Competition Page 6
Fire fighters in Imizamo Yethu enjoying refreshments kindly donated by the Hout Bay community and local businesses. Photo supplied by Matthew Rosenberg, CEO, HBVEMS.
A B’Earthday Party Page 3
Camps Bay Primary’s Junior Grades Show
Embracing the Journey, Not Running the Race
Let The Good Times Roll!
The Good Times turns one this issue, and As a parent however, I have become very mine were still scribbling doodles. it’s a bitter-sweet birthday that has left me aware of how easy it is to be sucked into the A worry for any parent really, this two rather contemplative. comparing game. That competitive streak year experience deficit really shows them This June issue remains in digital format in most all of us that wants our children to up at times. But now, my child is ten, he only and forces me to re-evaluate thecut-out model from be reading first, writingcross-cultural best and grouped in devours books and I can’tinteraction; keep up with his A chance glimpse of a grainy a local Hout & community based to and viability of a print publication. the A Maths Group. voracious appetite for “new worlds”...I’ve Bay paper, posted on Facebook in March, brought it revive the culture of journalism and school newspapers It forces me to myself and myflash. The teaching and for families to even myself STOP all together in examine a massive, blinding catchcaught a glimpse of saying what is“Just going on abilities and to question the validity of the reading for a moment and spend time with around the world; the live music venue; the years of within their own, and surrounding schools, in the close project itself. a great friendship; years in design and community and further us!” afield. publishing; thus, both as aofparent and for an As I ruminate over the trials and tribulations sales; photography and parenting; these seemingly Our first issue wasAnd published in June this year entrepreneur, it is an important and of this first year, the birthing process and disparate life events, literally came together to create the twelve primary and high schools in Hout Bay. Both necessary lesson Ifree am learning: childhood our first smallthat stepshas learning walk beforeon the outskirts of space and newspapers something beento hovering are offered of charge to the of any ilk is a wondrous journey. is not we run, I am struck by the similarities and our imaginations for years. schools and support via the local community is Itsought a race, there is no finish line, no end point parallels of childhood and schooling. And The Good Times was born. A collaborative in order to cover print costs. in sight. The Good Times has just turned one! We platform for community schools to interact, share and The second issue saw popularity quadruple and the I pray not for my childrenapparent, to come inthus first are little and learning findingof ourafeet. learn through the and medium school newspaper. A demand in other communities became but that they enjoy each wonderful, carefree This is not a race, there is no finish line, no newspaper dedicated to the upliftment of the community we are very happy to be reaching you, in this, our very day. I Bay pray -that climb our mountains, end point.communication Each step forward we with through andgrow sharing. first issue in the Camps Seathey Point area. smell the fynbos and numb their ankles in confidence, each fall sets us back. But with We all share a common passion and vision for the future. How wonderful then that we’re able to welcome you to our freezing seas, I pray that they take the every fall, every setback, every failure, we From all our different backgrounds, we recognise a The Good Times and wish you a happy holiday at the jump dunes and race each get to re-examine, change and individuals to live same time. Rest up,time common desire inevaluate, most, if not all, readtoup andoffbesand safe. If you’re going grow, much like the development stages I other on the beach, not to win, but to feel in harmony and experience joy; to thrive within our away, happy travels. If you’re staying behind, enjoy our the might of their own blood pushing life have watched my children go through for My childhood neighbour’s girls, the same communities and contribute to the social fabric within beautiful city and don’t miss The Up B’Earthday Party through their veins. the last ten years. age as my boys, have grown up in the UK. which we live. at Kronendal Primary on 16 December (pg 3)! and Start-ups It’s aren’t easy, our but As recognise a teacher, the I know that each child Each time see each The other,Good a year or two isChildhood We necessity and the possibility ofwe a close Times a local newspaper. about they are magical, for it’s in those moments develops in his/her own time, that their has passed and it’s an interesting gauge. and harmonious community. We also acknowledge that beautiful community. It’s about all of us and all the good lifefuture, pounding your veins that the reached at different The girls started schooltimes; at 5 aspast, opposed to of itmilestones lies withwill our be children. current and andthrough it is unapologetically world seems perfect! Happy birthday GT! times, but they will be reached. our 7, they were reading and writing while The Good Times is a vehicle for encouraging better ‘Ra-Ra’! Here’s to an awesome 2014!
The Race If you rode a turtle And I rode a snail And we raced To the equator, One of us would come in last And one would come in later. By Shel Silverstein
Advertising Content & Layout Brooke Irving Jess Morgan brooke@thegoodtimes.co.za jess@thegoodtimes.co.za 082 467 3659 082 777 3024 www.thegoodtimes.co.za Published by GT Media Tel: +27 (0)21 790 0664
The Unsung Heroes of Hout Bay Volunteer EMS
The Hout Bay Volunteer EMS Ambulance.
