20 June 2025

Dear Parents,

Please take note of the following important reminders:

Parent-Teacher Meetings
If you would like to meet with your child’s class teacher, please arrange a meeting via the Google Calendar link shared by the class teachers.
Last Day of School

Wednesday 25 June is the last day of school and school closes at 13h00. Please make arrangements to collect your child promptly at 13h00 as there are no aftercare facilities on this day.

QUARTER 3 Co-Curricular Sign-Up
The Grade 1 - 3 culture and sports programme will commence on Tuesday, 22 July 2025. All sport, dance and music will continue as it was this quarter.

Please click on the link below to sign your child up for Quarter 3 Drama, Junior Chefs or Design Society.

👉Sign Up Link👈

College blazers
Please be reminded that all learners need to wear the new striped blazer from the start of 2026. 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

Emergency Contact Details
We would like to remind you that it is imperative for us to be able to contact you or a member of your family or a close friend in the case of an emergency. Kindly visit the Edana App and check the contact details in the fields provided to ensure that the information is complete and correct. It is vital that the contact numbers are accessible to the College at all times.

This is a very important request, and we are asking you to comply immediately as a safety precaution.

Please select your profile, then "Contact Information" update, and "Emergency Contacts" and update accordingly. Please click on the link for step-by-step guidance.

Contact:

Staff email addresses: Staffing
General Preparatory email address: prep@parklands.co.za
IT queries: Christian Oertel, Network Manager - choertel@parklands.co.za

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! Ticket sales are now open!

Book here via Quicket.

MAD 1.mov

🚀Igniting Young Innovators: FLL Explore & Challenge Launch at Our Prep School

At Parklands College, we’ve long believed in empowering learners through real-world STEM experiences, and we’re thrilled to expand our robotics journey with the launch of the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Explore and Challenge programmes in our prep school.

These globally recognised programmes add exciting new layers to the coding, engineering, and robotics skills many of our learners have already begun developing. And the best part? It’s all done through playful, hands-on teamwork that feels more like fun than learning.

Robotics vid.MOV

🔎What Is the FIRST LEGO League?

FIRST LEGO League is an international initiative that inspires children to explore science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through engaging, real-world challenges. You can learn more about it on the official website: www.firstinspires.org.

At our prep school, we’re launching two of the core FLL programs:

FLL Explore (Grades 2 - 4) : Designed for younger learners, this programme builds foundational STEM skills using themed LEGO models and simple coding in a team-based format.
FLL Challenge (Grades 5 - 8): Perfect for older learners, this more advanced programme involves designing, building, and coding LEGO robots to complete missions on a themed mat, as well as researching and presenting a real-world problem connected to the season’s topic.

🌟Why This Matters

We’re proud to already offer a rich STEM environment at Parklands College. The addition of FLL Explore and Challenge enhances this by:

Encouraging creativity – learners dream up solutions and bring them to life.
Building collaboration – teams learn how to communicate, solve problems together, and support one another.
Strengthening critical thinking – by working through open-ended challenges.
Boosting confidence – as learners share their work with others and take pride in their achievements.

These programmes make learning exciting, meaningful, and memorable—just the way it should be!

🛠️How the Programmes Work

Throughout the season, learners will dive into a themed mission (which changes each year).

In FLL Explore, they’ll research a real-world topic, build a LEGO model with moving parts, and prepare to present their discoveries.
In FLL Challenge, they’ll create and code a LEGO SPIKE or Mindstorms robot that completes tasks on a competition mat, while also developing and presenting an innovative solution to a connected challenge.

🔗A Gateway to Bigger Opportunities

FLL Explore and Challenge are part of a broader FIRST robotics pathway we’re proud to offer.

As learners move into Secondary school, they’ll have the opportunity to take part in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) (Grades 9 - 11)—a more advanced robotics programme using metal components, sensors, and complex programming.

Also, as we launch more teams, keep a look-out for opportunities for your child to join —we’d love to have them on board as we launch into this new adventure.

If you’d like to learn more about the global programme, visit www.firstinspires.org.

Let the building, coding, teamwork, and discovery begin!

HIGHLIGHTS

Quarter 2 Outreach

This quarter, our hearts and hands came together to support Ekhaya Kidz Educare’s feeding scheme. Through the generous donations of instant oats, noodles, and soups, we were able to make a small but meaningful difference in the lives of children in need. Thank you to every family who contributed. Your kindness and compassion have helped bring warmth and nourishment to many little tummies. Together, we showed that even the smallest act of giving can make a big impact.

