Competition Page 8
Top 10 To Do’s in CT Page 3
Hout Bay Montessori Virtues Mural
Trust, Respect, Tolerance, Love, Unity, Honesty... Our first issue was published in June of this year for the twelve primary and high schools in Hout Bay. Both space and newspapers are offered free of charge to the schools and support via the local community is sought in order to cover print costs. The second issue saw popularity quadruple and the demand in other communities became apparent, thus we are very happy to be reaching further afield this term with local papers for both the Camps Bay to Sea Point and Constantia to Kirstenhof areas. We now have a stable of 28 schools and are reaching thousands of families in all three areas. As the year draws to a close I write this as my final article for 2013 and I sit reflecting over what has been
an amazing roller coaster of a journey from then to now. The work load tripled this time round and my poor family have been a little neglected, however I have never felt this amount of satisfaction in my life. This year has been filled with beautiful people and their unbelievable efforts in creating a better world for us all. I am blessed to have learnt as much as I have from such big-hearted, big-visioned people that live right here in our ‘little fishing village’. Thank you to you all for your enthusiasm and support of The Good Times and we wish you a very happy holiday. Rest up, read up and be safe. Make it a point to do at least one activity from our suggested To Do list! Here’s to an awesome 2014! ‘Ra-Ra’!
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
Silikamva High School
Paul du Toit - An International Hout Bay Super Hero!
Paul du Toit, local Hout Bay father to Danielle(18) and Josh(16), (above, photo by Gregor Rohrig) husband and highly acclaimed international artist, has created a unique position for himself in the international art community. At home, as abroad, he is a quiet, amusing and humble man. Behind the serenity and gentle inspiration that he exudes, lies the heart of a man who has given tirelessly of himself to amazing initiatives that occur around the country and the world benefitting underprivileged children in South Africa. Paul, despite his meteoric rise in the art world, has maintained his strong sense of social responsibility and is constantly involved in the upliftment of the community. Paul has been involved in fundraising initiatives for Zip Zap for many years, just the other day designing an artwork wrapping a rare bottle of wine that was
auctioned off at an event. (Right). However his involvement goes back further to The Art of Rock Events started in 2010. A blending of talents to delight the senses, the fundraising evening combines Paul painting live, with musicians and Zip Zap performing. The first event featured Parlotones and the second, in 2012, Freshlyground, with Paul painting furiously right in front of the audience and the painting being auctioned off later. (See bottom left, photo by Gregor Rohrig.) Involved in the Rock Girl & Safe Spaces Campaign, Paul (and 16 other artists) have created benches symbolising Rock Girl’s ideals of creating safe spaces for women and girls in the city and surrounds (See bench above right.) Paul also worked with the children of Red River Primary School teaching painting techniques and how to make instruments out of sticks and old sponge.
Paul has worked on five projects with Nelson Mandela (seen below) with the resultant art pieces being auctioned off for the Nelson Mandela Foundation and 46664. Paul collaborated with Archbishop Desmond Tutu on a one of a kind book that was auctioned in America benefitting The Lunchbox Fund, an organisation that feeds hungry children in South Africa. Paul’s wine cooler (top second left) sold for R15 000 benefitting The Light from Africa Foundation. And, closer to home, Paul and Anthony Stroebel of Bay Harbour Market organised a group of local school children to help make Hout Bay more bright & beautiful by painting murals along the street outside the market. I could go on, but in short, here is a local dad making a difference and in full colour too! A true hero in my book. Photos courtesy Paul du Toit Facebook.
December Holidays and New Year’s Eve - Family Friendly Outings Not sure what to do with your kids during the December holidays? We are here to help! We found some wonderful activities that your kids will love (and you will enjoy too) as well as some great New Year’s Eve suggestions.
Get Outdoors
Take full advantage of the summery weather and spend as much time outdoors as you can – here are 3 outings that are perfect for those stunning sunny days:
Photo courtesy josna.wordpress.com
Strawberry Picking - R44 between Stellenbosch and Somerset West
This really is fun for the whole family – no matter the age group, picking strawberries at the well-known Mooiberge Farm will not disappoint. Grab a basket, get picking and then enjoy your delicious handpicked strawberries at home with cream or ice cream. Tel: 021 881 3222
Photo courtesy intaka.co.za
Intaka Island – Century City
Who would’ve thought you could take a ferry across a lake to an island in the middle of Century City? Well, if you’d like to experience something very few other places in Cape Town can offer then this is it. Intaka Island has a beautiful selection of flora and a rich bird life – with a 2km path, you and your kids can stroll around at your own pace exploring all it has to offer. Tel: 021 552 6889
Get Cultural
Cape Town has so much to offer when it comes to learning about our culture and learning about the world – here are 2 activities that are sure to teach both you and your kids something new (and it’s lots of fun too!):
Photo courtesy runnersworld.co.za
New Year’s Eve Sunset Hike at Delvera
Photo courtesy Llandudno Primary
The Cape Town Science Centre – 370B Main Road, Observatory
With daily workshops during the school holidays and loads to see and do, the Science Centre is sure to keep any child (and adult) captivated with their exhibits and experiments. Tel: 021 300 3200
Get Celebrating
Just because you have kids doesn’t mean you have to be in bed by 9pm on New Year’s Eve. Here are a few options for parents with kids 6 - 8 years and older:
Photo courtesy sa-venues.com
The Company Gardens and the Iziko Museum Planetarium Photo courtesy capetowndailyphoto.com
Deer Park Café – 2 Deer Park Avenue, Vredehoek This outing is perfect for the parent who wants to sit back and relax while the kids run around. With a playground just outside the café, it is an ideal place to go for lunch with friends and family AND your kids. Tel: 021 462 6311
Pack a picnic and start your day off sitting in the gardens, feeding the squirrels, and then head on over to the Iziko Museum when your kids are fed and happy. The museum is wonderful for all ages as there is so much to see - from whalebones and dinosaurs to crystals and wild animals. The planetarium has shows throughout the day, so you can even end your outing off with a relaxing viewing of the stars. Tel: 021 481 3900
This would be more suited for older kids (10 years +) due to the hiking. Spend the last day of the year taking an unforgettable hike up the mountain. At the top it’s time for snacks and champagne and to watch the sun set on 2013! For more information call 021 884 4352
Host your own party! Photo courtesy sa-venues.com
Kirstenbosch Botanical New Year’s Eve Concert
Gardens
This is possibly one of the most magical ways to enter the New Year – with amazing music, the natural surroundings, the happy crowd, and a yummy picnic – what more could you ask for? This year the artists performing will include Goldfish, Yoav, and Tailor. For more information call 021 761 2866
Going out and joining the rest of the world can be tricky when you have very young kids, so why not bring the world to you? Get some friends together, buy the bubbly, get some snacks and you are ready to welcome in 2014 in the comfort of you own home!
We’ll be sharing more December holiday tips and outings on our Facebook and Twitter pages, so keep a look out and you’ll be sure to have a super, fun-filled holiday! Kindly contributed by Klara Loots.
It is a common misconception that the realm of teachers is populated by those who ‘can’t’ It has been my happy and fortunate experience that teachers are largely those who ‘can’ and I count myself lucky to be counted among them. My pursuit of a meaningful profession has led me down the paths of Law and Publishing, each rewarding in its own right, yet never quite making the mark in terms of fulfilment. I have taught across the board and each teaching experience has reinforced my respect and gratitude for being able to work with children. Ambleside’s calibre and integrity of the staff, the philosophy we embrace and the amazing children serve as a daily reminder of how privileged I am to be a teacher.
Where were you born? Gauteng Where did you study? University of Pretoria (Tukkies). What was your favourite subject? English. Who was your favourite teacher? Ms Viljoen, Grade 1 Which is your favourite day? Definitely Saturdays, Its the only day I can spend with my husband or friends without having to worry about time. What star sign are you? Gemini. A special moment while teaching? This year I had the privilege to not only teach GradeS 1-3 but the Grade R’s as well. As soon as I put a song on, their little faces brighten up and they become alive. I have had so much fun dancing and singing with them, the totally make my day ;)
Where were you born? Cape Town Where did you study? Cape Town Teachers Training College and UCT What was your favourite subject? English and Biology. Who was your favourite teacher? Miss Erasmus (Standard 2) Which is your favourite day of the week and why? Definitely Thursday – knowing that Friday is only 1 sleep away. What star sign are you? Aquarius. A special moment while teaching: Watching a child who has become profoundly deaf learn to speak English through lip reading alone. Wow!
Naedene Vine, Ambleside School of Hout Bay.
Rachel Hefer, Disa Primary School.
Lee-Ann Stephanou, Dominican-Grimley School.
Where were you born? Caledon in the Overberg Region Where did you study? University of Stellenbosch and UWC What was your favourite subject? English & Geography Who was your favourite teacher? Miss Hans (English) Which is your favourite day of the week and why? Everyday! It’s a blessing. What star sign are you? Scorpio A special moment while teaching? I always strive to get the best out of my pupils and in 2009 I received my first Departmental Certificate for obtaining 100% pass rate in English as a First Additional Language. I felt elated, knowing that my dedication paid dividends. With the support of my colleagues I have grown into a confident educator.
A special moment while teaching: A boy in my class looked at me and said “Wow Justine, you have a lot of pimples on your face!” I Realised he was talking about my freckles. So sweet!
Mrs Boezak, Hout Bay Secondary School
Justine Norman, Hout Bay Montessori
Where were you born? Cape Town Where did you study? Headstart Mercy Montessori What was your favourite subject at school? Home Economics Your favourite teacher? Mrs Mouton - Maths What star sign are you? Virgo
Where were you born? Durban Where did you study? University of Port Elizabeth What was your favourite subject? Biology, Geography & Sociology Who was your favourite teacher? Ms Boyes (Biology) - Best ever!
Denise Michel, Deputy Principal International School of Hout Bay: Primary School Where were you born? Cape Town Where did you study? UCT What was your favourite subject? Science Who was your favourite teacher? Mr Green (Science - and confidence!) Which is your favourite day? Friday especially when my goals for the week have been realized and I have earned the weekend. What star sign are you? Taurus A special moment while teaching? In 1982 when many matriculants decided not to write their finals because of political disturbances. Learners innovatively structured the Biology lessons as an International conference and presented papers. Their work was of an exceptionally high standard. There were 16 learners with A’s in Biology with 8 in the top 20 in the Province….memorable !
Mackie Kleinschmidt, Oranjekloof Moravian Primary
Which is your favourite day? I love every day! What star sign are you? Pisces A special moment while teaching? I have so many special moments. I have had in the 12 years I’ve been teaching, been lucky enough to make a connection with nearly every child who has passed through my classroom. I love what I do!
Natasha van Greunen, Kronendal Primary School.
Grant Ruskovich, Deputy Principal International School of Hout Bay: High School Where were you born? Cape Town Where did you study? C.T.T.C in Mowbray What was your favourite subject at school? History Your favourite teacher? Mr Brian Jacoby (Science) Which is your favourite day of the week and why? Friday- the weekend beckons! What star sign are you? Aquarius A special moment while teaching: Mr Trumble wears a different tie for each of the +-205 school days of the year. Pupils in his class can request a tie eg horses or airoplanes that he will wear on their respective birthdays. He has over 500 ties in his collection.