Moving swiftly through the streets, red lights flashing, siren wailing, the volunteer crew on board the ambulance are ready to assist with whatever emergency awaits them at any given address. Dedicating their weekends to helping those in need, the Hout Bay Volunteer EMS crews are quick to respond to each call for help. Hout Bay Volunteer Emergency Medical Service (HBVEMS) is a community volunteer organisation which aims to provide the highest quality of medical care to those in need. Working weekend shifts on the ambulance, which was generously donated by Nucleus 7 years ago, this group of 30 volunteers are all trained and registered medics. Their day jobs vary, with some being involved in first aid training whilst others are busy studying or working in unrelated fields such as engineering, marketing or sales. A number of the
Matt and Mike with the kids of Best Buddies, Hout Bay.
volunteers are furthering their paramedical qualifications or pursuing medical degrees. Despite these varied backgrounds, what unites them is a passion for helping others and using their skills and training in times of need. During weekend shifts the service responds to calls for assistance from Metro EMS or the local neighbourhood watch. Whilst the ambulance is based in Hout Bay and primarily assists those in the valley, if no other ambulance is available the crew will respond to others areas for priority calls. 90% of the patients are from disadvantaged communities and the majority of calls are related to chronic illness (such as heart disease, diabetes and HIV) and assaults. The service is proud to celebrate its 21st anniversary this year and is grateful for the on-going support received from the community. Over the years, businesses and
Volunteers Liz and Matt with Rotary Hout Bay President John Routley.
individuals have stepped up to meet the costs associated in running an ambulance service such as fuel, maintenance and equipment. Recently, Rotary Hout Bay, Nucleus, Hout Bay Insurance Brokers and Hout Bay Neighbourhood Watch have all contributed generously to the organisation. HBVEMS is committed to helping the community in as many ways as possible. During the recent fire in Imizamo Yethu the volunteers helped to coordinate refreshment for the fire fighters and donations for the residents who lost their homes. Two of them also recently spent the morning with the kids at Best Buddies Play Group, Hout Bay to teach them about the ambulance and who to call in an emergency. The kids loved looking inside the ambulance and trying on the gear. If you’d like to support the organisation in any way, please contact them on info@
houtbayems.org.za and be sure to like their Facebook Page (www.facebook. com/hbvems). Bank Details for donations: Hout Bay Volunteer EMS ABSA Seapoint Acc no: 4056006737 Branch code: 630309
Fire fighters enjoying some refreshments kindly donated by the community.
Mark your calendar now for the annual Hout Bay Green Faire on October 25 this year, with recycled goods stalls by manned by Grade 3 classes across the schools in the valley and an Eco Fashion Show, this is an event not to be missed!
iKhaya le Themba: Ensuring Strong Family Units
iKhaya le themba, Home of Hope, is an NPO birthed out of Kenilworth Vineyard Church, Cape Town in 2004, with Liesl Eliastam as the visionary founder. Katherine Morse took the reigns in 2007 and further developed the staff, buildings and program. She handed over to Nicky Lloyd in 2012 to continue the legacy of care and support to orphaned and vulnerable children, and their families.
“We long for a world where every child has a hope and a future and the effects of poverty, trauma and HIV & AIDS are no longer seen.”
Ikhaya le Themba offers holistic After School Care programs to primary school children of Imizamo Yethu informal settlement in Hout Bay. This service includes home visiting, advocacy and
referral for their family carers. We work to ensure that family units remain strong under the strain of illness and poverty and to support communities in caring for their orphaned and vulnerable children.
We All Have Huge Potential: Brain Gym® and Edu-K Aurélie Lemière is an experienced Primary School Teacher, an Educational Kinesiologist and a Brain Gym Practitioner who understands very well the needs of the teachers and the students in the Educational System in order for them to truly enjoy the learning experience more fully. She has been involved in Brain Gym® training and Educational Kinesiology(Edu-K) since 2011 and is very passionate and competent in what she does. She is also a dedicated peace activist and she has volunteered in helping communities to become self-empowered through schools specifically and through peace events such as Cape Town International Day of Peace, Global Oneness Day and the One Billion Women Rising Campaign. She believes Educators and Teachers who play a huge role in our society should be rewarded and acknowledged for their great work. Educational Programs such as Brain Gym/ Edu-K, which can help both teachers and students to excel in learning in a stress-free
environment, should be implemented in all the schools in order for everyone to happily reach their full learning potential. Her aim, through the Brain Gym/Edu-K Program, is to create an ethical and enabling environment where human needs are met, and every person is given the proper opportunity to fulfil his or her potential for both personal benefit and for the community. Aurélie has a large focus outside of the Educational System too. She facilitates both individual and group sessions/ workshops to achieve specific goals in order to succeed in all areas of life. In these sessions/workshops, she teaches easy, quick, fun and energising movements (with music) that integrate the whole mind-body system for enhanced learning, optimal performance and for greater wellbeing. How can Brain Gym make a difference? • Brain Gym activates the brain for maximum learning. You become
more creative in your thoughts and ideas. You become emotionally more balanced. You take action with enthusiasm and high levels of motivation. You discover how to take in new information and to act on that information effectively. • Brain Gym makes living and learning easier and more natural. The changes in learning and behaviour are often immediate and profound. • Brain Gym releases stress from the system. Some of Brain Gym’s strongest features: • It is easy to do and suitable for children, teens and adults. • It shows results in a short period of time, in some cases immediately. Learning skills improve such as concentration, reading, writing, spelling, maths, memory, creativity, listening, self-esteem, confidence and more. • It can easily be done at work, at school and at home.
Our Brain Gym/Edu-K vision: “Movement is the door of learning. To live is to move. Life is ever changing, ever shifting and ever demanding. Brain Gym® teaches us how to move with our challenges, our dreams and our goals. At the Educational Kinesiology Foundation, we believe that there are no learning disabilities, only learning blocks. We are all learning-blocked to the extent that we have mastered the art of not moving.” Dr Paul Dennison-Founder of Brain Gym/ Edu-K. Contact Aurélie for queries & bookings (workshops and sessions): 079-800-2749 Email: aureliebraingym@gmail.com Facebook/Twitter: Lili Brain Gym http://aureliebraingym@wordpress.com Wednesday Classes at Amani House, 14 Martingale Avenue, Hout Bay (near World of Birds) Children (45min.) 2:45pm to 3:30pm; Teens: 4 to 5pm, Adults: 5:30pm (for 1h).