Q2 Outreach video.mp4

Grade 2 PBL Showcase: Animal Habitats

Grade 2 learners proudly hosted their Project-Based Learning (PBL) showcase, inviting parents to step into their classrooms and explore the fascinating world of animal habitats. After weeks of research, creativity, and hands-on learning, each learner presented a unique animal habitat project, complete with a hand-sculpted clay animal and a carefully constructed box diorama depicting its natural environment. Parents had the opportunity to view the projects, listen to their children share their learning journeys, and celebrate the learners’ hard work and imagination.

Grade 1 PBL Showcase: 'Why is my School Cool?'

Grade 1 teachers

This quarter, Grade One learners embarked on a PBL journey to explore the question: Why is my school cool? With guidance and scaffolding, they reflected on their feelings and experiences at school, beginning with a WonderWall filled with thoughtful questions like "Which enrichment lesson do I like best?"

In Mathematics, learners created a pictograph based on their favourite subjects and interpreted the data through class discussions.

On Friday, families were welcomed into classrooms for a joyful poster showcase. Learners proudly presented responses to prompts such as:

"My school makes me happy because..."
"My school helps me care about..."
"I feel excited at school when..."
"My school helps me learn about..."

Parents captured the moment with selfies and uploaded them via a QR code. They also shared their reflections on what they love most about Parklands College and being a Grade One parent. These were written on colourful squares and arranged into a large heart—symbolising the love and pride within our school community. Learners left their fingerprints on a collaborative A3 titled Grade One Class of 2025, and each child’s poster was taken home as a keepsake.

The event was a heartwarming celebration of curiosity, connection, and the many reasons our school is truly “cool.”

PBL School is cool.mov

ACADEMICS

Foundation Phase (Grade 1 – 3) learners continue to complete both formal and informal assessments throughout the quarter on a regular basis to improve the knowledge, understanding or skills of the learners. They receive the standard report, which reflects codes and a comment from the class teacher. At the end of quarter Two and Three, parents have the opportunity to meet with the class teacher to discuss their child's academic progress.

Reports will be released on Friday 20 June.

Parent-Teacher Meetings (Friday 20 June-Tuesday 24 June)
If you would like to meet with your child’s class teacher, please arrange a meeting via the Google Calendar link shared by the class teachers.

LIBRARY NEWS

Birthday Books

We wish Caleb and Lilolodwa happy birthday celebrations for this week. Caleb brought a beautifully illustrated bedtime story as well as a magical Dr Seuss favourite. Lilo’s Panda story is all about kindness and learning to apologise, and includes a QR code which enables you to listen to the audiobook.

Thank you for sharing these wonderful Birthday Books with your friends.

Winter Co-Curricular Timetable

Winter JP Extra Mural Timetable .pdf

The Grade 1 - 3 culture and sports programme will commence on Tuesday, 22 July 2025. All sport, dance and music will continue as it was this quarter.

Please click on the link below to sign your child up for Quarter 3 Drama, Junior Chefs or Design Society.

👉Sign-Up Link👈

SPORT

FROM THE SPORTS DESK

🏅 Junior Prep Sports Update – Quarter 2 is now complete! 🏅

As we close out a thrilling Quarter 2, it’s impossible not to beam with pride at what our youngest athletes have accomplished. From first-time fixtures to full festival schedules, our U8 and U9 learners have taken to the fields and courts with heart, hustle, and heaps of enthusiasm. Their development this term has been nothing short of inspiring.

🏉 Rugby
Our U9 rugby squad has grown in leaps and bounds this quarter - literally and figuratively! Their teamwork, bravery, and ever-improving ball skills were on full display throughout the term. For many, this was their first season of full-field rugby, and the progress they’ve made is a clear indicator of the exciting future of the sport at Parklands.

🏐 Netball
What a netball term it’s been for our U8 and U9 girls! For the first time, we fielded A, B and C teams in matches - an incredible milestone and testament to the strength and depth of our programme. The learners’ focus, movement, and communication on court have been a joy to watch. Their love for the game continues to shine with every pass and pivot.

🏑 Hockey – Boys & Girls
Hockey has enjoyed a landmark term! Our U8s took part in their first friendly matches, gaining crucial match exposure and building confidence. Meanwhile, U9 boys and girls stepped up to play regular league fixtures for the first time in our school’s history. These learners have quickly picked up tactical awareness and are beginning to demonstrate real flair on the turf. Our hockey foundation is looking solid and spirited.

