Junior 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
Please take note of the following important points and dates:
Grade 3 outing to Artscape - Wednesday 6 August
The Grade 3s are looking forward to their outing to the Artscape - please remember to sign the consent form: Gr3 Consent FormGrade 2 outing to Intaka Island - Thursday 7 August (Grade 2P, 2R, 2L) & Friday 8 August (2A, 2K)
The Grade 2s are looking forward to their outing to Intaka Island - please remember to sign the consent form: Gr 2 Intaka Island Consent FormEmergency 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 at all times by the College.
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.
2025 Junior Preparatory P&L Information Directory.docx.pdfAmended Parent & Learner Directory
The Parent and Learner Directory has been amended. Please click on the links in the directory to view the updated sections:
👉Learner Code of Conduct (#22) and
👉Learner Attendance Policy (#1)
👉Link to Information Directory
Contact:
Staff email addresses: Staffing
General Preparatory email address: prep@parklands.co.za
IT queries: Christian Oertel, Network Manager - choertel@parklands.co.za
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
Parklands College Preparatory Faculty presents
DreamWorks Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR.
Parklands College Preparatory Faculty presents
DreamWorks Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR.
MAD 1.movDreamWorks 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 still open!
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
Madagascar Performance Week
Madagascar Performance Week
We were absolutely thrilled to see our learners take their places on stage for the first performance of 'Madagascar - a Musical Adventure Jr' production yesterday. Whether you're bringing siblings, grandparents, or friends, we'd love to share this joyful performance with your families. Tickets are still available for the Friday and Saturday performances.
Take a look at some of the behind the scenes snapshots of the rehearsals this week:
Grade 1 Outing to Rosen Castle
Grade 1 Outing to Rosen Castle
Excitement filled the air as our Grade One learners boarded the school buses for a much-anticipated trip to Rosen Castle this week. This lovely venue offered our learners a magical opportunity to explore the world of work through fantasy role play.
They practised being bankers at Capitec Bank, doing grocery shopping at Checkers, and showed great care during their visit to the veterinary practice. They also got to become weathermen and women, using green screen technology to deliver exciting forecasts.
One of the highlights of the day was putting on chef hats to bake delicious biscuits, which they enjoyed making (and tasting!). It was a day full of laughter, learning, and unforgettable moments.
Mrs Duke's class
Mrs Mey's class
Mrs Naidoo's class
Mrs Thyssen's class
Library News
Library News
Mandela Day
Mandela Day
This week we were still collecting for our Mandela Day outreach. Grade 1s listened to the magical story of Mr Hare who visited Mr Mandela, and impressed with their knowledge of South African money! They greatly admired Mr Mandela’s shirt and were tasked with designing something similar for Mr Hare, while practising their skills in SketchesPro.
Madagascar Fever
Madagascar Fever
There is nothing like the anticipation before a show! In the library we have had fun with a selection of funny Madagascar jokes which also introduced the characters to our excited audience.
Book Donations
Book Donations
Birthday Books
Birthday Books
Happy birthday to Marais, who shared his love of the ocean with us with a beautifully illustrated story about Seb, the seahorse. Thank you so much for this gorgeous book.
Outreach News: BE THE CHANGE
Outreach News: BE THE CHANGE
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 below. We also hope to add mini chocolates to each care package as a small, thoughtful treat. Any donations towards these sweet treats 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.
Staff News:
Congratulations Mr Ernstzen
Staff News:
Congratulations Mr Ernstzen
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.
UNIFORM
UNIFORM
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
Winter Co-Curricular Time Table
Winter Co-Curricular Time Table
Winter JP Extra Mural Timetable .pdfThe Grade 1 - 3 culture and sport programme has commenced. All sport, dance and music will continue as it was in the 2nd quarter.
Sign-ups for Design Society, Drama Society and Junior Chefs are now closed.
SPORT
SPORT
FROM THE SPORTS DESK
Junior Prep Sports Update – Quarter 3, Week 3
Junior Prep Sports Update – Quarter 3, Week 3
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 Junior Prep learners who’ve taken to the stage! Your energy, confidence, and talent have lit up the theatre.
Next week, our Netball and Hockey teams kick off their match weeks with exciting fixtures scheduled. Please check the Junior Prep Sports Calendar for all the dates and match details – it’s going to be a busy and brilliant few weeks!
From here, Quarter 3 is all systems go, and it’s a big one! We’re looking forward to:
Back-to-back matches
North vs South Derby
Fun-filled sports festivals
And, of course, new memories, milestones, and lots of team spirit!
Match Week Ahead
To all our young athletes getting ready to play – remember this:
Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally. It comes from what you do consistently.
Keep showing up, giving your best, supporting your teammates, and having fun – that’s what makes sport so special.
Saturday, 16 August 2025
Parklands College vs Somerset College Derby
💙 Come dressed in blue and white, bring the noise, and support our teams in what is always the biggest sporting event of the year!
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.
Grade 2 Sports Hour
Gearing up for some exciting sports matches this quarter.
External Achievements:
Congrats to Lia for receiving a Hard Work Award at the Giants Gymnastics Club.
Congrats to Marais for competing in the 50m With Fins and 50m Tube Rescue, achieving personal bests and earning valuable points for Big Bay Surf Lifesaving Club. A strong performance from one of the youngest athletes in the field!
Sport Quick Links
IMPORTANT DATES AND EVENTS
IMPORTANT DATES AND EVENTS
Winter Quarter
Wednesday 6 August:
Grade 3 Outing to Artscape: Gr3 Consent Form
Thursday 7 August:
Grade 2P, 2R, 2L Outing to Intaka Island: Gr 2 Intaka Island Consent Form
Friday 8 August:
Grade 2A, 2K Outing to Intaka Island: Gr 2 Intaka Island Consent Form
Saturday 9 August:
Women’s Day
Friday 22 August:
Grade 1 PBL: Occupations
Cape Town Eisteddfod in 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 Birthday 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
Spring Quarter
Tuesday 14 October: Learners Return
Wednesday 15 October: Grade 1's sing at our Matric Valedictory: Consent: Gr 1's singing at Valedictory
Saturday 18 October:
Open Day
Siobhan Duke’s Birthday
Friday 24 October: Grade 1R & 1K Cake `sale
Monday 27 October: Happy Birthday Nadine Marais-Swart
Thursday 30 October: Grade 2 Outing to Kirstenbosch
Friday 31 October:
Grade 3 Outing to Babylonstoren
Grade 1 PBL: Healthy Eating
Wednesday 12 November: Diwali
Thursday 27 November: JP Growing Minds Celebration
Friday 28 November: Grade 1 Giraffe House Outing
Tuesday 2 December: Candice Holder’s Birthday
Friday 5 December: Last day of the quarter
Sunday 14 December: Happy Birthday Mrs Oxley-Simpson and Mrs Thyssen
Wednesday 24 December: Happy Birthday Mrs Manickum
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
2026 dates (subject to change)
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
QUICK LINKS
QUICK LINKS
PARENT & LEARNER DIRECTORY
PARENT & LEARNER DIRECTORY
Please read through the Parent and Learner Directory, which includes important information about Parklands College and the Junior Preparatory learners.
Information Directory
Information Directory
2025 Junior Preparatory P&L Information Directory.docx.pdf How to update the Edana app
with emergency contact details:
How to update the Edana app
with emergency contact details:
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...
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
CONCLUDING COMMENTS
Looking ahead, the Grade 2's and 3's are having an exciting week of outings lined up. Please don't forget to fill in the consent forms.
We wish all the learners the very best in their next Madagascar performances today and tomorrow.
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