Where were you born? Uitenhage Where did you study? University of Natal - Durban & UNISA What was your favourite subject? Biology Your favourite teacher? Miss Robinson (Standard 5 – best nature conservation teacher). Your favourite day of the week? Friday – Happy children, shabbat singing and delicious kitke. What star sign are you? Leo A special moment while teaching? Every time the penny drops is a special moment for me. It makes all the patience, hard work and concern worthwhile.
Where were you born? Carnavon Where did you study? University of Stellenbosch What was your favourite subject? Music Your favourite teacher? Aviwe Van Wyk – music teacher. Your favourite day of the week? Friday. You can look back on the week and all that you’ve done, you can pat yourself on the back and say ‘well done, bloke – it’s the weekend!’. What star sign are you? Gemini A special moment while teaching? It is always something special when your matrics pass at the end of the year. If they perform well in your subject, you feel that they appreciate what you do for them.
Where were you born? Durban Where did you study? UNISA What was your favourite subject? Biology Who was your favourite teacher? Mrs Rushton my grade 3 teacher and Mrs Singleton for Biology. Your favourite day of the week? Saturday - I can wake up late and I love to sleep :) and there is always rugby on. What star sign are you? Aquarius A special moment while teaching? I was teaching addition to a little girl in grade 3 and I showed her a different way of looking at the problems. The next day she got all her ‘sums’ right and she came to show me – saying “I finally did it”. It was then that I knew the only profession for me was teaching.
Jacqui Zacks, Herzlia Weizmann Primary School
James ‘Jackie’ Easton, Sea Point High School
Michal Hazell, Sea Point Primary School
Paperight Robben Island Balloon Journey Young Young Writers’ Creative Art Anthology Competition The Nelson Mandela Childrens’ Hospital fund received a nice “boost” thanks to the learners of Bergvliet High School. On Friday, 19 April 2013, past pupil Matt Silver-Vallance returned to Bergvliet High School to tell the learners about his exciting journey from Robben Island to the mainland using only helium balloons. During his visit the United Africa Committee on behalf of the school, handed over R17 800. This money was raised from a special Balloon Day in support of Matthew’s venture. Matthew thanked everyone who were involved with his venture.
Charmaine Kendal, Triston Liebenberg and Oscar Masinyana
Oscar Masinyana, editor of Paperight visited Bergvliet High School on the 15th of July. Mr Masinyana handed over a copy of the Paperight Young Writers’ Anthology 2013 to BHS student, Triston Liebenberg. Triston’s essay entitled ‘Reflections’ was chosen as the top essay entry after being compared to submissions from high school students all over South Africa. This is an outstanding achievement for Triston. The Anthology set out to compile only the very best work from South African high school learners, with the selected writers and artists making it through a highly competitive shortlisting process over three months involving thousands of entries.
Matt Silver-Vallance’s helium balloon Trip
Special Balloon Day fundraiser supporting Matt’s helium balloon trip raising money for The Nelson Mandela Childrens’ Hospital.
Our Western Province Achievers
Emma Lewis-Thomas, Grade 12 - Cats Bergvliet High School learners, Emma LewisThomas in grade 12 and Lauren Ball in grade 11 were awarded Special Mention Awards at the CTCA (Cape Town Creative Academy )Young Creative Competition and Exhibition 2013 at the Old Biscuit Mill.
World Champion
L-R: Roseanne Withey – WP U/18”B” Girls Hockey Team; Donovan Opie – WP U/15”B” Cricket Team; Justin Barodien – WP U/15”A” Cricket Team; Miche Bennett – WP Girls U/19 Cricket Team and WP U/16”A” Girls Hockey Team
Lauren Ball, Grade 11 - Dog’s Eye
National Moot Court Debating Competition Nelson Mandela Day Photo: Kenny Rice
Autumn Leaves, Grade 2, Camps Bay Primary School.
Kenny Rice is officially the Surf Ski World Junior Champion. This achievement was acknowledged at the Surf Ski World Championships which was held in Portugal in July. While Kenny was being awarded with the Junior award his brother Sean Rice was accepting the Surf Ski World Senior Championship award. Kenny is in Matric at Bergvliet High while his Sean is a past pupil of the same school. The brothers will be heading to Copenhagen to take part in the Canoe Marathon Championships 2013.
Monet’s Water Lilies, Grade 4, Herzlia Weizmann Primary.
Competition, Western Cape Provincial Rounds on 25 May 2013. Their written arguments were approved and Annabela and Erin went on to represent Bergvliet High School in the finals as one of 9 schools out of 27 in the Western Cape. They achieved 2nd place with 1st place going to Immaculata High School. The girls made it through to the national rounds of the competition and flew to Pretoria where they got to experience Constitution Hill, see the Constitutional Court and meet people from across the country. All of their hard work paid off and they placed in the top 10 in South Africa!
Lesley with a team of bag makers.
We are sure Mr Mandela would have smiled if he had seen the Bergvliet High School learners making sleeping bags for the homeless out of plastic sheeting and newspaper in celebration of his 95th birthday and the 67 minute community initiative.
Jael Dikondo, Grade 12,Sea Point High.
