Junior Preparatory Weekly Memo
17 April 2025
Dear Parents,
With the long Easter weekend approaching, we wrapped up a shorter week with the Grade 2 outing to SANCCOB being an absolute highlight! Looking ahead, the Grade 1s are up next for their outing to The Science Centre on Thursday. We will also be celebrating World Book Day on Wednesday and can't wait to see the school passages filled with beloved storybook characters brought to life in fun costumes!
Please take note of the following important upcoming dates and reminders:
Important Change Regarding Aftercare Collection Procedures
To further enhance the safety and security of our learners, effective immediately, all learners must be personally collected from aftercare and signed out on the register by their parent(s), designated lift service, or caregiver.
Outings and Consent Forms:
Grade 1 Outing to the Science Centre Consent Form: Gr 1 Outing to The Science Centre - due by Thursday 24 April
Library dates to note:
World Book Day (Dress-up) - Wednesday 23 April
Bargain Books Book Sale (Day 1 & 2) - 23 & 24 April
Visiting Author: Roslynne Toerien (Grade 1 - 3) - Monday 5 May
Upcoming Public holidays & Mid Term Break
Friday 18 April: Good Friday
Monday 21 April: Family Day
Monday 28 April - Friday 2 May: Mid Term BreakWinter Uniform - Monday 5 May:
Please note that we will transition to Winter uniform on 5 May.Parking
Please make use of the Junior Preparatory parking area only and not the Pre-Primary drive-through.
Contact:
Staff email addresses: Staffing
General Preparatory email address: prep@parklands.co.za
IT queries: Christian Oertel, Network Manager - choertel@parklands.co.za
Learner Code of Conduct
Building a positive and supportive school environment is central to our vision at Parklands College. Our Code of Conduct is regularly discussed during assemblies and class teaching. We are committed to guiding and supporting our learners, alongside their parents and guardians, to understand what behaviour is appropriate and what is not. This is an important part of fostering a respectful, safe and happy learning environment for us all.
We would like to remind our Parklands College family about our Code of Conduct, which is included in the Parent and Learner Directory. It outlines our shared expectations and helps us maintain a safe and happy space for both learners and staff.
LEARNER CODE OF CONDUCT .pdfWhile we prioritise positive reinforcement — as seen through the many merits awarded — we also recognise the importance of issuing appropriate consequences for unacceptable behaviour. These might include warnings or demerits, depending on the situation. Please note that, just as parents are not notified before a merit is awarded, we are unable to contact parents in advance of issuing a consequence, i.e. a demerit, as it is important that we act swiftly and appropriately to prevent further behavioural issues.
We appreciate our parents' support in helping us create a happy and safe environment where positive interactions and behaviour are the expectation and the norm.
Highlights
First Assembly for Quarter Two
Our first assembly for the quarter was filled with exciting news and celebrations. Mrs Lamb delighted us all with her humorous and informative poem describing quarter two!
Hooked on Books
Our learners were enthralled by a lively performance from the Hooked on Books theatre company. The talented actors brought stories to life by performing extracts from a variety of books to spark curiosity and get our students excited about reading. The energy, humour, and creativity of the performance left everyone inspired to dive into the featured books - most found in our library! Some of our learners were selected to join in on the storytelling performance which was a fun treat for all.
Hooked on Books video.mp4
Grade 2 Visit to SANCCOB
This week, we visited SANCCOB, an organisation that rescues and rehabilitates seabirds. We saw lots of penguins, including rockhoppers and African penguins. Some were permanent residents, while others were learning to swim before being released back into the wild.
A highlight was peering through the windows to see chicks, who were just a few days old, being fed! We also watched the vet checking newly rescued seabirds and learnt all about penguins – what they look like, how they are adapted, and that although they can’t fly, they swim incredibly fast. Their favourite treat? Fish – especially sardine smoothies!
Most importantly, we learnt why penguins need our help – they are critically endangered and need protecting.
Snack time
In the SANCCOB classroom
Watching the penguins who are ready to be released into the wild.
So this is what a penguin feels like!
Taking a look at some x-rays.
We got to see a baby penguin!
Playing some games.
Grade 3 Classroom highlight
The Grade 3 classes have been exploring Safer Britannica. They are researching countries for their upcoming orals. Some amazing facts have been found!
Music Performances in Assembly
What a treat to hear Mika, Ben and Sing Yuet play at our first assembly for the quarter. Well done!
Mika playing piano.mp4Mika Domingo playing Dolphin Dreams
Ben playing piano.mp4Ben Hayward playing Swan Lake
Sing Yuet.mp4Sing Yuet Yanng playing Lightly Row
LIBRARY NEWS
World Book Day 2025
In 1995, UNESCO held a General Conference in Paris, where World Book Day was born as a world-wide tribute to books and the people who bring them to us: authors, publishers, booksellers and libraries. This day was intended to honour books as a vehicle of peace and the eradication of poverty. Thirty years later, these truths have not changed, and we still know that reading to children, and assisting them to read with enjoyment and meaning, will change their lives forever. The stories you share with your child impart language skills which are essential building blocks that will impact every area of their lives.
