Senior Preparatory Weekly Memo
1 August 2025
Embedded Files
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PARKLANDS COLLEGE
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PARKLANDS COLLEGE
On 11 March 1980, Lorraine Roth opened the doors of Christopher Robin Pre-Primary School to the residents of Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard. Her experience in the field of early education brought about a well supported and respected establishment, which offered care and early learning to young children, aged from six months to six years.
By 1994 many families had moved to the new suburbs of Cape Town and parents wanted Christopher Robin to be more accessible to their new homes.
The search for a suitable location in one of the developing areas took three years.
The construction of Parklands College began in 1998, when Christopher Robin Pre-Primary School relocated to Parklands and subsequently to Sandown, bringing to the West Coast an educational institution of excellence.
The school was built in phases to accommodate growth in learner numbers, and to establish the Junior and Senior Preparatory Faculties in Parklands, and the Secondary Faculty in the new suburb of Sandown.
The College is presently the largest landowner in Parklands and Sandown with approximately 25 hectares of land shared between the campuses. Apart from learning spaces, a large portion of land has been dedicated to recreation and sporting activities. This provides a balance between the academic, cultural and sporting arenas.
Our principals and teachers are committed and dedicated specialists in their fields. They share our passion for education and value our vision and mission, thus creating a sense of trust between the learners, parents, educators and the College.
We believe that the best way to prepare our learners for their future is to provide a professional school environment with authentic learning opportunities, allowing them to learn by doing and innovating, to make their own decisions, and work together towards solving real world problems that impact a larger community. Reaching outwards, growing minds and building futures.
1998
Above: Lorraine and Werner Roth Above Right: Founding Educators: (Back L-R) J. Booysen, L. Davies, L. Steynberg (Nee Greenway), J. Armstrong, R. Knaggs (Director), G. Douglas, A. Bailly, N. Muller (Front L-R) H. Kreyenbroek, R. van der Merwe, P. O’Brien, L. Ribaudo and L. Torbet. (Highlighted names denote staff who are still with us).
2025
Dear Parents
What an incredible week it has been. After many months of hard work we had a fantastic opening of production of Madagascar Jr last night. Well done to each of our learners for the part you played in making this production so special. It was truly wonderful to see every child in the Senior Preparatory on stage together with our Junior Preparatory, and Grade R dancers.
There is still time to book tickets for this evenings performance or tomorrow's matinee. Book through Quicket or come and buy tickets at the door.
Notices
Notices
Madagascar Jr Tickets
You can still join us for the show this evening at 18:00 or tomorrow at 14:00.
Make sure you have booked your tickets via Quicket.
Madagascar Jr performers' call times (ALL LEARNERS)
Reminder that the principal characters need to be back on campus at 16:00 for the evening performance tonight (Friday) and at 12:00 for the Saturday performance. All other learners need to be in their classes at 17:00 on this evening and 13:00 on Saturday. The show commences at 18:00 tonight and at 14:00 on Saturday.
Co-curricular Programme Next Week
The co-curricular programme returns to the normal schedule next week and we look forward to gearing up for sports matches this quarter.
Derby Day on Saturday, 16th August
Reminder that our annual Derby vs Somerset College takes place on Saturday 16 August at the Secondary Faculty. We will be competing in Rugby, Hockey and Netball. Join us for war cries at 08:45 on the Secondary Faculty Field followed by the start of the Prep Sports matches. Please ensure that you have a 2025 Parklands Sticker for your vehicle so that you can gain easy access to the Secondary Faculty on 16 August. Stickers are available from the SP reception.
Culture
Culture
Madagascar Jr - 31 July - 2 August
Madagascar Jr - 31 July - 2 August
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.
Well done cast and crew of Madagascar - you have truly made us proud this week
BEHIND THE SCENES of MADAGASCAR Jr 2025
PARENT SURVEY FEEDBACK
In April this year our Quality Assurance Team conducted an assessment of the College through a Parent Survey. The survey covered teaching and learning, the school environment, and sporting and cultural activities which received very positive feedback across all campuses. We also received positive results for academics, leadership, educators, communication, and the overall school environment. The vast majority of parents reported their children are happy and well-treated at school. We are proud that Parklands College and Christopher Robin Pre-Primary provide an authentic and progressive learning environment where learners thrive.
