity to share their career journeys with our learners through relaxed conversations and informal interviews.

This special evening is designed to inspire and guide our learners as they explore future career paths and gain valuable insights into the world of work and business — directly from the people they look up to most: you!

If you’re interested in being a career mentor for the evening and making a real difference, please complete the Google Form here to sign up. We would love for you to be part of this inspiring event!

Let’s connect, share, and empower the next generation together!

For more information, please contact ktromp@parklands.co.za or jwyngaard@parklands.co.za

ROBOTICS

Robotics Doesn’t Rest – Holiday Hustle in the Robotics Lab

While most of the school was quiet over the holidays, the Robotics Department was buzzing with excitement and energy! All our WRO (World Robot Olympiad) teams were hard at work, getting ready for the upcoming regional competition. It’s been inspiring to see the dedication and teamwork as learners refined their coding, problem-solving, and engineering skills during their break.

We also welcomed our FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) team, the Hyperion Bots, who spent their holidays diving deep into design and innovation. New team members have been learning the ropes—from mastering Fusion 360 to exploring real-world engineering processes—all while building the foundations of this season’s robot. The team is working towards their first scrimmage next week, and there’s a great buzz of anticipation as the robot takes shape.

It’s clear—when it comes to robotics at our school, the learning never stops, and the holidays are just another chance to build, create, and grow.

Stay tuned for more updates as our teams gear up to compete!

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

Exploring Passions, Finding Purpose – Clubs & Societies in Quarter 3

At Parklands College, we believe learning doesn’t stop when the bell rings. Some of the most meaningful growth happens outside the classroom through conversations, collaboration, creativity, and curiosity. That’s why we’re so excited about our Clubs and Societies programme.

If you take a walk around the campus during utility or after school, you’ll feel the energy. Whether it’s learners deep in strategy during a gaming tournament, sharing ideas in an Interact Club meeting, or debugging code in App Development, there’s a real sense of purpose and passion. These clubs are more than just activities; they're safe spaces for learners to explore who they are and what they love.

In Quarter 3, we have made slight changes to the Clubs and Societies Timetable, which is attached below. From wellness and creative arts to innovation and outreach, there’s something for everyone.

We look forward to seeing even more learners get involved this Quarter. It’s not about adding another item to a to-do list but it’s about belonging, leading, and growing.

Let the exploring continue.

Link to timetable

LEARNER AFFAIRS

Learners driving to school

Every year we receive requests from learners driving themselves to school to park their vehicles on the school grounds. We will not allow that for the following very important and well-considered reasons:

Safety: Hundreds of younger learners are dropped and picked up in the parking lot daily and the danger of allowing an additional approximate 100 inexperienced drivers (by the second half of the year) onto the parking lot, is a risk too big to take.
Insurance: The school has public liability insurance for injuries due to school-related events. Driving a car is not a school-related event and will therefore not be covered by our insurance.
Necessity: There is close enough access to public transport (MyCiTi) for there to be no need for learners to drive themselves to school if their parents are unable to do so.
Unlicensed driving: Some parents allow their children to illegally drive vehicles to school. As learners arrive and leave during peak times, it is impossible for the security guards to check licences without causing massive congestion.

There are parking embayments in College Avenue for learners to park their vehicles and when that is full, there is ample parking space available at Checkers. The parking area on the East side of the gate is also available for parking. This can be accessed from Sandown Road.

LOOKING AHEAD

Two opportunities for international travel in 2026

To travel and explore different countries and cultures with your friends is an experience you carry with you for the rest of your life.

Cultural Tour for Juniors to Paris in September 2026

Parklands College is planning a Cultural Tour to Paris in September 2026 for our current Grade 5, 6 & 7 learners. (Grade 7 and 8 learners from the Secondary Faculty).

Should you be interested in your child participating in the tour, or require further information, please email Mme A Bailly at abailly@parklands.co.za. A truly memorable cultural experience awaits!

Cultural tour for Seniors to Budapest and Vienna in March 2026

Kindly scan the QR code to reply if you are interested. This tour is going ahead, but we would love a few more learners to join!

This tour is for Parklands College learners only and they will be accompanied by our own staff members in addition to the tour guide.

25LH10 Parklands EU Mar 2026.pdf

Presentation

Scan this code to reply to invitation

SERVICE

EQUITY & DIVERSITY

Diversity & Inclusion Indaba ... All Welcome

The Equity & Diversity Portfolio will be hosting a Diversity & Inclusion Indaba on Friday 8 August from 15:30-19:30.

