Secondary Faculty: 30 May 2025
Secondary Faculty: 30 May 2025
Dear Parents and Learners
We hope to see many friends and family at our Open Day tomorrow.
Next week all our learners will be in examination mode and we wish them well. Please remember that learners are required to adhere to normal dress and grooming regulations throughout the exam period. Regulation knee blankets may be purchased from the IC reception. These are very useful during the exam period when learners are remaining seated for extended periods of time.
Our condolences to Liam Hine (Grade 7) whose mother sadly passed away last week. She was laid to rest today. May her soul Rest in Peace. We wish the Hine family strength through this difficult time.
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.
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 updated the Parent & Learner Directory on 28 February with information regarding the security of electronic devices (iPads and Laptops.)
Parklands College Preparatory Faculty
presents DreamWorks
Madagascar
A Musical Adventure JR.
DreamWorks Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR. features original music and lyrics by George Noriega and Joel Someillan, and book by Kevin Del Aguila.
As the show opens, we learn that Marty the zebra may be celebrating his tenth birthday at the Central Park Zoo with his friends Alex the lion, Gloria the hippo, and Melman the giraffe, yet he longs to experience life outside of the zoo’s walls. When Marty eventually escapes, his animal friends from the zoo pursue him into New York City. After reuniting, the animals are chased by the police, and ultimately felled by tranquilliser darts. They awake, trapped in crates on a ship, which, through a series of events, is thrown off course. Upon reaching land, the animals discover they have been shipwrecked on the island of Madagascar. Ultimately, it is only in being so lost that they can begin to discover where they really belong.
Every Grade 4 - 6 learner as well as every Grade R - 3 dancer is getting ready to Move it! We hope to see you join in the fun too! Ticket Sales are now open!
Book here via Quicket.
Note the section at the top dedicated specifically to academic links. Click on the links below to find:
🎓 Autumn Quarter Timetables, 🎓Assessment Calendars, the 🎓 Tutorial Schedule, the 🎓 Subject Change Deadlines, the 🎓Promotion Requirements and 🎓 Absence during Assessments or Exams and 🎓 Exam Dates
June Examination Timetable
The June Exam Timetable has now been finalised: JUNE EXAM TT 2025
June Examination Study Guidelines:
June Grade 12 Study Guidelines, June Grade 11 Study Guidelines, June Grade 10 Study Guidelines, June Grade 9 Study Guidelines, June Grade 8 Study Guidelines, June Grade 7 Study Guidelines
Proposed Study Timetables
Our counselling department has thoughtfully prepared proposed study timetables to support our GET learners:
Grade 7 Study Timetable, Grade 8 Study Timetable, Grade 9 Study Timetable
Exam Arrangements
School start at normal time, 07:50. Please arrive promptly.
Normal dress and grooming applies.
A study venue is made available at school for those who cannot study at home when they are not writing.
Link to Exam Agreement
Link to Exam Rules & Regulations
See Academic Links tab with information about absence. during the exam period.
Mid-year Exams: Please note that question papers will be written until the very last day of the quarter, Wednesday, 25 June. Reports will be issued in the third quarter. Learners who miss question papers for legitimate reasons will have to write during the first week back, starting on Monday, 21 July 2025.
Prelim Exams:: Please note that question papers will be written until the very last day of the quarter, Tuesday, 23 September. Learners who are absent for exams will need to submit a doctor's certificate. Reports will be issued in the next quarter.
This quarter's digital bookshelf is for true readers, as there is not much time for this leisure in between studying for our mid-year exams coming up. That being said, these suggestions will be sure to immerse you in worlds very different from our own, whether you're choosing from the genres of fiction, fantasy, historical or autobiographical. Delving into a bit of fantasy in order to face reality has proven to be very beneficial for the human (and teenage) brain.
Happy reading!
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 (MyCity) 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.
Our grade 12 Life sciences had the privilege of attending a workshop at CenGen, a plant biotechnology company focusing on plant genomics. Our learners had the opportunity to extract wheat DNA, requiring great skill and concentration, to achieve the desired outcome. They went on to learn about DNA profiling, how the equipment works and a tour of the facility. While they offer workshops to schools, CenGen's main focus revolves around research, specifically speeding up the process of "artificial selection" in farming, with the assistance of genome sequencing, allowing farmers to select and plant crops with known desired traits.
One of their most exciting endeavours recently undertaken, was a disease resistance gene cloning attempt with an expert team at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia. While not their main focus, they have also started mapping out the genomes of endemic plant species to assist researchers in understanding how the plants work and opening up future research opportunities in potential medicinal benefits.