Based on this valuable feedback, where applicable, improvement plans are in place. A sincere thank you to all the parents who participated in the survey. Your input is crucial in helping us maintain an exceptional learning environment for our learners.
The Quality Assurance Team
Academics
Academics
In the third quarter, a number of our formal assessments in Grade 4 - 6 consist of projects, which the learners will be completing over the next couple of weeks. The projects will be completed entirely at school, under the guidance of the teachers. There will also be some formal assessments (control tests) that require studying.
Please click on the grade assessment calendars to view the description and content to be studied for the control tests under the Academics tab.
For your convenience, please see an overview of the formal assessment dates for each grade below.
Gr 4 Assessment Schedule Q3 2025.pdfGrade 5 Assessment Schedule Q3 2025.pdfGrade 6 Assessment Schedule Q3 2025.pdfNEWS
NEWS
GRADE 6
GRADE 6
The Power of Self-Care
Our Grade 6 learners explored a very important and personal topic—self-care—in celebration of International Self-Care Day. The lesson encouraged reflection, discussion and creativity, as learners discovered that self-care is not selfish—it’s smart and necessary.
🌱 What is Self-Care?
We began by unpacking the meaning of self-care and understanding why it’s so important to take care of our mind, body, emotions and relationships. Learners discussed real-life examples and shared their own thoughts on how self-care helps them be better friends, students, and leaders.
💬 Types of Self-Care:
Physical (e.g., sleep, exercise, healthy food)
Emotional (e.g., talking about feelings, journaling)
Mental (e.g., reading, taking breaks)
Social (e.g., spending time with friends, saying no when needed)
📝 Reflective Journaling
Learners reflected on prompts such as:
“What do I need more of in my life to feel happy and healthy?”
“What helps me when I’m stressed?”
“What self-care goal will I focus on this week?”
We wrapped up with this message:
“When we take care of ourselves, we have more energy, kindness, and focus to give to the world. Self-care isn’t just for special days—it’s for every day.” 💖
This lesson sparked thoughtful conversations and gave our Grade 6s practical tools they can use all year long!
Self-Care Mental Health Presentation.pdfIntaka Island Outing
🗓️ Date: Thursday, 15 August
📍Venue: Intaka Island, Century City
🚌 Transport: Springbok Atlas (school to venue and back)
💰 Cost: R187 (billed to your school account based on attendance)
Important Information:
Learners must arrive at school at the usual time (07:40).
Learners should wear their full school uniform.
Please ensure your child brings a healthy, easy-to-eat packed lunch.
🔗 Please click the link below to complete the Google Form confirming your child’s attendance:
👉Grade 6 Intaka Island Outing
We look forward to a meaningful and hands-on learning experience for our Grade 6s!
GRADE 5
GRADE 5
Special thank you to the grade five moms who helped our learners get ready for Madagascar!
What an incredible week we've had in Grade 5! Our learners have been busy exploring new worlds, mastering shapes, and taking on grown-up responsibilities. Here's what made this week so special:
Mathematics: Shape Detectives with Tracing Paper Magic! 📐
Our mathematicians became shape detectives this week, using tracing paper to translate shapes and compare lines of symmetry! The real excitement began when learners discovered they could move shapes around and find their perfect symmetrical matches. Our Grade 5s have truly embraced the beauty of mathematical patterns!
English: Journey to the African Wilderness 🦒
We've embarked on a thrilling literary adventure with "The White Giraffe"! Our readers are captivated by Martine's journey as she leaves England to start a new life on a South African game reserve. This tale has opened wonderful discussions about adventure, new beginnings, and the magical bond she forms with the legendary white giraffe. We can't wait to see what happens next!