This promises to be an incredibly engaging workshop led by Rotary, the Leah and Desmond Tutu Foundation together with Parklands College.

This is an open workshop for both Parklands and learners from other schools.

We will be exploring real-world issues of respect, belonging, and identity.

You can expect:

Real-life scenario role plays and problem-solving
Peer-led workshops and leadership tools
A safe space to be heard, seen, and inspired

Event Details:

Parklands College, Cape Town
Friday, 8 August | 15:30 – 19:30
R150 per learner (includes a lunch on arrival and all materials)

Join us in building a more inclusive future—starting with YOU.

Please click on this link to register for the workshop: https://forms.gle/YqRYmADU2ioaqxsBA by Thursday 31 July 2025.

This is open to absolutely everyone, but we strongly encourage all

Class Reps, Bits Reps, Prefects and those aspiring and in leadership roles to register for this workshop.

Didn’t get to do something for

Nelson Mandela Day?

No stress — it’s never too late to make a difference!

For the rest of July and August, you can drop off any pre-loved clothes or books at the Innovation Centre reception, and we’ll donate them to Help the Rural Child on your behalf.

They even collect from your home if you have more to give!

Let’s keep the spirit of giving alive — small acts, big impact!

SPORT

FROM THE SPORTS DEPARTMENT

Quarter 3 kicked off with purpose, and we’ve already hit the ground running. The calendar is full, the energy is high, and our learners have returned with focus and intent.

On Wednesday 23 July, we hosted the Sixth Cross Country League race of the season. Our athletes, who’ve shown real commitment throughout the series, made the most of the opportunity to race on home ground. It was a proud moment for the College – thank you to everyone who helped make the event a success.

Training across codes resumed this past week as teams got back into rhythm. Rugby training continued throughout the July break for those able to attend, but resumed in full on Tuesday 22 July in preparation for our away fixture at Paul Roos Gymnasium this Saturday, 26 July – a valuable test and an exciting challenge for our players.

Boys’ hockey training resumed on Wednesday 23 July, and girls’ hockey on Thursday 24 July. Netball training also resumed on Thursday with a skills and fitness session. Thank you to the coaches for facilitating this.

15–16 August is our annual Derby Day against Somerset College – and it’s coming fast. This event is always a highlight on our winter calendar and a fantastic opportunity for our learners and supporters to come together. Let’s bring the energy, the spirit and the support.

A big thank you to Ms Conradie for her consistent and valued contribution as Netball, Girls’ Hockey Co-ordinator and PE educator last quarter – her reliability and calm presence strengthened our department.

We’re delighted to welcome back Mrs Bloem. She recently welcomed a beautiful baby boy to her family, and we’re thrilled to have her return for an exciting quarter ahead.

And to our educator managers and coaches: thank you for everything you do to support, mentor and guide our learners this quarter.

Let’s keep the momentum going!

SECONDARY SPORTS CALENDAR

Please remember to subscribe to the Secondary sports calendar for upcoming fixtures.

Feedback

Cross country

On Wednesday we hosted the sixth Western Province League race. Below are some photographs of our athletes - well done to all of them!

The top 25 finishers were:

U15: 19th, Luke Cloete

U17: 2nd, Steffan Hillebrand

U19: 23rd, Michael Lumley

Learner Achievements

Bodyboarding

The recent Wedge Classic Bodyboarding contest took place from 7–12 July 2025 at the iconic Wedge Beach in Plettenberg Bay. It was a memorable event filled with powerful waves and tough competition.

Our very own Gabriel Kayser and Ryan Kemp represented themselves with distinction. Gabriel reached the semi-finals, placing third in his heat, while Ryan advanced to the finals and secured an impressive second place overall. Both boys delivered standout performances in their debut competition, showing excellent skill, determination and composure throughout.

Conditions were demanding, with unpredictable weather and towering swells challenging even the most seasoned competitors. Despite this, Gabriel and Ryan embraced every moment and approached each heat with confidence and focus.

Adding to the unique atmosphere were dolphins and seals spotted swimming alongside the action – a special touch that made the event even more memorable.

Congratulations to Gabriel Kayser and Ryan Kemp on their outstanding achievements at the Wedge Classic. Their performances were a source of pride and excitement for the Parklands College sporting community – a strong start to what promises to be a bright future in the sport.

Gabriel and Ryan in action ...

Gabriel

Ryan

Indoor Cricket

Earlier this year, Kyle Warrender took part in the Western Province Indoor Cricket trials and was selected for the U18 team – a significant achievement in itself. But the good news didn’t stop there.

