30 May 2025

Dear Parents

The focus for our assembly this week, hosted by the 4L class, was kindness. The Grade 4s have also been busy with a project based learning activity on Kindness. Their driving question is "How can small acts of kindness make a big difference in our school?” This is such an important reminder to us all. A little kindness goes a long way!

Our learners have also been adding notes of acts of kindness that they have noticed around campus to our "buckets full of kindness" wall.

Principal Paul Memo Q2 W8.MOV

Parent Reminders

Open Day - Saturday 31 May between 10:00 - 13:00
We are looking forward to our school's Open Day and hope to see many of you there!
Updating Emergency Contact Details on Edana Multiportal App
Please ensure your child's emergency contact details are up to date on the Edana Multiportal App. See the how to guide on the general tab.

NEWS

GROWING MINDS SHIELDS

External Achievements in Sport

PARENT LEARNER DIRECTORY

PARENT BUSINESS DIRECTORY

CONCLUDING COMMENTS

Book here via Quicket

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! Tickets can be purchased on Quicket.

NEWS

GROWING MINDS SHIELDS

The future requires people who are innovative, humanity-centred, relationship-oriented, compassion-focused, values-driven, globally-conscious and planet-sensitive, in order to guarantee that this generation will become REAL agents of change. The values necessary to sustain life on earth, as humans and environmentalists, are incorporated in five global competencies across our curriculum under our “Growing Minds” banner: Critical Thinkers, Effective Communicators, Purposeful Collaborators, Creative Agents and Responsible Citizens.

In assembly this week we awarded the following learners growing minds shields. Congratulations to each of you and well done on being nominated for this award.

Lily

Critical Thinker

Sophia

Creative Agent

Isaiah & José

Responsible Citizen

Grade 6 News

Maths: Fractions Are Fun!

In Maths, we sliced into our new topic: fractions! Learners were introduced to the basics of naming, reading, and understanding fractions—and they quickly realised fractions aren’t just numbers, they’re part of a whole! We explored how to identify halves, quarters, thirds and more. The excitement is building as we prepare to dive even deeper into comparing and calculating with fractions in the weeks ahead.

✨ Top Tips for Fractions Fun:

Remember: the top number (numerator) tells you how many parts you have, and the bottom number (denominator) tells you how many equal parts the whole is divided into.
Use real-life examples (like pizza or chocolate) to visualise!
Keep practising with fraction walls or bars to compare sizes.

Verkleinwoorde – Shrinking Words With Big Rules!

In Afrikaans, we had a mini-sized adventure with Verkleinwoorde (diminutives)! Our learners explored the different spelling rules for shrinking words—because making something smaller in Afrikaans often means more spelling fun! To help with all the different rules, learners created their own study notes, rhymes and even silly stories to help them remember when to add -ie, -tjie, -etjie, or -kie.

✨ Top Tips for Verkleinwoorde:

If a word ends on m, add -pie → boom → boompie
If a word ends on d or t add -jie : kat → katjie
If it ends on a short vowel and one consonant, double the consonant and add -etjie→ pan → pannetjie

With colourful posters and creative memory tricks, Verkleinwoorde suddenly became one of the most lekker parts of our week!

Science Wetlands with Google Earth

In Science learners took on the role of young environmentalists as they explored the fascinating world of wetlands. Each group created an informative and visually engaging brochure on a specific type of wetland, highlighting the unique flora and fauna, identifying current threats to these ecosystems, and proposing meaningful conservation efforts. The lesson continued with a hands-on activity on the Google Earth App, where learners located and pinned three major wetlands on a world map.

They shared their findings with the class, discussing the geographical locations and diving into what these wetland areas look like and how far they span. The activity not only deepened their understanding of wetland biodiversity but also emphasised the global importance of preserving these vital ecosystems.

Sports Hour – Building Skills, Confidence & Teamwork!