We are pleased to invite you to our bumper Book Sale in the Senior Preparatory hall, where the ladies from Bargain Books will have a wonderful selection available. Please see our poster for shopping times.
Happy World Book Day on 23 April!
Birthday Books
Summer and Xander presented their Birthday Books at our assembly on Monday. The popular Tom Gates makes another entrance and who can resist a charming dragon? Thank you and happy birthday to you!
Book Adventures on iPad
The Grade ones are learning about the magic of AirDrop and receiving books on their iPads, as we are starting to build a library in Book Creator.
Our Culture department has been designing the costumes and set for our production of Madagascar Jr. Please help us by collecting and sending the following recyclable materials to school (see poster). We would also appreciate help in finding old scout uniforms.
Aladdin poster.pdfBookings through Quicket
https://www.quicket.co.za/events/215034-disney-aladdin-jr/
or take advantage of this special offer:
A special rate of R120 for the following performances:
Tuesday 13 May (Carpet Cast) at 19h00
Wednesday 14 May (Lamp Cast) at 19h00
Thursday 15 May (Carpet Cast) at 19h00
These tickets can be booked directly with Lee Merryweather via email: merryweatherla@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 083 298 3141
Olivia Huang (Grade 5) is Lago in the Carpet Cast (along with Jorja Hoppé in Grade 9), and Lela Demissew (Grade 5) is Manal in the Lamp Cast.
Winter Co-Curricular Time Table
Q2&3 Extra Mural timetable.pdfSPORT
FROM THE SPORTS DESK
Junior Prep Sports Update – Quarter 2 Is Off to a Flying Start! 🏐💪
This past week has been all things Netball, Rugby and Physical Education – and what a fantastic start to Quarter 2 it has been!
Netball & Rugby kicked off this week, and our Junior Preparatory girls have had an incredible start to the quarter, showing determination, enthusiasm, and a strong work ethic right from the get-go. The courts have been filled with excitement as they begin to build their skills, teamwork, and confidence in preparation for upcoming fixtures and festivals. Our rugby players have put in the hard work to gear up for an early start to Quarter 2. It's been awesome to see learners put in the hard work early in the mornings and later in the school day.
Over in Physical Education, our programme is already in full swing. Learners have been focusing on essential fundamental skills like hand-eye coordination, agility, handling, and passing – all critical in supporting their overall development across sports. The energy in each session has been amazing to see – be sure to take a look at this week’s PE photo highlights!
And to our budding Hockey stars – your turn is just around the corner!
Hockey action begins just before the Easter break.
We’re so proud of the positive momentum already building in Quarter 2 and can’t wait to see more magic unfold. Thank you to our supportive parents – your encouragement from the sidelines makes all the difference!
Here’s to more growth, fun, and cheers as the term continues! 💙💛
#ParklandsPrepSport #JuniorPrepPride #Quarter2Energy #OurBloodRunsBlue
Week that was
Junior Prep Week That Was – Firsts, Fun & Fierce Spirit! 🏉🏐
This past week was full of firsts and exciting beginnings for our Junior Prep sports stars!
Our U9 Rugby team took to the field for their very first match of the season against Rallim. Although the result was a 5-0 loss, the boys showed incredible promise in their first-ever game at Grade 3 level. There were glimpses of what’s to come, with gutsy tackles, strong carries, and determined teamwork. Player of the Match, Just, who stood out with one of many outstanding last-ditch defensive efforts - what a way to kick off our rugby journey!
Our U9 Netball girls also stepped onto the court this week, facing off against both Rallim and Edgemead in their first fixtures of the quarter. Their energy, sportsmanship, and team spirit made us so proud, and they’re already building strong foundations for a brilliant season ahead.
U9 Rallim Lost 3-0 - Nia-Lee - Player of the Match
U9 Edgemead Lost 5-2 - Leruo - Player of the Match
We’re so excited for what’s to come this quarter. With more fixtures and festivals on the way, we can’t wait to see these young athletes continue to grow, learn, and most importantly - have fun!
Physical Education moments during the week
Renier gearing up for the first U9 Rugby fixture with some general tactics.
U9 Netball practice on Friday morning
U9 Netball girls at Edgemead Primary
U9 Rugby Boys vs Rallim
For their safety, learners are required to wear a gum guard and shin pads for hockey, and a gum guard for rugby. They may NOT PARTICIPATE in practices or games without this.