Life Skills: Taking on Real Responsibilities 💪
Our Grade 5s have stepped up by taking on genuine responsibilities and jobs! It's been amazing to watch them embrace real-life tasks with enthusiasm and maturity. From classroom monitors to library assistants, our learners are discovering what it means to be dependable and contribute to their community.
Celebrating Our Pen License Recipients! ✒️
Several dedicated learners earned their coveted Pen License this week – what an achievement! This milestone marks their transition from pencil to pen, recognising their improved handwriting and responsibility. To all our new pen-wielding writers: you've worked hard for this privilege, and we're so proud of your progress!
Looking Ahead
Next week promises even more excitement as we continue our mathematical shape investigations, delve deeper into Martine's African adventure, and watch more of our learners take on new responsibilities. The energy and enthusiasm in our Grade 5 classroom is absolutely infectious!
Holly to represent South Africa in Goju Kai Karate in Japan
We wish Holly all the very best as she travels to Japan for the Goju Kai Karate World Championships with the South African team.
GRADE 4
GRADE 4
This week in Grade 4, we had a blast learning and investigating across our subjects!
In Mathematics, we focused on measurement, working with millimetres (mm), centimetres (cm), metres (m), and kilometres (km). To put our skills to the test, we became junior detectives and helped solve the mystery of "Who stole the zookeeper’s lunch?". Learners had to use their measurement knowledge to crack clues and narrow down the suspects. It was a fun and challenging way to apply real-life problem-solving!
In History, we continued exploring land transport, but this time, we took a closer look inside trains! Learners were fascinated to learn about the parts of a train and were especially intrigued by the story of the first steam engine. We imagined what life might have been like when this exciting invention changed the way people travelled in the past.
The energy and excitement in the classroom this week were electric! Well done, Grade 4s, for thinking critically, collaborating beautifully, and having fun while learning.
Congratulations to Liam
Following his outstanding performance at the Regional A+ Mathematics Competition in May, Liam has been awarded his Western Cape Provincial Colours in Maths for A+ Students. Liam will go on to represent the Western Cape at the National Competition in Gauteng this October.
Mathletics
Congratulations to all those learners who levelled up in Mathletics this week!
Staff News
We are proud to share that
Mr Ernstzen was awarded the Award for Excellence in Accompaniment at the finals of the Legato Choral Festival this past weekend! He accompanied the choir from his former primary school, Pinedene Primary, and stood out among some of Cape Town’s finest choral accompanists. What an inspiring achievement and a testament to Mr Erntzen’s exceptional talent and dedication.
We also congratulate Coach Nadine and Ms Prinsloo on completing their level 1 and level 2 Netball Umpire accreditations respectively.
Robotics
Robotics
Shoutout to the HyperionBots!
A huge congratulations to the Secondary HyperionBots for hosting a fantastic Season Scrimmage Final on Wednesday evening at the Secondary Campus. The event brought together 10 South African teams and our special guests from Trinity Prep in the USA. The night was filled with cheering, strategy, alliance-building, new friendships, learning, laughter — and of course, a little bit of coding and robots too! Well done to the team for creating such a vibrant and welcoming space for connection and competition. 💥🤖🌍
Busy Bots and Digital Explorers at SP!
Our Prep robotics teams have been hard at work with final preparations for their upcoming WRO Regional Competition — excitement is definitely building! In class, the Grade 4s have launched into the Level 2 WRO In-House Challenge, putting their problem-solving skills to the test. Grade 5 learners have been exploring cybersafety in more depth using Minecraft Education, while the Grade 6s have proudly completed their very first mini coding project using Python. It’s been a busy and exciting time of learning, building, and growing in all things tech!
Outreach
Outreach
Thank you to all those who donated shoes for our Mandela Day Shoe Drive.
This quarter we are excited to launch our Be the Change Outreach Q3, focused on giving back to our community in a meaningful way. Our goal is to create 100 care packages for the residents of Ria Abel Retirement Home. Each grade has been assigned specific items to collect, from wet wipes and tissues to soap, toothpaste and more, as shown in the image. We also hope to add mini chocolates to each care package as a small, thoughtful treat. Any donations toward this are warmly welcomed.