Sports Hour has been one of the standout highlights for our learners. Every Friday between 13:30 and 14:30 all our learners are exposed to a variety of ball sports, skill sets and coaching styles. Rugby, Netball and Hockey have been the focus this quarter.

Each session is designed to be inclusive and skills-based, focusing on agility, coordination, fitness and teamwork. Learners practised ladder runs, ball handling, passing, dribbling, shooting and more. Whether learning how to pivot and pass on the netball court, control the ball with a hockey stick, or build confidence in rugby tackling techniques, the energy and enthusiasm has been infectious!

Even our teachers get involved during this hour—showing their sporty side and joining in on the fun! Their participation brings an extra layer of encouragement and laughter, making Sports Hour a true community experience.

Beyond just sports, this hour offers learners the chance to:

✅ Try something new
✅ Develop resilience and discipline
✅ Work together as a team
✅ Build confidence through movement
✅ And most importantly—have fun while staying active!

It’s been incredible to see learners grow not only in their physical abilities but also in sportsmanship and confidence. Sports Hour has truly become a time where talent is discovered, effort is celebrated and everyone leaves with a smile.

Grade 5 News

From Childhood Tales to Outer Space Adventures! 🚀📚

What a week it's been in Grade 5!

We continued with our reader - Boy: Tales of Childhood - learning all about the wild and wonderful life of the legendary Roald Dahl. From prank-filled school days to his early years, we couldn’t get enough of his mischievous stories—and we’re loving every page!

In English, we put our creative caps on and explored character descriptions. But we didn’t just write about any characters—we used our very own legends and brought them to life with detailed, vivid descriptions. Our mythical heroes (and villains!) have never sounded more exciting!

In Science, we had a blast making ice cream in a bag—a fun, hands-on activity that forms part of our Processing Unit. This experiment helped us explore how matter changes state, especially how a liquid can turn into a solid through the process of freezing.

By using simple ingredients like milk, sugar, vanilla, ice, and salt, learners observed how salt lowers the freezing point of ice, which in turn causes the ice to absorb heat from the cream mixture, making it freeze into delicious ice cream. Even though this week’s weather has been cold we didn’t miss the chance to eat this lovely treat!

And if that wasn’t thrilling enough, we also continued exploring space mining! 💫 The big question: Where is the best place to mine in space? Using a super cool interactive website, our young explorers analysed planets, moons, and asteroids to decide where they’d set up their futuristic mining operations. Spoiler alert: it’s not as easy as it sounds when there are solar flares, radiation, and tricky terrain to consider!

Until next week, keep reading, creating, and dreaming big!

Grade 5 Exploring Space-29/05/2025, 15:54.mp4

Grade 4 News

This past week, our Grade 4 learners became Pattern Detectives as they explored the fascinating world of number and geometric patterns through inquiry, collaboration, and creativity.

We began the week investigating what patterns are and where we find them in everyday life. From there, learners cracked number codes, discovered rules in sequences, and even created their own numerical patterns through group activities and an engaging maths video.

Midweek, the classroom transformed into a design studio as learners explored geometric patterns using shape, colour, and repetition. They brought their artwork to life using repeating rules and showcased both their mathematical thinking and artistic flair through a ‘moving art gallery’ experience.

We are so proud of their enthusiasm, collaboration, and growing understanding of patterns in both numbers and shapes. Be sure to ask your child to explain the pattern they created. You'll be amazed!

ACADEMICS

Formal Assessments

A reminder to click on the specific grade assessment calendars on the academic tab to see your child's formal assessment schedule and study details. The study details are posted at least two weeks before the assessment. Please check calendars on a regular basis to stay updated.

Please note that a doctor's certificate is required if a learner is absent for a formal assessment. Please contact the Principal (pmayers@parklands.co.za) or Head of Academics (ldrawbridge@parklands.co.za) to ask for permission for your child to be absent for any other reason.

OUTREACH

Thank you for supporting Slipper Day today! By purchasing a sticker you have invested in the hopes of brave children fighting life-threatening illnesses.