Greg Trumble, Llandudno Primary School Where were you born?
Where were you born? Claremont, many years ago! Where did you study? Zonnebloem Teacher’s Training College What was your favourite subject? English and Geography Your favourite teacher? Mr. Herbert was an inspiration. Your favourite day of the week? I love Sundays, because we get
together as a family. What star sign are you? Scorpio A special moment while teaching: I love every day, every lesson, especially when we can do story-telling and creative writing with illustrations. Editor’s Note: Mrs Salie is completing her 50th year of teaching in 2013. Fifty years at the same school. Her legacy is a lasting one and she continues to make a difference in many children’s lives. She is the matriarch of Sentinel!
Faiza Salie, Sentinel Primary School
Bulawayo
Where did you study? University of Zimbabwe and UNISA
What was your favourite subject? Accounting
Who was your favourite teacher? Mr Kwadi (Accounting) He knew all our names on the first day and there were 35 of us!
Your favourite day of the week and why?
Friday - because I always look forward to the weekend.
What star sign are you? Aries
A special moment while teaching: Some of my past students still call me on my birthday. It’s nice to know they’re still thinking of me.
Siphathisiwe Nkohla, Silikamva High School
We Recommend a Day at the Clay Café
When you wind your way to the very top of a narrow dirt road just next to the Oakhurst Farm Stall Spar, you will arrive at the “Clay Café” one of the gems of Hout Bay. Owned and run by Chris Bradburn, a very hands-on and capable lady. Chris started out in her home many years ago and has been in the current premises since 1999. The Clay Café, situated in a beautiful area of Hout Bay, overlooking the mountains and valleys, is a great place to go to work everyday. Chris is very much in demand and as we talk her phone rings, the staff have questions, I have questions and she handles it all with ease.
We take a tour of the premises which are bigger than one thinks at first glance. Bright, colourful ceramics are everywhere, from the teddy bear painted by a little girl, to the professional dinner service, being readied for delivery. I find it all so interesting I don’t know where to look first. Chris tells me she has a staff of 25, some of whom are from the same family and have been with her for many years. Chris herself only started pottery as an adult. However, the “pottery bug” bit her and she has not looked back. The products are of a very high quality and can be used in the microwave and dishwasher. You can buy them at Kirstenbosch Gardens and various shops around Cape Town. You can also purchase very good “seconds” at the Clay Café directly, at good prices. This way you can build up a dinner service that is completely unique! The “Clay Café” is also a good place to go for coffee and cake. Under the watchful eye and supervision of Danni Dogon, a Silwood trained chef, my husband and I enjoyed the
All ages enjoy painting at The Clay Cafe.
largest piece of chocolate cake ever, which had great flavour. We will definitely be going back again soon. The good news is, Danni will be giving cookery lessons during the holidays. Bring the children along to master the art of biscuit making, cup cake creation & pizza baking. Contact the Café on 021 790 3318 or email chasms@houtbay.com for information on dates and times. Also coming up is a “Holiday Special” which includes 2 items of pottery to paint, a juice and a snack, all for R95.00. A great idea for the children to use as Christmas presents for someone special, but don’t forget to allow 2 weeks for firing. Popular events are “Team Building” exercises and “Kitchen Teas”. The Café is also open at night for a minimum of 10 people for your own private function. Children’s birthday parties are very popular. There is a play area outside and a jumping castle, if required, to get rid of excess energy. Children of all shapes and sizes run around dressed in anything from jeans and tee-shirt to glittery fairy dresses. Anything
goes at the Clay Café. Families sit around tables, toasted sandwich in one hand, paint brush in the other, all working intently on their creations. Pretty much weather proof, because of large tents attached to the building, the Clay Café is an “all year” venue, which is great for the kids, mom and dad! For more information on “The Clay Café” phone: 021 790 3318, email: chasms@ houtbay.com or visit their website at : www.claycafe.co.za By Margarett Macfarlane.
Revealing An “Undiscovered” Gem!
“Hardly ‘undiscovered’!” you may well retort! However this historic architectural landmark remains an undiscovered gem to many local Cape Town folk. Hout Bay Manor, originally The Royal Hotel, was built in 1871 by Jacob Trautmann and seemed beyond its heyday in the early 2000s. However, after an 18 month renovation and restoration, the hotel was reopened and to this day remains a popular wedding and honeymoon venue. Popular with tourists and visitors for it’s unique olde world Cape Colonial charm and it’s proximity to famous attractions such
as Chapman’s Peak Drive and surrounds, the hotel’s apparent exclusivity has left it seldom frequented by locals. But, no more! Since working on the H’out & About page in the previous Good Times issue, I have made a concerted effort to try new places instead of always falling back on our family’s “old favourites”. On a hot Saturday in early November we felt the need to get out of the house. Perusing the restaurant page, I kept being drawn back to the Pure Restaurant details, however it’s hardly a place to take seven children. (Not all mine!) I’d heard that there’s a big drive to make The Manor more accessible to locals, so I called ahead and enquired about the children and the receptionist assured me they were welcome. What a pleasant surprise! We took a large table next to the pool, the staff were attentive and friendly and the food was tremendous. Renowned as a fine dining establishment, Pure Restaurant runs a B.B.B. Special which is a burger & beer or bubbles special for R75.00. A substantial burger with chips and salad and a kiddies menu with chicken schnitzel that had my children devouring their food including the tasty side salad. As it wasn’t busy, our children were allowed to swim in the heated pool, and they had an absolute ball all afternoon. Not always an option, however they will let you know if you call them in advance.
Short of going to the beach and foregoing a delicious lunch, there was nowhere more perfect for us all to have spent the sweltering afternoon. On the downside, after our yummy lunch and lazy chats, none of us had any desire to go back home to those intended odd jobs around the house!
Hout Bay Manor also has a tea & cake special for R25.00, just perfect for under the trees on those hot summer afternoons.
A B’Earthday Party - You’re Invited!
Reflections with Maggie As 2013 is fast drawing to a close, what better time for “Reflections”
The UP (www.theup.org.za) is about to celebrate 10 years of service, steadily growing UP from just 2 Hospital Care Clowns to over 75 in Cape Town and now also Gauteng. To celebrate that 10 years ago our joyinspiring work began to Be on this Earth – we are having a HUGE 10th B’EARTHDAY PARTY. Nicola Jackman – founder of The UP and one of GLAMOUR’s WOMEN of the YEAR for 2013 says; “This is such a special milestone for us, we have really grown UP, we used to UPlift just 100 children and now with the ever-growing interest in our work, we bring consistent joy to over 3500 children every month. It’s the most awesomely YAY experience to see how sharing JOY effects everyone, the giver, the receiver and all who witness the exchange.” On December 16th 2013 – The UP is creating CAPE TOWN’s FIRST EVER PUBLIC B’EARTHDAY PARTY… Families will be able to simultaneously support The UP’s amazing work, whilst having a HEAP of fun travelling a miniworld at Kronendal Primary School. Nicola adds; “It’s our intention to inspire families to play together, we do a lot of corporate joy work and thought why not bring some team-building type games to our B’Earthday Party and build family/groups of friends as teams. There will be loads of bonus entertainment too – including theatre, music & dance”
Tickets are R50p/p (for all ages & remember the fee includes your donation to THE UP ensuring UP’s 10th year is the largest JOY outreach ever). Get behind this joy-inspiring organisation and have a fun day with the whole family or your friends. Travel the world & support the growth of JOY, play loads of games & win prizes for best dressed, fastest travelling group and other spot prizes. Tickets available on QUICKET (group booking discounts available). Just imagine, you and your family or friends, can dress up as your favourite culture, or as a world traveller and come and play games together. When you arrive your group or family will receive a group passport & then you will be able to explore the 13 different countries and enjoy all the other bonus entertainment too. R50p/p (2 & under free) Early Bird (limited tickets till 12th December) The B’Earthday party will be split into 13 country zones and an additional stage area, arts & chill area and food & some goods will be for sale too. Travel to Hawaii, Mexico, Brazil, France, USA, UK, Greenland etc all in one day - play the games together to get your group passport stamped. Bring your friends and/or family and celebrate 10 years of sharing and growing JOY & let’s raise FUN and FUNDS for the UP and envision love & joy growing around the world! Venue: Kronendal Primary Hout Bay Time: 10am – 5pm
What happened to our list of New Years resolutions we wrote out with such determination at the beginning of the year? Did we spend more quality time with the kids? Did we lose those extra kilos? Did we stop smoking? Did we clean the car weekly? And many, many more! Well, the chances are, we did none of the above, and to complicate matters, we feel bad that we did not. With 2014 around the corner, we will most likely repeat the whole process. Well, let’s think about this. We would all like to make certain changes and improvements
in our lives, but this needs to be a positive, ongoing, experience. We need to work towards our goals and make them life changing. Do you want to lose 5kg? Well, give yourself a year to do it. That way it will stay off and you will have changed your eating pattern for life. How are you going to spend more time with the kids. Allow 10 minutes a day extra and you get the equivalent of 8 days a year extra with the little people. The fact is, if we set our expectations too high, we set ourselves up for failure. On the other hand, if we aim for something achievable, it is win – win, and we feel good. So for 2014, think seriously about what matters to you – work out a practical time period, write it in the front of your 2014 diary and look forward to positive results at the end of 2014. Good luck and see you again next year !
Maggie, (Margerett Macfarlane) was born in Cape Town, and has been in business most of her life. She won the “SA Business Woman of the Year” award in 1992, when she was Managing Director of a company involved in electronic manufacture and export. She is trained as a Bereavement Councillor for St Luke’s Hospice. She oversaw the “Look Good, Feel Better” imitative in Cape Town for a number of years. (They provide make over workshops for cancer patients at various hospitals.) She qualified as an Image Consultant and firmly believes that we all need some colour in our lives! She gives motivational talks and is trained as a “Life Skills” coach. She has been happily married for 46 years, has 2 children and 2 wonderful grandchildren, all close by. These days she take it a bit easier and enjoys the moment. She exercises at least 3 times a week and hopes to start drumming soon.
Tips for Healthy Teeth this Christmas
About The UP - The UP is a Not for Profit Organisation 122-357 NPO, founded in 2003. They are an arts for health humanitarian company, committed to bringing UPliftment and extra emotional care to sick & traumatised children in communities, homes & hospitals. Sharing joy sUPports the children’s well-being & recuperation. For almost 10 years they’ve been actively building, sharing and inspiring joy… “Care Clowning, laughter, play, our kindness – caring for one another – that’s UP; WE are all joy catalysts creating a healthier happier humanKIND.” (www.theup.org.za)
Each of us get 20 milk teeth after we are born. They are important, because healthy milk teeth help your jawbone and mouth’s muscles develop better – and make your smile beautiful! Between your fifth and thirteenth birthday you lose them, because you are becoming bigger and need bigger teeth. You then get 32 brand new teeth, which you have to keep forever. Sometimes one or two of your
milk teeth remain in your mouth until you are much older. This is because there is no permanent tooth below or above trying to come out. Here are some great tips to help keep your teeth healthy and shiny this Christmas • Brush your teeth after every meal to remove every bit of food. • Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride – the stuff that makes teeth stronger. • Begin at the gum and brush in small circular movements towards the tips of the teeth. • Scrub the biting surfaces with small back-and-forth movements. • Follow a routine so that you don’t miss anything. • Begin at the back of the lower teeth and clean the outside. Then do the same with the inside. • Do the same for the upper teeth and thereafter brush all the biting surfaces. • Use dental floss to clean between your teeth. • Eat food that contains a lot of vitamins and minerals. Try to eat less sticky and sweet foods. • Visit a dentist twice a year.