The final date for collections is 12 September 2025.
Thank you for your ongoing generosity and support. Together we can brighten someone’s day and remind our elderly community members that they are seen, valued and cared for.
Residents of River Glade Retirement Village come see Madagascar Jr
The Interact Club at the Secondary Faculty invited residents of the River Glade Retirement Village to come and join us for our final dress rehearsal of Madagascar Jr on Wednesday. Thank you Naeha Naidu from the Secondary Faculty for organising for them to come to the show.
Feedback from the residents...
"Well, the residents who had the pleasure of seeing the show, cannot praise your students and all the teachers involved in the production enough. Special mention was made of the 10 year old who had them all holding their breath with her acrobatics.
Thank you again for the invite, and for treating the residents to such a wonderful time."
SPORT
SPORT
Senior Prep Sports Update
Senior Prep Sports Update
As we wrap up an incredible run of performances in the school production of Madagascar, we want to extend a massive congratulations and good luck to all our learners who’ve taken to the stage! Your hard work, energy, and talent have lit up the stage – now it’s time to light up the sports fields once again!
While the production has had our full attention, our sports programme has been ticking along quietly behind the scenes with selected practices. But now – finally – it’s game time!
Next week, our Soccer, Netball, and Hockey teams kick off their league seasons with matches scheduled throughout the week. Be sure to check the weekly sports calendar for all fixture details and times.
From here, Quarter 3 kicks into full swing – and it’s a big one! We’re looking forward to:
Back-to-back match weeks
Two Derby Days
Festivals and special events
And of course… new memories, milestones, and moments of magic on and off the field.
Match Week Coming-up!
To all our athletes heading into the first round of matches: your attitude and effort matter most. Whether you're a first-time player or seasoned teammate, remember:
Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally. It comes from what you do consistently.
Show up. Put in the work. Play with pride. Learn something new – and most of all, enjoy the game.
Saturday, 16 August 2025
Parklands College vs Somerset College Derby Senior Prep teams will be competing in Netball, Hockey, Rugby, and Chess from 07h30–12h00 at Parklands Secondary Campus on Saturday 16 Aug '25.
💙 Come dressed in blue and white, bring the noise, and support our teams in what is always the biggest sporting event of the year!
Please remember: Derby Day is a key priority in our sporting calendar. All selected players are expected to be available for their teams. Please make the arrangements – we need every learner present and ready to represent Parklands!
P.S. The Secondary faculty kicks off their matches from 15h00 Friday and continues through Saturday – so whether you're playing, watching, or cheering, come join the celebration.
ANNOUNCEMENT
ANNOUNCEMENT
Friday 15 August '25: Hockey Sports Hour
Please note, all Hockey learners will be transported to the Secondary Faculty for Hockey training on astro at 13h15 - 14h30. All learners will be transported back to Parklands College Senior Prep - no learner will be permitted to be picked up at Secondary campus.
External Achievements in Sport
External Achievements in Sport
Please find a link to the notification letter informing the College of a learner's external achievements at Area/Regional/Provincial level.
Congratulations to Lara for competing in the POSA National Aerial Championship, earning an incredible three gold medals and securing a spot to represent South Africa at the World Aerial Championship in Italy later this year.
Congrats to Jean-Louis who delivered an excellent performance at the Pool Sprint Lifesaving Gala, competing in the u10 boys category for Big Bay Surf Lifesaving Club. He secured top placements in both the 50m With Fins and 50m Tube Rescue events, clocking impressive times and setting new personal bests.
Sport Quick Links
Sport Quick Links
LIBRARY
LIBRARY
It has been an exciting week at school and so are the new arrivals in our library! We are introducing the Ultimate Superstars series of awesome women and their amazing journeys, making it to fame through music and stardom! We’ve got the energetic Taylor Swift, charismatic Selena Gomez, and await the arrival of the fabulous Ariana Grande and the queen, Beyoncé.