At the official Western Province capping ceremony held on Saturday evening, 21 June 2025, it was announced that Kyle would captain the WPAC U18 side at this year’s Inter-Provincial Tournament, which took place at Atterbury in Pretoria from 2–7 July 2025.

Kyle Warrender is a standout sportsman – talented, consistent and fiercely committed – but it’s his calm humility that sets him apart. His quiet leadership and work ethic have earned him respect both on and off the field, and this latest honour is well-deserved.

Congratulations to Kyle on achieving yet another cricketing milestone.

Duathlon

Steffan Hillebrand competed in the Western Cape Duathlon Championships during the weekend of 20th June – a demanding multisport event combining both running and cycling. Competing against a strong field, Steffan not only won his age group but also claimed the title of overall Junior Champion.

This result came as no surprise to those who know Steffan – a dedicated and highly driven athlete with a natural ability to excel across disciplines. His commitment to training, balanced with his composed race-day presence, continues to set him apart.

A superb achievement and another marker of a promising sporting future.

Lifesaving

Erin Langenhoven was selected to represent South Africa at the 2025 RRLS Commonwealth Games, held in Swansea, Wales, from 10–13 July.

The event brought together top-level competitors from across the Commonwealth, and Erin rose to the occasion with confidence and composure.

The experience was nothing short of remarkable – filled with personal bests, strong team spirit and international friendships. Erin earned both a silver and a bronze medal, contributing proudly to the South African team’s overall success.

Her dedication and steady progress in the sport have now earned her a place on the President’s Team, selected to compete at the 2025 International Surf Rescue Championships (ISRC) in New Zealand. An exceptional achievement for a truly deserving athlete.

Jake Hutton was also selected to represent South Africa as part of the National Lifesaving Team at the upcoming International Surf Rescue Challenge (ISRC) in New Zealand. His selection reflects not only current form but also his sustained excellence on the international stage.

While already competing at the highest level, Jake continues to impress by holding three World Champion titles, earned while representing South Africa at previous international championships — titles he will retain until 2026.

His selection to the National Team once again confirms his place among the very best.

For your information:

What Is the International Surf Rescue Challenge (ISRC)?

The International Surf Rescue Challenge (ISRC) is one of the world’s leading surf lifesaving competitions, bringing together top rescue athletes from across the globe for a showcase of ocean skills, speed, and teamwork.

About the Event

When: 27–30 November 2025
Where: Main Beach, Mount Maunganui, New Zealand
Who Competes: National Open and Youth teams from countries like Australia, Canada, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, South Africa, and the USA

What Makes the ISRC Special?

International Showdown: The ISRC is a rare opportunity for surf lifesaving athletes from different countries to test themselves against the very best.
Diverse Ocean Events: The competition includes a wide variety of challenges—swimming, board paddling, beach sprints, rescues, and other high-adrenaline events, all simulating lifesaving scenarios.
History and Tradition: Established as a biennial (every two years) event, the ISRC includes classic competitions such as the Trans-Tasman Challenge and the Tri-Nations Challenge, which have a strong following in surf lifesaving communities.

Why Should You Pay Attention?

Exciting Action: Watch athletes race through the surf, perform precision rescues, and battle the elements in spectacular fashion.
Inspiring Stories: Many competitors are active lifeguards, turning their real-world rescue skills into top-level sport.
Rising Stars: The inclusion of Open and Youth teams makes the ISRC a proving ground for future Olympic and world-level surf athletes.

Sports department coordinators

For general enquiries about specific winter sports, contact:

Chess, Boys' soccer, cross country, golf and First Aid mviljoen@parklands.co.za
Rugby and Girls' soccer dviljoen@parklands.co.za
Netball and Girls' hockey sbloem@parklands.co.za
Head of Cricket and Boys' hockey ggilder@parklands.co.za
Head of Sport dhunt@parklands.co.za

2025 Sports Prefects

Erin Langenhoven
Nicole Apsey
Nic Farquhar

Winter sports managers (educators)

