Blue Thread Issue 10 by Blue Thread

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PV SÊ TOT SIENS AAN... SPORT CULTURE FASHION LIFESTYLE FOODIES TRENDING WHAT’S THE 411?

LETTER from the EDITOR

The summer term is always a chaotic mix of emotions: the relief of a well-deserved holiday is eagerly accepted by students and staff alike, but as always there are the unfortunate goodbyes that have to be said, this year to the matrics of 2017 and the teachers who will not be returning in January. There’s also the frenzy of passing on legacies: 2018’s prefect council and Blue Thread team are officially introduced in the first few pages. Hierdie uitgawe is veral spesiaal vir almal wat betrokke is omdat dit ons 10de uitgawe is! Hierdie mylpaal kan gesien word as die toonbeeld van die gesegde “out with the old, in with the new”. Daar is iets gepas oor die viering van Blue Thread se verjaarsdag veral as ons besef hoe ver ons ou span gekom het en in watter rigting ons nuwe span beweeg. Alhoewel dit hartseer is om die mense wat my aan die tydskrif voorgestel het, te groet en dis beslis 'n bietjie skrikwekkend om die verantwoorklikheid te hê om die standard te handhaaf, is ek baie opgewonde om te sien wat die toekoms inhou. Personally, I love change and starting things afresh; new years are always very appealing to me. Too often I hear people say that they’d like to achieve a certain goal, start a new habit, or just have a happier year. This December, take time to think about what you want out of 2018. If you wait until the 1st of January, it will be too late. So rather than lying around like a lizard in the sun, do something you’ll be proud of - you can thank me later. Thank you to everyone who supports Blue Thread: our new team who works extremely hard, Mrs Mackenzie and Mrs Isaacs who are the backbone of this magazine and all our friends and readers who appreciate the product we make. Lucia, Nina, Liam and Natasha also deserve a special mention; I would be lost without you. Lekker vakansie almal. Bly veilig, Ek sal jou sien in die nuwe jaar, hopelik met baie interessante stories en baie gees vir 2018. For the first time – of hopefully many more,

Your Editor in Chief

Chanel Bowen

THALA SSOPHILE ( n.) a lover of the sea.

PIECE OF CAKE. This term Blue Thread is celebrating its 10th issue! And what better way to celebrate than with cake? To commemorate this occasion, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve rounded up the most delicious sweet treats from bakeries and shops in Somerset West.

styled by | NINA ANDRO photographs by | JIN KIM designed by | NINA ANDRO

MERKAVA cinnabon 083 254 4432 merkavacoffee@gmail.com

R&N GOODIES macaroons 084 810 4455 randngoodies@gmail.com (Find them at the Lourensford market)

SCHOON BAKERY salted chocolate and hazelnut caramel rye tart coconut quidim 079 523 4983 info@schoon.co.za

FRED & MAX cheese cake 021 850 0911 swest@fredandmax.com

PAJAMAS AND JAM EATERY lemon meringue 021 854 6408 info@namsa.co.za

THE FUDGE KITCHEN fudge 081 598 9196 info@thefudgekitchen.co.za (Find them at the Lourensford market)

VAIS BAKED GOODS brownies 079 692 6057 jacquesandreduplessis@gmail.com (Find them at the Lourensford market)

Blue Thread thanks all the featured shops, bakeries and stalls for their generous contributions.

“ JUST BECAUSE IT IS

NOT IN A MUSEUM, DOES NOT MEAN IT IS NOT ART ”

modelled by | MIEKE DE WET

MATRIC BALL 2017 a night to remember

The much anticipated matric ball of 2017 was a fitting way to end of the year with a bang and to say goodbye in style. This event is always a highlight on the school’s calendar, and this year’s Narnia theme was no exception. Matrics of 2017 - we will miss you.

styled by | CHANEL BOWEN photographs by | KAYLA MCCULLEY designed by | HELENE VILJOEN

MATRIC AWARDS recognition at last...

written by | SAM BICKNELL photographs by | KAYLA MCCULLEY designed by | REBECCA SMIT

Many deserving matrics were recognised for their hard work and dedication to their school work, sport, and culture this year. A few special students have left their mark here at Parel Vallei and have made a huge impression that could not go unnoticed.

this year than the face behind the mascot Bella, the very enthusiastic young lady herself, Maxine Smet. This girl was very deserving of the Elrine Prinsloo trophy for her positive imprint on the school, as well as her friendliness, excitement and leadership skills.

Sylvia Khohlokala is the definition of spirit and is a very worthy recipient of the Van These are students such as Charl van Heerdan Heunis Joy of Life trophy. She Heyningen, who has served this school has created many smiles throughout her for almost five years in the tech team, time in PV, sharing her enthusiasm for life setting up speakers, sound desks, and lights for many events. He has rightfully and injecting people with positive energy. Of course, there was another very won the Boudewijn de Vries service deserving candidate for award. this trophy, Jordan Another selfless Linklater. This guy has student who has spread his joy Every accomplishment dedicated so much throughout the school, starts with the decision to time to helping causing laughter and joy try. people by working with his love, charm, hard in the Interact optimism and kindness. club, is Leandre van der Merwe. She was awarded the Craig de Villiers trophy. These are only a few of the many inspirational matrics who have worked Danielle Hendricks was awarded the very hard and have won their very own Suzanne and Elaine Rose trophy as her well-earned awards. good manners and caring personality have left a mark in this school. Our very own head boy of 2017 obviously needed an award for his impeccable manners and excellent leadership skills, and so the same trophy went to Xander Venter. It is always great to have someone to cheer you on and get you excited when you are playing a rugby, netball or hockey match. Who could have done it better

SAY HELLO TO YOUR PREFECTS for 2018...

photographs by | LIAM DAVIES designed by | MICHELLE LOURENS

SPORT

CULTURE

RCL

TRADITION

SPIRIT

MEDIA

COMMUNITY

ACADEMICS

BLUE THREAD meet the team of 2018...

Chanel Bowen: Editor in Chief | Nina Andro: Sub-Editor | Lucia Niland: Head of Design | Liam Davies: Head of Photography

modelled by | CAROLYN BAUMGARTEN

MEVROU SMIT ons liefste juffrou vir jou sal ons onthou jy’t ons jare ingekleur met jou wysheid en fleur kom kuier gou-gou weer jy bly ‘n bulldog deur-en-deur Hoe lank was juffrou ‘n onderwyser by PV? 13 jaar.

What inspireer Juffrou die meeste in die onderwys?

Wat is die snaaksste ding wat in Juffrou se onderwysloopbaan gebeur het?

Wanneer ek skielike volwassenheid in iemand se werk sien.

Iemand het my stoel waarop ek beplan het om op te sit, opgetel! Dit is waarskynlik die rede vir my slegte rug! Ek het my koppie tee reg gehou, die hele tyd, en het nooit ‘n druppel gemors nie!

Wat is Juffrou se gunsteling aspek van skoolgee?

Is daar enigiets wat ‘n leerder juffrou geleer het?

Ek wou my klasmaats in graad 1 alreeds leer!

Nommer een. As iemand gedragsprobleme of net aaklig is in die klas is, is daar gewoonlik iets verkeerd by die huis.

Toneelspeel.

Humor! En resultate! Hoe het Juffrou geweet dat Juffrou ‘n onderwyser wil wees? Wat is een van Juffrou se geborge talente?

Watter groot verleentheid in Juffrou se Nommer twee. Griffen Barry het my oor vakuole onderwysloopbaan,kan Juffrou met ons deel? geleer. My ewige stryd met my rekenaar. Wie was Juffrou se gunsteling klas en in watter Waaroor sal ons verbaas wees om uit te vind? jaar was hulle? Ek ry graag agterop ‘n motorfiets! Ek vergeet watter jaar, maar vyftig persent van Watter boodskap wil Juffrou vir Juffrou se die klas het tagtig persent vir hulle Afrikaans registrasieklas van 2017 agterlaat- 10E6? EAT-toets gekry. Gebruik jou talente met die vrugte van die gees, Hoe voel Juffrou noudat Juffrou PV verlaat? hulle weet waaroor ek praat! Die jare was inspirerend. Ek sien nie daarna uit Watter boodskap wil Juffrou vir die leerders om inspirasie te verloor nie. van 2017 verlaat? Jy is gesëen met jou situasie. Versprei die seën! written by | KAYLEIGH ROUX photographs by | JIN KIM designed by | PAIGE BOWEN

â&#x20AC;¦ and S C E N E

photographs by | LIAM DAVIES

J ou t y d i s j ou t yd... Tyd is 'n vreemde ding en as mens jou tydsberekening nie perfek regkry nie, kan jy die dramatiese spanning in enige situasie hopeloos te vêr uitstel en dan is die moment verby en niemand kan 'n katarsis bereik nie. DIE D R A M A ! Tydsberekening was nog nooit my beste kwaliteit nie - klasse was altyd te kort, pouses was nooit lank genoeg nie en tot en met verlede jaar was my dramaproduksies altyd hopeloos te uitgerek. Ek glo dis omdat ek alles in oorvloed wil doen en te bang is ek mis 'n geleentheid om iets te sê wat dalk 'n verskil kan maak. Juffrou Pienaar het my met haar ferm less is more oortuiging gehelp om net genoeg te sê op die verhoog.

En hier het ek nie net vriende gemaak nie, maar sielsgenote ontmoet en ek het die belangrikste les in my lewe geleer wat my leuse vir ewig sal wees: Vat die slegte VOL in die gesig, huil en gil en skree en wroeg en swoeg en werk daardeur sodat jy kan aangaan en die goeie soveel meer kan geniet. So aan julle, die hart van Parel Vallei, die mense wat so ‘n groot impak op my lewe gehad het, DANKIE. Dankie dat ek vir sewe en ’n half jaar lank hier my eie planeet kon bou en elke dag by die werk kon "speel". Op die gronde en planke en vloere van Parel Vallei lê baie van my bloed, sweet en trane en my voetspore is geplant in hierdie gange. My hart sal altyd bly eggo tussen die bome en in die koue, donker saal.

Ek gaan die lang ure in drama repetisies, my dramaklasse en praktiese so baie mis, veral die kreatiwiteit en toewyding van fantastiese kinders wat betrokke wou wees. Dankie dat julle dit so maklik gemaak het vir my om my passie te kan deel. Ek is so My tyd het gekom. Dit is iets wat bevoorreg om hierdie journey met ek moet aanvaar. Don't be a smartass, nobody julle te kon deel. Onthou altyd, Ek verlaat Parel Vallei, nie omdat maak nie saak wat in jou pad staan likes a smartass. En as jy ek ongelukkig hier is of omdat ek of wat jou pla nie, los dit buite die jammer is, is dit te laat. dink die werk wat ek hier doen, is drama departement se deur en nie goed genoeg nie. Ek verlaat PV gaan in en doen net wat jou juis omdat hierdie hartsplek my gelukkig maak en wat vry en soveel geleenthede gegee het om te groei as mens sorgloos is, dit sal jou perspektief gee om enige iets en 'n loopbaan te ontwikkel. Vandag word ek te kan hanteer. gekonfronteer met die grootste dosis bittersoet wat Ek gaan julle kids VREK baie mis. ek nog ooit beleef het. Hoewel ek my wil dood huil omdat ek so hartseer is om totsiens te sê vir almal en alles hier, is ek tog gelukkig dat ek met 'n gevoel van Ek het regtig nie gedink ek gaan twee maal deur deernis, respek en liefde kan gaan. hoërskool moet gaan om uiteindelik as volwaardige Maar gun my tog een laaste keer om in oorvloed, te veel te sê, want ek is regtig bang ek verlaat die pragtige gronde van Parel Vallei sonder om genoeg te sê.