Transformation at Pelican Park High School Former principal of Sea Point Primary School, Cader Tregonning, was moved across to Pelican Park High School last year by the Department of Education, with the instruction to “turn the school around”. His first three months at the school were tough and he missed Sea Point Primary very much. His first glance at the classrooms was rather depressing. There were 370 learners and 11 teachers and a lack of materials. He felt there was tremendous potential in the school and he spoke to the learners and staff about the necessity to turn it around, into a school of excellence, a school of choice. There had been vandalism and neglect and the school was in a terrible state. They needed a plan. The staff worked together and put together a fifteen point intervention plan to make the change. One of those points was the necessity for past matric exam papers from the last five years to be compiled and supplied to the children. A time consuming exercise for each subject teacher and an expensive exercise for the school. This is where Paperight joins the story. As if they had been in on the 15 point plan meetings, Yazeed Peters, business-development manager of Paperight, “popped up like a blessing in disguise”. Mr Ighsaan Dramat, Acting HOD, tells how all they had to do was place an order and the “books” were there within a week. It is not the first time the learners have been exposed to question papers, but it is the first time they have been exposed to the papers plus memorandums all in one neat pack individually personalised. The children found the packs incredibly helpful and those who ordered from the beginning of the year, saw a marked improvement in their work results and prelims. Mr Tregonning says that the most important thing was that the learners were able to start from day one to work on the papers. Those children who had not purchased the question packs saw the results of the learners who had bought them, and after prelims there was an “explosion” of pack buying. Nizaaimudeen Gallow, a matric learner, says he has bought all the packs. “They’ve helped me tremendously. Without them I would not have been able to study, revise my work. Especially the main subjects like Physics and maybe English also. Working through the past papers helps me check my answers, see if I’m right. And I mostly always am!” He laughs. Mr Tregonning says “Paperight are part and parcel of our family. We want to take this to the next level. This is all in pursuit of excellence. All in pursuit of where we are going with our school and they’ve (Paperight) played a very, very important role with this year’s matriculants and we will always be thankful to them. We need to look at ways of how to strengthen that partnership in the future.” To view a documentary on this amazing turnaround, go to http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=cs69YVQLI4U. For more information on Paperight, visit www.paperight.com
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Mmmmmm, check out the restaurants in our Out & About feature who wouldn’t want a great meal out at any or all of these special Cape Town eateries? Stand a chance to win a voucher from any one of these gems, just follow the procedures below and wait for us to contact you...you may just be taking your family or friends out for a scrumptious and memorable meal! How to Win E-mail your name, age, school and review to competitions@thegoodtimes.co.za. Alternatively: 1. Go to our facebook page at:
www.facebook.com/ TheGoodTimesSchoolPaper 2. Like us 3. Message us a review of any of the restaurants featured in Out & About. Include information like: • Your favourite dish? • What you choose off the menu to really treat yourself? • What appeals to you most about the restaurant? • What is the service like? 4. Moms and Dads posting for their children please include their name, age, school and a contact e-mail. This competition is open to all ages. The competition closes on 15 January 2013. The judges decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into regarding the winners.
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Bookings: 021 790 3462
Shop A1 Mainstream Shopping Centre Hout Bay, Cape Town (021)790 0305 daisyjax3@gmail.com
Here’s a Thought...with Tom Purcell Stats from the ‘Always Connected’ Report In this wonderful era of instant communication we mustn’t lose sight of an indispensable skill. We live in an age of instant gratification. I call it the ‘microwave society’ – we want it hot and we want it now. Far different from what I enjoyed (or endured!) growing up in the 1960s and 70s. Of course that time was a far cry again from the world my parents encountered. Each generation has a distinct playing field of rules, values and technology to look forward to and mould to their lives and aspirations. One of the amazing advances in the last 10 years has to be the way in which we communicate with each other. I’ve been involved in ‘communications’ most of my working life, but the truth is that we’re all in the communications business and we engage in this important activity pretty much full time. Explaining the importance of communication is therefore a bit like explaining the importance of breathing! Every facet of our lives revolves around communicating with others – our partners, children, teachers, co-workers, bosses, clients and customers…the list is endless! And, the ability to do it instantly has been with us for a few years now as well, to the point that it’s difficult to see how the technology innovators can have us keeping in touch with each other any quicker, unless they find a way to tweet thoughts! Nobody
would argue that our lives are not enriched in some measure or other by these brilliant tools at our disposal, but there are dangers. There’s the obvious one where reaction and reflection time (remember the old fashioned rule of sleeping on something overnight?) are lost to a knee-jerk riposte, only to be regretted later, when of course it’s too late. Facebook posts and comments, tweets and sms’s have become imbedded in our way of life, especially for our children and the pre-family generation. I have to admit to a wry smile every time I see a gaggle of kids huddled together texting each other – what’s that all about? Put the phones away and talk! This is at the heart of my concern : whilst computers, laptops, tablets and smart phones have opened us up to many more opportunities to ‘connect’, the quality of those connections might well be impaired by an inability to learn from nonverbal forms of communication, the soft stuff that’s lost when you’re not in front of the other person. Nonverbal communication accounts for two thirds of all communication and includes gestures, facial expressions, body language, appearance and something known as paralinguistics, which refers to tone of voice, inflection, loudness and pitch. The art of communicating effectively is one of the most important skills that a child can learn as he or she makes their way through life and into the world of work and a meaningful contribution to their community and I hope that schools and colleges will soon begin to make room in their curriculum to develop this competence. I suppose the answer’s ‘no’ until you ask the question. Ok, so what’s our principal’s twitter handle?
Tom Purcell was born and raised on the mean and meaningful streets of south west London. Playtime was outdoors, in all weathers, climbing trees, riding bikes, playing football or hopping on a few busses to watch his beloved Chelsea FC. He attended Kingston University and gained a Bachelor of Laws in 1981, leading in due course to a career as a solicitor (attorney). A natural entrepreneur, Tom also built interests in property development and investment before he and his wife were offered the chance to spend two years working in Cape Town . A short assignment that turned into 14 years! Tom began a new career as a speaker and entertainer 5 years ago and now owns and presents on Hout Bay’s very own radio station - Republic Radio. He also has a weekly show on the iconic and much loved LM Radio. Tom has been married to Linda for 18 years and they have a daughter Georgia who happily attends Kronendal Primary. The three of them are very proudly Hout Bay.
Sponsored by Facebook, the IDC’s new research report “Always Connected: How Smartphones and Social Media Keep Us Engaged” is filled with good info-nuggets. We encourage you to read the 25 page report, but for those on the move, we’ve boiled it down for you. No pretty pictures or graphics below, but there are definitely some on the report, so check it out! (https://fb-public.app.box.com/s/3iq5x6uwnqtq7ki4q8wk) • • • • • • • • •
25% of people surveyed cannot recall the last time their phone was not close them. Today, half of the total US population uses smartphones. In 2013, U.S. Smartphone Users is projected to be 181.4 Million which is 57.3% of the population. Within the first 15 minutes of waking up, 4 out of 5 smartphone owners are checking their phones. 79% of respondents have their phone on or near them for all but up to 2 hours of their waking day. 49% of respondents feel connected when using text/message application on their Smartphones. From Monday to Sunday, 84% of respondent’s time is spent on phone communicating via text, email, social vs. only 16% on phone calls. Men are 75% more likely than women to seek out application on Facebook using their Smartphones. People check their smartphones on average 150 times per day.
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
Mackenzie van Schalkwyk, Grade 2, Ambleside School.
Nolanga Sabawa, Grade RC, Disa Primary School.
Ruth Mentor, Grade 5, Dominican-Grimley School.
Mosaic Art for the Enviro Quiz, Hout Bay High School.
Dissection by Erin Gemmel, ISHB High School.
Slice of Time by Naomi Scheepers, ISHB High School.
A Self Portrait, Tyla Tredrea, Aged 2, Hout Bay Montessori.
By Mangal Mees, Grade 2B, Kronendal Primary School.
By Jacques Amsel , Grade 3, Llandudno Primary School.
Pottery by Sima Gogogo, Grade 6, Oranjekloof Primary.
Drawing by Nombuso Frepu, Gr 6, Sentinel Primary
Poster by Buchule Mabenu, Grade 9, Silikamva High.
Our Grade 12 Students Come of Age!
As they complete their final exams, we trust they achieve what they have hoped and worked so hard for. In the same way, Ambleside School of Hout Bay itself is coming of age - as these young adults are the first Grade 12 students the school has had using the Charlotte Mason education philosophy. Ambleside School of Hout Bay now offers a complete education from Preschool through to Grade 12. We believe the Charlotte Mason education philosophy has served them well. They have experienced ‘narration’- the ‘telling back’ of what they have learnt. How many times have we thought we have heard and understood, even simple map directions, to find five minutes later when we are lost, that maybe we did not understand quite as much as we thought! Narration is a gentle and integral method where children get to know exactly how well they are doing, and if any extra help is needed it is quickly seen and remedied. It is a truly “living education” practiced everyday. Narration also helps our children in another way. Do you know how many people fear public speaking? We know this daily habit of narration will serve our Grade 12 students well to stand tall and strong as they imminently go out into the world. Ambleside School of Hout Bay has also come of age in another way with our first Grade 12 class. Within this close group of students is one of our one child at a time (ocaat) sponsored children. Ambleside believes every child has a right to their God given potential, regardless of their financial situation. Our sponsored children come from within the broader Hout Bay community. Many people are citing early school drop out rates as a critical social and economic problem….so it is wonderful to see this year’s Grade 12 class reflecting what can be possible. There is no doubt that our one child at a time scheme is bold. We have a long-term dream where funds would be sufficient to support a quarter of each class being sponsored children. Our bold ambition comes from a belief that you do not have to be special or financially stable to benefit from a living education. The selection
“Teaching is not a technique exercised by the skilled on the unskilled. It is a sharing of effort to know, using all that is best in the world of books, of music, of pictures, all that can be observed and cherished out of doors, all that hand and eye can make; all that religion, history, art, mathematics and science can reveal to the active mind.” - Charlotte Mason process is not so much about the academic ability. It is a like-minded philosophy between the family and school, that an education that teaches a child who they are in relation to their world, their peers, themselves and creation is worth working hard for whatever the challenge and cost, and both are prepared to contribute what they can. Side by side our children also learn through the Charlotte Mason practice of developing
good habits for life, e.g. the habit of paying attention, of doing your best, of being kind and many more. As a result every child learns to appreciate that it is whom a person is that counts, not where they live or what they have. As one of four in every class, alongside one of four in thirteen other classes, our sponsored children would also be safe and secure belonging to and co-creating a sizeable school community inside and out of school hours - not left in
limbo between two worlds as sometimes can happen with fewer isolated students. It is a gift for any individual to see others and be seen for their true selves. We believe the one child at a time scheme enriches the life of fee paying children just as much as those sponsored, when children come together as the best of friends, each comfortable with their similarities and differences. In building our school community, so we hope to contribute to that of Hout Bay and reflect a bigger, better social framework for the long-term future. May one social group not be favoured over another, but a newer truly harmonious generation be created of equal and yet unique individuals. We are striving to make this goal work but we know it will take much more effort, finances and resource. It is not just what happens in school hours that enable a child to make it all the way to Grade 12. We currently have a community worker as part of the scheme, as we know a supportive family, a good breakfast, and a proper nights sleep are all key in being strong and capable in a classroom. We have extra tuition in place for those that need it, and are looking into homework support for the older students. For the one child at a time children entering our preschool, we will be partnering with WordWorks (www.wordworks.org.za) to provide extra language and early developmental skills so they can progress more easily through each grade. Our goal is for every child to get the quality of teaching they require - so that no bright child is held back - no mid level child is passed over - no child is left unsupported. Please help us deliver a promise where every child, sponsored or not, is seen, heard and loved for who they are, and where they all gain more not less from being part of a broad based class. We look forward to the new school year that is just around the corner, to journeying with all our children from Preschool to Grade 12 in this fullness of learning and life.