Sport Contact email

Chess

All pbester@parklands.co.za

Cross country dduffield@parklands.co.za

erandewijk@parklands.co.za

Golf

1st Team mviljoen@parklands.co.za

Hockey

u13/14 Girls mjohannes@parklands.co.za

u16A/B Girls sdube@parklands.co.za

u19A Girls cconradie@parklands.co.za

u19B Girls kgoliath@parklands.co.za

u13/14 Boys fhuman@parklands.co.za

u16A/B Boys ggilder@parklands.co.za

u19A Boys cwessels@parklands.co.za

Netball

u13A rpillay@parklands.co.za

u13B ahayward@parklands.co.za

u14A pbara@parklands.co.za

u14B mjohannes@parklands.co.za

u15A ktromp@parklands.co.za

u15B nmbane@parklands.co.za

u16A mvanschaik@parklands.co.za

u16B cawessels@parklands.co.za

u17A kfalake@parklands.co.za

u19A sbloem@parklands.co.za

u19B pbates@parklands.co.za

Rugby

u13 lmaharage@parklands.co.za

u14 rnieuwenhoudt@parklands.co.za

u15 cfortuin@parklands.co.za

u16 rhorsley@parklands.co.za

1st XV lmakhohlisa@parklands.co.za

2nd XV cgoldstone@parklands.co.za

Soccer

1st Team Girls jbiermann@parklands.co.za

u14A Boys rismail@parklands.co.za

u16A Boys arossouw@parklands.co.za

1st Team Boys lbaker@parklands.co.za

Winter sports captains

WINTER SPORT 2025

Chess Mervyn Rukonhi

Cross country Michael Lumley

Golf 1st Team Nicholas Strydom

Hockey Girls

u13/14 Girls Claire Naidoo

u16A Girls Emma Lilienfeld

u19A Girls Julia Ligthelm

u19B Girls Mia Bezer

Hockey Boys

u13/14 Boys Hayden Naidoo

u16A Boys Blaine Fisher

u16B Boys Jayden Lamb

u19A Boys Trent Mc Culloch

Netball

u13A Lea De Sousa

u13B Mphilo Mazibuko

u14A Kayla Fundira

u14B Isabella Ankiah

u15A Marie-France Zemba

u15B Priyanka Ramlakan

u16A Alecea Vieira

u16B Sophia De Sousa

u17A TBC

u19A Nicole Apsey

u19B Asi Moni

Rugby

u14 Jared Jacobs

u15 Christo Strydom

u16 Chulumanco Mdudu

1st XV Nicholas Farquhar

2nd XV Jamie Visser

Soccer

1st Team Girls Sophia Frielinghaus

u14A Boys Duma Nogaga

u16A Boys Travis Schenk

1st Team Boys Yvan Tapon Njamo

Sport uniform

External Sports News

To ensure we stay informed and up to date on our learners' incredible achievements in activities outside of school, please email the relevant information along with high-quality photos to External Sports News

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

Secondary sports calendar

Madagascar

Book here via Quicket

Learner Achievements in Culture

Brandon Strydom

A huge congratulations to Brandon Strydom who recently competed in the Talent America finals in Manhattan — and made both himself and Parklands incredibly proud!

His outstanding achievements include:

1st place in all his categories (ages 18–24): comedic monologue, dramatic monologue, vocal Broadway, and vocal singer’s choice
Overall division winner (ages 18–24) for acting and vocals
Recipient of the Pinnacle Award for the highest combined score in his age group
And… a $20,000 per year scholarship to study at the New York Film Academy!

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

Cape Town Eisteddfod

There's lots of buzz in the Music Department ...

My experience at the National Youth Jazz Festival

My name is Sesona Mbovane, and I recently had the incredible privilege of attending the National Youth Jazz Festival in Makhanda, an experience that has truly changed the way I see music, and myself. For those that really know me, will know that music has always and will always be an important part of my life. So being able to attend this festival felt less like a school trip and more like a dream come true.

Alongside three amazing students, Caitlin Smith, Karena Li, and Lina Mashigo, and our ever-patient chaperone, Ms Falake, we journeyed to this small Eastern Cape town that somehow became the jazz capital of South Africa. This year was actually my second time attending the festival. My first experience in 2023 was exciting, but I’ll admit I was a bit overwhelmed. I was like a deer in headlights. But coming back this time, I understood the structure better, I knew what to expect, and more importantly, I understood jazz more deeply, not just the music, but the feeling behind it. That allowed me to take more risks and participate more.

The days were long, packed with workshops, rehearsals, and performances. We got to work with some of South Africa’s most respected jazz artists, and learn their greatest tips and tricks. One of the most unexpected and beautiful parts of the Makhanda Jazz Festival were the friendships and connections I made with other young musicians from all over South Africa. We came from different provinces, different schools, different walks of life, but we were all united by the same love for music.

In all honesty, while the band leaders and workshops were brilliant, I learned just as much, if not more, from the people my own age. Hearing their stories, and just sitting together at breakfast talking about life and music, those were the moments that left the biggest mark on me. I’llforever be thankful for the unforgettable memories I made with those guys, that cannot be recreated with my friends here.

