From the Office

Dear Parents and Learners

What a lovely mid-term break we had before rushing into a super busy week - academically, culturally and on the sports fields.  Tonight we end this work week on an entertaining note with the Matric Variety Show.  We would love your support. It starts at 18:30 in Curie Hall.

Thank you to the parents who completed the Parent Survey.  We will provide you with feedback in due course.

Learners absent from school during school time

Kindly note that parents need to request permission from the Principal if learners are going to miss school time for a legitimate reason (other than being sick).  This obviously impacts on assessments and requires careful planning by educators who have to assist the learner to catch up work missed.  Please do not plan holidays during school time.

You are reminded that we will write mid-year examination papers up to the last day of this quarter, which is Wednesday, 25 June.

Another appeal for consideration in the parking lot

Please do not block the flow of traffic.  Do not stop in the middle of the road and do not park in the circle.  Please be kind to our security guards when they ask you to move your vehicle.  A little patience from everyone would go far in alleviating the stress and frustration at drop-off and pick-up time.

Pride in our uniform

With the winter season upon us, we see an increase in uniform infringements.  We urge everyone to take pride in our beautiful uniform. A few reminders:

• Do not mix school uniform with sports uniform items.

• Do not wear any civvies (like hoodies) under the blazer, rather dress warmly against the skin in a thermal vest.

• Do not wear any headgear, like beanies.

• Wear grey socks with grey pants.

• Do not wear socks under stockings.

A reminder to the girls that the dress should hang no shorter than in the middle of the upper leg and that the black opaque stockings should not have any ladders.

Shaving

We require boys to be clean-shaven at all times. We understand that in some cases, there may be a reluctance to start shaving or medical skin conditions that may require special care. Please see below for an example of a pen trimmer that can remove fluff and is gentle on the skin.

Reach for a Dream Slipper Day

The Reach for a Dream Foundation aims to provide children with life-threatening diseases with an opportunity to fulfill a special dream.  We have been supporting this initiative for many years.  They raise funds by asking people to wear slippers and to donate R20 towards this good cause.  We will be billing the account of every learner and invite them to wear slippers or other interesting footwear with their school uniform on Friday, 30 May.  Should you wish not to be billed, kindly mail secondary@parklands.co.za

Happy Mother's Day on Sunday

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.)  

ACADEMICS

Academic Links

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 

IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT MID-YEAR EXAMINATIONS

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.

IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT GR12 PRELIMINARY EXAMINATIONS

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.  

Academic Dates

Please find important academic links to help plan the academic term.

Tutorial Schedule

2025 Autumn Tutorial Schedule

Assessment Calendars

Grade 7 Assessment Calendar

Grade 8 Assessment Calendar

Grade 9 Assessment Calendar

Grade 10 Assessment Calendar

Grade 11 Assessment Calendar

Grade 12 Assessment Calendar

June Examinations

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

"A mathematician's mind is always a work in progress, a constant equation being solved." 

Our Maths learners are never too busy to take on another challenge.  This week a big group of learners participated in the 2025 WITS Mathematics Olympiad.

From the English Department

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! 

NBTs (National Benchmark Tests) for Grade 12

The NBTs (National Benchmark Tests) are standardised tests written by applicants for SA universities to test academic readiness.  Depending on the institution candidates apply to, they might be required to write these tests as part of the application process.  One test set is written and the results are shared with all the universities. Candidates can also opt to write a second opportunity if they feel they want to improve their results after the first set of tests.

Grade 12 learners are responsible to register for these tests and choose the dates to write them. They are not administered by the school. There are two components to the test, a Maths and a Literacy component.  Below is the link to the website where you will find all the information:  https://www.nbt.ac.za/

NBT Training for Grade 12

There are numerous institutions who offer workshops to help prepare for the NBTs.  Parklands College offers our own preparation sessions for the Maths component during the June exam period.  The dates are on our exam timetable and learners can register via our Maths department. A registration form will be shared after the mid-term break.  We recommend that learners write the NBT shortly after these workshops. This will ensure sufficient content is covered and at the same time it allows time for learners who want to make use of the second opportunity to improve results.

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.

FEEDBACK

Creative Solutions Showcase for the Global Good

In an inspiring display of innovation and purpose, learners from Junipero Serra High School in San Mateo, California, and Parklands College Secondary Faculty came together for an international online showcase to present projects aimed at tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The event, themed “Creative Solutions for the Global Good,” highlighted the power of youth-led innovation and digital collaboration in creating a better future for all. This was hosted by Mr Rushton Hurley and Ms Sylvia Steyn opened the showcase.

The showcase, hosted virtually to ensure accessibility and global participation, featured an audience from over 100 countries. Participants were invited to present solutions focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including climate action and good health and well-being.

Each project was a testament to the next generation's creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. From documenting real life in Brazil through photography by learners in San Mateo to a mental health awareness app created by a team in South Africa, the variety and quality of solutions reflected a shared commitment to social impact and sustainability.