For now though, our prayers go with you, Grade 12 students, we wish you well. Thank you for laying this path for many others to follow.
National Athletics Competition
During September, four of our high school athletes who qualified at Provincial Level to compete at the South African Christian Schools Sports Association Annual National Athletics Competition, travelled to Pretoria to be put to the test. 1000 athletes from across the country come to compete at the Annual National Athletics. Our athletes participated in track events ranging from 100m – 3000m and in Long Jump. They trained hard through the winter, often braving the wind and rain, but it all paid off when they put in some personal best performances on the track bringing home 5 Gold Medals and 2 Bronze Medals.
Provincial Champions!
Nina Holling Gr 5 Western Province Champion for Gymnastics 2013 for level 3 U11s.
Congratulations to Abigail Stables (Grade 10) who won the Western Province Champion 80cm and Victor Ludorum 80cm on 19th and 20th October riding Burn it Like Beckham.
The President’s Award Our Local Sports Stars
Congratulations to the 16 schools in the Western Cape who had Gold Award recipients at the Gold Award Ceremony held at The Bay Hotel on 10th October 2013. The President’s Award is given to students who fulfill the requirements in Community Service, developing a New Skill, taking part in Physical Recreation and embark on an Adventurous Journey. These prestigious Awards were handed out by President Zuma and the Earl and Countess of Wessex. Dane Murray-Lerm, a Grade 12 student, was one of the recipients of a Gold President’s Award. He persevered to complete all the requirements for this award. Well done Dane on receiving this well-deserved, prestigious Award! Congratulations too to Jadon Thomson and Jenna Bing for their silver awards and Joshua Hayes for his bronze award. Ambleside School Print Run Sponsored By Riaan King Optometrist:
Steven Sparks achieved a 4th place in the Berg River Swim in Franschhoek in November.
Our very own soccer star, Sisonke Lubelwana, has been selected to play for the Hellenic Football Club U13 side. Congratulations!
Ambleside School of Hout Bay has an education trust called one child at a time. Ambleside can give children a precious gift – but it takes more than heart to deliver on our promise to every child. So if anyone is curious to find out more, please contact us – maybe with ideas, time, skills or financial support. Donations can be once
off, annual or monthly with a stop order and can be for a chosen child or for the general trust. Donations are tax deductable and companies will receive BBBEE points. Your input can make a great difference in the life of a child! BANKING DETAILS: Account: one child at a time Trust Bank: ABSA Branch: Claremont Branch Code: 632005 Account No: 4075272505 Swift code: ABSAZAJJ Reference: Your name & surname For more info please call Ambleside School of Hout Bay on 021 790 4449 or Antoinette Crane on 082 685 2320.
A Proactive Hout Bay Teachers’ Wellness Day
Although teaching has been identified by some as a particularly stressful occupation, teachers have a natural tendency to “give”, to “care” beyond the normal classroom activities and curriculum. They act as mother, father, doctor, friend, confidant, psychiatrist and judge and jury despite the daily teaching challenges such as difficult students, decreasing resources, increasing class sizes and rigid administrative practices. As a result of these stressful aspects of teaching, the wellness of teachers is being neglected. This naturally, resulting again in psychological and physical burnout. Burnout is an occupational hazard for teachers. Uneasy feelings precede being tired all the time, sleeplessness, depression, and being physically run down. Physical and
emotional exhaustion follow and teacher absenteeism increases. The Principals of the Hout Bay schools decided to intervene and organized a Teachers Wellness Day. The day was hosted at Kronendal Primary School in Hout Bay where different care givers to education gathered to serve the teachers.
Hout Bay Green Faire On Saturday, 02 November, the sun came out in all splendour and embraced the gathering of the Planet Warriors together with many other exhibitionists at Krondendal Primary School for the annual Hout Bay Green Faire. The Green Faire was a day filled with fun, socialising and being introduced to the latest eco-friendly trends, products and services. A feature of the Green Faire was the Planet Warriors Festival where all the participating schools in Hout Bay created a Recycle Market, and an Eco-Fashion Show. Mrs Adams together with Ms Pienaar accompanied four of Disa’s Grade 3 learners who were involved with the Planet Warriors. They have planted different seeds and replanted them into beautifully decorated pots. They produced beautifully organic vegetable plants like beans, lettuce, and herbs. They also made book marks and decorated them. These were the items for sale. The learners, together with friends and families, also enjoyed the food, music, talks, movies, puppet shows and loads of other entertainment. The Hot Bay Green Faire is surely a much loved community event for the whole family, and Disa Primary is very proud to be part of this annual community event.
Nedbank, Old Mutual, Discovery and Gems Medical Aid were there to assist the teachers with information and inquiries. A medical team were lined up to take care of blood pressure, cholesterol, sugar counts, measuring waist lines, taking heart rates, and even had a masseuse on call for a quick neck massage! The hall where all the teachers assembled
looked beautiful with a special gift for each teacher. We were spoiled with delicious eats and drinks while we followed the line with our own personal Wellness Passport to be checked, monitored, measured and weighed and filled in. At the end of the day, all the teachers were in good spirits and had a clear indication of their general health. A HUGE THANK YOU to our Principals in the Hout Bay schools who stand together and taking this initiative for the wellness of the teachers.
Disa Parents’ Comedy Evening Soli Philander Visits Grade 3
On Friday evening, Disa Parents arrived in good spirits at the school hall, welcomed with the warm and inviting rhythm of the talented Sentinel Marimba Band. For our fourth term Parent Involvement project, it was decided to treat our parents to a Comedy Night. Our Parents were delighted and the school hall was packed with an enthusiastic audience. Mrs van der Westhuizen welcomed and introduced Mr Stuart Taylor, a very wellknown Comedian. Stuart Taylor is also known to South Africans as the presenter of
SABC’s hit travel show “Going Nowhere Slowly”. His award winning fusion formula of comedy and magic earned him South African’s Comedy Magic Champion for three years. He is also the author of the book “Learner Husband” which is also performed in theatres across the country. Stuart had the audience captivated for every moment, with spontaneous laughter echoing through the school hall. It certainly was an honour to have Mr Stuart Taylor entertaining the Parents of Disa Primary School.
Last week the Grade 3’s at Disa Primary School had the privilege to be visited by Mr Soli Philander, the well-loved comedian. His wife, Toni Philander, accompanied him. As part of the CAPS syllabus, “Comedy” and “The telling of jokes” is one aspect, which is covered this term. Mr Philander was asked if he would come and explain the art of telling jokes to the learners. The Grade 3’s are focussing on “KnockKnock” jokes in particular. Soli was able to give them a lovely practical example of
Knock – Knock jokes. He also explained to them the wonderful art of being a comedian and the kind of jokes he prefers to tell. In particular, ones that is not hurtful to others! The learners went away with a great deal more knowledge and an enthusiasm to search for the best “Knock-Knock” joke they could find. The Grade 3 teachers wish to sincerely thank Mr & Mrs Philander for offering their time to educate the Grade 3 learners of Disa Primary. The afternoon was a great success and enjoyed by all.
A Special Visit on Arbor Day The DSK Soccer Tournament
The Under 9 Soccer Team of Disa was invited to attend a small field football tournament. This tournament was hosted by the Deutsche Internationale Schule Kapstadt on Saturday, 19 October 2013. Litha Tshemese, Ibenathi Tyolwana, Nasar Ebrahim, Zeek Lewis, Uviwe Mahobe, Kamva Somciza and Ntsika Smanga were
the seven team members whom Disa registered for this tournament. Our soccer boys held Disa’s name high with a splendid performance and earned a proud 3rd place in the tournament. Zeek Lewis was selected as the Best Goal Scorer of the tournament. Well Done Boys, we are very proud of you!
Disa Primary School Print Run Sponsored By Fish on the Rocks:
During the celebration of Arbor Week September 1 – 7, the first week of Spring, Disa learners were surprised by a very special visit. Mark and Anton from The Centre for Conservation Education visited Disa
Primary School. They also brought Thandi and Leonard with them. Thandi and Leonard talked to the learners about the importance of trees. Disa just loved Thandi and Leonard and hope to see them again next year.
Annual Christmas Party The Night of the Stars...
Dominican Grimley Matrics of 2013 at their Matric Farewell Dance.
The children of Dominican Grimley get treated to a Christmas party at the end of each year. This year they played Putt Putt in Mouille Point, compliments of Spikes Sport shop, and a picnic lunch of KFC. Father Christmas (Mike Rigg from Ven Sec) handed out stunning gifts for each child and a fantastic party spread was enjoyed by all. Sponsors included Metropolitan Health, Ocean Basket, Aqua Plumbing, Frank Holland Associates, International School of Hout Bay and many private individuals.
Cape Town project by Abdisalam Mohamed in Gr 5.
Dominican-Grimley Primary School Concert
Above: Our Beautiful Angels. Left: King Herod and The Three Wise Men
Athule, Our Poetry Winner Admiring Our Classwork The Dominican Sisters celebrated 150 years of teaching and serving in South Africa this past September. As part of the celebrations, learners at all Dominican Schools were invited to take part in a variety of competitions. The theme for all the competitions was “Truth and Light” - the motto of Dominican Schools is”Veritas” (truth). Athule Mgodeli, a Grade 10 learner at our school, entered the poetry section of the competition and we are proud to say he won first place. His evocative and provocative poem gives voice to his faith. Athule is a remarkable young man who lives without the ability to hear yet his insight is profound.
TRUTH AND LIGHT The truth is better than lies. Lies destroy. Truth builds. Light is better than darkness. Darkness makes you stumble and fall. Light guides people along the right path. The truth gives eternal life. Lies give eternal hellfire. Light delivers us home, heaven. Darkness hands us over to doom forever. Lies, Everything touched by lies Withers and perishes. Truth, oh truth. Everything touched by your magical hand Prospers forever and ever. You need light. Ask for light and you shall be given it. You need truth. Ask for truth and you shall be given it. Athule Mgodeli (Grade 10) Dominican Grimley Dominican-Grimley School Print Run Sponsored By Shuttlebug:
Left: Classwork by Lusindiso Qavile. Centre Left: Lovely book work by Siyanga Sodam in Gr 3. Centre Right: Money boxes by Gr 5. Bottom Centre: Sive Takata hard at work in Gr 1
Grade 12 Annual Valedictory Ceremony - A Fond Farewell
AN IRISH BLESSING May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, May the rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May the Lord keep you in the palm of His hand.