”

Van die eerste dag wat ek hier ingestap het, het ek tuis gevoel en het ek geweet ek gaan myself hier kan vind. En daarvoor liewe Parel Vallei, is ek ongelooflik dankbaar.

volwassene bestempel te kan word nie, maar dit het 'n baie spesiale skool gevat om my te help om die lewe in volle glorie te wil aandurf. En hier is dit nou, my tyd om te gaan.

Parel Vallei het my geleer om vreesloos te wees, dat daar niks in die hele universe is wat ek nie kan doen nie en dat daar engele om ons is om te help wanneer ons struikel en nie ons bene kan gebruik nie. (behalwe as jy regtig jou rug "breek", dan is Juffrou Pienaar die engel én die bene) Ek is geleer om te "swem, sussie, SWEM!” wanneer ek aan die diepste kant van die lewe ingegooi is en om altyd die mooi te sien in plaas van die lelik wat so gereeld 'n mens se aandag probeer aftrek. Hier het ek geleer om met mense te werk eerder as om met mense te werk.

Parel Vallei: fluit-fluit....my storie is uit. and...."cut" The end. finn. Goodbye & goodluck.

MY TIME at

PAREL VALLEI

photographs by | Liam Davies designed by | Chanel Bowen

thank you to everyone... I must admit that before starting at PV I didn’t know much about the school. After my wife and I finished teaching in South Korea in 2014, we moved to Strand and I dropped my CV at various schools. Mr Gouws phoned me and asked if I would be available to be a substitute teacher for the 2nd term in the place of Mrs Marais who was going on maternity leave. A week after I started at PV Mr Schenck took over as headmaster. At the end of the term I was lucky enough to be offered a full time job at PV. I was over the moon with this offer because I was excited about the potential I saw at this school. I felt that this school offered so much to the learners in so many different areas and I wanted to be a part of it. Little did I know that this place would have an everlasting impression on me. There are loads of great memories that I’ve built at PV. From winning interschools every year since I started at PV to awesome sport tours to George, Namibia and Pearson. Coaching sport is a great passion of mine and after a tough first season coaching the 1st team rugby in 2015, the following season was one that really stood out for me. The 2016 season was so special and I have some great memories from that year. I also had some amazing and fun times with the staff and one that I will never forget was an awesome men’s weekend that Mr Schenck organised for all the male staff to a farm in Laingsburg. Mr Schenck treated us to a weekend away shooting at various targets

with many different types of guns. From clay pigeon shooting with shotguns to target practice with different rifles. We had so much fun and I am so grateful for that experience. What I will miss the most are the people of this school, because it’s them who make this place so special. I will miss the learners! From the kids that were in my Geography and LO classes to the players that I’ve coached. I will miss the staff tremendously. I will miss the kindness and caring of all the tannies on the staff. I will miss going to the sports office and the meaningful conversations with Mrs Kets and Mr Pienaar. I will miss the banter with Ms Buchan (Uys) and Ms Murray. I will miss the Springbok performance analysis with Mr Cloete and the other male staff around the coffee table. I will miss checking the surf forecasts with Mr Combe and the planning of our next mission or surf trip. I will miss the mentoring and great sense of humour of Mr Traut in the Geography department. These are just to mention a few things that I love about PV. One thing that’s for sure, I will miss and always remember this special place called Parel Vallei. Thank you to everyone and cheers for now…

...cheers for now.

hasta la vista

HEYNS After 10 and a half years of dedicated teaching and laughs, it is with saddened hearts that we bid farewell to our favourite maths literature teacher, Mrs Heyns.

We know Mrs Heyns as a maths Literature teacher, but what few people know is that there was a time where she taught Natural Sciences too! When asked of her fondest memory while at Parel Vallei, she reveals that all of her memories were good, and still chuckles at “some of Teachers who love the mischief that the teaching teach students learners got up to”, but to love learning... refuses to divulge as not to give anyone any ideas…

She leaves us for the warmer temperatures of Coff Harbour, a town in New South Wales, Australia, following a brilliant job offer that her husband received. Mrs Heyns is a firm believer that a change is as good as a holiday and both her and her husband felt it was time for a new adventure. They hope that this change will bring new opportunities for their family, but don’t worry, she plans to continue her teaching career and has already begun job-hunting—so hold thumbs!

The message she would like to leave with the learners of PV is to use all the opportunities that this amazing school has to offer. “Cherish what you have. There is only one you, be true to yourself and always strive to be the best you you can be!”

written by | NINA ANDRO photographs by | LIAM DAVIES designed by | CHANEL BOWEN

MNR.ROUSSEAU ons harte is in rou...

Waarna toe is meneer op pad en hoekom? Aangesien ek ‘n MSc Landbou graad (gespesialiseer in Akwakultuur) het, wou ek nog altyd in die akwakultuur industrie werk, maar ongelukkig is sulke werk baie skaars in Suid-Afrika. Toe gebeur die unexpected… ek ontvang ‘n oproep van ‘n plaasbestuurder van ‘n perlemoenplaas in Gansbaai en bied vir my ‘n pos aan as ‘n Hatchery Manager. Nou wat is ‘n Hatchery Manager? Dit is iemand wat met die groot diere gaan werk (“ouers” van die plaas) en kleintjies produseer. So ek en my gesin gaan gedurende die Desembervakansie Franskraal toe trek! Wat is meneer se toekomsplanne? My onmiddellike planne is om ‘n sukses te maak van my nuwe werk. Die groeigeleenthede in die besigheid is ongelooflik goed, so ek wil graag myself bewys sodat ek kan opbeweeg (bevorder word) in die besigheid. Meneer het eintlik ‘n meestersgraad in Agriwetenskappe. Wat het meneer daarin laat belangstel?

Hulle is meer volwasse en respekteer die onderwysers meer. Wat is meneer se stokperdjies? Op die oomlik is my stokperdjie om my eie twee kinders groot te maak. Hulle is 3 en half en 2 jaar oud, so daar is regtig nie tyd vir stokperdjies op die oomblik nie. Wat is meneer se lewensleuse? Almal kom een of ander tyd in hul lewe by ‘n kruispad en dan moet daar keuses gemaak word. Op daardie oomblik wanneer jy ‘n oordeelkundige besluit maak, is dit wel die REGTE keuse. Jy mag dalk oor ‘n ruk agter kom dat dit wel nie die beste keuse was nie. Maar dit is baie belangrik om NOOIT spyt te wees oor jou keuse nie, want als gebeur met ‘n doel. Die Here het ‘n plan gehad met jou en Hy ken die pad vorentoe. En as jy val, staan op en probeer weer. Wie is meneer se rolmodel? Robert Mugabe. Ons altwee weet wanneer om te gaan… wanneer jy jou hoogtepunte bereik het.

Ek het groot geword op ‘n plaas. Ek is mal oor Wat is meneer se raad aan die leerders van Parel Vallei? diere en die buitelewe. Just enjoy life en werk hard. Die Wat was meneer se gunsteling ervaring by grootmenslewe is baie moeiliker as wat dit PV? lyk. Moenie eendag spyt wees omdat jy nie Daar is baie. Die Fisiese Wetenskappe hard genoeg geleer het op skool nie. Julle is department is soos my gesin binne die PVin ‘n ongelooflike great skool en dit is ‘n familie. Ons het ongelooflik lekker voorreg om hier te wees, so gryp elke saamgewerk. geleentheid aan met altwee hande. En Watse graad het meneer gevind was die laastens, moenie te veel Strontium praat nie, aakligste om voor klas te gee? stick to the basics en antwoord wat van jou gevra word. En vir die wat nie weet nie, Sonder enige twyfel die Graad 9’s. Strontium is element 38 op die Periodieke En watter graad was die beste? Tabel. My senior klasse - die graad 10’s en 11’s. written by | AMELIA VAN HEERDEN photographs by | LIAM DAVIES designed by | CHANEL BOWEN

FAREWELL MRS HANDLEY

Th e o n ly rea so n w e kn ew wh e re a n y o f m y cl a sse s we re in Gra d e 8 .

We were heart-broken earlier this term to discover that our beloved secretary at the Learners’ Affairs office, Mrs. Handley, is leaving Parel Vallei. Blue Thread had a chat with this lovely lady to find out more. “I love my job – I walk in every morning with no idea what’s going to happen today!” After 24 years of service, Mrs Handley is officially retiring. She remembers how the school consisted of just 380 pupils when she began her career at PV as General Secretary. She went on to become Mr. Gouws’ personal secretary, and was officially asked to head-up the L.A. office when it was created in 2007.

Mrs. Handley has a daughter who lives in Durbanville, and a son who lives in Taiwan. “I have two granddaughters, and I’ll be moving to Durbanville soon to help out my daughter there. She is working and studying part-time, so she needs the extra help!”

Although excited for the future, Mrs Handley is very sad to be leaving Parel Vallei. “PV is really like a family. You leave home in the morning and don’t go to work, but to your second home and other family. There’s no place like it.” When asked what she’s going to miss most about PV, she replies, “Without a doubt the “I didn’t really enjoy high school. I wanted pupils. I love helping them out, I suppose to be a hairdresser for a long time, but my it’s a motherly thing. It’s a good feeling father wanted me to be a teacher – I think when they come to me for help and they’re always so sweet and polite.” it broke his heart when I didn’t go to teachers’ training college!” Mrs. Handley Something very few pupils know about grew up in Pietermaritzburg, and lived her? “My favourite series is NCIS, and I briefly in Windhoek after getting married. love orange sponge cake.” She is also The family moved back to terrified of heights. Pietermaritzburg, and when her daughter Blue Thread speaks on behalf of all the was in Grade 11 she was interested in pupils of Parel Vallei when we say we are going to school in the Western Cape. “We going to miss you bitterly, Mrs. Handley, came down with her to suss it out and we and we wish you all of the best for loved the Cape so much that a few years everything to come. Parel Vallei will not be later we all moved down, lock, stock and the same without you. barrel!” She has lived in Somerset West ever since.

You ’v e let us go hom e fo r y ear s, now it’s ou r tu rn to le t you go.

written by | NINA ANDRO photographs by | DANI PEPLER designed by | OLIVIA IMPSON

modelled by | JORDAN BAUMGART

RUGBY down under

During the June holidays, four of our star rugby players toured to Australia. Blue Thread gets the inside scoop on what went on down under...