The National Schools Moot Court Competition is a highly competitive legal contest between schools from around the country. Annabela Bekker and Erin Malan were selected to take part in the National Schools MOOT COURT Debating
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Sponsored by Facebook, the IDC’s new research report “Always Connected: How Smartphones andbraces Socialfor Media Keep UsofEngaged” is filled withtogood We orthodontic plates help info-nuggets. correct the tooth Kids can need any number encourage you to read the 25 page report, but for those on the move, we’ve boiled it down reasons, including crooked, overlapping, position before the permanent teeth have for No pretty teeth, picturesororagraphics below, erupted. but thereThis are definitely some ontothedevelop report, helps the jaws or you. overcrowded “bad bite” so check it out! (https://fb-public.app.box.com/s/3iq5x6uwnqtq7ki4q8wk) (known as malocclusion). Malocclusion is normally.
a discrepancy in the sizes of the top and There’s no set age for a child’s first •bottom 25%jaws. of people last time their was—notsome close kids them.go forphone braces Whensurveyed the uppercannot jaw is recall biggerthe evaluation •thanToday, half of the total US population uses smartphones. the lower jaw, it’s called an overbite. when they’re 6, some kids go when they’re •When In the 2013, U.S. Smartphone Users is projected to besome 181.4 which teens. is 57.3% of goMillion while they’re Even lower jaw is bigger, it’s called an 10, and the population. adults can receive orthodontic treatment. underbite. •Sometimes Within the first 15jaw minutes of waking 4 out ofdentists 5 smartphone checking say kidsowners shouldare have a full tooth and problems can beup, Many their phones. caused by tooth decay, losing baby teeth evaluation once their permanent teeth start •too soon, 79% ofaccidents, respondents near them for all but to 2this hours their in, around ageup 7. At age,ofissues or have habitstheir likephone thumbon orcoming waking day. sucking. But often they’re inherited, so such as uneven bite and overcrowding will •if you 49% respondents feel connected using apparent. text/message application on their become or of someone in your family neededwhen Smartphones. Starting the process early doesn’t mean braces, it’s likely that your kids will, too. •Often, From Monday Sunday, time is spent on phone communicating will get braces right away. It just your child’stodentist will84% be of therespondent’s first a child via text, email, social vs. only 16% on phone calls. to notice problems during a regular visit. means the dentist will be able to determine •The Men aremight 75% more likely than outproblems application on Facebook using which exist and assess the their best dentist recommend that women you seeto seek Smartphones. an orthodontist (a dentist who specializes time to start treatment. •in correcting People check smartphones on average times day. – Hout Bay Dental Dr150 Jean vanperLierop jawtheir and/or teeth alignment
problems). Sometimes the dentist will use Studio We took a survey over in our office and found that it was closer to a whopping 75% of us that could not recall the last time our phone was not close by. I suppose we have the “I need it for work” excuse, but still. Do a survey among your friends and family and see how many people can remember when last they went out without taking their phones along. Courtesy of www.mosio.com
When the Bough Breaks
On a cold and wet evening in mid May, local restaurant La Cuccina rang out with the laughter of happy strangers revelling in warmth and delicious aromas at the book launch of local Hout Bay mum, author and well known South African actor, Casey B Dolan’s second book, When the Bough Breaks. Fresh off the back of her Best Actress win at the Julien Dubuque International Film Festival in America, Casey looked stunning in an ensemble from the new local boutique, Tom Cat Couture. Hosted by SABC3 and Goodhope FM’s Leigh Anne Williams, the evening was sponsored by Kwela Books, Cosmopolitan and Leopard’s Leap Wine. For just R170/per ticket, guests were treated to a magnificent spread by Ian and Steve of La Cuccina and gift packs included a copy of Casey’s novel, handmade soap from Casey’s mum, a new copy of Cosmopolitan
Out & About
and exciting book prizes worth over R 1 000 were given away too. James Woodhouse, Kwela Books Publisher, introduced Casey, who’s child attends school here in the valley, with an amusing story about why it took so long for him to look at the manuscript initially, something to do with “...Shades of Grey”, but explained his surprise and delight when he eventually picked it up. This is exactly what I felt by around page 3, when I lost the sense of narrator and was wholly consumed by the story. This roller coaster of a novel hooked me in and tossed me out the other side with no sense of decorum. I had a glimpse of someone else’s life and realised that I had loved, hated, pitied and admired the main character in equal doses, she was real, she was me, she was Everywoman. Says Casey, “I think that throughout life, and particularly when a woman enters marriage, compromise becomes a very prevalent aspect of maintaining balance, often building resentment and feelings of having lost aspects of herself. Handling those feelings often leads to choices that wreak havoc and consequences that change the lives of families.” By no means an easy read, Casey’s first novel is a definite must read. We have two copies to giveaway, compliments of Kwela Books and Casey: To win please e-mail your name, age & address to win@thegoodtimes.co.za Our thanks to Kwela Books and Casey who hosted us, for a wonderful evening.
Daisy Elias, AISCT
Tarryn Phillips, Grade 11, Bergvliet High.
Bergvliet Primary.
Kate Somers, Constantia Waldorf.
Rocky Schlesinger, Grade 2, Herzlia Constantia Primary.
Rachel Carstens, Grade 5, Kirstenhof Primary.
Jawaad Soeker Grade 9, Norman Henshilwood High.
Taahir Effendi, Grade 11, South Peninsula High.
Alexandra De Rose, Grade 7, Sweet Valley Primary.