On 23 October 2013, we bade our Matriculants good bye at our Annual Valedictory Ceremony. Members of The Moravian Brass Band lead the Academic Procession into the hall with Gaudeamus Igitur and later entertained us with the music of An Irish Blessing. Our guest speakers, Mrs D. Van Rensburg (former educator at our school) and Mr Carl Wastè (well known Good Hope FM DJ) have also graced us with their presence to motivate and inspire our Class of 2013. The message was clear: DON’T GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS. We wish our Grade 12 learners all the best with their examinations and future endeavours. Left: Mrs Van Rensburg Above (L): The Brass Band Quartet Above (R): Mr Carl Wastè ( Good Hope FM DJ ) Centre (R): The Grade 12A class with Mrs Boezak Bottom (R): The Grade 12B class with Miss Langenhoven
Glamour at the Matric Ball The Grade 12s looked all too snazzy at their Matric Ball!
12A Class with Mrs Boezak
12B Class with Miss Langenhoven
Oodles & Oodles of Good News! Enviro Club’s Continued Success Our school has once again been blessed by Teachers For Africa (an organisation from the Netherlands) with soccer gear for girls. We are delighted to announce that we are ready to start the (soccer) ball rolling next year!! Representatives from Teachers For Africa with one of our learners. Rotary Hout Bay has generously donated a total of 100 dictionaries to our school. Thank you, Mr Hans-Heinrich Kuhn for gracing us with your presence for every time that you have a delivery to make! We are forever thankful and we highly appreciate the acts of kindness towards our school. Our learners are also able to match word-meanings with pictures as these dictionaries are wonderfully illustrative. Thank you once again for investing in the education of our learners. We would also like to thank Ms Josie Borain from Chic Mama’s for their selfless contribution towards the education of our youth over the years. We are equally grateful to you and your team for the donations made to us in 2012. Ms Lucille Fourie (Land Management Specialist), employed by ATC South Africa (Cell C), contacted our secretary, Ms Sharon Wagner. Lucille wanted to know what the needs at our school was. Sharon’s response: I grabbed the opportunity with both hands and told Lucille about our school which has obtained a 0% grading for our feeding scheme kitchen, as scored by the Whole School Evaluation (WSE) team. Lucille introduced me to Mr Kenwyn Joshua (Regional Operations Manager) and the rest, as they say, is history! Everything just fell into place. On 2 November 2013 a wellorganised team of men walked into our school and started construction. Our brand new kitchen looks wonderful! We cook for 250 learners every week day. The official handover is on Wednesday 4 December 2013, where we will officially thank ATC South Africa (Cell C) for their generosity. Officials from ATC South Africa (Cell C), NSNP (National Nutrition Programme) and other stakeholders will attend.
Setting Sail to A New Sport at School
We have started our SAILING PROJECT in October this year. There are a total of 20 learners participating in this sport code, 8 girls and 12 boys. The participants are divided into groups of two. Training happens on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Competitions, which are scheduled for Tuesdays, prepare these learners for future endeavours and encourage team building and good sportsmanship. Thus far, these groups have done very well. The main reason why our school has taken
up this code was because of the lack of interest among learners regarding extra mural activities. Getting the learners more involved have changed their way of thinking, and most of all, it has taught them to become more responsible when making choices. Since its initial stages, a lot of learners have showed great interest in this project. The mere fact that we are living in this beautiful fishing village with all the resources to our disposal, it is great that we could get the sailing industries to join us and be a part of this wonderful experience. I have assisted these learners in their training and I am very excited and positive about the new life skills these learners have acquired in this very short time. Soon they will be singing “ Kaptein, span die seile ” !! I wish them all of the best and may they only go from strength to strength. Report by Ricardo Phillips (MOD Centre)
Hout Bay High School Print Run Sponsored By Hout Bay SUPERSPAR:
Leadership Programme for Women The Quaker Peace Centre has started a leadership programme for young women at our school. This programme aims to build and support good relationships between young women, parents, caregivers and their educators. It also aims to develop sustainable leadership structures that can act as a platform for young women to discuss issues which are affecting their lives. The areas that we are working with include: Intsebenziswano Secondary School in Phillipi; Oscar Mpetha High School in Nyanga; Hout Bay High School; Leiden High School in Delft and Oval North High School in Mitchell’s Plain. This programme affords an opportunity to 10 – 12 young women in these areas to meet after school for one to two hours per week for the duration of one year. A Needs-Assessment for each group of young women is conducted initially to establish the issues that each group wishes to address. These issues are worked through in a series of workshops dealing with topics such as awareness of women’s issues, women’s rights, healing of trauma,
building self-esteem and leadership skills. These young women, together with their parents and / or caregivers have participated in a two-day workshop which focussed on communication, peace building and positive parenting skills. Follow up workshops are also being conducted. They have also attended a Gender Camp at Oatlands Holiday Village in Simon’s Town from 4th – 6th October 2013, as well as a Leadership Parenting Camp for parents / caregivers at Oatlands Holiday Village in Simon’s Town on Friday and Saturday 25 – 26 October 2013. A one-day Young Women & Parent Indaba will be held on 15 March 2014. The Indaba will bring together all the young women and caregivers whom we have worked with in all the areas. The Indaba will give an opportunity to each of these areas to present and discuss the problems that they have identified in this one year programme. They will then come up with recommendations which their support forum structures can support to improve the situation for young women. Report forwarded by Mr Cleophas.
Sunshiny Spring and New Beginnings! Adjectives! Isn’t it amazing what sunshine does to the soul? Basking in its warmth, we forget so quickly the cold grey days not so long gone. Spring is here, and brings with its cool sunny days new beginnings and new endings! Montessorians (6 year olds) are getting ready to leave their nests for the wider horizons of “big school”; toddlers are getting ready for their move into the pre-primary environment and us teachers prepare ourselves for all the bittersweet goodbyes. The staff at HBM would like to thank all our families who are moving on, for all their love, support
and dedication. We at HBM really nurture the ethos of education being the job of the parent, the school and the community. We so appreciate your involvement, creativity and resourcefulness! Lots of love and luck.
Write down the adjectives you would use to describe yourself!
The VIRTUES Programme at HB Montessori
The VIRTUES programme at HBM is the very unique and special part of our curriculum that supports the moral and spiritual growth of our children. The aim is really to help children to grow up with a well-developed sense of self, able to filter out the negative influence of the world around them and to be strong and confident in their own uniqueness. The programme is built into the way we are with your child every day – modelling the behaviour we expect, and recognising as many teachable moments within
their school day as possible as opportunities for learning. Today’s child is exposed to more stresses and challenges than ever before. They need to be taught the life skills they need to choose tolerance, cooperation, empathy, kindness, positive conflict resolution and love. The junior primary class has developed their own code of conduct contracts, signed by both parent and child to ensure a safe and happy environment for all.
Quiz Night Sports Day: An Annual Favourite upcoming talks upcoming talks
The “VIRTUES” programme : 13 June The “VIRTUES” programme : 13 June
15h00—16h00 15h00—16h00
A beautiful and comprehensive curriculum we use at A beautiful and comprehensive useof at our Hout Bay Montessori to bring outcurriculum the best inwe each
We held a QUIZ NIGHT at Pirateschildren. Grill Hout BayThis Montessori to bring out the best in each ofwho our talk is aimed at any parent or educator House. The winning table constituted most Sports’ Day at HBM last month was a very busy and fun-filled day! The children participated in various relay races from the littlies all of our teachers – a very clever lot indeed! thelike way up to the older This event a firm favourite in a ourculture calendar. who children. This talkveterans. is aimed atis definitely any or educator would to support their child inparent developing of
would likeintotheir support their child in developing a cultureFriday’s of Tin Day character homes, classrooms and families. A Fun Pictorial of Term 4 character in their homes, classrooms and families.
The “MONTESSORI LANGUAGE” programme : The “MONTESSORI LANGUAGE” programme : August 15h00 to 16h00 22 22 August
15h00 to 16h00
A presentation by the HBM staff on how children acquire A presentation by at thereading HBM staff on how(ages children language and excel and writing 1 to acquire 12). Social
responsibility forms part of the Montessori primary curriculum, with language and excel at reading and writing (ages 1 to 12).children showing an interest in their greater community. The HBM primary class initiated a “TIN DAY” project, so every Friday is now TIN DAY at our school. We 24 October 15h00 to 16h00 have partnered with “Little Angels” crèche and donate our tins to them. 24 October 15h00 to 16h00 Above: The primary children visit LITTLE children also harvest and sell veggies A presentation by the HBM staff on the beautiful and The ANGELS creche. Centre: An outing to the from our PEACE GARDEN to raise funds Fire Station. Far Right: A Self-PortraitA presentation by the HBM staff on the beautiful and for our bursary fund.
The “MONTESSORI MATHS programme : The “MONTESSORI MATHS programme :
unique Montessori Mathematics curriculum (ages 1 to 12). unique Montessori Mathematics curriculum (ages 1 to 12).
Building Autonomy Tribute to Justinein our children: 14 November
Building Autonomy in our children: 14 November 15h00 to 16h00 One of our pre-school assistants, Justine to Norman, 15h00 16h00has been furthering her studies into this year. A brief glimpse the positive discipline approach used She has now written exams to AHBM brief glimpse intoindependence the positive discipline approach used obtain herto Level 6 Montessori at nurture and self-esteem—how qualification. She did a term in
atour HBM nurture independence and self-esteem—how primaryto class as a student we teach conflict resolution and engage cooperation positeacher. The children thoroughly weenjoyed teach conflict her warmth, tively (ages 1 toenthusiasm 12). resolution and engage cooperation posiand dedication.
tively (ages 1 to 12).
Hout Bay Montessori Print Run Sponsored By Medipet:
www.medipetsa.co.za info@medipetsa.co.za Tel. 021 701 2023
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Graduation Dinner: Another Ending for a New Beginning
This term marked the end of our IBDP2 class’ school career. From Monday they will be on study leave before starting their Final IBDP examinations. On Friday, 11 October, we held a Graduation Dinner in their honour to celebrate their school career as students. Teachers and family were present to celebrate this very beautiful occasion. It was a lovely evening and the students were dressed to the nines. Pictured are just a few special moments. For the last three days last week the IBDP2 students had us entertained! The first day they were dressed as cowboys and Indians and broadcast a rendition of ‘Hang’em High’ over the school intercom. On the second day they arrived in pyjamas and we were ‘roused’ by the song ‘Twinkle, twinkle’ little star’. The last morning was rather interesting! All the classrooms and areas of the school were ‘apple-pied’ and the IBDP2s were dressed as their favourite childhood HERO! On Friday 25th October, we celebrated their academic achievements at the Valedictory Service in the school hall. A big thank you to Melinda-Jayne Photography for taking the photo’s. Written by Winell Gous
IBDP Valedictory Service Friday, 25 October, was the official last school day for our IBDP2 students, culminating in the annual Valedictory Service, which was held in the school hall. Congratulations to all our IBDP2 students, in particular the students who received multiple awards in the various categories.
