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 Break
Winter 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 .pdf

While 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.mp4

Mika Domingo playing Dolphin Dreams

Ben playing piano.mp4

Ben Hayward playing Swan Lake

Sing Yuet.mp4

Sing 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.pdf

Bookings 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.pdf

Please follow the link to sign up for the Winter season:

LINK TO SIGN-UP FORM

SPORT

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 Calendar:

Sport Quick Links

SPORT INFO

TRAVEL CONSENT

EXTERNAL ACHIEVEMENTS

SPORT CALENDAR

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.

Junior Preparatory Parent & Learner 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...

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!