Which cities did you go to while on tour in Australia?

Was the price difference extensive and how was the quality of the food?

We stayed in Queensland on the Gold Coast in the Paradise Beach Hotel. We stayed mostly in Queensland for our activities but we briefly visited Brisbane on our arrival and departure from Australia.

The food was amazing and good quality and the shopping was quite different to your average South African mall with so many new and innovative stores with a lot more than you can find in South Africa. I found that going to buy food and drinks with my own money was really expensive but it was worth every dollar I spent.

How many matches did you play and what were the scores? We played 3 matches. We won 1 and lost 2, one of these teams being ranked 1st in the whole of Brisbane. We played the Calorada rugby club where we lost 5-0, then Hellensville Boars where we won 25-17 and the last game was Bond University (Rooster Club) where we lost 28-23 Who went on the tour? Nicolas Goble, Jordan Haupt, Servino Pereira and Ethan Borcherds all went from PV.

How many boys went in total? Almost 90 boys attended the tour for rugby alone. What did you learn from the tour? I learnt that boys from all over the country can come together and really develop good friendships and create long lasting memories. written by | LIAM DAVIES photographs by | LIAM DAVIES designed by | CHANEL BOWEN

I N G E op ys

written | RENÃ&#x2030;E VAN ZYL photographs by | KAYLA MCCULLEY designed by | HELENE VILJOEN

Die wit wêreld is spieëlglad. Die koue slaan op – miswolke. Uit die mis kom daar ’n slanke figuur. Sy gly en draai en skaats en spring – lewe – teen die koue ys.

Sy was elf jaar oud. n Vriendin het vir haar briefies geskryf in die klas en haar vertel dat sy ysskaats as ’n sport doen. Die gogga het gebyt en Inge het haar ouers oortuig om haar vir ’n les te neem. Van’n opgewonde dogtertjie wat haar eerste nuwe skaatse die heeltyd in die huis aanpas tot ’n lid van die Junior South African Synchronized Skating Team. Ses jaar later en Inge Froehlich staan nog steeds elke naweek slaaptyd en tyd met vriende af aan die sport. As elfjarige het sy aangesluit by die Junior Blades Ice Skating Club en hard gewerk om elke graad te voltooi. Haar eerste kompetisie was Klub Kampioenskappe en daarna groter kompetisies soos die Gauteng- en KaapseInterprovinsiale Kompetisies. Na haar tweede les is sy deur haar ouers verras met haar eerste paar skaatse. ‘n Paar lesse later en Inge begin haar eerste spronge doen. Vandag is Inge ’n lid van die Junior South African Synchronized Skating Team. Sy oefen 13,5 ure per week waarvan baie in die vroeë oggendure geskied. Die span moet ook tyd in die gym spandeer om soepelheid, been- en armsterkte en maagspiere vir goeie balans te ontwikkel. Sy geniet egter elke oomblik daarvan en leef haarself te volle uit op die ys. Die beste deel van die sport is die gevoel van grasie en genot as jy oor die ys gly en om weer op te staan nadat jy geval het. Sy het ook mense van ander kulture en geloofsoortuigings leer ken en baie waardevolle lesse geleer.

Inge sê: “Ek het geleer dat met fokus, harde werk en deursettingsvermoё kan jy ver in die lewe kom. Ek het geleer hoe om in myself te glo en ek het ook myself leer ken. Ek kan nie my lewe voorstel sonder ysskaats nie – en ek wil ook nie. Ek kan nie my voorstel om laat te slaap op ’n Saterdagoggend nie; ek sal nie weet wat om met myself te doen nie.” Inge sê dat sy skoolwerk en ysskaats balanseer deur skoolwerk eerste te stel en volgens juf. Steenkamp se spreekwyse te lewe: “Wie nie beplan nie, sal nie wen nie.” Sy wil graag SA by die Junior Wêreld Kampioenskappe in 2018 in Zagreb, Kroasië gaan verteenwoordig. As student wil sy aansluit by die Senior SA Synchronized Skating Team en na die Senior Kampioenskappe gaan. Sy wil egter nie ’n loopbaan van die sport maak nie, maar dit sal altyd ’n plekkie in haar hart hê. ’n Beroep as ysskaatser is onrealisties in Suid-Afrika. Die land finansier nie nasionale spanne nie en daar is slegs drie skaatsbane in Suid-Afrika. Dit beperk die oefentyd van ons skaatsers. Hulle kan dus nie met spanne van byvoorbeeld Kanada of Rusland kompeteer nie. Sy sal egter enige iemand aanmoedig om die sport te beoefen. Die genot maak al die harde werk, seer valle en vroeë oggende die moeite werd. Die PV-familie hou al sy duime vas om vir Inge volgende jaar in Kroasië te sien. Tot dan laat ons dit op ys...

CR A D O C K

ZOË WILLIAMS How was your experience in Cradock? Kulluk was definitely my favourite tour this year, it was much better than last year. I also got initiated but it was all good fun. What items did you take part in? In the 100 meter and 200 meter sprints How did you do at the meeting? I came first in the 100m with a new personal best of 12:37 and I came second in the 200m sprints with a time of 26:36! What was the highlight of your tour? My highlight of tour was definitely the meeting itself, I really didn’t expect to reach my personal best so early in the season, I am very happy with my time and I am ready for the busy season ahead!

ETHAN ENGELBRECHT How was your experience in Cradock? I personally enjoyed it so much. It was my first time going and I want to ask Mrs Kets if it would be possible for me to go next year, if I make the cut. What was your highlight of the tour? Meeting wonderful people, even people from our own school. It felt like we were family. From when we left to when we got back, it was relaxing and the vibe was a party vibe all the way. Probably the best athletics tour I have ever been on at Parel Vallei. And what items did you take part in? I took part in the hundred meter dash and triple jump, it didn’t go really well but I am happy with my results. I came second in triple jump and 1700 meter dash with a time of 11,44 and triple jump distance was 12,47 m. written by | MIEKE DE WET photographs by | MIEKE DE WET designed by | KAYLEIGH ROUX

What was the highlight of the tour ? I really enjoyed the venue where we stayed. The fact that we were not guarded the whole time was cool. We met new people that got South African colours and Western Province colours for events that they did.

MEGAN BREITENBACH How was your experience in Cradock? My experience was very good, even though this is my third year on the Cradock tour Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learnt a lot of things about competing. What items did you take part in? I took part in hammer throw and discus. How did you do at the meeting? I came 6th in discus and 7th in hammer throw. What was your highlight of the tour? My highlight of the tour was meeting new people but also learning the amount of training I need to do to actually be fully prepared for an athletics meet.

KRISTY MEDERER How was your experience in Cradock? It was really good. It was nice to meet new people and just chill with the people you already know. All the vibes were nice and we all had a good time. What items did you take part in? I took part in 200 m sprints and high jump. How did you do at the meeting? It went okay, it was still very early in the season. I came fourth in the high jump and got the season best and unfortunately had a fall start on the 200 meter sprint. What was your highlight of the tour? The highlight for me was just being around my friends and chilling with each other. It was nice to meet people and become closer with those you already know.

ANNE-MARIE SCHOEMAN How was your experience in Cradock? It was amazing, I really enjoyed it there, and I made so many memories. What items did you take part in? In the 100 meter sprint and 400 meter hurdles How did you do at the meeting? I came third (bronze medal) in the 400 meter hurdles. What was the highlight of the tour? Initiating the juniors on the last night, seeing everyone I met last year at Cradock, and taking part in my events was also a highlight.

SKYE BOSHOFF How was your experience in Cradock? I absolutely loved Cradock, it was my favourite athletics event of the year. This year was my last year to go on this tour (after 3 years) and I really made the best of it. I'm truly going to miss it! In what items did you take part? I took part in hammer throw and shot put. How did you do at the meeting? My performance was fantastic. I came first in shot put with a new record, previously 12,13m and now broken to 12,30m. In hammer throw I threw a new personal best of 53,16m. I was ecstatic with the result. Even though not everyone had the result they had hoped for, we still performed well as a PV team and ended 13th out of the 83 teams that participated. What was your highlight of the tour? Firstly, I had the privilege of seeing one of my friends that I only ever have the chance to see once a year because she lives in Cradock. Secondly, I captained the PV team and it was a huge honour. Thirdly, I met a whole new group of friends that went on tour with me both in PV and from other schools. And of course my athletics results was the cherry on top.

STARSTUDDED

In the October holidays, while you and I were sleeping in till 12 and binge-watching series, the new faces of PV’s first team Cricket were loaded in a mini bus, on their way to Mossel Bay to participate in the KFC Punt Krieketfees, hosted by Hoërskool Punt. The team of twelve departed and arrived at Hoërskool Punt’s Boarding House. They then spent the next three days weathering the elements for hours on end, battling it out against other schools. They first took on DF Malan, and unfortunately lost by 35 runs, but after a day off, they returned guns blazing to take down Belville with 17 runs, and then continued to end off strong by claiming victory over Tygerberg, winning by 8 runs. The tour wasn't all work though, from food at the beach to sitting at Spur with all of the other cricket teams, the boys made time for socialising too. Jan Rademan succeeded in snatching the title of batsman of the tournament, scoring 53 runs over the three days, with Jannes De Necker in turn earning the title of bowler of the tournament, with 9 wickets. The boys were fortunate enough to receive sponsored gear from Titan Marketing and Artem Graphic Design, and now boast new warm-up shirts, match shirts, pants and team hats with the player’s names on - the hats courtesy of player Matthew Dickson. We are immensely proud of how our boys represented Parel Vallei, and cannot wait to see what the season ahead brings them. written by | LUCIA NILAND photographs by | CONNOR PERFETT designed by | LUCIA NILAND

the

EQUESTRIANS of Parel Vallei

Very few people know how much hard work and dedication goes into the sport of equstrianism. BLUE THREAD gets a closer look as to what goes on behind the scenes at the stables. written by | NINA ANDRO photographs by | CARO BOTHA designed by | NINA ANDRO

NICKE WILKEN

“Horses are the reason I haven’t gone insane with all of my school work yet!” Nicke started riding nine years ago at Journey’s End stables. She started competing last year on ‘Rusty’ and received her Western Province colours at SANESA. Nicke now owns 5-year old horse named ‘Tin-Tin’. “Horse riding isn’t just about getting on the horse and riding,” says Nicke. “It’s about building a bond with an amazing animal and gaining a best friend that would run to the moon and back for you.” For her, the most fulfilling reward is training her young horse and seeing all her effort pay off. “For me, horse

riding is not so much about competing, but about breaking new boundaries with your horse.” Riding can be frustrating at times, since you’re working in a team with an 800-kg animal with a mind and emotions of its own. “It’s sometimes hard to not lose my temper when I can’t do something correctly or if my horse isn’t listening to me, but like my sister always tells me: ‘You are 2% further than you were at the beginning.’”