🎉 Sports Festivals
This quarter, Junior Prep learners had a blast at multiple sports festivals - including Netball at Camps Bay and Hockey at Curro Durbanville. Although we were disappointed that the VRS Rugby Festival was cancelled due to weather, our athletes stayed upbeat and focused. These events provided invaluable experience and helped foster a strong sense of teamwork, resilience, and school pride.

📅 What’s Coming Up?

SAVE THE DATE: Our most anticipated sporting event of the year is on the horizon - DERBY DAY vs Somerset College on Saturday, 16 August. Mark your calendars!

We "get the ball rolling" again on Wednesday, 23 July, as Quarter 3 sports kick off in Week 1. Expect a term full of fixtures, development opportunities, and more moments of magic. Be sure to check the Sports Calendar - fixtures are already going live!

👏 A Big Thank You
To our team managers, dedicated supporters, and brave young learners - thank you! You’ve helped make this term one to remember. Your energy, encouragement, and commitment are the backbone of everything we do.

🧤 Our Friday Sports Hour for Grade 3 will remain the same, so make sure your child is geared up for a cold July and August - winter sport is in full swing!

We head into Term 3 ready to brave the wet and wintry days, knowing full well our Junior Prep sporting spirit will keep us warm and unstoppable.

Jared Margetts

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.

External Achievements

Sport Calendar:

Sport Quick Links

SPORT INFO

TRAVEL CONSENT

EXTERNAL ACHIEVEMENTS

SPORT CALENDAR

IMPORTANT DATES AND EVENTS

Autumn Quarter

Monday 23 June:
Madagascar Run-through
Report Feedback Meetings

Tuesday 24 June:
Madagascar Photographs

Report Feedback Meetings

Wednesday 25 June:

Last Day of the Quarter, school closes at 13:00

Winter Quarter

Tuesday 22 July:

First Day of the Quarter

Sunday 27 July:

Justine’s birthday

Monday 28 July:

Grade 1 outing to Rosen Castle

Tuesday 29 July:

Grade 1 outing to Rosen Castle

Wednesday 30 July:

Grade 1 outing to Rosen Castle

International Day of Friendship

Thursday 31 July:

Grade 1 outing to Rosen Castle

Wednesday 6 August:

Grade 3 Outing to Artscape

Thursday 7 August:

Grade 2P, 2R, 2L Outing to Intaka Island

Friday 8 August:

Grade 2A, 2K, 2L Outing to Intaka Island

Saturday 9 August:

Women’s Day

Friday 22 August:

Grade 1 PBL: Occupations

Cape Town Eisteddfod on Senior Preparatory Hall

Monday 1 September:

First Day of Spring

Wednesday 3 September:

Happy Birthday Sharon Louw

Friday 12 September:

Funky Socks Day

Saturday 13 September:

Roald Dahl Day

Open Day

Monday 15 September:

International Dot Day

Tuesday 16 September:

Happy Brthday Sam Naidoo

Thursday 18 September:

Reports Released

Report Feedback Meetings

Friday 19 September:

Happy Birthday Amy Dean

Grade 1P and 1A Cake Sale

Saturday 20 September:

Happy Birthday Efraim Cupido

Tuesday 23 September:

Last day of the quarter

Wednesday 24 September:

Public Holiday - Heritage Day

Thursday 2 October:

Rosh Hashanah

Saturday 4 October:

Happy Birthday Cara de Aguiar

Sunday 5 October:

World Teachers Day

Happy Birthday Tammy Labuschagne

Tuesday 7 October:

Happy Birthday Roché Buckle

Thursday 9 October:

Happy Birthday Licia Hammond

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

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

How to update the Edana app
with emergency contact details:

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...

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 19 September: Grade 1P & 1A Cake Sale

Friday 24 October: Grade 1R & 1K Cake Sale

CONCLUDING COMMENTS

This will be our final blog for quarter 2. We look forward to welcoming the learners back for our winter quarter on Tuesday, 22 July.

The first blog of the quarter will be sent on Monday, 21 July 2025.

Excitement is building for our Madagascar production taking place early next quarter. Don’t miss out, secure your tickets soon!

School closes at 13:00 on Wednesday 25 June 2025 and we wish our Parklands College families a wonderful holiday. We look forward to welcoming our learners back to school on Tuesday 22 July 2025.