Reminder to pop in to Wimpy today with your sticker and you will receive a free cup of coffee (or hot chocolate for all our under 12s!)

CULTURE

Choreography rehearsals are underway for Madagascar Jr. Miss Holder and Miss Amy put our principal characters through their paces, incorporating some ballet dancers in the opening sequence.

While in the Art room, Grade 4 P and L set about decorating their sailor hats for their scene.

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.

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! Tickets can be purchased on Quicket.

SPORT

From the Sports Desk

From the Sports Desk: Senior Prep Sports: Senior Prep Sports Update
Gumboots, umbrellas, beanies, and jackets are officially part of the sidelines kit - for you folks!

Let’s start with a massive congratulations to our U10 Netballers, who made Parklands College stand tall this past week! After a brilliant showing at the Western Province Netball Play-offs, they progressed to Round 2 and finished an incredible 4th overall - a first for our U10s! They join our U11 Netball team, who finished 3rd, in 2024. Another first in Parklands College Prep history that two teams placed in the top 4 of WP a year a part. What a moment!

This past week has also been packed with Soccer and Hockey, with plenty of energy and commitment on display. Rain or shine, our players are showing up, putting in the work, and making us proud.

As Quarter 2 begins to wrap up and most schools head into assessments, we’re still embracing every opportunity for match time and growth.

And don’t forget this Saturday is Open Day! We’ve got loads happening on and off campus, from Netball and Rugby to 5s Hockey - pop in, come support, and enjoy the vibe!

Thank you once again to all our parents, families, and supporters. We’ll see you next to the field in June - rain jackets and all!

Jared Margetts

🏆 The Week That Was – Senior Prep Sports Recap

Our netball courts were buzzing with energy this past week, and our teams delivered outstanding performances across the board! Let’s give a huge shoutout to all our players for their teamwork, sportsmanship, and determination!

🏐 Netball Results:

U10B (2): Won 6–0
POTM: Gloria – cool under pressure and fierce on defense!
U10B (1): Won 10–0
POTM: Ajibola – unstoppable on the attack!
U11B (2): Won 4–1
POTM: Isabella P & Gia Jenna – dynamic duo with great vision and movement!
U11B (1): Won 5–0
POTM: Jenny & Imogen – solid teamwork and control throughout!
U12B (2): Drew 2–2
POTM: Bophelo – composed and consistent at both ends!
U12B (1): Won 3–0
POTM: Alyssa – brilliant play and leadership on the court!

What awesome results from our Netball girls – you continue to make Parklands College proud with your spirit and skill! 💙💛

Let’s carry this momentum into the final stretch of the term. Keep showing up, working hard, and supporting one another.

See you on the courts and fields next week!

External Achievements in Sport

Coach’s Corner – U10 Netball Update from Coach Nadine

Our U10 Netball girls kicked off their season with purpose and passion, notching up 4 wins, 1 draw, and just 1 loss during the Cape Town Primary Schools Netball (CTPSN) league fixtures. Their efforts saw them finishing 2nd overall in the highly competitive H1 circuit – an outstanding achievement that earned them a spot in the Blue League Playoffs on Thursday, 22 May 2025.

The girls brought their A-game to the playoffs, securing back-to-back victories and confidently advancing to the Inter-Circuit Blue League Playoffs held on Tuesday, 27 May 2025. There, they faced fierce competition and left it all on the court, ultimately finishing 4th out of 35 schools. What a phenomenal result!

While we narrowly missed out on the Blue League Finals scheduled for August, we couldn’t be prouder of this group. Fourth place in the entire league is no small feat, and it’s a clear sign of what’s to come.

With continued dedication, support, and their ever-growing love for the game, we are confident that this talented U10 group is set for an exciting netball journey in the years ahead.