FEMKE DE JONGE

“No, the horse doesn’t do all the work and you don’t just sit there! And in case you were wondering, the horses are not blindfolded in the paddock, they just wear a fly mask to keep the flies away from their eyes...” Femke started riding when she lived in Holland, and has continued to do so for the past 12 years. When she moved to South Africa in 2009 she began competing locally, and last year competed in SANESA (South African National Equestrian School Association). This association allows multiple schools from around the country to compete against each other, similar to interschools. Femke was then selected for WP and competed at regionals, where she was selected to compete at a National level. Femke is currently leasing and competing on the horse “Robin Hood”. (Leasing can

be compared to renting a horse – you are not its owner, but you pay to ride the horse for a stipulated amount of time per month.) The reason why she enjoys riding so much is because it never gets boring. “Your horse can be in a different mood every day, much like people. The one day he could be full of energy and go on a bucking spree, the next day he could be lazy or even grumpy! Riding is sometimes very challenging, but I keep at it because it’s extremely rewarding when you do something right. Horses have an amazing calming effect when you’re nervous, and they’re always there for you when you’re feeling down.”

KAI VAN DER RIET

“Horse riding is not only a sport, it’s a form of art.” Kai has been riding since 2010, and owns an 11-year old, black pony named “Mambo”. She also leases an ex-racehorse named “Pipey”. Her earliest memory of horses is from her fourth birthday – “My mother hired a dapplegrey pony named “Milkshake”, and that’s when my love of horses began.”

position, whilst concentrating on what your horse is doing and your surroundings, be it your instructor, a jump, horses around you and things that can potentially spook your horse.”

According to her, horse riding deserves more respect and recognition due to the tremendous amount of behind-the-scenes work that goes into the sport. “We train really hard to receive points for Parel Vallei (in SANESA competitions), For Kai, the hardest part of riding is concentrating on many different things at once. and thus it would be lovely if we could receive some more recognition.” “Horse riding requires you to concentrate on yourself - what you are doing and every aspect of your

FIETSRY is vryheid

written by | NATASHA SCHMIDT photographs by | CONNOR PERFETT designed by | HELENE VILJOEN

Fietsry is nog iets wat by die Hoërskool Parel Vallei teen ‘n vinnige tempo groei en uitbrei. Te danke aan twee leerders wat ‘n paar jaar terug ‘n fietsryklub by Parel Vallei wou stig en juffrou Dalton wat dit toe saam met hul georganiseer het, het ons ‘n nou gemeenskap van toegewyde fietsryers wat mekaar heelpad ondersteun en ‘n eerstespan wat al vele male na die landswye Magaliesburg mtb-Finale genooi is. Om ‘n beter idee te kry van hoe fietsry by Parel Vallei werk, het ek aan ons eerstespan ‘n paar vrae gestel.

Eerste het ek met Michard Meets gepraat wat 17 jaar oud is en net aan Parel Vallei se fietsry deelneem, aangesien hy tuisonderrig ontvang. Hy het hierdie jaar as gevolg van beserings aan minder kompetisies deelgeneem as wat hy wou, maar het steeds daarin geslaag om ‘n gemiddelde posisie van 5de plek in die SA XCO-resies te kry, asook die algehele tweede plek by die Spur-liga resies te verwerf. Daarby help hy ook nog met afrigting in die Daisy Way afrigting-sisteem en by die Primêre Skool Beaumont. Michard is baie passievol oor fietry en sal dit graag na skool professioneel wil doen as dit is wat God vir sy lewe beplan het. Ben te Water wat in graad nege is, is ook baie passievol oor fietsry en sal definitief na skool daarmee voortgaan en dit professioneel probeer doen. Soos met alles, moet ‘n mens sekere dinge in die lewe opgee as jy die beste wil wees; daarom het hy nie altyd genoeg tyd om saam met sy vriende of aan sy studies te spandeer nie. Hy geniet dit om te oefen en homself te verbeter, daarom kan ‘n mens verstaan hoe hy algehele 2de plek by die WP Spur Schools MTB-liga verwerf het. Hy het ook 15de by die Magaliesburg MTB-finale gekom.

Jana Barry is in matriek en is een van twee meisies in ons eerstespan. Omdat dit haar laaste jaar van hoërskool is, kon sy nie so baie oefen en deelneem aan resies soos wat sy wou nie. Sy het hierdie jaar aan die WP XCO-reeks deelgeneem, maar as gevolg van ‘n lelike val het sy 4de gekom, kon sy nie die res van die resies voltooi nie en kon sy vir 4 maande lank nie fietsry nie! Sy het ook deelgeneem aan die Magaliesburg Finale, waarin sy 15de gekom het, en sy het eerste gekom in die Bestmed-resies in Coetzenburg wat meer op tegniese vaardighede gefokus het. Dit waarin sy die beste doen, is die tegniese vaardighede en toertjies, en dit is wat haar haar as ‘n fietsryer uniek maak.

Carla Steyn wat in graad 11 is, het ‘n baie besige jaar agter die rug: sy is die ‘WP Road and Time Trial-kampioen vir 2017 in die Junior Vrouekategorie; sy het vierde gekom in die SApadkampioenskap in die Junior Vroue-kategorie; sy is derde in die Junior Vroue-kategorie by die WP MTB-kampioenskap en tweede in die WP Spur Schools MTB-liga vir die Junior Vroue-kategorie. Haar plan is om eers na skool te studeer en dan als in haar vermoë te doen om fietsry professioneel te beoefen. Sy sê dat dit wel moeilik is om ‘n sosiale Toe het ek met Callum Forrester in graad 11 lewe en studies te balanseer, maar omdat fietsry gepraat. Hy het ‘n liefde vir fietsry en die vryheid wat daarmee gepaard gaan. Hy hou veral van die haar help om te fokus en ‘n mens selfs saam met jou vriende kan gaan fietsry, is dit nie vir haar so ‘n gevoel van adrenalien wanneer hy gevaarlike toertjies doen. Hy het nog nie enige bene gebreek groot probleem dat dit so baie van haar tyd verg nie – tot sy eie verbasing – al het hy al ‘n paar keer nie. Iets wat sy voor ‘n resies doen is om een van lelik geval. Iets wat hy altyd voor ‘n resies doen, is haar gunsteling gedeeltes uit die Bybel te lees wat dan vir haar nuwe krag gee. om te kyk of als omtrent sy fiets reg is. Joshua Burger wat in graad nege is, het onlangs die skool se naam hoog gehou toe hy eerste by die WP Spur School-liga gekom het en tweede by die nasonale resies in Magaliesburg. Hy beplan egter nie om eendag professioneel fiets te ry nie, maar sal dit steeds as ‘n stokperdjie doen en aan kompetisies deelneem. Hy het al sy sleutelbeen gebreek en ‘n paar erge littetekens opgedoen. Vir hom is fietsry ‘n manier om te vergeet van skool en alles wat hom pla.

Ryan Kellerman in graad 10 sê dat hy soms baie sukkel om fietsry saam met alles ander te balanseer. Hy het ‘n woeste fietsryseisoen gehad. Hy het die jaar begin met ‘n derde plek by die Ashburton Nasionale reeks. Daarna het hy by ‘n WP-resies 8ste gekom en by ‘n SA resies 11de. Toe kom die Spur-liga resies waar hy ‘n algehele tweede plek verwerf het en deurgedring het na die Magaliesburg MTB-finale.

Daar het hy twee asma-aanvalle gehad en steeds sesde gekom. Oor hoekom hy so baie van fietsry hou, sê hy: “‘n Mens sien die mooiste uitsigte en leer aan die einde dat niks jou kan stop nie. Dit is soms ‘n kuns op sy eie. Jy gaan na ‘n baan toe, jy kies jou geheimsinnige roete om die vinnigste te wees en werk vir jou ‘n strategie uit.”

rustiger as gewoonlik gevat. Hy het steeds algehele 2de plek by die Spur Schools-liga verwerf. By die WP-Finale het hy derde gekom en in sy mees onlangse resies het hy ook derde gekom. Vir hom is daar geen ander sport by die skool waarin jy soveel vryheid het om jou eie ding te doen, jou eie roetes te volg en dit net te geniet nie. Hy beplan om sy laaste jaar in die hoërskool baie hard te werk en sy alles te gee, Dian Kotze het vanjaar deelgeneem aan verskeie resies, byvoorbeeld die World Junior- want hy sal graag na skool professioneel wil reeks, WP kampioenskap, die WP- en SA-Beker fietsry. en hy het vir die Wes-Kaap by die Nasionale Josh de Freitas is al vanaf graad agt in die Interskole Finaal verteenwoordig. Wat fietsry eerste eerstespan en is nou ‘n matrikulant. Hy sy passie maak, is dat jy vryheid het wanneer jy het dus al aan vele resies regoor Suid-Afrika fietsry. Hy sê dat daar baie plekke is wat te ver deelgeneem, soos toe hy die kampioen van die SA XCO-reeks in 2013 geword het. Hy het al is om heen te stap en wat ‘n mens nie met ‘n twee SA XCO-resies gewen en het ook baie motor kan bereik nie. Dan is jou fiets mos ander prestasies behaal. Hy sê egter dat hy nie perfek. Hy oorweeg dit nie sterk om na skool in SA professioneel sal fietsry nie, maar hy sal professioneel te probeer fietsry nie, al wil hy dit moontlik in Europa aanpak omdat fietsry graag, omdat die senior ouderdomsgroep baie nog nie so groot in Suid-Afrika is nie. Maar vir nou, gaan hy ná skool net daarop fokus om meer mense insluit. En vir hom beïnvloed homself fisies en verstandelik te verbeter. Hy fietsry nie soseer sy studies nie, maar omdat sien ook hoe die fietsry gemeenskap by PV resies gewoonlik op ‘n Saterdag of Sondag geleidelik groei en sê dat dit is omdat mense plaasvind, is dit moeilik om tyd saam met ook ‘n ander tipe vryheid ervaar wanneer hul vriende te spandeer. fietsry. Ico Coetzee is ‘n graad 11-leerder in Parel Vallei en hy het dit hierdie jaar ‘n bietjie

but these are the days we dream about when the sunlight paints us G O L D.

MUSIC EVENING The music evening held on 16 October brought together all the musicians of Grade 12 to perform in front of examiners, parents and friends. This performance showed off the incredible talent these matrics have. They have spent the last five years perfecting and polishing their skills. The staff in the Music Department have encouraged and supported them, and it all finally came together in this evening as they gave it their all.

Bei Mir). Various Jazz items were performed by accomplished guitarists Matthew Marais and Luke Verrezen and drummer, Salvino Pereira. They accompanied saxophonists Quinton Campbell, Cobus Theunissen, Charl van Heyningen and Rolf Saayman and pianist Annelie Smit. Hugo Uys, Mia van der Merwe and Henko Uys performed 'I put a spell on you'. Hayoung Yang and Salvino Pereira performed a duet on djembe drums.