The showcase wasn’t just about presenting ideas—it was about connecting changemakers. Participants engaged in live Q&A sessions, peer feedback forums, and virtual networking spaces that encouraged meaningful dialogue across borders and cultures. 

Highlights from the Showcase:

• Team iHeart presented an application development for first aid assistance at school and sport events. Nicole Apsey has presented a stellar presentation introducing their mobile application development journey.

• Team UpLiftU introduced a mobile platform that provides support for mental health development.  The application is called BrainOasis. Angelique Minkoulou, Emily Hoffman and Meera Moodely were the members involved.

• Wildfires by Grade 10 Design Class shared a digital storytelling initiative amplifying a unique message about Wildfires. Nicole Kemp, Abraham Gamanya, and Keith Nkosi wowed the audience with their on-track and current valuable ideas about wildfires.

The success of this global online showcase underscores a vital truth: when learners are empowered with tools, guidance, and a platform, they can generate real-world solutions with lasting impact. As one participant eloquently put it, “We may be young, but we are already leaders. The world needs our ideas.”

Stay tuned for next year’s showcase and more stories of youth innovation for the global good.

Wildfire Videos Slide

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

Based on exchange rate of R19.70 to EUR 1, the price per person will be around R52 000 (excluding VISA costs) for 10 days. It is also dependent on the number of learners signing up. Learners presently in Grade 8 - 11 who are interested in attending this tour, must please mail ssteyn@parklands.co.za by 16 May (without obligation).  If we have enough learners showing an interest, an online information meeting will follow.

LEARNER AFFAIRS

Class Representatives' Appreciation Tea

The Learner Affairs Prefects arranged a tea to thank the Class Reps for their important work. They voted for the best GET Class Rep and the best FET Class rep. Ka Wai Hou was voted the best FET class rep, and Zelda Deiner was voted the best GET class rep.

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

Mastering Visual Communication with Adobe Photoshop: A Journey with Photoshop Society

In the dynamic world of digital design, the ability to communicate visually is more than a skill—it's a language. For many aspiring creatives, Photoshop Society has become a powerful hub where this language is learned, practiced, and refined. Through guided projects, peer collaboration, and expert feedback, learners are embracing the art and science of visual storytelling using Adobe Photoshop.

Visual communication transcends text, offering a way to express ideas, emotions, and messages through imagery, colour, composition, and typography. Whether it's for marketing, branding, web design, or personal expression, mastering visual communication opens doors to countless opportunities.

At Photoshop Society, learners are immersed in this world from day one. They’re not just exploring tools—they’re understanding how to use those tools to build meaningful visuals that resonate with audiences.

From Learner to Visual Communicator

By the end of their journey, many Photoshop Society learners aren’t just proficient with the software—they’ve developed an eye for design and a voice for storytelling. They leave with a portfolio that reflects their unique style and their understanding of how visuals can influence, persuade, and inspire.

Whether you're aiming for a career in graphic design or simply want to enhance your visual storytelling skills, Photoshop Society provides the environment, tools, and mentorship to help you thrive.

WRO Robotics

Our WRO Robotics learners received individualised mentoring and coaching during the holidays and the Senior Prep Robotics learners were invited to attend a Masterclass with Mr Knaggs. 

Robotics in Action: FLL Open Africa Adventure! 

Our robotics teams had an incredible time visiting the FIRST® LEGO® League Open Africa Championship at the CTICC! They met teams from around the world, explored impressive engineering solutions for mat challenges, listened to inspiring innovation presentations, played international games, and even danced the Macarena! What an exciting day of learning, sharing, and global fun! 

#FLLOpenAfrica #GlobalSTEM #RoboticsInAction #InspirationEverywhere

From our sports department

FINISHING THE QUARTER - #StrongerTogether

As we enter the final month of sport before the exam period, our focus remains clear: communication, commitment, competition and community. These principles continue to guide everything we do in the Sports Department.

#StrongerTogether isn’t just a slogan. It’s a mindset. Whether it’s a big game, a tough exam, or just an ordinary day, we’re stronger when we support each other, laugh together, lend a hand and celebrate each other’s wins.

Although our schedule will shift slightly for exams, sport doesn’t stop. We’ll run a skeleton timetable to help learners stay active, focused and balanced.

A reminder of the basics: say please and thank you, communicate if you’ll miss a session, and always respond to invitations. These small actions show respect and maturity - on and off the field.

Thank you to our coordinators, coaches, players and families for your continued support. 

CORRECT PRACTICE / MATCH ATTIRE

Players must wear the correct uniform to practices and matches. Where necessary, we have addressed issues by speaking to players directly and have informed all learners through a notice in the Learner Daily Notes. Please assist us by ensuring that your child has the correct sports kit for their code. A reminder that non-school items are not permitted at practices or matches. Thank you for your support.

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

Enjoy the week break.