From the outing they were able to experience what life in a lab looks and feels like, learnt valuable lab skills and had the opportunity to consider a potential career opportunity. We all had a lot of fun and made for a memorable day for all. - Jolandi Gibson (Subject Leader: Life Sciences)
As part of FAL (First Additional Language) and SAL (Second Additional Language) this quarter, the Grade 3s visited the Secondary Campus for a tour of their Culinary Department. They learned all about the baking of cupcakes ("kolwyntjies") and the ingredients used to create these culinary delights, all while broadening their Afrikaans vocabulary. Learners also had the opportunity to ice their own cupcakes and enjoy eating them in the recreation room. Thank you to Mrs Torbet and Mrs Grobler for making this such a memorable experience for our Grade 3s!
Dr. Bettey Walker, a renowned educational innovator and Rotary Club member from California since 1996, has developed meaningful partnerships with Rotary Clubs in Cape Town. Since 2000, she has been dedicated to promoting science and technology in township schools across South Africa. Another of her passions is fostering peace through language.
In support of this, she presented our Interact Club with a 'Peace Umbrella', featuring the word “PEACE” printed in all 163 official United Nations languages.
"It is easier to interest men in war than in peace; it therefore requires more moral courage to talk peace than war."
(Paul P Harris, 1868 - 1947) Founder of Rotary International
To travel and explore different countries and cultures with your friends is an experience you carry with you for the rest of your life.
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!
Thank you to everyone who attended the online information evening about the proposed tour for next year. Please find the updated presentation, including the costs, below. Kindly scan the QR code to reply by Friday, 13 June if you are interested.
Presentation
Scan this code to reply to invitation
Mr Baker would like to dedicate his run to a good cause. Support him by making a donation to MILES WITH MEANING. This new initiative's proceeds will be used to support neighbouring schools with lunch, school supplies and sports equipment.
His race number is 32127 and he is running in the colours of the Social Runners Club. Mr Baker will be one of 24 000 runners!
Use the reference service when making a donation.
Bake sale on Africa Day - proceeds to go to a dog shelter.
Thank you for your support!
On Tuesdays and Thursdays we try to make a difference by making sandwiches for some friends in need.
The visit to Dassenberg Dog & Horse Rescue Centre was a highlight. Thank you for all your donations.
30 May 2025
This cold and wet Friday was a good day to wear slippers in support of Reach for a Dream.
Thank you for wearing your slippers for the dreamers.
FROM THE SPORTS DEPARTMENT
Prioritising exams but creating space to train.
This weekend at home we host De Kuilen, Cannons Creek and Bellville for our final round of rugby and hockey matches for the quarter. We’ve seen a mix of triumphs, near-misses and undeniable grit. Looking back at the quarter’s performances, the dedication and effort of our players have been obvious. We’ve had standout wins in netball, soccer, rugby and golf and real growth in hockey and cross-country.
Rugby in particular has been impressive, with the teams notching up strong results. Netball has also shown some great determination after some setbacks, while hockey has demonstrated consistent effort and resilience. And let’s not forget Steffan Hillebrand’s top finishes in cross country!
Our teams understand that sport isn’t just about the final score. It’s about commitment, showing up for one another and bouncing back stronger. Let’s build on this and push even harder in the next quarter.
Well done to the FET learners who attended training this week and best wishes to our GET learners who start exams on Monday.
Please remember we will still have at least one hour of training per week from 2nd June to 19 June.
SPORTS TRAINING SCHEDULE DURING EXAMS
(Schedule runs from 2 June until Thursday 19 June)
SECONDARY SPORTS CALENDAR
Please remember to subscribe to the Secondary sports calendar for upcoming fixtures.