The evening's repertoire consisted of a wide range of music, from Classical to Jazz, and if you could not make it on October 16th you certainly missed out. Jenna Beavon and Elena Mitchell performed 'What is this Feelingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; , a dramatised duet from Wicked, a show on Broadway. Classical pieces were performed by Natasha Nieto-Lawrence on piano ('Nacht am Seestrand'), and Zelmarie Barnard on voice (Bach's Bist du

A huge thanks to the Music Department for their hard work and dedication to the music learners. They bring a fun atmosphere to the music classes and inspire us with music every day. This music evening was fantastic and everyone's hard work certainly paid off. The matriculants who performed on stage are an inspiration to other learners planning to follow the musical path.

“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent”

written by | ALYSSA HARRISON photographs by | HENKO UYS designed by | KAYLEIGH ROUX

K O P S K O O T

S K I E T vir d ie S T E R R E Ligte, kamera, aksie! Dit is tjoepstil in die teater en so donker jy kan nie eers jou eie hand voor jou sien nie. Dan gebeur dit – die ligte gaan aan, die gehoor begin vroetel in afwagting en al die oë is vasgenael op die verhoog.

Die regie en optrede was uitsonderlik. Alhoewel die toneel ŉ ernstige tema gehad het, was dit duidelik dat die akteurs in hul element was en het die hele toneel hul eie gemaak. Dit was verby interessant en definitief ‘n tranetrekker - vir my ten minste. Jy kon nie weg kyk nie; wat gaan volgende gesê word, gedoen word? Die gehoor is pens en pootjies in die storielyn ingesluk en dít is die skoonheid daarvan. Dit is maklik om te sê dat 'n toneelstuk uitstekend was, maar dit is 'n perd van ‘n ander kleur wanneer dit nasionale erkenning kry. Kopskoot was een van meer as ‘n 100 toneelstukke wat deelgeneem het aan die ATKV-Tienertoneelkompetisie. Die kompetisie het uitgedun tot die top 15 toneelstukke, waarvan Kopskoot een was. In die finale rondte het Kopskoot die Top 5 bereik en het uiteindelik (drumroll, asseblief)... 4de plek behaal! Kopskoot sou dit nie so ver kon maak as dit nie was vir die ongelooflike mense wat daarby betrokke was nie: Juffrou Annelie van Zyl, skrywer en regisseur Stefan le Roux, akteur Xander Venter, akteur Wicus Louw, assistent-verhoogbestuurder Zandelie Trollip, verhoogbestuurder Steven Cohoe, klank-operateur Justin Burger, beligtingsoperateur Franshua Kennis, multi-media operateur Kopskoot het die toekenning vir Beste Verhoogbestuur ontvang en ons akteurs, Stefan Le Roux en Xander Venter, is ook benoem vir Beste Akteurs in ŉ Hoofrol. Parel Vallei se bors swel van trots. Geluk aan Kopskoot! written by | AMELIA VAN HEERDEN

A FILM REVIEW

written by | CHANEL BOWEN photographs by | CHANEL BOWEN designed by | CHANEL BOWEN

The first film review was held to celebrate PV’s film club’s efforts to create five short films and to commemorate the largest amount of films they have produced in a year. The films were all based on the same topic: Ubuntu; a word you are no doubt familiar with. It means “humanity to others”; “I am who I am because of who we all are”. The five films presented at the evening covered the topic from different angles and the film review was the result of each filmmaker’s interpretation of Ubuntu. The first film, Kai’s Acceptance, was an often comedic, minute-long silent film. It briefly touched on the story of an Irish man and an American overcoming irrational resentment to form a firm friendship. Leaving the audience in giggles, Acceptance was a light-hearted start to the review.

change them; the power lies within us. The trio won best ensemble, for embracing the spirit of Ubuntu throughout the creation process. A stark difference but not any less enjoyable was the music video produced by Quinton and Matthew. The original song, One earth; one family; one heart, gave Ubuntu a musical interpretation, and there’s no denying this film was the perfect winner for best score. Craig Weber once again pulled out all the stops with Please Help Me, an animated film starring a girl trapped alone on a ‘planet of perpetual rain’ and ending off with a message to anyone who has felt lost and reached out for someone to lean on: “you have done the hardest thing imaginable… you asked for help.” It was no surprise that Please Help Me won best script, editing, directing and overall film. Craig Weber is certainly an artistic force to be reckoned with.

Robert Damsel’s A Friend in Need was the next short film to grace the screen. It followed the emotional struggle of a girl desperately trying PV’s film club could unfortunately not submit to overcome her loneliness, and is eventually their handmade films to the annual teen art given a hand by a welcoming group of friends. festival due to budget cuts, but the year they This film won best cinematography; a title have spent creating these works of art has not awarded to the best technical camera work. gone to waste. We look forward to seeing The artful shots certainly proved this true. what the future of the film club holds. Classroom, a stunning collaboration by Alice, Tameéka and Erin, ultimately told the audience not to ignore the negative situations in the world, and if they don’t like the words that we use to describe our society, we should

NOODHULP besig om ons lewens te red...

written by | CHERISE KNIGHT photographs by | CARLTON KOK designed by | OLIVIA IMPSON

Ons doen gedurig dom goed soos spring van hoĂŤ plekke af, duik mekaar, abba mekaar, vergeet om ons veters vas te maak en ruk ons name. Dit is tog hoekom ons â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;n span PVsuperheroes het wat ons altyd by sportgeleenthede bystaan! Die noodhulp span, wat juffrou Kruger en juffrou Marais insluit, is ons eie dokters wat vinnig-vinnig help as ons op die sportveld sit en wens ons het liewer die dag by die huis gebly. Hulle maak amper alles beter en doen hulle werk vinnig en deeglik; hulle kan nou nie 'n gebroke hart regmaak nie, maar hulle kan seker maak jy gaan nie met 'n mank been huis toe nie. Ons vlak 3-span is tog net 'n handjievol leerders so enigiemand wat wil aansluit by noodhulp is welkom! Die span is opgelei deur Gordon's Bay Medical Rescue en kom in die week bymekaar om te leer oor simptome, behandelinge en anatomie. Daar is ook praktiese toetse en eksamens. 'n Mens moet 80% kry om te slaag! Om noodhulp te doen, moet jy weet dat hierdie span se werk nie 'n grappie is nie. Jy moet empatie, simpatie, liefde en deernis kan wys, goed wees daarin om te improviseer en jy moet kan kalm bly in situasies waar moeilik is om kop te hou.

Die kursusse vir vlak een en twee duur twee naweke elk en vlak drie duur drie naweke. Die kursus vir vlak drie word net toegelaat vir seniors. Die koste beloop R1180. Die noodhulpkursusse is wel duur, maar jy leer baie daaruit. 'n Mens kan ook daarmee pronk op jou CV en dit sal jou lewe 'n bietjie makliker maak om hierdie basis-kennis te hĂŞ indien jy in 'n mediese rigting wil gaan vir jou toekomstige beroep. Die noodhulpspan behandel beserings vanaf skrape en geswikte enkels tot gebreekte bene en geskeerde spiere. Al is hierdie werk baie moeilik en tydrowend, is dit definitief iets wat baie respek van jou medeleerders afdwing en jou baie sal baat. Wie weet? Dalk red jy eendag iemand se lewe. Indien jy enigsins wil aansluit, gaan praat sommer dadelik met juffrou Kruger!

CLASSICAL EVENING PV’s music department has had more than its fair share of astonishing and welldeserved achievements this year, from outstanding results at Eisteddfods to dazzling performances that left crowds begging for more. But perhaps the night to remember most was the first ever classical concert. The evening started with two performances from the string orchestra, both entertaining and astounding considering the ensemble was only founded at the beginning of this year. The group definitely set the bar high for the rest of the evening to come and were followed by the vocal ensemble. The girls performed ‘Blou’ and ‘Hebe Deine Augen Auf’, two angelic and idyllic song that tugged on many heartstrings. The concert continued with a range of vocal and string performances. The classical musicians flourished in the spotlight, rightly deserving the recognition and applause they received. The chamber choir concluded the evening with two performances, ‘Banquet Fugue’ and ‘Neem My In Beskerming’, both remarkably different pieces but equally enjoyable. The classical musicians of PV earned their night and have most certainly flourished over the year. Next year is bound to bring even more musical achievements and events to PV.

written by | CHANEL BOWEN photographs by | HENKO UYS designed by | CHELSEA PREGNOLATO

HERE

written by | CASSANDRA VELLEMA photographs by | CARO BOTHA designed by | NATASHA SCHMIDT

One of the gems of culture at Parel Vallei is our Spoken Word club. This is something indigenous to PV and offers something different: learners are encouraged to share their original writing material, be it prose, poetry or even rap. Read on for a look inside the club and its background, written by one of its own members, Cassandra Vellema. If you have ever wandered around PV’s hallways, you have probably seen many pin boards proudly presenting PV’s achievements in sports, announcing academic events and the like. But what I’d like to call the “unsung hero” of these boards is the Spoken Wordboard, which prominently displays pieces of prose, poetry and amateur literature. “Where do all these well-crafted pieces come from?” most readers think to themselves as they pass by these pieces. The Spoken Word club gathers to create these pieces to gain helpful criticism from other club members and to enhance their poetic power, all the while in an encouraging environment. These pieces are then posted on the board, ready to be read and enjoyed by those who pass by. Originally called the Shakespeare Club, the Spoken Word club was formed by

Ms O’Connor, an English and Creative Arts teacher at PV. Upon joining in 2016, I was bewildered by how comfortable the environment was during our meetings. Since then, the club has encouraged me to develop my skills as a freelance poet. Alyssa Harrison, a Spoken Word member, prefers literature over poetry. Often, I see her using the writing time in our sessions to work on her stories, which she also uploads online. The club gives her a chance to share her stories with us, and her writing skills are impeccable. There are a variety of avenues to follow when it comes to the club – prose, poetry, even rap; the possibilities and options about what to write about are seemingly endless. In our sessions, we will usually be given a prompt by Ms O’Connor, to get our creative juices flowing.

.W O R D S M I T H S U N I T E The club is not only about writing pieces; it also focuses on the spoken element of the word. We practise projection, pronunciation and pentameter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and, as you can tell, alliteration. We have held a number of break time recitals where we recite our works in front of a small audience. The club also goes on excursions, where we either watch or partake in literary events. This year we attended the English Alive anniversary event, where we performed our works in front of a small audience in Cape Town, the theme of the event being Tomorrow. The Spoken Word Club is all about developing writing and recital skills. Whether you think of yourself as a beginner scribbler or an expert writer, the positive environment and literary opportunities will give you the chance to find you inner voice.