Beyond the music itself, being part of the festival has taught me so many transferable life skills. Music demands discipline, the kind that comes from hours of practice, and managing your time wisely. It also teaches you how to truly listen, not just to the notes, but to people, which is a skill I now carry into school, conversations, and leadership. Performing has built my confidence and resilience; when you mess up on stage, you don’t walk off, you keep going. That mindset has helped me approach challenges with more courage. And of course, jazz is all about creativity and problem-solving, especially when improvising. But maybe most importantly, music has taught me about connection and emotional intelligence, learning how to collaborate, be present, and respond sensitively to those around me. These are lessons I’ll carry with me everywhere.

To Ms Falake, thank you for guiding us with patience and heart. For constantly ensuring our safety and for actively participating in the festival alongside us. To my fellow musicians, thank you for inspiring me. And to Parklands College, thank you for investing in my growth and giving me the chance to represent our school in this way. I return from Makhanda not only as a better musician, but as a braver, more open version of myself.

Thank you!

Caitlin Smith, Lina Mashigo, Karena Li, Sisanda Mbvane, Ms Falake

More Information

Please click on the image or this website link: https://sites.google.com/parklands.co.za/sec-music-department/home for our Secondary Campus Music Department Learner Website for Music Department News, Showcases & Exciting Opportunities.

ATTENTION ALL PIANISTS ...

SPACE FOR OBSERVERS AVAILABLE

🎹 A PIANO MASTERCLASS EXPERIENCE WITH THE EXCEPTIONAL PROF. NINA SCHUMANN

Parklands College proudly presents an exciting opportunity to learn from one of South Africa’s most celebrated pianists and educators. Join us for a 2-day piano masterclass led by the extraordinary Professor Nina Schumann, renowned for her virtuosic artistry and dynamic teaching.

🎼 WHAT TO EXPECT:
From interactive workshops to live performances and personalised coaching, this experience promises to challenge, inspire, and transform pianists at all levels. Whether you're a performer or a passionate observer, prepare to be immersed in the world of expressive, technical, and refined piano playing.

Application Link: https://forms.gle/fG9hM97WLKfvgWiU6

Are you making the most of your music lessons?

Here's why regular practice and good communication with your teacher matter!

Should you be interested in learning to play an instrument, please complete this form: https://forms.gle/D2zMnvDxGPj7KQ8c9

Are you ready to try something new?

The Parklands College Music Department offers expert tuition on a variety of instruments, taught by industry specialists.

Whether you're looking to start your musical journey or try out a new instrument, we've got you covered!

Not sure which instrument suits you best? No problem!

Email Mrs. Matsimela at amatsimela@parklands.co.za to book a try-out session.

2025 Enrolment Form: https://forms.gle/QhYkKxrBxFLt7ipNA

🎵 Note: If you're already part of the extra-mural music programme, no need to sign up again for 2025—you’re automatically enrolled!

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity! 🎹🎸🥁

Music Department Educator Contact Details

LEARNER SUPPORT

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

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

TERTIARY STUDIES

Open Days and Application Dates 2025 for Universities and Colleges

GRADE 9 SUBJECT CHOICE - EDUVOS WEBINAR

We are excited to announce an upcoming webinar titled "Navigating Your Future: Career Choices for Grade 9 Students".

Date: July 31st

Time: 18:00 - 19:00
Location: Online (link to be provided upon registration)

This informative session aims to help Grade 9 students explore career options and make informed subject choices for Grades 10, 11, and 12.

Key topics will include:

Various career paths related to different subjects
Essential qualities for success in future careers
Effective decision-making strategies
Post-Grade 9 options, including NSC and NCV

We believe this webinar will be immensely beneficial for our students, providing them with the tools they need to shape their futures.

Follow the link to book your spot: Eduvos Grade 9 subject choice webinar booking

Financial Aid Opportunities - Stellenbosch Universisty BAcc programme ONLY

The applications for the Thuthuka bursary for 2026 are open!

The link to access the application portal is www.thuthukabursaryfund.co.za.

Applications close on 31 August 2025. Applicants should remember to access the portal using Google Chrome.

The bursary is for BAcc students only.

Any queries can be directed to the bursary fund email: tbf@saica.co.za

Future Doctors Academy

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...

CONCLUSION

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.

Enjoy a great weekend.

Kind regards

Sylvia Steyn

ssteyn@parklands.co.za

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Parklands College & CRPP on Facebook

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

Blogs from other faculties:

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

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

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

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