1st of many Friday morning Hockey sessions at the Secondary Astro
Sport Quick Links
IMPORTANT DATES AND EVENTS
Autumn Quarter
Friday 18 April: Public Holiday - Good Friday
Sunday 20 April: Happy Birthday Karen Hunt
Monday 21 April: Public Holiday - Family Day
Wednesday 23 April:
World Book Day (Dress up as your favourite character from a book)
Bargain Books Book Sale (Day 1)
Happy Birthday Sylvia Stander
Thursday 24 April:
Bargain Books Book Sale (Day 2)
Grade 1 Outing to the Science Centre Consent Form: Gr 1 Outing to The Science Centre
Friday 25 April: Happy Birthday Coach Liam
Saturday 26 April: Happy Birthday Anine De Lange
Sunday 27 April: Freedom Day
Monday 28 April - Friday 2 May: Mid Term Break
Monday 5 May:
Change to Winter Uniform
Author Visit: Roslynne Toerien (Books for sale)
Tuesday 6 May: JP Dancers to Sea Point Civic Centre - Eisteddfod rehearsal
Friday 9 May: Grade 2R and Grade 2K Cake sale
Sunday 11 May: Mother’s Day
Monday 12 May - 12 June Dance Eisteddfod (dates will be confirmed with Parents)
Tuesday 13 May: Happy birthday Jared Margetts
Thursday 15 May: International Day of Families
Saturday 17 May: Camps Bay Netball Festival
Tuesday 20 May: Happy Birthday Serena Domingo
Saturday 24 May: Elmer Day
Wednesday 28 May: Grade 3 visit to Secondary for an Afrikaans Culinary Experience
Consent Form Gr 3 Outing to the Secondary Faculty
Thursday 29 May: Grade 3 Outing to the Alpaca Loom Consent Form Gr 3 Outing to Alpaca Loom
Thursday 29 May – Thursday 5 June: Child Protection Week
Friday 30 May: Grade 2P & 2A Cake Sale
Saturday 31 May: Open Day
Sunday 1 June:
International Children’s Day & Child Protection Week
Happy Birthday Chef Kerry
Tuesday 3 June: Happy Birthday Chantel Lamb
Wednesday 4 June: Happy Birthday Elise Crouse
Thursday 5 June: World Environment Day (Grade 3's celebrate this day with author Helene Booyens and "Mammal Safari"; Book Sale)
Wednesday 11 June: International Day of Play
Friday 13 June: Grade 3 PBL: Food Fair (Parents invited)
Sunday 15 June: Father’s Day
Monday 16 June:
Public Holiday- Youth Day
Thurloe Ernstzen’s birthday
Wednesday 18 June: Grade 3 PBL: School Showcase (Parents invited)
Friday 20 June: Grade 1 PBL: School Showcase (Parents invited)
Monday 23 June:
Madagascar Run-through
Reports released
Report Feedback Meetings
Tuesday 24 June:
Madagascar Photographs
Report Feedback Meetings
Wednesday 25 June: Last Day of the Quarter
Dates for 2025
Summer Quarter: 20 January - 28 March
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
Cake sales
Classes will all have an opportunity to host a cake sale and there is much excitement as the children eagerly look forward to this treat. Cake sale money is used to support various outreach projects.
We request that items such as cupcakes, popcorn, crisps, muffins, etc. are sent in by the classes that are hosting the cake sale. Please ensure that items donated for cake sales do not contain nuts. We love healthy goodies, especially popcorn!
Parents are welcome to send the year's money in advance to be kept safely locked away (i.e. 6 cake sales x R10=R60.00) or send in R10 on cake sale days.
If you are able to assist at your class cake sale from 09h40, please notify your child’s class teacher.
Friday 9 May: Grade 2R and Grade 2K Cake Sale
Friday 30 May: Grade 2P & 2A Cake Sale
Friday 19 September: Grade 1P & 1A Cake Sale
Friday 24 October: Grade 1R & 1K Cake Sale
QUICK LINKS
PARENT & LEARNER DIRECTORY
Please read through the Parent and Learner Directory, which includes important information about Parklands College and the Junior Preparatory learners.
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...
JUST UNPACKED By Mrs Oxley-Simpson ...
Just in time for the long weekend, we have our very own Mrs Lamb action figure. She comes with the essential items: MacBook, iPad and coffee flask.
But that's not all!
To keep her energy levels up, there are the added accessories of a red apple and a hard boiled egg. Order your one of a kind, Mrs Lamb action figure today!
Top inside info:
Mrs Lamb is never without her red apple and hard boiled egg! 🍎 🥚
CONCLUDING COMMENTS
April is a celebratory month for many of our staff members! Please join us in wishing them a happy birthday in the upcoming week:
Karen Hunt - Sunday the 20th
Coach Liam - Friday the 25th
Anine De Lange - Saturday the 26th
Chag Same’ach to all our Jewish families who are celebrating. Passover began on Saturday night, and we wish you a continued time of joy, meaning, and connection.
Wishing all our Parklands families a wonderful long weekend!