Parklands College Netball – pushing boundaries and exceeding expectations, one game at a time! 💙💛

Harvard House Captains

Players of the Match

Sebastian

Please find a link to the notification letter informing the College of a learner's external achievements at Area/Regional/Provincial level.

External Achievements

Sport Quick Links

SPORTS INFO

TRAVEL CONSENT

EXTERNAL ACHIEVEMENTS

SPORTS CALENDAR

LIBRARY

World Environment Day is an annual initiative of the United Nations to mobilise communities worldwide to take action and protect our precious environment. This year the focus is on plastic pollution as it affects all life on the planet. Did you know that:

an estimated 11 million tonnes of plastic waste leak into aquatic ecosystems each year.
Microplastics in the seas now outnumber stars in our galaxy.
These tiny plastic particles find their way into food, water and air. It is estimated that each person on the planet consumes more than 50,000 microplastic bits per year – and also inhales a significant amount.
Plastic pollution affects more than 800 marine and coastal species through ingestion, entanglement, and other dangers.

To bring the conservation message home, we have invited a local author and environmentalist, who will be addressing our Grade 3 - 6 classes on Thursday. Heléne Booyens holds honours degrees in Conservation Ecology and Journalism from the University of Stellenbosch. Currently she is a senior editor at Penguin Random House South Africa, and a former agricultural and environmental journalist. We have the pleasure of introducing her latest book, titled Mammal Safari, which provides information on 70 African mammal species in a unique and interactive way. This activity book is jam-packed with puzzles, games, riddles, mazes, word games and many more, guaranteed to provide hours of entertainment and great facts on our wildlife.

To pre-order the books, please email nicole@thebookbox.co.za or call 064 530 6693. Books will also be on sale after the talk.

Birthday Books

Our Birthday Book this week was from Zachariah. He donated this modern-day classic called The Wild Robot Protects by Peter Brown. It is a touching story of survival, friendship and family.

Zach, thank you so much for your generous donation to our school library.

This week, we’ve dived into the fantastical world of David Walliams with activities inspired by his books “The Beast of Buckingham Palace” and “Fing.” From word searches to maize mazes, robot creations, and monster drawings, our learners were having a blast exploring their creativity and imagination. David Walliams’ unique blend of humour and adventure is bringing our library to life, and we’re loving every minute of it!

Robotics

Grade 4 Tech Time: Tinkercad in Action! 🖥️🔧

Our Grade 4s have been exploring the world of 3D design using Tinkercad! They’re learning how to create their own models by combining shapes, thinking spatially, and solving design challenges. It’s a fun and creative way to build tech skills and bring their ideas to life! 🎨📐🚀

#Tinkercad #Grade4Designers #3DThinking #TechInTheClassroom

Grade 5 WRO In-House Challenge! 🤖🔥

Our Grade 5 learners took on an exciting in-house WRO challenge using SPIKE Prime! They designed, built, and coded robots to complete tasks inspired by real-world problems. It was a fantastic display of teamwork, creativity, and perseverance. Well done, young engineers! 🧠⚙️🎯

#WROChallenge #Grade5Robotics #SPIKEPrime #FutureInnovators #ParklandsTech

Quick Links

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

Autumn Quarter: 08 April - 25 June

*Mid-term break: 29 April - 2 May

Winter Quarter: 22 July - 23 September

Spring Quarter: 14 October - 05 December

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

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...

LOST PROPERTY

Please help us by ensuring that your child's bag and belongings are labeled. We have many items that have found themselves in lost property but some labelled items have been taken home and not returned. Please check your child's items and if your child has mistakenly taken an item belonging to someone else, kindly return it to reception so we can return it to the right child.

LOCKERS

We have installed new lockers in the changing rooms that are big enough to store sports kit. Your child is encouraged to make use of these lockers on the day that they have a sports kit that is not able to fit into their own locker. Note that an additional lock is required that can be purchased from reception for a cost of R85. It is important that these lockers are emptied at the end of the day and locks are removed so that someone else can use them for their sports kit on the next day.