DH
Golf
1st Team v Herzlia Parklands lost POM: Bryce Gilder
Netball
U13A v Edgemead U13C Parklands won 15-0 POM: Aquila Stevens and Karena Li
U13B v Edgemead U13D Parklands won 11-4 POM: Emily Zheng and Jesse Molotsoane
Girls Hockey
U14A v Table View High Parklands lost 0-4 POM: Minentle Madikane & Yushan Kao
U16A v Table View High Parklands won 3-0 POM: Morgan Daniel
U19B v Table View High Parklands drew 0-0 POM: Kira Maltz Kuhn
U19A v Table View High Parklands lost 1-2 POM: Hannah Taylor
Boys Hockey
U14A v Bergvliet Parklands lost 0-5 POM: Hayden Naidoo
U16A v Bergvliet Parklands won 2-1 POM: Mackenzie Newman
U19A v Bergvliet Parklands lost 1-7 POM: Ethan Randall
Rugby
U14A v Fairmont High Parklands lost 10-45 POM: Christian de Vos
U15A v Fairmont High Parklands lost 14-26 POM: Luca van Tonder and Lizwi Thomas
U16A v Fairmont High Parklands lost 14-20 POM: Chulumanco Ndudu
U19A v Fairmont High Parklands lost 7-76 POM: Joshua Carrington
Boys Soccer
U14A v Blouberg Int Parklands lost 1-2 POM: Duma Nogaga
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 cconradie@parklands.co.za
Head of Cricket and Boys' hockey ggilder@parklands.co.za
Head of Sport dhunt@parklands.co.za
Erin Langenhoven
Nicole Apsey
Nic Farquhar
Chess
Cross country dduffield@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
u14B mesterhuizen@parklands.co.za
u16A mvanschaik@parklands.co.za
u16B/C kfalake@parklands.co.za
u19B/C pbates@parklands.co.za
Rugby
u14 cgoldstone@parklands.co.za
1st XV lmakhohlisa@parklands.co.za
2nd XV rnieuwenhoudt@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 SPORT 2025
Chess Mervyn Rukonhi
Cross country Michael Lumley
Golf 1st Team Nicholas Strydom
Hockey
u13/14 Girls Claire Naidoo
u16A Girls Emma Lilienfeld
u19A Girls Julia Ligthelm
u19B Girls Mia Bezer
Hockey
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/C Sophia De Sousa
u19A Nicole Apsey
u19B/C 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
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 click on the link: https://sites.google.com/parklands.co.za/parklandscollegedance/home
Parklands College Shines at Ballet Eisteddfod
Our dancers had a truly memorable time at this year’s Ballet Eisteddfod, showcasing their hard work, passion, and beautiful artistry on stage. We’re proud to share a short video with some highlights from the event, capturing the joy and dedication of our learners.
Parklands College continues to lead the way in embracing diversity and inclusion in ballet. As part of this commitment, all our dancers performed in flesh-toned tights that matched their individual skin tones — a powerful step forward in making every dancer feel seen, celebrated, and proud of who they are.
It’s been a jam-packed few weeks in our Music Department — and we’re loving the buzz! Our Creative Arts Grade 8s and 9s have been working incredibly hard in preparation for their first-ever practical assessments. From first-time piano players to brand-new guitarists and drummers, it’s been inspiring to see so many learners stepping out of their comfort zones and into the practice rooms (which have been spilling over with enthusiasm!). We’re here for the energy — and we can’t wait to build on this momentum!
Western Cape Virtual Music Eisteddfod recordings are also underway this week and next, as we head towards the final submission deadlines. Best of luck to all our performers – keep practicing and keep shining!
Last week’s Brunchtime Concert gave us the perfect moment to pause, relax, and enjoy the musical talents of our Parklands performers. The week before, we hosted a heartfelt Mother’s Day Brunch, with music educators and learners performing to an incredibly appreciative audience. There’s nothing quite like music and delectable food by the Hospitality Department to bring people together!
A reminder to all learners: we keep going strong until the end of the quarter.
Please make sure to book your lessons directly with your music educator — lessons not booked will be forfeited.
Music lessons aren’t just about scales and chords — they’re a fantastic way to stay balanced and grounded during this busy assessment season. A little time with your instrument might be just what you need to reset and refocus.
Let’s keep the music alive — all the way to the end of the quarter!
Meet Mr Stefan Lombard – Our Piano Teacher at Parklands College 🎶
We are proud to have the incredibly talented Mr Stefan Lombard as part of our Music Department. A classically trained pianist and one of South Africa’s most versatile musicians, Stefan holds a B.Mus from UCT and graduated cum laude with diplomas in both Piano and Organ from UNISA and the Associated Royal Schools of Music.
With a career that spans solo performances with leading orchestras, international musical theatre tours (Cats, Evita, The Sound of Music), and an award-winning turn as Musical Director (Naledi Award, 2015), Stefan brings a wealth of experience and passion to his teaching. He has performed globally — from Europe to Asia to the Middle East — and continues to work as a conductor, arranger, and collaborator.
Luka Begg (Gr10)
Luke Le Grange (Gr10)
Gabby Fredericks (Gr7)
Karena Li (Gr7)
We encourage all learners to participate in this incredible opportunity! This is a LIVE eisteddfod adjudication that will take place at Parklands College, Minor Hall on 22 August between 13:00-19:00.
Parents and Family are welcome to attend. Please discuss your entry with your music educator to find the best category and complete this
Google Form Link by 31 May: https://forms.gle/J5fTycbMeX9mxEzs7
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 ...
🎹 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
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! 🎹🎸🥁
Mrs Alexis Matsimela: amatsimela@parklands.co.za
Mr Peter Bates: pbates@parklands.co.za
Africa Day at Parklands
"This is Africa: Loud, Proud, and Ours"
Last week Friday at Parklands College, we kicked off Africa Day celebrations in true Parklands style — with vibrant performances, bold fashion, and powerful reflections. From marimba beats to Afrobeats, our halls were filled with the pulse of the continent.
Why celebrate Africa Day? Because it’s more than a date on the calendar. It marks a defining moment — 25 May 1963, when African leaders came together to form the Organisation of African Unity. Their mission? To claim Africa’s future, in Africa’s hands. Today, through the African Union, that mission continues — tackling issues from innovation and peace to climate and equality.
But Africa Day isn’t only about politics and history. It’s a celebration of identity, resilience, creativity, and youth. From Rwanda’s tech-smart cities and gaming studios in Ghana, to Afrobeats chart-toppers and fashion houses lighting up Paris, Africa is not just catching up — it’s leading.
And our young people? They’re not just the future — they're the now.
At our assembly, learners reminded us that Africa lives in each of us — in the way we speak, dance, dream, and show up. Whether you were born here or made Africa your home, this is your story too.
As we round off Africa Month, we celebrate all the things that make Africa powerful — its culture, innovation, and youth. But we’re also reminded: with pride comes responsibility. It’s up to us to keep telling authentic African stories, to lift one another up, and to dream bigger than ever before.
Africa is not just a place. It’s a pulse. A possibility. And it lives in you.
Mrs Scott (C block): sjscott@parklands.co.za
Mrs Kistan (Resource Centre): skistan@parklands.co.za
Equity & Inclusion Take Centre Stage at Parklands
On Friday 8 August, Parklands College will host its first-ever Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Indaba—a vibrant, learner-led event bringing together high school learners from across the Western Cape to tackle real conversations around identity, belonging, and respect.
In partnership with the LEAH Foundation, the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, and Rotary Club SA, the afternoon promises hands-on workshops, scenario-based challenges, and powerful peer-led sessions.
🎟️ R150 per learner (includes a light meal)
📍 Parklands College
🕞 15:30 – 19:30
What learners can expect:
✅ Open and honest conversations on equity and diversity
✅ Real-life scenario role plays and problem solving
✅ Peer-led workshops and leadership tools
This is more than just a talk. It’s where the next generation of changemakers get real, get equipped, and get heard.
Please register here by 20 June: https://forms.gle/2uw8pj5csv3FSngT6
Michelle Klein - THYNK SOLUTIONS for subject and career choice
I provide career guidance consultations both in-person and online. I decided to compile this ebook as it offers several advantages: convenience, affordability, and accessibility.
At R350, there is tremendous value in this personalised ebook, which includes a career assessment and feedback thereof in the ebook, interactive sheets, links for researching, and all the information contained in the consultation. The difference between the consultation and the ebook: the learner does the exploration himself/herself. I am attaching details of both the consultation and the ebook so that parents and learners can see what each one entails, and links below for orders/bookings:
SNAPPLIFY SUPPORT TOOLS
Supporting Your Child with Digital Learning on Snapplify
You are warmly invited to attend this free and informative webinar designed to empower parents and caregivers in supporting their children’s learning through Snapplify’s powerful digital tools.
4 June 2025
16:00 – 16:45
Online via Zoom
In today’s learning environments—whether traditional, blended, or fully online—parents play a vital role in helping learners succeed. This upcoming session will provide practical guidance on using Snapplify’s tools at home to support and enhance your child’s education.
The webinar will cover:
• How to use the Snapplify Reader for distraction-free digital reading
• Exploring the Snapplify Library, with access to over 50,000 free books
• Introducing Book Buddy – Snapplify’s 24/7 WhatsApp learning assistant
• Finding curriculum-aligned classroom resources on Teacha! Resources
• Practical strategies for effective parental involvement in digital learning
• How to access Snapplify’s 24/7 technical support when needed
This session is ideal for families with children in:
• Traditional classroom settings
• Online or virtual schools
• Homeschooling or hybrid models
A live Q&A will follow, providing an opportunity to ask questions and share experiences.
We look forward to welcoming you and helping your school community thrive in the digital learning journey.
Warm regards,
The Snapplify Team
help@snapplify.com | www.snapplify.com
Open Days and Application Dates 2025 for Universities and Colleges
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...
The College Crest and logos are registered trademarks and may not be used without permission from the Head of Marketing: cdevos@parklands.co.za
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.
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.
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.
Air pods
We do not look for missing air pods. Learners have been told that they should rather not bring air pods to school, as they get lost easily.
Enjoy a great weekend.
Kind regards
Sylvia Steyn
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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