High School Student Leadership Team 2013/14 Student leadership is an important part of High School life. There are many opportunities for our students to assume leadership roles and develop their experience and skills through the responsibilities that come with these roles. The opportunities for leadership in the High School are many and varied; from the Student Leadership Team and the Student Indaba, to the Mentoring Programme and the CAS (community, action, service) Programme. Not all roles come with a title but every role comes with the opportunity to grow and develop character through service to our community and to our learners. The student leadership team comprises the Head of School and Heads of House, supported by Vice Heads of House, should the occasion require it. After nominations from the student body and consultation with the staff, culminating with a final decision made by the Principal in consultation with the Senior Management Team our congratulations go to this year’s new leaders: Robbie Sadler - Head of School; Hanna Lim - Head of Hillcrest; Laura Fortain - Vice Head of Hillcrest; Stuart Brown - Head of Tarragona; Agata Campione - Head of Rhodes; Felicia Campione - Vice Head of Rhodes; Adam Lincoln Lewis - Head of Penzance, and Bradley Davies - Vice Head of Penzance. The team assembled together last Friday to complete a leadership workshop with Mr Ruskovich. During this meeting various discussions were held about types of leaders and clarification of the leaders’ visions for their coming term of office. On behalf of everyone at ISHB, we would like to wish them all the best of luck as they commence their term of
office. We are confident that this strong team of students will help to lead the school from strength to strength. By Daniel Landi, Director of Student Affairs
8th Annual International School of Hout Bay Science Expo
This is our 8th year of holding our own school science expo! We have now changed the format and brought it in line with the International Baccalaureate Internal Assessment / Extended Essay and the PYP Personal Project. For the first time this Science Expo has been running since the first term and the students have been encouraged to allow their topic to evolve during the course of the year. It now
involves all the MYC science classes. It is such a pleasure to see how the students ‘up their game’ every year and the standard just gets better and better! What is very pleasing is the excellent preparation the MYC1’s receive at the junior school, so evident in their presentations and the confidence they display in their interviews. All participants are to be congratulated on their superb projects. These ranged from solar energy and the community to exploding sweets to live pets, DNA and catapults! As the students progress through their MYC science curriculum what they learn by this experience will stand them in good stead for both their IGCSE and IBDP years and they all promise to be up to the challenge. Well done to all the students on their engagement and commitment to their IA and thank you to the parents for their
support on the night and their enthusiasm and assistance to their children during the course of the year. Your input is so vital to your children enjoying the project and seeing its worth. Sean Wilson, Winell Gous, Sue Souter
Bandana Day and 100,000 Stairs of Hope Santa Shoebox Drop Off - A Special Day
Bandana Day and 100,000 Stairs of Hope Friday’s Bandana Day was a huge success in the High School with bandanas adding colour to our day. This is about another event taking place also to raise support for the Sunflower Fund. Raymond Funnell, a Johannesburg resident and friend of Mr Wilson, is a Leukemia survivor, who champions the Sunflower Fund. He recently initiated the 100,000 Stairs of Hope Challenge, where challengers will be attempting to climb the equivalent height of Mount Everest in just 36 hours. The aim is to raise sponsorship to cover the 100,000 stairs they will run up and down. From Ray’s blog: “A very special man that is taking part is Sibusiso Vilane. He has reached the summit of Mount Everest on two occasions in 2003 and 2005. Sibusiso jokes “So this will be my 3rd attempt at Everest!!!” “. Students donated a total of R1003 to the challenge in just 24 hours, and special mention goes to Noe Looser and his family. They donated R600. Thank you so much! Ray was hugely impressed by the generosity of our students, and promised to make time to come and visit the school next year when he visits Cape Town. You can follow Ray on his blog http://raylivinglarge.blogspot.com/2013/10/everestchallenge-event-launched.html “After the huge success of Bandana Day on Friday, the 11th October, I would like to say THANK YOU to all those who took part in it and were wearing their bandanas, it was incredible! We managed to buy 84 bandanas and raise R2100 which is absolutely amazing! This has really given us the opportunity to grow as a community and has shown that we can accomplish great things as a school. Once again a big thank you for your great support and see youmaybe next year for National Bandana Day 2014?” By Andreas de Beauregard (IBDPP1 student) International School of Hout Bay: High School Print Run Sponsored By HOPE @ PAUL CLUVER:
On 30 October, Felicia Campione, Stacey Plasket, Ryan Wild, Jonathan Field, Nathalie Herles, Andreas de Beauregard and myself went to drop off our 80 Santa Shoeboxes at the Alphen Community Centre Hall, where thousands of other boxes are being checked before being handed out to underprivileged children. What a great moment! Dozens of volunteers are working there, surrounded by mountains of colourful boxes, making sure that nothing is missing. We were really impressed to see how much effort people make in decorating their boxes and making them very special. The very last stage of this amazing adventure for us will be the celebration day in a preschool in Kayelitsha in a few weeks time. By Alice Hello (Teacher and Tutor)
Mountain Hiking The Rambling Club
Once a week I take a group hiking on Table Mountain. I often feel that I have too much work to do before I set off and afterwards am always grateful for the exercise and chance to enjoy my beloved mountain with youngsters whose energy is boundless and enthusiasm infectious. By Andy Wood, Principal.
The Rambling Club is having a fun term! Pictured here our ramble along Chapmans Peak. A big THANKS to our great supportive parents! By Sandy Trull.
New Campus On Time For Class in January 2014
The new campus of the International School of Hout Bay is on track for its first group of students to start classes in January 2014. The campus will include, amongst others, classrooms, three science laboratories, a library and state of the art IT infrastructure. Work is underway on the sports field which is situated on the river side of the campus. The field’s foundation will allow for easy drainage during the winter months. The first phase will accommodate the High School and work on the second phase which will house the Senior Primary school will commence in 2014 in order to be ready for January 2015.
The school’s grounds will be landscaped by AVDS landscaping who have undertaken very careful planning to ensure that the school’s grounds will do much to restore the area’s flora to its original state. Before work began it had been overrun by alien vegetation. The school is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Primary Years Programme and the Diploma (school leaving) Programme. The school’s student body has 25 different nationalities. The project has been funded by the school’s owners, International Education Systems whose architectural department has overseen the project. A very significant component of the cost of construction was the building platform which has raised the foundations above the 1:50 year flood line. ‘Lovemore Construction have done a terrific job to ensure that the new school is ready on time, on budget and on quality,’ said the school’s Principal Andy Wood.
International School of Hout Bay Print Run Sponsored By Amici Di Massimo’s :
Kronendal Primary School’s Freaky Friday Fun Night Hundreds of witches, ghosts and zombies flocked to Kronendal Primary School on Friday October 25 for the annual Freaky Friday Fun Night. More than a dozen games manned by Kronendal’s enthusiastic grade sevens kept the crowds entertained for hours and the contestants’ loot bags were bulging with treats. Our make up artists were kept busy with face painting, tattoos, spooky nails and fake casts and The Best Costume Competition saw a record number of entries. In the end 6 lucky winners walked away with enviable prizes. The bravest visitors risked a walk through The Creepy Tunnel while others preferred the comfort of the food stalls or the joy of dancing off the sugar once the disco started. The event brings the broader Hout Bay community to the school in a celebration of old fashioned games but also serves as a fundraiser for the school. The funds raised will be invested in education projects at Kronendal Primary. Pictured Left: Jesse Vosloo, a Kronendal learner getting ready for The Best Costume Competition. Below: A group of scary looking Kronendal moms selling tickets. From left: Jo Frost, Jacqueline Wells and Leoni Mollentze. Bottom Left: Ciara Birch, Kayla Hewitt, Shannon Phelan, Anna Emery. Bottom Middle: Johnny Marcopoulos poses for the camera. Bottom Right: Victoria Morris, Joanna Roodt. Top Right: Kronendal learners Leah Vosloo and Hannah Johnson looking dark and mysterious in their beautiful black ensembles. Bottom Right: Learners from various schools showcase their costumes for the judges. Bottom left 3 photos courtesy by Catherine Williams (a Kronendal mom).
Interschool Fun Training Gala 7th Annual Envirochild Green Faire On Friday 25 October Kronendal hosted a fun training swimming gala against Camps Bay and Llandudno. At Kronendal we are trying to be more inclusive and this event gave more children the chance to swim in a gala. Unlike other galas, children were awarded with a sweat if they obtained a first place. Something of a record may have been achieved, when 66 races were swum in 62 minutes, including 20 relays. Enrico Petrou contemplating the task at hand.
Roxie Munton and Milan Strydom (from bottom to top) getting ready to take part in the U9 backstroke race.
Joanna Roodt looking pleased with her performance.
Beautiful sunny weather arrived just in time for the 7th annual Green Fair organized by Envirochild. Kronendal Primary’s learners eagerly participated in the planet warrior workshops in the run up to the day. Each Tuesday for 3 months fellow Hout Bay school learners (Llandudno, Moravian, Sentinel, Ambleside and Disa) joined ours at Kronendal Primary for workshop sessions run by Envirochild’s Danielle Klaff. Our Hout Bay Children gardened, created trash for treasure, learnt new skills
and basically had fun whilst learning about the value of sustainable living practices. At the Green Faire our children had a chance to show off and sell their products at the planet warrior sales section. Some learners participated in the recycled fashion show and others in the talent competition. Green products and produce were showcased by environmentally oriented vendors, including water saving devices, clean energy harvesting products and delicious organic vegetables and meals. All electricity used was provided by solar and wind energy and no bottled water was sold as the practice of bottling water ironically wastes water. Filtered water was free to everyone. As Kronendal requires from anyone using our grounds, this was a zero waste event with Hout Bay Recycling doing the cleaning. They composted all food waste and collected recyclable waste to sell back to the manufacturing stream. As the sun set felt good to know that Kronendal Primary had been part of this event that had brought people together to positively impact the environment.
Kronendal: The “Greenest” School in Hout Bay!
It’s official! Kronendal is the ‘greenest’ school in Hout Bay. Environmental auditors from Thrive Hout Bay, UCT and icologie judged schools on how well waste, water and energy is managed on a day to day basis. Furthermore, the auditors looked at
whether our gardens are waterwise, encourage and include biodiversity and whether we have well maintained worm farms, compost heaps vegetable gardens, fruit trees and other edible plants on our grounds. School participation at and marks for the Thrive Sentinel News Enviro quiz and Art competition were taken into consideration too. Earlier on in the year Kronendal Primary came first in the junior section of the quiz and art competition held at Hout Bay High. WOW! So what have we got to brag about? Kronendal Primary has a zero waste to landfill policy. We send recyclable waste back to the manufacturing stream. * We compost all our kitchen and garden waste
in heaps or worm bins. 60% of our families do the same at home. Well done Kronendal families. Our events are zero waste to landfill events. This practice provides us with free compost to grow our plants and organic veggies in. We use our worm tea on our fruit orchard saplings and veggie seedlings. It means the avoidance of pollution created when transporting waste to landfill. It means the avoidance of polluting emissions as waste rots at landfill sites. It means the avoidance of pollution when having to mine for new resources to replace those thrown away at landfill. What are we going to do next?