DH

Feedback

Sports Video of the week

Thursday 24 April netball training (videos)

Senior or 1st Team Captains

Sports video of the week

LIFESAVING

Lexi Torlutter

During the holidays, Lexi competed in the 2025 DHL Lifesaving SA Nippers Champs at Kings Beach. She represented her club, Big Bay Surf Lifesaving, and earned a gold medal in the Long Run event.

Great effort Lexi!

Jake Hutton

Although the last four months were spent rehabilitating a serious ankle injury, Jake still managed to swim his way into the Western Province Stillwater team that competed in Gauteng. The team not only won the junior competition but also claimed the overall National Championships title.

Jake competed in the Senior Sprint event, placing second, and secured a team gold in the Rescue Tube event, where he swam the leg. This is a remarkable achievement, especially considering he is still a junior competitor.

During the mid-term break, he attended the SA Champs, which included three days of pool events and three days on the beach.

He earned a bronze medal in the 50m Mannequin Carry—his pool specialty—and brought home multiple team relay medals, ranging from gold to bronze.

Jake also placed second in the Senior Sprint event, but comfortably took gold in the Junior Sprint, asserting his position as one of the country’s top junior lifesaving athletes.

Well done Jake!

SWIMMING AND LIFESAVING

Hannah Burke

Hannah qualified for and competed at the SA National Junior Swim Champs held at UWC from 25 to 29 April, swimming in eight events. She then went on to take part in the DHL Lifesaving Champs in PE from 1 to 3 May.

Hannah competed in three individual events, placing 5th and 7th in her swim races and 3rd in the long beach run. She also took part in four relay events, with a top result of 2nd place in the Tube Rescue.

Well done Hannah!

Parklands College winter sporting programme 2025

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

Secondary sports calendar 

Drama

Shakespeare Schools Festival

A Double Dose of Shakespeare Magic!

The Shakespeare Schools Festival and Parklands College go way back—but this year, we turned the tradition on its head by bringing not just one, but two sensational productions to the stage!

In a whirlwind of creativity, Much Ado About Nothing whisked audiences away to a sun-soaked tropical holiday resort, while Hamlet transported us to the grungy, emo-charged 1990s. With just 30 minutes each, our talented casts of 45 learners—from Grade 9 to Grade 12—gave two of Shakespeare’s classics a fresh, modern twist that had the crowd completely captivated.

A huge round of applause must go to our wonderful Stage Manager, Ms A O’Toole, and to Mr C Frederick and his brilliant design team for crafting the striking stage pieces that brought our worlds to life.

HAMLET 

featured captivating performances from:

Brandon Strydom, Dean de Jongh, Morgan Santo, Taya Pather, Meera Moodley, Liya De Allende, Lesa Pokwana, Luka Begg, Ammiel Kianda Mukalay, Hugo Bazin, Caitlin Smith, Madison Viljoen, Marie-France Zemba, Lily Howe, Kayla Hahn, Mosa Sebapadi, Connor Swartz, Zinati Sam, Chelsye Kawere, Liam Wagenaar, and Eva Sutherland.

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING 

dazzled with performances by:

Talia Folb, Trinity Vos, Joshua Carrington, Alexandra Bester, Haydn Hermanus, Alutha Ngquba, Alecea Vieira, Logan De Araujo, Sedona Mbovane, Alistair Hill, Chiara Saunders, Aphelele Momoti, Keren Mulamba-Kiasso, Ramabele Sello, Darshan Sooful, Madison Coleman, Fabian Vos, Yemira Mamdoo, James Chavik, Enoch Onyems, Finlay Ferguson, Zelda Deiner, Nokutenda Kwembeya, and Oyinkansola Eniola.

Bravo to every learner who took part—you made the Bard proud!

Mr J Wyngaard

DEBATING AND PUBLIC SPEAKING

Interhouse Public Speaking Championships

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

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 23 May: https://forms.gle/J5fTycbMeX9mxEzs7 

🎹 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/1dWhP99Hoqr36BuJ7 

LEARNER SUPPORT 

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

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

ENRICHING MINDS TUTORING/REMEDIAL SERVICES 

Janice Human is a dedicated educator with thirty-three years teaching experience offering specialised remedial and tutoring services. 

Throughout her career, she has taught a wide range of subjects, with a special focus on English, Afrikaans, and Mathematics. She has extensive experience working with foreign students, helping them develop their English reading, writing, and speaking skills. Additionally, she has worked closely with students of diverse abilities, tailoring her teaching methods to suit their unique learning needs. She has also lectured Mathematics to teachers at the Teachers’ Centre in Kuils River. A cornerstone of her teaching philosophy is the importance of building strong, personal connections with her students. By understanding their unique strengths, challenges, and interests, she looks to create a supportive learning environment that fosters both academic growth and personal development. 

If you are interested in Janice's remedial/tutoring services please feel free to email her at janice@enrichingminds.co.za or contact her at 082 865 5242 with any questions. 

TERTIARY STUDIES 

Open Days and Application Dates 2025 for Universities and Colleges 

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.

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

ssteyn@parklands.co.za

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