The Spoken Word Club is all about developing writing and recital skills.

the H I K I N G club

The school's Hiking Club had a rather rocky beginning this year. Finding a replacement for knowledgeable Mr Sayer proved rather difficult. The legendary, avid hiker who led and upheld the annual PV Cape Point Hike tradition for many years retired at the end of last year, and left the school's hikers without a guide or organiser. Luckily, the brilliant Miss Nel took charge and the Hiking Club's journey began.

the outdoors and who enjoys or needs some therapeutic walking to try their best to come along on the next hike.” - Eduan

Miss Nel is taking excellent leadership of the club and people can expect many more great hikes hosted by the Hiking Club in future. The goal for next year is to arrange at The Hiking Club had a few mountains to least one hike per term - ranging from hikes overcome. These included finding a bus close to home, up the Helderberg to three driver to transport the hikers, poor weather day hikes quite a distance away. conditions and indemnity form struggles. To summit all up, the Hiking Club is definitely However, they did manage to keep up tradition and organise a hike at Cape Point. one to trail. If you're keen to join these trailThis was highly successful as can be seen by blazers then simply listen to announcements for details on the next hike and sign up! the words of Renée Van Zyl and Eduan Uys, two committee members: “The Cape Point hike was one of the most picturesque hikes that I've ever done. A must do! I'll never forget it.” - Renée “The entire outing was a testament to why I am so happy to be in the hiking club. A truly enriching experience with beautiful sights and fun times with newly-made friends. I encourage anyone with an ounce of love for

written by | ZOË NAUDÉ photographs by | JIN KIM designed by | CHELSEA PREGNOLATO

modelled by | MIA STYEN

styled by | MIA STEYN photographs by | ALICE TORPPA & JIN KIM designed by | ALICE TORPPA & MIA STEYN

summer It’s vibrant orange sunsets that stretch over the horizon for miles; dusty warm pavements that border the beach front; and lush green vegetation that protects against the midday rays, all accompanied by seemingly infinite days when the world is your oyster and freedom is your middle name. It’s soft fabric shorts and pale tops that keep you cool regardless of the weather forecast; bold, outspoken statement pieces that declare your individuality; and a different pair of sunglasses for each day. It’s fashion. It’s freedom.

it’s summer

her smile was filled with an intoxicating mixture of sunshine and honey poetry by | @KODA.KID

laat aande onder 'n see vol sterre, gevolg deur lang dae vol sonblok en soutwater, is die tipe leefstyl waarna ek verlang poetry by | K.W

paint the skies with sunsets and silhouettes sign it off with a stroke of madness poetry by | @KODA.KID

ek is â&#x20AC;&#x2122;n dagdromer wat in die somerson lewe en in sandkastele woon poetry by | K.W

JOIE DE VIVRE Life doesn’t always seem that joyful and can be very stressful. That’s why we need to take care of ourselves. Our whole selves: mind, body and spirit. We all need to take a step back and focus on ourselves sometimes. Here are some tips on how to do just that.

written by | NATASHA SCHMIDT photographs by | KAYLA MCCULLY designed by | NATASHA SCHMIDT

mind

body

spirit

Sometimes simply listening to your favourite song at full volume and shamelessly dancing like a crazy person can give you that energy boost you need when you’re in a rut. Or maybe writing, drawing or reading does it for you. There are many ways to practise mental self-care that I’m sure you’ve never considered. You could try decluttering your room and work space, cleaning up your social media feeds, watching an inspiring Ted Talk video or playing with your pet. You do you boo.

RUN, WALK, JUMP, HIKE, THROW. Whatever. Just DO IT! I’m not quoting Nike, but they may be on to something. If you’re not someone who works out regularly, then some of your stress may be due to built-up tension. Even just going for a quick jog around the block can help you decrease your stress levels and improve your mood. And another exercise you should start doing every day? Smiling. It takes about 10 muscles to smile, and smiling more every day is scientifically proven to improve your mood. Other small things to improve your physical well-being include getting enough sleep, taking a shower, drinking enough water, maintaing a well-balanced diet and giving someone a hug.

Seek what sets your soul on fire. We are all living for something. Spiritual self-care can be as simple as that song from The Sound of Music, “My Favourite Things”. Imagine being in a bookstore or library while it’s pouring outside, discovering a new band, meeting people with the same taste in music as you, buying stationery, 2AM conversations about anything and everything and laughing so hard that you can’t breathe. Another way to practise spiritual self-care is to design your own morning routine. Wake up earlier so you have enough time to do it, and start your day feeling energized. One last thing everyone should try is to list three things you love about yourself every evening before you go to sleep, be it about your body, your personality, your talents or anything else. This rewires your brain to think more positive thoughts and it boosts your confidence.

STAYCATION

It’s reached that time of year again, when all of your friends rush up to tell you all about their various holiday plans and destinations with shining eyes and you realise you’re probably going to have to lie about your tame vacation and dust off the ol’ “Romania” joke. But never fear, we’re here to save you once again. We’ve compiled a list of the best, most underrated activities to make your staycation a success and hopefully give you a wild story or two to tell afterwards. written by | LUCIA NILAND photographs by | ALICE TORPPA designed by | CHANEL BOWEN

hike the helderberg Yes. I know. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Been there done thatâ&#x20AC;?. But, not only is this a great way to stay fit during the holidays, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also basically free, save for a measly R15 entry fee that you occasionally have to pay depending on how fast you drive through. Plus, the views are second to none, and will only be an asset to any social media feed.

rollerblading Blades Roller Rama, a relatively new addition to Somerset Mall, opened in July, and as of yet has only had brilliant reviews. With a R70 entrance fee, you are welcome to bring your own skates or if you need a pair they offer blades in all sizes, available for hire for R30.

lourensford twilight market Looking for something to do with your Friday night? This trendy market is open from 17:00 to 21:00 and boasts 70 permanent stalls and several pop-ups to keep things interesting. The U-shaped structure creates a rustic yet modern atmosphere and is an ideal place to spend the evening with friends and family, ready to welcome the weekend. Unlike most wine farms, Lourensford is dog friendly so your furry friends are welcome to come along too. With celebrated artists and DJs from all across the Cape lined up each week, you certainly will not want to miss out.

strawberry picking at mooiberge There is only one thing better than strawberries, and that is picking the strawberries yourself. Pair that with some friends and good music and you are just about set, and all for R25 per box! Well, for the strawberries that is, we cannot make friends for you.

stellenbosch botanical gardens Get ready for The Secret Garden to come to life. Within the bustling going-ons of Stellenbosch lies a botanical retreat like no other. From towering greenhouses filled with exotic plants, to uniform rows of bonsais, this garden is designed to entice you with its beauty.

blue rock Satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie by paying a visit to Blue Rock. With numerous water related activities, you can be assured that you will not soon get bored. For about R55, you can get access to the crystal-clear water: dive in from one of the many jumping cliffs or take the scenic route down the hill. For an extra fee you can take a shot at wakeboarding, or save your change and spend the afternoon tanning on the grass.

travel by tuk tuk And just when you thought Stellenbosch could not get any more movie-like, you hear the screeching horn of an opened sided vehicle as it turns the corner. These ingenious vehicles are mostly safe, half the price of an Uber, and you are bound to hear an interesting story or two from the drivers

art galleries Appreciator of fine art? They are no Zeitz Mocca, but Stellenbosch houses its own collection of mind blowing masterpieces, scattered in galleries such as SMAC, the Dorp Street gallery, and the Rupert Museum and are definitely worth your time.

cheetah outreach With wildlife practically on our doorstep, why not take full advantage of it? These friendly furries are available to be lovingly gazed at for only R5 on weekends and R10 during the week. If you are willing to go the extra mile, a further R150 for adults and R90 for kids will get you up close and personal with the big cats.

oom samie se winkel Get lost in the architectural mystery that is Oom Samie se Winkel. Walking inside the seemingly tiny building, you are transported into another world with endless connecting rooms containing everything under the sun. This outing will leave you walking out of the store with everything you never knew you needed.

surfing with son surf Ever gazed longingly at the professionals that seem to navigate the waves with ease? Son Surf offers surfing lessons for both beginners and intermediates of all ages and at just R120 you score a wetsuit, a board and an hour and a half lesson.

the holy trinity of gordon’s bay If you have ever stepped into Gordon’s Bay you will know of the wonders that are Uncle Barry’s Ice Cream, Aladdin’s Cave and Bikini Books. Uncle Barry’s is famous for its borderline insane ice cream servings for the lowest prices around. Bikini Books is every bookworms dream with room upon room of books stacked floor to ceiling, a chaotic, heavenly mess. And lastly Aladdin’s Cave: true to its name, the shop boasts quirky beach toys, colourful swimming costumes and shells with intricate faces.

s.u.p hire Explore the crystal waters of Gordon’s Bay like never before. SUP boards are available for hire from the beachfront for R150 an hour- wetsuit included.

open air cinema Nothing screams summer like watching a big-screen movie under the stars. Galileo Open Air cinema has an incredible rage of films lined up for the holidays at various wine farms and botanical gardens. Ticket prices are R89 for a standard spot and R105 for those seeking a more luxurious experience which includes a back rest and a blanket.

looking for waterfalls Did someone say another hike? Slather yourself in sunblock and spend the day trekking the scenic route to the waterfalls of Jonkershoek. Expenses are minimal as the only money required is the entrance fee for the reserve.

There is no statute of limitations on starting over. Re-invent yourself everyday. Be the person who walks barefoot and listens to the blues. Tomorrow, wear a trench coat and speak fierce truths. Be a phoenix. Be ashes. Burn down. Resurrect. Let go of the idea that you must always be who you have always been.

SKINCARE { diety skin }

written by | OLIVIA DAWSON photographs by | CAITLIN DE LANGE designed by | OLIVIA IMPSON & MAYA BESTER

Armed with plant only ingredients and aromatherapy, Deity Skin has created an all new simplistic range of skincare products. Taking it back to tantalizing traditional methods, herbs and extracts these products work to enhance your natural beauty by lending a gentle hand to your existing complexion. Prices range from R220 to R280 and although a little expensive, Deity Skin seems well worth it for the quick, environmentally friendly results it provides- a definite must for a new and improved skin care routine.

Order yours online at deityskin.co.za or grab it at these current locations: Indigenous Store UNIT B107 WOODSTOCK EXCHANGE 66 ALBERT ROAD, WOODSTOCK CAPE TOWN +27 06 430 4415 The Neighbourgoods Market THE OLD BISCUIT MILL 373 ALBERT ROAD, WOODSTOCK CAPE TOWN EVERY SATURDAY 9AM - 3PM

SOMERWENKE written by | NATASHA SCHMIDT photographs by | LIAM DAVEIES designed by | PAIGE BOWEN

Somer breek vinnig aan en daarmee, dae van swem, sweet, son en strand toe gaan. Maar selfs lekker tye het irritasies - soos sand wat oorals beland. Vir dié tye het ons ‘n paar wenke wat jy kan gebruik as die geleentheid dalk te verskyne sou kom. Plaas jou foon in ‘n deurskynende Ziplock sakkie om dit met minimale risiko by die strand te gebruik. Om duidelike tan lines te voorkom, moet jy meer as een paar swemklere met verskillende snitte hê om in te tan. Neem skoon doeke – ja, babadoeke – saam see toe en rol jou mees waardevolle items daarin toe. Watter mens krap in skynbaar vuil babadoeke as hulle by die see is? Dompel sponse in water en druk van die water daaruit. Plaas dit dan in ‘n deurskynende Ziplock sakkie en vries dit om as yspak te gebruik. Hierdie wenk is effektief omdat die spons die water absorbeer sodra dit smelt. Neem babapoeier saam see toe en gebruik dit om sand van jou lyf af te kry. Jy kan ook ‘n verfkwas saamneem om makliker jouself af te stof. Vries druiwe of gesnyde piesangs as ‘n gesonde alternatief vir roomys. Koop genoeg kwaliteit haarrekkies en ‘n kwaliteit BPA-vry waterbottel. Nog ‘n gesonde alternatief vir roomys is om jogurt in ‘n Ziplock sakkie te sit, een onderste punt af se sny, klein hoeveelhede op ‘n bord of wakspapier uit te druk en dan te vries.