Book shops everywhere are celebrating Lottie Brooks which has a phenomenal following worldwide. The new book featuring The Ultra Mean Girls has created quite a sensation. The library sessions included a vibrant Kahoot! on this popular series.
Quick Links
Quick Links
CALENDAR AND EVENTS
CALENDAR AND EVENTS
Please bookmark the following calendars and add them to your personal calendar by using the + at the bottom of each calendar. They can also be accessed through the EdAdmin App (more information under the general tab)
Dates for 2025
Dates for 2025
Winter Quarter: 22 July - 23 September
Spring Quarter: 14 October - 05 December
Dates for 2026 Dates (subject to change)
Dates for 2026 Dates (subject to change)
Summer Quarter: 19 Jan - 26 March
Autumn Quarter: 8 April - 25 June
Winter Quarter: 22 July - 23 September
Spring Quarter: 14 October - 4 December
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
PARENT LEARNER DIRECTORY
PARENT LEARNER DIRECTORY
Our Parent Learner Directory contains all the information you will need. You can find this important document under the General Tab
2025 SENIOR PREP P&L Information Directory.pdf
Update emergency contact details on the Edana Multi-portal App
PARENT BUSINESS DIRECTORY
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...
CONCLUDING COMMENTS
CONCLUDING COMMENTS
Here are some important dates for this quarter:
Winter Quarter Dates
Friday 1 August:
Madagascar Jr Production #2 @ 18:00
Friday 2 August:
Madagascar Jr Production #3 @ 14:00
Tuesday 5 August:
Grade 6 Tour De Maths Competition @ 17:30
Friday 8 August:
WRO Regionals
Saturday 9 August:
Women’s Day
WRO Regionals
Sunday 10 August:
Happy Birthday Tracy Pienaar
Wednesday 13 August:
Formal Assessments Commence
Friday 15 August:
Grade 6 outing to Intaka Island
Saturday 16 August:
Derby day vs Somerset College at Secondary Faculty
Monday 18 August:
Cape Town Regional Science Fair (EXPO)
Tuesday 19 August:
Cape Town Regional Science Fair (EXPO)
Wednesday 20 August:
Cape Town Regional Science Fair (EXPO)
Thursday 21 August:
SP Choir Performance at Blouberg International
Friday 22 August:
Cape Town Eisteddfod in Senior Preparatory Hall
Tuesday 26 August:
Happy Birthday Khanya Mbikwana
Saturday 30 August:
Happy Birthday Tarin Hodges
Winter Quarter Dates
Monday 1 September:
First Day of Spring
Tuesday 2 September:
Happy Birthday Jesse Kirsten
Wednesday 10 September:
SP Prestige Music Concert @ 18:00
Friday 12 September:
Funky Socks Day
WRO Nationals in Jhb
Saturday 13 September:
Open Day
Roald Dahl Day
WRO Nationals in Jhb
Monday 15 September:
International Dot Day
Happy Birthday Daniella Mizrachi
Thursday 18 September:
Reports Released
Report Feedback Meetings
Friday 19 September:
SPCA Dress up day
Report Feedback Meetings
Happy Birthday Amy Dean
Saturday 20 September:
Happy Birthday Efraim Cupido
North vs South Prep Derby
Monday 22 September:
Report Feedback Meetings
Tuesday 23 September:
Last day of the quarter
Wednesday 24 September:
Public Holiday-Heritage Day
Thursday 2 October:
Rosh Hashanah
Happy Birthday Simoné Prinsloo
Sunday 5 October:
World Teachers Day
Tuesday 7 October:
Happy Birthday Roché Buckle
I look forward to seeing you at our performances of Madagascar Jr tonight and tomorrow afternoon. Have a wonderful weekend!
Paul Mayers
Senior Preparatory Principal
Follow us on:
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Links to other faculty blogs:
Pre-Primary Faculty: https://ppblog.parklands.co.za
Junior Preparatory Faculty: https://jpblog.parklands.co.za
Secondary Faculty: https://secblog.parklands.co.za
Tickets can be purchased via Quicket
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