Michael Kornm端ller Architecture
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Camps Bay Schools Celebrate Founder’s Day
The three Camps Bay Schools celebrated their 108th birthday on Friday, 9 May 2014. The day started with an assembly at the Preparatory School in which Mrs Cara Kahn reminisced about her memories of attending the Preparatory School. Cara attended all three schools, her husband Kyle attended the High School and their son
Noah is currently at the Primary School and their daughter Mila is at the Preparatory School. This was followed by an assembly at the Primary School. The guest speaker at this assembly was also a past pupil, Ms Kristy Zeppel. A stunning Founder’s Day cake was presented to the school. This assembly was followed by tea and refreshments
for all guests. The guest speaker at the High School was Ms Kim Faclier (a past pupil from 1984) who delivered an excellent speech to the pupils, staff and visitors. The highlight during this assembly was the marimba bands performing. Across all three campuses, a great day of celebration was enjoyed by all.
Celebrating Plaster Day Autumn Leaves by Grade 2
The Grade 2 classes from Camps Bay Preparatory School recently produced some amazing pieces of art with the theme being Autumn Leaves.
Characters for World Book Day The three Camps Bay Schools celebrated Plaster Day on Friday, 23 May 2014. The pupils were permitted to come to school in civvies and a plaster, doctors or nurses’ outfits and crutches and the children brought in donations. At the Preparatory
School, R2 906-00 was collected and these funds will be handed over to the Red Cross Children’s Hospital. This year the funds will be used to upgrade the parents’ accommodation / waiting area at the hospital.
Camps Bay Preparatory School celebrated World Book Day, which marks Shakespeare’s birthday (23 April) by holding a civvies day on Thursday, 17 April 2014. The pupils were encouraged to dress up as their favourite Book Character.
Primary Hosts Derby Day Derby Day at Westerford
On Friday, 9 May 2014, Camps Bay Primary School hosted the annual Derby against Kronendal on the Symmonds Field in Camps Bay. Although it was a very wet day and the netball had to be cancelled, the Boys’ and Girls’ Soccer matches went ahead and good results were achieved.
On Saturday, 10 May 2014, Westerford hosted the annual Derby against Camps Bay High School. A great morning of rugby, hockey, netball and soccer was enjoyed by all the supporters.
Primary School Maths Week The Absurd Person Singular
Camps Bay Primary School recently held a Maths Week and focussed on what fun and how challenging Maths can be. Various activities were held during the week, which included an Inter-house Maths Olympiad and Family Maths Evening. Camps Bay Schools Print Run Sponsored By DIGICAPE:
Camps Bay High School recently staged the play “The Absurd Person Singular” by Alan Ayckbourn. The cast consisted of performers from the Grade 12 drama class. The audience was treated to a very well presented and humorous production.
Ellerton Primary Celebrates 100 Years
“Education is the great engine of personal development. It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of a mineworker can become the head of the mine, that a child of farm workers can become the president of a great nation.” Nelson Mandela
The school with the most beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean is a place of learning to 384 learners who mostly travel in on a daily basis from the different areas. We believe that learning today has to be an experience and the job of a good educator is to make it one. On entering Ellerton, one is greeted with huge smiles which reflect the friendliness of our learners. They have a great zest for learning and this is evident when asked what they enjoyed the most at Ellerton. The replies were: “Swimming”, ‘Dance”, “Speech & Drama”, “Extra Murals” but most of all, “Learning!!’. A special group of learners belong to the Early Act Club whereby they do projects for the community. This club is an initiative of the Sea Point Rotary Club. Their first project was to be of assistance at a Fun Day with the learners of a crèche. These young people are highly motivated and inspired to do good and develop their leadership skills. The school has a rich history and on 18
June 2014, we will celebrate our centenary. Hopefully past learners will call or pop in and be a part of this milestone. As the school is a neighbour to many businesses we are appealing to them to also assist in our programme.
Children Learn What They Live.
“If a child lives with tolerance - he learns to be patient. If a child lives with praise - he learns to be appreciative. If a child lives with acceptance - he learns to love. If a child lives with recognition - he learns that it is good to have a goal. If a child lives with sharing - he learns generosity. If a child lives with honesty & fairness - he learns truth and justice. If a child lives with security - he learns to have faith in himself and others. If a child lives with friendliness - he learns that the world is a place of love. If you live with serenity - your child will have peace of mind!� Ellerton Primary School Print Run Sponsored By LOTUS MEDIA:
Our History in Brief NOW 2014 “Flashmob” The Weizmann Preparatory School was founded in January 1953. In 1959 the struggle to establish Weizmann as a primary and not a preparatory school finally came to an end with the opening of a Standard 2 class with the intention of establishing a fully-fledged primary school up to Std 5 as a feeder to the Herzlia High School. This necessitated the extension of the school premises and Mr I J Cohen was appointed Principal of Weizmann School in 1961. In January 1976 Weizmann School amalgamated with the Herzlia School System and became known as Herzlia Weizmann School. With the new amalgamation, building expansion began and by the end of 1977 the school had a new wing that incorporated the space previously occupied by the Nursery School which had now moved to adjacent premises. During 1981 the school secured the use of the Major Weizmann Hall and a connecting passage was built giving direct access to it. The school was able to use the new amenities for prayers, assemblies, physical education, drama, speech and choir practices, for stage productions and the celebration of Jewish Chaggim. In 2013 Weizmann celebrated 60 years of serving the Jewish Community.
We had a very exciting “flashmob” experience at second break on Monday 26 May, to launch our upcoming school musical: NOW That’s What We Call Music 2014. Every grade, every class and all pupils will be involved in NOW 2014 with the shows taking place towards the end of September.
A Visit from Helene Joffe, Holocaust Survivor
Grade 5 and 6 pupils had a talk with Helene Joffe. Helene was a child in France during the time of the Holocaust and she survived by being “hidden” as a Christian child. She shared her story with pupils and answered all the varied and insightful questions they asked. Here, pictured above is Holocaust survivor Helene Joffe with Noa Castro.
Foundation Phase 2014 Elections: It’s a Party! The Foundation Phase held their 2014 Elections! The Grade 3s were divided into 4 parties: The Academic Party, The Creative Party, The Fun Party and The Sports Party. During the past few weeks, each party was given time to give their “ideology”, what they stand for and want they want to change/add at school. Posters were erected and many breaks spent canvassing for votes – it was interesting to listen to the electioneering and promises made to the voters! After break the upstairs hall was turned into a polling station, pupils made their way upstairs where ID books were scanned and checked for validity.
They then proceeded into the hall where they were crossed off the voters roll, stickers put in their ID Books and thumbs inked. Ballot papers were issued and with the help of the Current Affairs Committee, pupils were lead to booths to vote before exiting the hall. The votes were tallied and the election results given – according to proportional representation based on the number of votes received; the Academic Party received 1 seat, Creative Party 1 seat, Sports Party 3 seats and Fun Party 4 seats on our newly elected Foundation Phase Council.
Grade 3 Candidates from the Academic Party.
Grade 3 Candidates from the Fun Party.
Relationship Building Camp Fun With the Sunshine Club 26 eager pupils from our community outreach club, the Sunshine Club, set out to Good Hope Park to entertain and interact with the elderly residents. The show was very slick, with lots of singing, dancing, poems and the cup song/dance. The elderly
members seemed to thoroughly enjoy the show and have already requested another visit soon. The girls left the trip with a very warm and fuzzy feeling knowing that they had done a wonderful mitzvah. Well done to all of them!
The Jewish Festival of Purim The Blue Team
Julia Peters, Carly Reznik, Joseph Valkin, Jake Whitesman, Georgia Seeff, Jake Abel
On Wednesday the 5 March, forty-seven excited Grade 5 pupils set out for Simons Town for their Relationship Building Camp. It is always one of the highlights of the Grade 5 year with lots of team building exercises, group tasks and fun activities. The purpose of the camp is to develop the skills necessary for group work. Over the two days the children were placed in teams in which they had to tackle various challenges including a mini Olympics, creative tasks and problem
solving activities. One of the first activities undertaken aimed to develop the identity of the group - highlighting various qualities that all the members of the group had in common, while also identifying the unique qualities or talents that each person brought to the team. A team name was chosen and a war cry composed. The camp is a wonderful opportunity for the children to spend time together outside of the classroom environment and develop many important life-skills.
An Inter-Herzlia Athletics Win
Powderpuff girls Jordy Dibowitz, Eve Pywell, Erin Duveen Grade 6.
We celebrated the Jewish Festival of Purim “wings and capes� style towards the end of the first term. The morning began with pupils listening to the reading of the Megillah of Esther. Rabbi Wineberg joined us and shared a short Purim message and then we held our costume parade, with each Grade performing a short item as part of their walk past. The Judaica Committee provide the music for the morning with each Grade having their own song. It was a morning filled with a wonderful energy and vibe! After break the Grade 6s ran a Purim market for the rest of the school and compliments must go to them for their enthusiasm and the manner in which they ran their stalls. Purim ended with two magic shows, one for the FP Phase and one for the IP Phase. Gr 6s, Jordan Arelisky & Aaron Isserow at Inter-Herzlia Sports Day
Congratulations must go to the Weizmann Athletics Team that won the Inter-Herzlia Athletics Day held at Constantia. The performances, enthusiasm and support for each other was amazing to watch and we are very proud of their achievements.
Jethro Klitzner Grade 6 and Daniel Chaimowitz Grade 1.
Herzlia Weizmann Print Run Sponsored By FULL CIRCLE WELLNESS
Festive Adornment in Celebration of 130 Years
Sea Point High school was in high spirits when we celebrated our 130th birthday this term! The Undenominational Public School of Green and Sea Point, as we were known then, was opened on the premises of the Dutch Reformed Church in Three Anchor Bay on Monday the 21st of April in the year 1884. On our 130th birthday, Sea Point High school acknowledged our proud history and those educators and learners who came before us. Our school was adorned with festive birthday decorations and everyone got involved as the classrooms competed to win the best decorated classroom. Mr Easton’s Grade 12EA proudly claimed the victory and thoroughly enjoyed their prize of a tasty lunch. During our birthday assembly Mr Botha, himself a member of SPHS staff for 35 years, explained what life was like throughout the history of our school and learners listened with interest at how our school and the surrounding community has changed over the years. He said of our
Sonnet for Sea Point LEGACIES are not corroded by grime The legacy of Sea Point crumbles not Pedagogues and PRINCIPLES keep time Frozen inside a cap stone safe from rot While sunlight sweeps across our sullied panes Looking into musty rooms through windows Lingers like the past until HOPE remains With the years: the TIMELESS teacher that shows The way out of ignorance’s mazes LEARNING that knowledge is leaving a LIGHT Along paths that lead into death’s phases Knowledge bequeathed is mortality’s slight
neighbouring Green Point Common, “The site was also used for, amongst other things, a site for a railway line, to build forts during war times, a site for a prisoner of war camp, all kinds of sporting activities (like horse racing and even yachting regattas, because certain areas of the Common were flooded during winter!) These were always grand occasions, watched by thousands of spectators, and the boys at school used to build boats and canoes as their woodwork projects in anticipation of the regatta.” A highlight of the assembly was a performance by former Head Girl and current student teacher Melissa Stanley alongside several learners. She treated us to a heartfelt rendition of “Memories” and led learners in reciting an original sonnet dedicated to SPHS. It wouldn’t be a birthday without cake and at the end of assembly, each one of our 451 learners and 27 staff members received a slice and a cool drink. We are all excited to continue improving our proud history.
In schooled eyes THE LIGHT OF LEGACY burns Immortal hope: unto the Time returns
Six Sea Point Students Study Philosophy at UCT This autumn, six Sea Point High school students attended and completed the Foundations in Philosophy course at UCT. This course is an attempt to interest high school students, grades 10-12, in all aspects of philosophy and analytical thinking. Our students were very excited to attend and complete this course. The lectures were held by Professor Greg Fried and two of his associates. Each lecture was held on Monday for three weeks in May. In these lectures Professor Fried discussed the topic, in this case Humour, and then sent the students to tutor groups for group
discussion and each lecture ended with an opportunity for students to ask any questions for clarity. Our students were very thrilled to have this opportunity and have all submitted their responses. Soon all six learners will be receiving handsome certificates, as well as critiques on their arguments. It was a truly amazing experience for our students and they are already planning to continue this course next year! Article by Hassna Ait Taleb, Grade 11.
Battle of the Books Protea in the Making
Each year different schools are invited to showcase the talents and reading skill of their most ardent readers. This unique event takes place at Bergvliet High School. It is the brainchild of their librarian, Mrs Patsy Geach. This year SPHS was one of seventeen schools invited to participate for the very first time. The brave team chosen to represent our school, were learners from both senior and junior grades: Candice Knipe, Hassna Ait Taleb, Olwethu Mtati, Tarquin Tremble, Zubair Esau The quiz was hosted by Mr John Maythem, well-read radio talk show presenter. He
challenged the teams with interesting questions from a wide range of reading categories such as Childhood memories, Shakespeare, Books into movies, The Classics, Science Fiction & Fantasy and Crime & Thrillers. Undaunted, our team surprised all with their incredible knowledge of so many different books. While the champions took home the prize, the SPHS team brought home an inspiring desire to improve their reading knowledge and to continue encouraging their peers to read – but most importantly, to be back next year, with guns blazing.
During the month of May, twenty two, courageous young SPHS learners stepped forward ready to make a difference. Under the mentorship and guidance of Mrs Gordon, the SPHS school librarian, learners proved that leadership skills can definitely be learnt. Inspired by great role models, motivated by a deep inner conviction and passionate about being the change they want to see, these young learners are tapping into their existing potential. Their goal is to develop themselves and grow from being ordinary to becoming extraordinary in all spheres of life. By addressing the challenges that lead to building a deeper self awareness, developing a different perspective, growing a new attitude and becoming more
proactive thinkers, learners reach beyond the boundaries of their current approach to life. This helps to inspire a culture of respect and appreciation for life-long learning and continued self development. The course incorporates: Theory based workshop sessions; Research into positive role model values and behaviour; Interactive role play; Introspection and reflection. In order to successfully complete the learning process, each learner is required to complete a Personal Development Progress report. The feedback in this report is provided by teachers, parents and peers. A certificate of completion is issued to every learner who has incorporated and displayed the qualities of a highly effective young learner.
Wandile Nkolombe is a Grade 10 student whose remarkable cricket skills have earned him an opportunity to play in England. He started off playing in Gugulethu and moved to playing in the Western Province Cricket Organisation in 2010. Since then his opportunities have sky-rocketed. He has been overtaken by a great amount of excitement. He confirmed that he was excited but that he would miss his teammates. From speaking to him and
even watching him play, you’d be sure that these skills were effortless but he tells us that it is purely as a result of dedication. “Anyone can play cricket. It’s all about practise and giving it your all” he said. After eight years of developing his skills, his dream is to follow in the footsteps of his hero Dale Steyn and Sea Point High is cheering him on. SPHS salutes you Wandile! Article by Olly Mtati, Grade 11.
What puts Sea Point High School’s top academic achievers where they are? Ironically, most of them do not even aim to come first in their grade! It’s not intelligence that puts them where they are. It’s how they approach their work. The top students do not focus on coming first; they focus on listening in class, on sidelining all distractions, on taking in and understanding information, on asking constructive questions and doing their own research when they do not understand a concept, and on doing their absolute best in every single test. The top students don’t view questions as impossible; instead, they view them as challenges which are there to push them into further developing their thinking
ability. They don’t have secret tricks for absorbing vast amounts of information; they simply pay attention, listen and understand in class, and that gives them enough time to focus on and practice tricky areas well before examinations, and this in turn gives them good results. It may be a slightly brain twisting lesson, but it is one from which much can be learned: the fact that the top students come first is not necessarily as a result of aiming to come first, but it’s mainly as a result of their sheer dedication to be the best that they can be. They strive mainly to better themselves; being first is just one of the rewards for all their hard work. Article by Siya Kali, 11Dn
Leaders in Training Achieving Academic Success
Sea Point High School Print Run Sponsored By MIND PRINT:
A School with a Difference Making a Difference!
Sea Point Primary is celebrating its 130th year! Children from many nations, cultures and religions all learn together in a harmonious environment! The teachers are a dedicated and highly motivated team. Sea Point Primary is viewed as a progressive school where teachers value excellence in all spheres, in an exciting and inspiring atmosphere. Sea Point wanted to make a difference to others during the celebration of the school’s birthday and decided to collect blankets to donate towards a children’s home. The children brought their blankets to school and formed the shape of 130 on the field with some of the children being photographed with their blankets. The children also took part in donating their story books that they have grown out of towards a project collecting books for schools that do not have a library or books of their own. The rest of this special year will be filled with many activities contributing towards the school to ensure its continued excellent program.
Our annual funwalk was a great successs. Everyone dressed in red and enjoyed a Saturday morning walking along the promenade with family and friends, and the school raised some much needed funds. We are busy with our Freaky Friday project at the moment where children are encouraged to do chores at home and the pocket money they earn, they donate to the school. The end of the project everyone can dress in ‘freaky outfits and has a much deserved fun day at school. Our parents on the Parent Teacher Association and staff have been amazing in organising the above events and will continue with Senor Chef project and a very exciting magic show presented by an ex student, Larry Soffer. We hope to have a get together and celebration with past pupils and teachers later in the year to celebrate this amazing community school that makes a difference to all those who passed through the school. A school with a view over the sea into the future. Mrs Mead – Sea Point Primary School principal.
Mrs October, a dynamic educator inspired by her principal, Almarie Mead started a baking and cooking class as an extra mural for the foundation phase children wheich is run on a Tuesday afternoon in her classroom. She even has an oven and fridge in there! The kids love creating, planning, cooking and baking – but having fun is the most important part of the class. It is attended by both boys and girls in grade 1 and 2 for an hour. Each learner gets a taste or a treat to take home. Yummy! At the beginning of the termly cooking classes, the learners decide on what they want to make during the term and vote on it. We have so far made muffins, cookies, crunchies, spaghetti and hotdogs. Our ‘hatty patty’s’ enjoy these lessons so much and learn a whole lot more. Mrs October teaches participation, tolerance, celebration songs and lots of recipes, sharing and much, much more. Yum yum – we cant wait to smell the aromas and see what next term has in store.
To sum up the grade 7 camp in one word, it would have to be ‘fun’. It was so exciting and a learning experience for all. At this camp I believe each one of us grade 7s were able to conquer our fears, whether it was mosquitos, heights or even falling in a muddy river – we were all able to overcome them. On the camp, we played games where you actually had to use your brain, not to mention teamwork. We went for a night walk, swam in the Breede River, built a raft and even cooked a few delicious potjies. The definite highlight was being 12 metres in the air doing an obstacle course in the sky! These experiences are what make school a memory that will last forever. Thank you to Mr Senekal and Mrs Minikin for taking us and spending their time with us on camp. By Mackenzie Chothia.
Celebrating Cooking Club Grade 7 Camp Conquerors
Changing House Names: Lion, Lighthouse & Anchor
We changed our house names! We have had a reshuffle of our sport houses and a change of name! How exciting! We went through the process of choosing house names. Our class reps came up with ideas and we all voted on our favourite. It was a hot contest. The children voted as well
as the teachers. The winning names came out a surprise and were announced by Mrs Mead. The new houses are now called Anchor, Lighthouse and Lions. These names are part of our school and mean the following. Anchor – represents Three anchor bay and reminds us to be steadfast in difficult times.
Lighthouse – represents Moullie Point Lighthouse and reminds us to be a shining light and showing the way to what is right and exemplary. Lion – represents strength and courage. We strive to towards and hope our children will develop in the time that they spend at Sea Point Primary.
Foundation Phase Sports Day Eco Houses Water Towers
A lovely day was had by all the participants! Everything was well organised and many skills were displayed by our children. There was total inclusivity of everyone, including toddlers and our parents, who had a chance to perform. We were blessed with a sunny day and the temperature stayed that way as we ran and then swam. It was a true day of fun, laughter and complete enjoyment – followed by the awarding of medals for winners. We want to thank all our invaluable parents who helped us on the day, as well as Mrs Patrick for the wonderful tuckshop, the ground managers for setting up and all the Foundation phase teachers and children. We loved every minute of the day and can’t wait until we can show off our skills again next year.
International School of Hout Bay: Primary School Print Run Sponsored By THE ZEE GROUP:
In Art this term we took a different route, set apart from our sketch pads and pastels, we wanted to make the difference and this was to develop a socially conscious learner. The objective in this unit was learning about eco-friendly houses. The children learned that physical properties of houses can affect how good they are for the environment. They investigated materials that are good for insulation (link with Science) and which materials are appropriate for different uses. They were also shown the use of solar power as a source of energy in the home. The main outcome of this unit was the design and construction of a model ecohouse while making them aesthetically pleasing . We focused on the use of light and lines, bold colours and contemporary architecture. Learners investigated items inside the house which were eco-friendly e.g. white goods with A+ energy rating, furniture made from sustainable sources, fabric made from organic or recyclable materials. A public display was held of the kids work in the school foyer and corridor. This created a great sense of pride and accomplishment in the Grade! Bronwyn Abdie, Head of Art
The Grade 4 classes were at it again. In term 2 the learners eagerly learnt about different materials and the various ways of how to strengthen them. We learnt about folding, tubing, struts and braces. With this newfound knowledge the Grade 4’s were ready for anything. They had become architects in their own right. The task was simple (or was it?). Design and build a water tower! The learners had to design their towers first, describing exactly what they wanted to do, complete with headings, labels, measurements and designers notes. Excitement grew, for constructions were about to start. And with only a design in their hands and hope in their minds, they started building their water towers. All the towers looked amazing. Together we evaluated each step of the process and looked back at the project with a great sense of achievement.