CHOCOLATE banoffee pies

you will need... 1 x 250g packet dark chocolate digestive biscuits 1806g unsalted butter 100g (1/2 cup) brown sugar 1 x 395g tin condensed milk 70g dark chocolate, melted 15ml (1tbsp) golden syrup 250ml (1 cup) fresh cream, whipped 2 small bananas, sliced cocoa powder, to serve

what to doâ&#x20AC;Ś Grease 6 x 10cm loose based tart tins. Add the biscuits to a food processor and blitz to form fine crumbs. Melt 80g of the butter, mix with the biscuit crumbs and press the mixture into tart tins. Refrigerate for 20mins. Heat the sugar and remaining butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter has melted. Add the condensed milk, chocolate and golden syrup, stirring well. Remove from the heat and pour into the tart shells. Chill for 2 hours. To serve, top with the sliced bananas and a dollop of freshly whipped cream and dust with cocoa powder.

written by | JESSICA GEORGE photographs by | JIN KIM designed by | PAIGE BOWEN

written by | LUCIA NILAND photographs by | JIN KIM designed by | PIA CLOETE

TIMELESS ATTRACTIONS a classic café on the Strand beach-front

We've arrived at this time of year once again, it’s a sweltering 37 degrees and all you want is an ice cold milkshake and a tan. This term, we’ve managed to find a haven that provides both. Our latest discovery, the Timeless Café, is conveniently situated on Beach Road, a mere 15 metres from the sandy shore. Although not necessarily new, this cozy establishment boasts a trendy interior, with quirky light bulbs hanging from suspended wooden structures, mismatched chairs, and clocks in almost every direction. When seated on the patio, customers are blessed with a brilliant view of the ocean, which doubles as a perfect people-watching spot. The café boasts relatively pricy yet incredibly genius menu items, ranging from Mexican burgers with nachos, and so much more than your regular beef patty, to overflowing cups of creamy hazelnut hot chocolate and incredible milkshakes. To top it off, the staff are friendly, immensely down to earth and always willing to suggest a house favorite. The Timeless Cafe will be a definite hit this summer, make sure not to miss out.

TRADING HOURS: Weekdays - 7 AM TO 4:30 PM Weekends - 8 AM TO 3 PM CONTACT NUMBER: 0218535608 ADDRESS: 132 Beach Road, Strand

SOCIAL MEDIA

what’s hot this summer?

Our very own Dj-ing duo, Ian Marasigan and Minsoek Kim, met in 2015 and bonded over their immeasurable passion for music. Their brand, KALAS, was officially established in 2017 with the release of their first track, Flashlight, and in its short time has spread like wildfire. Living as teenagers in today’s South Africa, although much better than before, racism is sadly still a prominent problem that plagues everyday life. Thus, they decided to call themselves colours, but with an African twist, which then became KALAS, to honour our Rainbow Nation. Their dream is to play at the Ultra Music festival, where thousands upon thousands of people go to lose themselves in the music, hopefully be signed one day by Spinnin Records and influence society with their music. Catch them at Immortality on the 8th, where they will be headlining. Keep your eyes on these two - they’re going places.

INSTAGRAM { @kalas.music }

written by | GEORGINA SAMALESU & LUCIA NILAND photographs by | SOCIAL MEDIA designed by | PAIGE BOWEN

Think of how many photographs you see in a day. How many of those are truly memorable? How many of them inspire you to want to see the world? Ross Lubbe is a photographer who focuses on capturing the architectural and environmental essence of a scene. He offers imagery with a vibrant twist to his advertising, editorial and fine art clients. His goal is to help people fall in love with the locations he visits, by sharing his vision and passion through his photography.

YOUTUBE { ross lubbe }

PINTEREST { @anamwagner } Blogger @anamwagner is a lifestyle and nature photographer from Berlin who has a vast variety of aesthetically-pleasing boards ranging from women and menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion to home inspiration all the way to traveling and cars. By following him your feed will, without a doubt, be flooded with inspiration!

A T L A S of A L I C E

written by | GEORGINA SAMALESU photographs by | JIN KIM & ALICE TORPPA designed by | ALICE TORPPA

Blog Atlas of Alice, by PV’s very own Alice Torppa in grade 11, is eye candy for all you blog enthusiasts out there. Having started the blog only 4 months ago; Atlas of Alice is well established and has increasing exposure per post. From beautiful photography to poetry; Atlas of Alice is your place if you enjoy a blog with a wide variety of stunning posts. One of the main inspirations behind Atlas of Alice is nature and her childhood dream of being a photographer for National Geographic. Alice’s main intention is to, ‘’share my appreciation for people, history, nature and literature’’. Looking at this blog it is really evident that Alice truly has a passion for creating and sharing her content. Alice’s main aspiration for her blog is simply to share her passions, experiences and thoughts. Show some love; www.atlasofalice.wordpress.com . Also give Alice a follow on Instagram @atlasofalice for easy access to her blog.

RUNNING WILD by Michael Morpurgo You may have heard of Michael Morpurgo as the author of War Horse, which has been adapted into a movie and a play. Some of his other works include Caspar and Prince of Cats, which tells the tale of a boy during the events of the sinking of the Titanic. Perhaps you know him through his novels Butterfly Lion or Born to Run. Running Wild is another book you must add to your â&#x20AC;&#x153;Michael Morpurgo reading marathonâ&#x20AC;? list. Running Wild is set in Indonesia, after it is struck by a tsunami. The main character, Will, is taken on a journey through the jungle, as the elephant he was riding before the tsunami hits senses the danger and flees for safety. This book, as well as the ones mentioned above, emphasises the importance of the relationship between humans and animals. Michael Morpurgo's books are often based on historical events around which he crafts a story. He has once again managed to weave together real-life events and his own fictional characters into a bestselling novel. This book is sure to make you cry, so be sure to have a box of tissues with you before you start reading. I highly enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who is looking for an exciting, tense and intriguing novel to read before exams hit, another natural disaster in itself.

This book emphasises the importance of the relationship between humans and animals.

written by | ALYSSA HARRISON photographs by | CARO BOTHA designed by | PIA CLOETE

EK WAS HIER Ek was hier deur Nannette van Rooyen is ‘n opwindende liefdesverhaal oor straatkuns, outydse rockmusiek en die realiteit dat die lewe nie altyd verloop soos jy wil hê dit moet nie. Dit is die verdiende wenner van die 2011 LAPAuitgewers jeugromankompetisie. Frankie van Luffelen bly in Groenpunt saam met haar reusagtige pa, wat soos “Atilla the Hun” lyk (haar woorde, nie myne nie) en haar klein, vegetariër, hippie ma. Een oggend vind sy ‘n papier-rot buite haar venster wat klaarblyklik die geskenk was van ‘n geheime bewonderaar. Binnekort begin sy en die misterieuse straatkunstenaar vir mekaar boodskappe los op die mure van Groenpunt. En dan is daar altyd Milan, die geheimsinnige seun in haar skool se filmklub wat vasbeslote is om haar vriend te wees.

die storie dalk geyk en voorspelbaar klink, maar wees gewaarsku: daar is vele kinkels. Die boek is ook deeglik nagevors. Enige iemand kan iets nuuts daaruit leer oor graffiti, spesifiek oor die kunstenaar Banksy, na wie se werk baie verwys word. Die skrywer skets ook ‘n baie akkurate voorstelling van Kaapstad, en enige iemand wat al ooit in Groenpunt was, sal die landmerke en atmosfeer herken. Van Rooyen kry dit ook perfek reg om die eerstepersoonsvertelling soos ‘n tiener s’n te laat klink; iets wat baie selde in Afrikaanse jeugromans reg gedoen word. Sy voel nie die behoefte om onnodige slang en Engelse woorde te gebruik om dit hip te laat klink nie, maar gebruik ontspanne, informele taal. Daar is ook verwysings na old-school rockmusiek soos Led Zeppelin en Pink Floyd, wat tydloos sal bly.

Ek was hier is meer as net ‘n sappige romanse. Die enigste tekortkoming is die feit dat dit te Dit is die mees realistiese voorstelling van kort is. Dit is ‘n alleenstaande boek, en die tienerliefde wat ek al ooit teëgekom het. Daar is einde maak dit onmoontlik vir ‘n opvolg om geen liefde met die eerste oogopslag nie, en natuurlik te volg. Ek sou dit aanbeveel vir enige oorgenoeg ongemaklike stiltes. Van Rooyen het iemand wat belangstel in straatkuns, of iemand ‘n ongelooflike talent vir unieke, maar wat net uitgehonger is vir goeie Afrikaanse realistiese karakters ontwikkel, en die leser sal literatuur. omgee oor wat met hulle gebeur omdat hulle kan identifiseer met hulle. Ons almal het ‘n And for the English kids who skipped over this bietjie Frankie of Milan in ons, hoofsaaklik article: if there is one Afrikaans book you have omdat ons al gevoel het asof niemand ons to read, it’s this one. verstaan nie. In die eerste paar hoofstukke mag

written by | CARO BOTHA photographs by | CARO BOTHA designed by | CHANEL BOWEN

a STAR WARS tribute In honour of the eighth Star Wars film, The Last Jedi, releasing 15th December 2017. On May 25th, 1977 – audiences met Luke Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca and Darth Vader for the first time. Since then, the world of filmmaking has changed dramatically. Star Wars Episode IV: A Hew Hope (originally titled Star Wars) was the beginning of a global phenomenon, a treasure for adults and children alike. The spark that kindled in 1977, reignited in 2015, when the seventh Star Wars film, The Force Awakens, released in December. The world went crazy over the return of its beloved franchise. In fact, The Force Awakens is the third highest grossing film of ALL TIME (just behind Avatar and Titanic) – with a worldwide gross of $2,068,223,624. In the words of WIRED: “Star Wars is not just for kids and infantile, middle-aged men - it's so much more than that.” There’s a reason that we’re getting an EIGHTH Star Wars movie this year (technically ninth, counting 2016’s Rogue One spin-off). It’s because there’s something in a galaxy far, far away for everybody. The Star Wars franchise comprises of coming-of-age stories, friendship, family, action, adventure, romance, redemption, philosophy, comedy, tragedy, spellbinding music, breath-taking cinematography and so much more. Star Wars is a product of human imagination. As children, we’re transported to Tatooine, with Luke Skywalker. We get to experience adventures in space. We fight storm troopers, we best Darth Vader, we get to fly the