We have started to look at how to use water wisely. We recently fitted multiflush toilet systems to all our loos and we will be installing our first rain water capture tank this term. Each time we add to our garden we encourage biodiversity. What do we still need to do? Look at how we could use renewable energy sources for electricity and how we could use our grid provided energy more efficiently. If anyone is keen to get involved in any of our greening projects, or has good ideas, please call Mrs Birch in the library on 021 790 2060 or 083 716 1010.
Bright Start Amazing Race Wynberg’s Annual Brain Sprain
Fun, determination and friendly rivalry were the order of the day at the inaugural Bright Start Amazing Race, on Saturday October 26, where R15 000 was raised for Hout Bay’s education support programme, Bright Start. Teams were taken to iconic sites which had them counting steps at Rhodes Memorial, feeding seagulls in Hout Bay, busking for money in Camps Bay, and buying and selling items for profit at the V&A Waterfront, all in the name of education
empowerment. Team Kronendal (Mrs Sterne, Ms de Mink, Ms Pereira and Ms Bolze) made us very proud racing around Cape Town completing tasks and deciphering cryptic clues. Their ingenuity was rewarded with a special prize for the team who took the most creative photos. The R15 000 raised by this event will contribute to funding seven underprivileged children joining Bright Start’s programme. The children will be given the opportunity to attend prominent local schools and ongoing support, giving them the best opportunity to learn and excel. Bright Start assists 26 children and this number will increase to 33 in 2014. Sponsorship amounts to R35 000 a child each year. In addition to school fees, Bright Start also sponsors uniforms, sports activities, cultural outings and even birthday parties, enabling the sponsored children to have the same opportunities and exposure as privileged children.
Kronendal Primary School Print Run Sponsored By Fujifilm Image Centre:
On Monday 14th October seventeen of Kronendal Primary School’s Gr6’s attended the annual Brain Sprain evening at Wynberg Boys’ High which is organized and presented by the school’s Mathematics Department. With the massive and unending improvements in technology it is of vital importance for pupils doing maths to strive to achieve new heights in understanding problem solving as well as to ensure that they continue to improve in this domain. Our pupils were rather wary of what would be expected of them on the night but their fears were soon put to rest. The participants from various primary schools were divided into groups of five. The first activity was to build the highest tower
possible using spaghetti, marshmallows and string. This was certainly a fantastic ice-breaker for the evening. They then had to attempt to solve as many of the practical and theoretical mathematical problems, puzzles and challenges presented to them as a group. Points were awarded for every problem solved by the group. To conclude the evenings events a ‘prize giving’ took place. The emphasis being on facing new challenges head on, meeting pupils from other schools and the creation of a positive attitude towards mathematics in general. A big thank you to the WBHS teachers as well as the pupils who assisted them in making the evening such a success and to our Gr6 pupils who took part with much enthusiasm.
A Farewell Letter to Our Amazing Grade 7s
As the year draws to a close, we feel somewhat tearful at the prospect of having to say goodbye to our Grade 7 pupils and families. It has been a wonderful and rewarding trip over the last 8 years. From Grade R, their combined multi-talented skills were apparent. They have shown terrific enthusiasm and talent in many areas, not the least in creative writing , speech making, debating, entrepreneurship skills, and their multi-talented music skills such as guitar playing, singing, piano playing and general music skills. Who can forget the Sound of Music production this year?
Many excelled and won awards and certificates in sport such as swimming, squash, water polo, netball and soccer. They have been a bright and achieving bunch academically and socially, they have proved to be confident and dynamic young people - each with his and her own vibrant personality. Llandudno is very proud of each and every one of you and thank you for enriching the life of our school and sharing your talents with us all. May you go on and reach great heights in the next step of your education. Mrs Erasmus
Best Speakers’ Evening 2013 The Senior Music Concert Evening
The Senior Music concert was held on Monday 28 October from 6:30p.m. – 8.00p.m. It was a huge success showcasing the true Llandudno talent we have here in the form of singing, classic and rock guitar, piano and drumming. Giulia de Chaud sang her own composition, Romy Searll, the lead singer in the school band, impressed with her band performance and also her song which she accompanied on the piano. Matthew Kelly, Braddyn Bedford and Jazz Mallam also showed great skill and style on the piano. Well done to all the performers on a lovely evening’s entertainment. Thanks to the music staff who have put so much effort into nurturing their students. This annual event was held in October in the Llandudno School hall and 14 Grade 7 pupils participated. Each spoke for about three minutes and the rich variety of topics kept the audience entranced. Not only were the speeches carefully crafted but they were all delivered with such gusto and enthusiasm as well. The research that must have gone into each presentation was comprehensive and each had pertinent power point visuals to complement and reinforce their respective talks. The three adjudicators - Mrs Bohle, Mrs Nevin and Mr. Trumble were full of praise for the high standard of every speech. At the end of the evening, Jemma Nelson proved that her dynamic speech on ‘Facebook Addiction’ had the qualities of a superb and winning speech. Sasha Amor took second place with a haunting look into the mind of a Suicide-bomber and the third place went to Kelly Blomerus who expounded on her theories of why `Mans’ Greed is His Undoing` with superb illustrations of greed in our society. Well done Grade 7s, you have kept up the superb standard of public speaking at Llandudno Primary under the experienced guidance of Mrs Erasmus.
Grade 2s Visit The Naval Museum
The Grade 2’s went on an outing to the Naval Museum in Simon’s Town. We took a train ride into Fish Hoek and then jumped on the bus to the museum. The Grade 2’s had a guided tour of the museum where they saw helicopters, lifeboats and a submarine. To end off our outing we had free time to play on Long Beach.
Our Rugged River Outdoor Eco Trip Grade 1s Visit The Science Centre
On Monday morning 30 September 21 very excited Grade 7 learners from Llandudno Primary met at the top of Llandudno to travel up to the Orange River, an event the pupils and parents had waited 8 long years to enjoy. On arrival after a long, dusty but exciting car trip, the first evening was spent on the banks of the river at a place called ONSEEPKANS, the border post between SA and Namibia close to Pofadder. The next morning, the helmeted and life jacketed gang embarked on a journey down the river in two-person, inflatable rafts, with everything they need for the next 4 days - Robinson Crusoe style. It was a most enjoyable time in nature, fishing, watching bird life and chilling.
The evenings were spent watching sunsets around a camp fire on the banks of the mighty Orange River and then snuggling down under the stars each night, totally away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The food was outstanding! They also had to negotiate some impressive rapids, one of which was quite scary - Big Bunny - and everyone came through with flying colours. Everyone agreed that it was the best “camp” ever and there is no doubt that the group bonded very well and this made it a highly successful outdoor nature adventure. Thank you Llandudno Primary for giving us this awesome experience as our farewell to primary school.
The Grade 1s went on an outing to the Cape Town Science Centre. We had a great time constructing walls and finding out who was the best team at building. We then went on to explore the centre and played on all the fun and interesting exhibits. After our lunch break, we went to view the camera obscura and saw how it projects a live image onto a flat white table. We then moved into the big room where we watched a scientist do some exciting experiments. The day was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.
Grade 3s Visit Hout Bay Museum
The Grade 3s went on an outing to the Hout Bay Museum Enviro Centre. We all had great fun learning about the water cycle as well as how water is recycled and pumped to our homes. We then had the opportunity to wade in the Disa River and we found insects that help keep the water clean. It was important for us to learn what a valuable resource water is and we are more aware of how not to waste it.
Grades R & 7 Take a Train Ride Our Inter-House Sports Day
The Grade 7s and Grade Rs were both learning about the different forms of transport this fourth term. The Grade 7s had a buddy system to mentor the Grade Rs experiencing a Metro Rail train trip on a chaperoned-coach from Kenilworth to St. James and back. What a delight it was to witness the interaction between the two age groups! The Grade Rs responded so well to the input and care that the Grade 7s took to talk about the trip and discover what the rock pools had to offer. Sasha even caught a little fish and put it in a bucket for all to see. The parents who were able to join us were most impressed by the response the little ones had to their special ‘buddy’. The big Grade 7s will be sorely missed at the end of the year when they leave our special school. Llandudno Primary School Print Run Sponsored By Dunes Restaurant:
Photographs courtesy Marcelle de Roubaix.
This week saw the annual Blue House/Yellow House Derby take place at Kronendal Primary. Yellow House began the day with a slight lead due to the field events (shot-put and long jump) held earlier in the week. Blue House soon caught up and remained narrowly in front, the final scores being Blue House 211 and Yellow House with 201. The races were run in a keen spirit and the Grade 7 cheerleaders rallied their respective Houses. It was an enjoyable afternoon held in perfect weather. A big thank you must go to our teachers and parents who ran the logistics of the event so capably. Thank you Kronendal for the use of the field and the popular tuck shop.
A Sad Farewell to Our Much Loved Mrs Appels December 4, 2013 rings in the final day of teaching for the beloved Grade One teacher, Mrs Desiree Appels. Born in Knysna, Mrs Appels taught in her hometown for ten years, before making the move to Cape Town. She started at a school in Simonstown and after just one year, she accepted a post at Oranjekloof in 1984, where she has remained for 30 years. Althoough filled with tears and sadness in these final few days of her teaching career, and not a just a little apprehensive about what the future holds, Mrs Appels laughs when I ask her what her plans are for retirement. “First, I’m going to rest. I am worried that I’ll wake up and not know what to do. No more leaving at 5 in the morning and getting home at 6 in the evening! First, I’m just going to retire. Retirement. Isn’t that a lovely word?” Once rested, Mrs Appels intends to catch up on time missed with all her family who are spread out across South Africa and abroad, so there are travel plans Teaching colleague Mrs Rhoda summed it up beautifully. “Mrs Appels is very special. She is the first teacher the children meet when they come to school and the one they love all the way through. We will miss her.” Thank you Mrs Appels for your many years of hard work and dedication, and your unending ability to make a difference in thousands of children’s lives.
A Colourful Testimony to The Nature of Learning
A walk through Oranjekloof Moravian is a feast for the eyes. All around the school are beautiful murals. Bright colours abound and the importance of constant visual stimulation is clearly acknowledged. The grade one classrooms are bright and cheerful and outside, the walls of the junior primary classrooms are covered in number rhymes and basic mathematics. Ex-Principal, Mrs Davis’ personal motto and one drummed into the children over the years appears opposite the Irish Friendship Library doors, “God helps those who help themselves.” A fitting testimony to the nature of learning.
Break Time at Oranjekloof Moravian - Happiness is...
On site during break time at Oranjekloof is an uplifting event! The Hout Bay school with the highest number of pupils and an infrastructure struggling to keep up with the ever-growing amount, never ceases to amaze. As I arrive I am greeted by the girls playing the elastic game that
brings memories of my primary days flooding back. I watch for a while as the girls, smiling, put on a display of their skills. Moving towards the office, I am waylaid again as child after child greets me, most often with a hug and always with
Oranjekloof Moravian Primary School Print Run Sponsored By Oakhurst Spar:
a smile. I have been into 31 schools this year as I meet with staff and set up new papers and one thing that I am now more certain of than ever, is that the way the children greet me is a direct indicator of how my dealings at the school will progress.