Millennium Falcon and we get to use the force. We go to new planets, we meet strange and fascinating creatures and we save the galaxy. It’s all incredibly exciting! As adults, we too are transported. We digest these stories. We love these characters. We hear John Williams’s magical score. Harps, flutes and violins are the theme music to our space adventures. We leave the harsh, real world and we soar through the galaxy. We fall in love, and our hearts break. And like Princess Leia, we hope. Harrison Ford, who plays the famous nerf herding Han Solo, described the effect of Star Wars perfectly to Rolling Stone: “You go into a dark room with a bunch of strangers and a good sound system, and you have an opportunity to come out seeing a recognition of your common humanity. Maybe it’s escapism, maybe it sticks to you a little bit. Maybe that’s why you go back, and that’s why stories are important. They’re helping us interpret the world we live in. They help us to have the courage to deal with the complexity of our lives.” Star Wars has a great philosophical undertone. The don’t-call-him-small green Jedi Yoda had many inspirational quotes about the Force in the original films and the prequels. A favourite is one memorable line from The Phantom Menace (Episode I): “Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger; anger leads to hate; hate leads to suffering. I sense much fear in you.” — Yoda. These films teach adults and children alike valuable life lessons, applicable in all situations.

written by | ALICE TORPPA photographs by | LUCASFILM designed by | ALICE TORPPA

SUMMER jams

1. ROCKINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; The Weekend

2. UNFORGETTABLE French Montana ft.Swea Lee

3. HOMEMADE DYNAMITE Lorde

4. SAY MY NAME Tove Styrke

5. NEW RULES Dua Lipa

Summer. The season to do the best things in life. The time of road trips, watching sunsets and sunrises from rooftops, lazing in the sun , picnicking, swimming in the ocean and making hazy, sun-kissed memories. But in each of these cases, it takes one crucial thing to make or break the experience. Music. We know that, and that is why our team has come together to create the best possible playlist to make your summer a raging success. So here you have it, 17 of our best jams to bid farewell to the end of 2017. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re welcome.

10.

14.

CONGRATULATIONS

MAKE TIME

MARMALADE

Post Malone ft.Quavo

Quinn XCII

Macklemore

11.

15.

CHATEAU

WHAT LOVERS DO

7. SUMMER The Hunna

Angus and Julia Stone

Maroon 5

12.

16.

TEENAGE FEVER

NIGHTS WITH YOU

Drake

DOWN FOR THE WEEKEND

13.

HYTYD

17.

SUNRISE

FEELS LIKE SUMMER

8TEEN

Kygo ft.Jason Walker

Weezer

Khalid

written by | RA-EESA CHOTIA AND LUCIA NILAND photographs by | JIN KIM designed by | LUCIA NILAND

P O L I T I C S with E D U A N

We have all heard Mr. Schenck constantly reminding us of the dire need for leadership in our country and the responsibility we as the youth have to take up these crucial and neglected positions of office in the future. It is a valid point, but we need to accept that, no matter how much our dear principal aims to drive home the point, there is a fair bit more to being a politician than solely being a good leader.

written by | EDUAN UYS photographs by | LIAM DAVIES designed by | NINA ANDRO

One of the things that create some of the best leaders in the world is a broad scope of focus, or an understanding of your place in the world. There are 195 countries in the world, each with their own capitals, flags, cultures and histories. We, as South Africans, form a very small part of this global community. Despite our distance from each other geographically, we have never been closer. Humanity as a whole has very much globalised and intertwined in recent years due to easy access to revolutionarily fast global communication of media through the internet. Our cohesion as a global community is our only chance at redemption. In recent years local issues and global issues have become very much the same thing. The biggest example is global warming. Some of the largest problems affecting â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the penalties for local communities across the world are all refusing to participate in consequences of global warming. Close to home, we are facing one of our worst politics is that you end up droughts in decades; while far to the west being governed by your the Caribbean states, the South East coast inferiors.â&#x20AC;? of America and Mexico are facing tropical storms that have already had some of the most devastating effects seen in years. Across the world, we are still in the process of one of the largest mass extinctions in history, with approximately 200 species going extinct daily - that is a species every 8 minutes of your life. This is without a doubt the biggest threat humanity has ever faced or will, most probably, ever face. Without the contributions of all countries in the world to aim for sustainability, we are very much in danger. Consequently, one of the most dangerous types of politicians are those who are ignorant and uninformed - such as the current president of the United States. This ties into my original point: politicians need a broad understanding. They require insight and understanding of the world and their place in it in order to contribute to the likelihood of a future where we still have forests, tigers, drinking water and non-submerged cities. This, by proxy, means that we must learn our place in the world and accept it. Instead of just taking my word for it, I encourage all readers to do their best to keep up with global news, beyond what somebody said about Trump this time.

the leaky test tube:

CLIMATE CHANGE

In recent months, the world has witnessed an unprecedented upsurge in violent storms around the globe. Arguably the most noticeable of these is the 2017 Atlantic Hurricane Season, which has had ten continuous storms morph into hurricanes. This season produced the memorable hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, and recently produced Ophelia, the strongest storm to hit the British Isles in almost 30 years.

American events, these storms actually form a lot more often in the Atlantic. This is because of a rather unlikely source: The Sahara Desert. While it seems unlikely that the world’s largest hot desert can cause severe rainstorms, it actually once caused a hurricane that ravaged Hawaii's Big Island, halfway around the world. It can do this due to its close proximity to the wet Guinea rainforest of West Africa. The confluence of dry winds from the These hurricanes, like all other Sahara desert and the moist Guinea tropical cyclones, begin as mere ‘tropical winds forms a highly unstable wind disturbances’, which is a long stretch of system, the African Easterly Jet, which continuous switches direction frequently. These thunderstorms. If one of these changes in direction give rise to the disturbances pass over very warm water, aforementioned ‘tropical the air in this weather system can start depressions’. rising and spinning. This rising air creates an area of extremely Speaking about the Sahara desert, low pressure, which sucks in air around Hurricane Ophelia, which recently struck it to create incredibly strong winds, and the British Isles, picked up a lot of sand once it has wind speeds of more than 60 from the desert on its path to Europe. kilometers per hour can be upgraded to These particles, along with dust from a tropical storm, at which point it is fires in Spain and Portugal which it given a name. If one of these passes over helped spread, coloured the skies of the very warm water, such as the Caribbean British Isles in a strange tan colour. Sea or the Indian ocean, they can be Ophelia actually upgraded to a tropical cyclone, which is continued its track across Europe when it gains its characteristic eye. until disappearing over Russia - yes, a storm from a system that typically A very strange feature of tropical impacts the Americas made its way all cyclones is that they are called by the way to Russia. different names depending on where they form. The North Americans call The madness of the 2017 Hurricane their storms hurricanes, while East Season, which is finally starting to calm Asians prefer the term Typhoon. Most down, along with the raging wildfires the other storm regions use the more world has been scientific term cyclone, but in Australia experienced and our own Cape Town they are sometimes drought can all be attributed to those referred to by the colourful local term of two omnipresent words: Climate Willy-Willy. Another Change. interesting factor that affect cyclones Climate change’s biggest effect on based on their location is that hurricanes is the warming of the oceans. cyclones in the northern hemisphere As we saw earlier: hurricanes strengthen spin counterclockwise, whereas when they pass over warm water, and as cyclones in the southern hemisphere climate change is driving oceans warmer spin clockwise, due to the Earth’s - hurricanes can get much stronger than rotation on its axis (the same is true for usual. This has led to the incredible flushing toilets and the vortexes that strength of Hurricane Irma, the form when you pull the plug from a filled strongest storm ever recorded in sink). the open Typically, we only hear about Atlantic Ocean, and is the first hurricanes, the storms that affect the season to feature 3 hurricanes Americas (and sometimes Europe). Irma, Jose and Maria - who have While we might think this is a result of had more than 40 ACE - a measure our disproportional interest in North of a hurricane’s energy. It has

wrecked entire islands in the Caribbean, including the massive island of Puerto Rico, which was hit by Maria. The warming of the Earth’s oceans also cause rainfall patterns around the world to change. While we have undoubtedly noticed these changes in Cape Town thanks to our ongoing drought, these phenomena have been occurring across the entire world, as shown by the recent drought in California and the rising of sea levels worldwide. However, not all of humanity’s problems with water can be attributed to climate change. Often humans affect the availability of water in more direct ways. The most prominent example of this is the neardisappearance of the Aral Sea in Central Asia. This sea has lost 90% of its surface area in just over half a century due to extremely irresponsible irrigation practices by the Soviet Union which have been continued by its successor states. This has led to the destruction of entire habitats and economies, and the exposure of entire countries to toxic fallout from Cold War nuclear tests which was previously dissolved in the lake. In fact, the lake’s predicament is so dire that its Wikipedia article is largely written in the past tense. While it might seem that these disasters are disparate events affecting the world’s water supply, they all point to a critical mismanagement of the Earth’s water by humanity. This might not seem that significant, but we will all feel the effects of climate change in very real terms when the Cape’s water supply runs out early next year, as seems more and more likely as we head into summer without adequate rainfall.

written by | DU TOIT SPIES photographs by | LIAM DAVIES designed by | NINA ANDRO

CAMPUS QUOTES

In the midst of all the chaos and frustration of so short a term, we heard a few phrases that brightened our days.

written by | We’re everywhere... photographs by | Asher Adams designed by | Nina Andro

500 passage: Girl 1: I feel so claustrophobic.

400 passage:

Girl 2: Why? This passage is huge!

Boy 1: You’re eating potatoes?

Girl 1: Oh.

Boy 2: Yes…?

Matric Ball Kitchen (after meal):

Boy 1: I love potatoes!

Waitron: Can I take these steaks home for my dog?

Afrikaans class:

400 passage:

Teacher: Are you okay…?

Guy: Maybe he was abducted by

Child 1: She ate too much cake.

aliens?

Child 2: I like cake.

Girl: *face palms*

English class: Teacher: If I could get you to do some solid work, I could just die happy.

Grade 11 quad: Girl: I nearly walked into the wall. Guy: I am the wall.

Wiskunde klas: Juffrou: Wat is ‘n ander woord vir onderling uitsluitend? Kom nou julle, D-I-S...? Leerling: Despacito!

Cultural Prizegiving: Learner: Let’s give the next prizewinner a standing ovation –I can’t sit anymore!

Grade 8 lines: Boy: The world was supposed to end yesterday. Girl: No it wasn’t. Boy: Fine, I guess I’ll be the only one prepared.

LA VOIX

RAISE your

VOICE Are you an aspring poet, looking for a platform to exhibit your work? To commerate our tenth issue, Blue Thread is officially bringing back La Voix, a section dedicated to showcasing our studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; writing. For a chance to be featured in next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first issue, email your poetry to bluethread@pvallei.co.za between the 1st of December and the 1st of January. Any and all writing is accepted for consideration. Authors may remain anonymous if they so desire.