The old adage “first impressions count” certainly rings true and here at Oranjekloof their warm greetings tell much about the wonderful and dedicated staff at the school. And as for all those smiles, one can’t help but walk away feeling lighter!
School Governing Body Every primary school has a School Governing Body (SGB) consisting of five parents, two teachers, one non-teacher and the principal. The main purpose of this body is to work together to promote the well-being and effectiveness of the school community and thereby enhance learning and teaching. A SGB must decide on an admissions policy for the school, decide on the language policy of the school, decide on what religious practices will be followed at the school, adopt a code of conduct for learners which sets out disciplinary procedures, nominate teachers to be appointed at the school, etc. It is therefore important that the five parent members in particular are committed parents who have only the best interest of the school at heart. Ms Evelyn Masemola has been serving
Sentinel Primary as a member of the SGB for the last ten years. This is an outstanding achievement of commitment and caring. She has decided to step down at the end of the year. Currently she is also the Chairperson and has seen many developments under her leadership, especially as far as improvement in the building and facilities are concerned and the appointment of key staff members. Ms Masemola has a deep understanding of the community and the needs of the school and has fearlessly championed for ‘her’ children, all the learners at the school. On behalf of the staff, SGB members past and present, parents and learners, we would like to wish her well and trust that she will continue to serve the school in a less formal capacity. Thank you Evelyn. God bless and continue to do good work.
Picture: left to right, the Executive Members of Sentinel’s SGB: Carol Fisher (Secretary), Claudene Overmeyer (Treasurer), Malcolm van Wyk (Deputy Chairperson) and Evelyn Masemola (Chairperson)
Hugged by The Faithful Arms of Volunteers
Someone was once quoted as saying, “The world is hugged by faithful arms of volunteers”. This statement certainly resonates very clearly within our humble school. Over the past few months we have been in the fortunate position where we have received the warm, loving and generous help of many volunteers from all over the
world. These people dedicate their time to bringing smiles to the faces of many of our children. We all know the tremendous workload all of our teachers are under and having a few helpful hands around has never been a bad idea. Whether it be with administration work or giving life skills lessons to the learners, we
as teachers certainly appreciate everything they do. But the biggest benefit these volunteers bring to Sentinel, are the smiles. For our children to meet people from a different country, ethnic background as well as language is invaluable to their perspective on life. We certainly hope they take valuable life lessons as well as a strong hunger to visit
other countries and experience what these people experience. We as staff, as well as the students of Sentinel Primary, appreciate everything these volunteers do for the school as well as the community of Hangberg. In the words of Robert Orben, ‘Here’s to all volunteers, those dedicated people who believe in all work and no pay’. We salute you.
Grade R Visits Kirstenbosch Gardens Grade R Party at Oakhurst Spar
Thanks to Ali Corbett, a Hout Bay resident, who annually arranges an exciting day at Kirstenbosch gardens for our Grade R learners. Our children go on an adventure through the gardens with Monti the Mongoose, where they learn about different medicinal plants and what it is used for. When the children were asked what their favourite part of the day was, the responses were as follows. “I enjoyed learning about the different plants”, said Duncan. Alonzo and Keesha enjoyed the puppet show the most. The majority of our children just simply enjoyed rolling downhill on the beautiful green grass.
What a day! What an experience. A day filled with fun, fun, fun! Thanks to Caroline, Anna and all Oakhurst Spar customers who have been supporting this initiative. Our children enjoyed lots of fun activities from face painting to balloon making and so much more. They had lots to eat and drink. The highlight of the day by far, is when “Father Christmas” comes in with his bag filled with a gift for each child. How this part of the day warmed our hearts and brought tears to our eyes, to see the excitement of our children when receiving a gift from Santa – for some of them, the only gift. I cannot wait to see the expression on our
2013 learner’s faces when we enter into our own little Disney World at Oakhurst Spar. Thank you once again for your generosity, love and commitment.
Mass Opportunity Development Centre ABC Launches Hout Bay Soccer Tournament
The learners at Sentinel are very privileged to have seven dedicated additional sport and cultural coaches working at the school. They operate independently but also in partnership with the school and teachers. The group is managed and lead on a daily basis by Mr Malcolm van Wyk, the Head Coach. The purpose of the programme is to provide opportunities for the learners from the area to participate in a variety of activities, giving them the opportunity to use their time constructively and well while also being taken care of in the afternoons. The participating learners receive sandwiches and fruit daily. Activities that are presented are: General Sport, including netball, athletics, cricket
and tennis; Specific Sport namely soccer; General Movement namely music and Specialised Movement, namely dance. The aim of the activities is to develop skills from a young age, getting learners to participate at club level and then also take it to a next level, playing for outside clubs. During every school holiday these coaches also hold special programmes for interested learners. These programmes are always well attended. Not only do our leaners have the opportunity to develop skills, but they are also kept safe and are fed. A real win-win situation. Sentinel is privileged to have such a MOD centre and all parties concerned are hoping it will go from strength to strength. The real winners are our learners, as it should be!
What happens when you bring together five Hout Bay and five UK facilitators with a shared passion for sport? You get a ‘lekker’ school soccer tournament! The ABC for Life team is enthusiastically putting together a 5-a-side soccer tournament for boys and girls in Grades 2-6. The tenminute games work on the group knockout system, building up to a grand final. Prizes, medals and certificates will be awarded to all participants with a floating trophy up for grabs! As part of a 2-year drive, Skillshare International sent five volunteers to assist ABC for Life in Hout Bay with their education and sport programmes. Linked to the International Citizen Service initiative the volunteers spend nine weeks engaging with the local community, totalling immersing themselves in a new culture, new environment and new family. All
five UK volunteers are based in Hangberg, living the local life and loving it. The Sentinel School Soccer Tournament will lay the foundation for ABC’s plans to roll out a youth soccer tournament for all children in Hout Bay in 2014. The power of a sport like soccer to drive social change, starting with the youth, is well-documented. By opening the tournament to girls as well as boys, ABC for Life facilitators establish a platform for encouraging girls to make positive life choices, making a tremendous impact on the future of their communities. ABC for Life is grateful to the individuals and organisations that have made this tournament possible – Sentinel School (prizes), Office National (certificates), Skillshare International (medals), Coaching for Hope (admin), Nadeem, Samia, Ailsa, Arran, Bryan, Shannon, Desmonia, Nicholas, Dali, Patrick and Anthony!
Home-School Partnership Programme sponsored by Wordworks, offers an opportunity for parents of learners in Grade R and Grade 1 to further support their children with language and mathematics We hereby acknowledge the generosity of the Hout Bay/Llandudno Trust Fund for the manner in which they supported our parenting programme for the past two years. Mr Bruce Anderson, our liaison person has always been readily available to offer his assistance. The parenting programme, previously Sentinel Primary School Print Run Sponsored By Star Dot Toys:
at home. Our two Grade R educators have been facilitating this programme since 2009. We have reached close to 150 parents within the Hout Bay and Imizamo Yethu communities thus far. The support of the donors enabled us to purchase resources which were given to our parents to aid them in successfully helping their children at home. Three of the parents who completed the programme with us are currently helping out at our school, which are but three success stories. The parenting programme forms part of our school’s Literacy and Numeracy intervention programme, an initiative from
the Western Cape Education Department. It advocates the strengthening of parent participation and community involvement. Its aim is to develop a reading family, a reading street and a reading community. The Hout Bay/Llandudno Trust Fund enriched the lives of young learners through sponsoring their parents with resources.
Plans for the New Build Unveiled
On Tuesday the 12th of November the School Governing Body, staff, selected pupils and members of the Imizamo Yethu and Penzance community were treated to an unveiling of the proposed permanent school building on the old YMCA site. The plans, which have spent some 18 months in the development phase, were met with enthusiasm by all parties. The architects on the build have worked hard, given the unique constraints of our site, to produce this beautiful 5 level school building. Exciting new facilities have been included in the design such as Biology and Physical Science labs, a Workshop and a Multimedia Centre. We are very excited to see the build start, which, pending the Environmental Impact Study, Zoning and final plan approval should be around July 2013.
Extra Exam Effort
Silikamva Grade 8s and 9s have been taking their studies seriously in the run up to their end of year exams, attending extra voluntary lessons on a Saturday morning for 2 hours or more at school. The Grade 9 students are keenly aware of the importance of mathematics to their grade 9 results and have come in, rain or shine, to extra lessons. “I come to the extra lessons because I want to learn more—to add more in my mind to what I learn in normal lessons. The Saturday classes help me to put it all together, to understand further”, says Elie Mabunda. Up to 25% of the Grade 9s attend classes voluntarily each week.
Meet The Giant Slayers Green Club Aims High
The fourth term has been a tumultuous time in Imizamo Yethu and at Silikamva High School. The reality of the community is that there is gangsterism and crime prevalent in the community and our young people are getting involved in such negative social behaviour from a young age. Part of our challenge is to engage our learners in teaching and learning that will equip them to make life choices that will truly be life changing. To this end we began a group this term for 20 of our boys called the Giant Slayers. They have been meeting twice a week with Burt Elliott, a pastor involved in the Harbour community, and MaryBeth Finegan, an American volunteer . Burt has been taking them through a program that encourages them to take a meaningful look at what motivates their lives, the choices they make and the impact that this has on themselves and the community. The boys are responding positively to what are tough challenges and decisions that might well place them at odds with their peers and friends. Such a process is ongoing, but has the hope of real impact. Early next year we hope to take some of the group on a leadership camp and to extend this type of small group intervention to others in the school during the course of the year. Through this we believe that these young people might be able to face the challenges of their lives head on, be equipped to do so, and see in themselves the potential and possibility that their lives have.
June 2013
August 2013
November 2013
November 2013
The green club members of Silikamva are aiming high next year and will begin the year with a recycling campaign. Through the assistance of Thrive, green club members will attend a workshop on ways of promoting recycling and composting at school and will lead the way forward so that the whole school understands the importance of effective waste management. During Term 1 the club will invite the other learners and parents to attend a community
Dig-In at which about 50 fruit and nut trees donated by Thrive will be planted. The club started with preparations for next year by visiting the S.E.E.D programme at Rocklands’ High in order to learn more about environmental issues. The members will then make presentation at the beginning of the term to equip new grade 8 learners with environmental knowledge and skills and to recruit more members to work in the vegetable garden every day after school.
A Pictorial Glimpse of Silikamva’s Historic 2013
Drummies Go ‘Green’ for Green Faire
The Drum Majorette group of Silikamva High, led by Ms. Cheyeza Mongwe, put on a show at the Hout Bay Green Faire on Saturday the 2nd of November at Kronendal Primary School. But the Silikamvettes had a double challenge how to capture the theme of environmental sustainability through a drum majorette group, as well as a lack of uniform (since the school is still so new). Ms. Mongwe and the girls killed 3 birds with one stone. They gathered hundreds and hundreds of chip packets from around the school, washed them, flattened them and sewed them together to make beautiful silvery foil capes for their uniform. Scrap pieces of fabric were plaited to make head wraps and sashes. The school site was cleaned, the uniform made and a recycling idea was born. Well done to the Silikamvettes for their innovation and effort. Silikamva High School Print Run Sponsored By The ZEE Group: