How to Boost Your Child’s Academic Success: A Parent’s Guide
Building a solid foundation for your child’s academic success doesn’t happen by accident - it’s the result of consistent, focused parental involvement from the start of their educational journey. While most parents know they should be involved, many are unsure what that involvement should look like to truly support their child’s learning and growth.
To help guide you, education expert Dr. Linda Meyer shares a proven framework that is both practical and easy to implement, ensuring your child has the best chance of academic success throughout their school career and beyond.
The ABCs of Learning: Proven Strategies to Boost Your Child’s Academic Performance
In today’s competitive world, academic success has become more critical than ever. The pressure to excel is growing, both locally and globally, with increasing demands for higher education access and job opportunities. While schools play a crucial role in shaping a child’s education, parental involvement can significantly enhance their academic performance. “As parents, we are pivotal in nurturing an environment that fosters learning and growth,” says Dr. Linda Meyer, MD at IIE Rosebank College. “Especially in the foundational years, we should ensure our children receive the right support to mould and cement their approach to learning and their educational journey.” Dr. Meyer emphasizes that supporting your child’s educational development doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s her framework to help parents build a strong foundation for their child’s academic success:
Create a Positive Environment
“The home environment is where a child’s learning journey truly begins. Creating a space conducive to studying is essential,” says Dr. Meyer. Beyond a dedicated study space, a positive environment extends to the emotional atmosphere at home. Encourage open communication, celebrate achievements, and approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset. Children who feel supported are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their studies.
Foster a Love of Learning
Academic success is not just about grades; it’s about cultivating a lifelong love of learning. When children find joy in learning, their academic performance naturally improves. “Encourage your child’s curiosity by exploring subjects they find interesting beyond the classroom. Whether through reading, visiting museums, or engaging in science experiments at home, fostering a sense of wonder helps children develop a passion for knowledge,” explains Dr. Meyer.
Keep It Real
While encouraging children to strive for excellence is essential, setting realistic expectations is equally important. “High pressure can lead to stress and burnout, which can hinder academic performance. Work with your child to set achievable goals and break them down into manageable tasks. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small, to build confidence and teach valuable time management and organizational skills.”
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Be Actively Involved
Active parental involvement is key to academic success. Dr. Meyer stresses the importance of attending parent-teacher conferences, monitoring homework, and staying informed about your child’s progress.“Engage in regular discussions about what they’re learning at school and show interest in their assignments. Children are more likely to take their studies seriously when parents are involved and set clear expectations.” Maintaining open communication with your child’s teachers is also crucial. “Regularly check in with educators to understand your child’s strengths and areas for improvement. A strong parent-teacher partnership provides a consistent support system that can enhance your child’s academic performance.”
Encourage
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
Critical thinking is a valuable skill that extends beyond the classroom. Encourage your child to think critically by asking open-ended questions and discussing various topics from different perspectives.“Teaching children to approach challenges analytically gives them the tools they need to succeed academically and in life,” says Dr. Meyer.
Be a Role Model
Children often mirror their parents’ behaviors and attitudes, so demonstrating a love for learning and intellectual curiosity can inspire them to adopt the same approach. “Whether you’re reading, discussing current events, or pursuing a hobby, showing a commitment to personal growth can motivate your child to embrace learning and education,” says Dr. Meyer.
Encourage Emotional Well-being
Academic success is closely tied to emotional well-being. Dr. Meyer advises parents to encourage their children to develop social skills and emotional intelligence. “Teach your child how to manage stress, build resilience, and maintain a growth mindset. Emotional support helps children thrive academically, as they’re better equipped to handle challenges and setbacks.” Building confidence is equally important. Dr. Meyer concludes, “Celebrate your child’s efforts, not just their results. Recognizing the hard work they put into their studies reinforces the value of persistence and dedication, helping them develop a resilient mindset and an understanding that effort leads to success.”
Parental involvement is essential in fostering a child’s academic success. By creating a supportive home environment, encouraging a love for learning, and staying actively engaged in their education, parents can provide their children with the tools they need to thrive academically and in life. With these strategies from Dr. Meyer, you’ll be setting your child up for success both in school and beyond.
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Navigating nationwide education budget cuts: How schools can maximise resources
As South Africa faces widespread budget challenges in the education sector, schools across the country are being forced to rethink their financial strategies.
Recently, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) announced plans to cut 2 400 teaching jobs due to a staggering R3.8 billion budget shortfall, but this is only one example of the broader financial strain affecting all provinces. Schools are now tasked with maintaining quality education with fewer resources, which makes creative solutions and efficient resource management more important than ever.
With the other provinces also grappling with severe budget shortfalls, schools must stretch their funds while reducing staff and operational costs. As head of the WCED, Brent Walters, explained in a recent circular, “the current number of educator posts in the Western Cape cannot be maintained.” This mirrors the difficulties faced by education departments across the country, as schools are being asked to navigate reduced teacher numbers and frozen recruitment efforts.
Schools are now tasked with maintaining quality education with fewer resources, which makes creative solutions and efficient resource management more important than ever.
In this financially challenging environment, Everything School offers a unique opportunity for schools to not only streamline their procurement process, but also generate additional funding by getting real cash back, in the form of School Bucks, with every order fulfilled. 1 School Buck = 1 Rand, making it easy for schools to maximise the value of their spending. Schools can then re-utilise their School Bucks when purchasing goods through Everything School. During these tough financial times, maximizing the value of every Rand is more important than ever. Schools can easily accumulate School Bucks. For example, by simply ordering pre-packed 2025 stationery packs for learners, schools can earn more than R50 000 in School Bucks -a critical financial boost in this time of austerity.
These School Bucks can be used to purchase essential items like 2025 learner and teacher diaries, customised workbooks, or yearbooks - all of which would otherwise place further strain on already tight budgets. Alternatively, schools can save their School Bucks for larger future purchases, such as modular classrooms or branded uniforms, ensuring that their procurement efforts support both immediate and long-term goals.
For example, by simply ordering pre-packed 2025 stationery packs, schools can earn more than R50 000 in School Bucks.
With staff reductions and fewer resources, schools are under enormous pressure to manage operations more efficiently. The challenge of sourcing suppliers, comparing costs, and securing the best deals has become a significant burden for already stretched school administrations.
Everything School simplifies this process by offering a one-stop solution for all procurement needs. From workbooks, school bags, educational toys, and classroom supplies to modular classrooms, sports equipment, and school furniture, Everything School handles everything under one roof, allowing schools to focus on what matters most—education.
According to an expert from Everything School, “Schools are in an increasingly difficult situation. With fewer staff and limited budgets, it’s becoming harder to manage procurement effectively. That’s where we come in. With our extensive network of suppliers and expertise in school procurement, we ensure that schools receive the best value for every purchase - all while earning valuable cash-back rewards.
Any school enquiries can be sent to info@everythingschool.co.za
Everything School is your ultimate partner, just like our name suggests. Each transaction not only fulfils everything and anything your school needs, but also earns you valuable School Bucks. Our products include, but are not limited to:
We proudly present our Executive Committee (ExCom) for 2025! Congratulations to all those that got elected!
AFFIES HAS CULTURE!
Several of our learners participated in the national round of Con Spirito. Here are some of their achievements that we are extremely proud of:
• The Affies show choir achieved a 95%.
• Bokamoso Mafale in Grade 9 and Palesa Mofokeng in Grade 12 each placed first in the Con Spirito National round for Creative Writing.Bokamoso Mafale won with her poem in English 1st language.
Congratulations to Rewald Collett who came first in Grade 11 quintile 4/5 for the Free State Mathematics Competition. We are very proud of our math star!
The following teachers and learners participated in the Free State finals for the Technical competition, and they qualified to go through to the national competition. Well done! Spanner Pride!
Dewald Odendal
Mr. T. Conradie
Mrs L. Staples
(LOR) lede vir 2025
HOËRSKOOL OVERVAAL
Keanu Currie, graad 10 het op 24 Augustus 2024 deelgeneem aan die KJDkampioenskappe in Kimberley.
Hy het goud gekry vir Poomsea, goud vir Kyorugi (fighting), goud vir “high kick: brons vir “breaking” en “ Best Junior Male Fighter
Keanu Currie Graad 10
Zianey Steinmann, graad 8 het op 24 Augustus 2024 deelgeneem aan die KJDkampioenskappe in Kimbeley.
Sy het goud gekry in Poumsea, goud vir Kyorugi (fighting) en “Best Junior Female Fighter”.
Pick Up Cricket
Congratulations to the following boys selected to the Sedibeng cricket teams:
Valies Skaak
Die volgende leerders het op Saterdag, 17 Augustus 2024 aan die Gauteng skaakuitspele in Benoni deelgeneem. Hulle was deel van die Sedibengspan. Ons sien uit na die Gauteng Spanuitspele wat tydens Oktober plaasvind, waar twee van die skool se spanne die distrik gaan verteenwoordig:
o.15-span (Dogters):
Michelle Steyn
Jessica van Biljon
o.15-span (Seuns):
Vinaldo Spamers
Owen Botha
Llewellyn Tolmay
Reynhardt Drotsky
Ruben Venter
o.18-span (Dogters)
Katelyn Keyser
Lilee van der Merwe
Valies Rugby
Baie geluk, manne! Ons is trots op julle! o.15-span is Bown wenners!
• Onder-hoofdogters - Kelly Fraser en Nosipho Zwane
• Onder-hoofseuns - Dawie Malan en Esane Mohlokoane
Rugby
LAERSKOOL VRYHEIDSMONUMENT
Provinsiale krieketspelers
Agter: Mnr.W. Swanepoel, Christiaan
Nationale Wiskunde Olimpiade wenner
D7 Landloopatlete
Baie geluk. Ons is baie trots!
Rochelle Wallace Mnr. D. Fields, Christiaan Nel, Kayleigh Janse van Vuren, Larize de Jager, Izel Roelofs, Annabelle Kock, Dezire Veldman en Me. K. Allen.
Voor: Roland Frisby, Henro de Lange, Janco Kruger, Josh Cloete, Hugo Jooste en Luca Joubert.
Bouwer, Dylan Grobbelaar, Ricus Vorster, Mnr. W. Storm, Waldo roets, Rudi Bruwer, Benji Cloete, Luan Van Vuuren en Mnr. H. Kock.
Kelly Fraser, Nosipho Zwane, Danica Labuschagne, Duncan Scheun, Dawie Malan en Esane Mohlokoane.
Baie geluk aan Handre Brits en Hennie Coetsee wat ingesluit is in die o.18 IPT Valke rugbyspan. Gimmies is baie trots op jul.
Baie geluk aan die Gimmies Muurbalspan wat sover onoorwonne is in die liga!
Muurbal
Feint & Margin A4 32Pg R4,90
Feint & Margin A4 48Pg R5,99
Feint & Margin A4 72Pg R6,50
Irish & Margin A4 72Pg R6,99
Unruled A4 72Pg R6,99
Quad & Margin A4 72Pg R7,99
A4 Feint & Margin
Speckled 17mm
Nature Study Feint & Margin A4 72Pg R13,90
Jotter Feint & Margin A4 72Pg R5,99
Jotter Unruled A4 72Pg R5,99
Feint & Margin A5 72Pg R4,90
Irish & Margin A5 72Pg R4,90
Unruled A5 72Pg R4,90
Hard Cover Feint & Margin 1Q A4 96Pg R12,99
Hard Cover Feint & Margin 2Q A4 192Pg R19,99
Hard Cover Feint & Margin 3Q A4 288Pg R25,50
ALBERVIEW PRIMARY SCHOOL
South East Rand Team
Ekurhuleni Hoops Tournament
Our first Team Netball girls participated in the Ekurhuleni Hoops Tournament and came 3rd. They will be competing in the Gauteng Hoops Tournament on the 14 September. Wishing them the best of luck!
LAERSKOOL RANDHART
Suid – Oosrand Krieketvereniging
Baie geluk aan die volgende leerdeers wat verkies is tot die Suid - Oos Krieketvereniging. Ons is baie trots op elkeen van julle.
Jaco van Staden o.13
Lihan van Rooyen o.12
Keagan Myburgh o.11
Colton Stewart o.11
Daniel Frey o.10
Henru Prinsloo o.10
Philip van Rensburg o.10
Brandley van der Vyver o.10
Matthew Connoway o.9
Ruben Swanepoel o.13
Luc van Wyk o.13
Dandré Gouws o.12
Jason Connoway o.10
Luan Venter o.10
Sollie Cilliers o.10
Liam McGeer o.10
Kieran Fourie o.10
Anru Swanepoel o.10
Lihan de Koker o.9
Declan Lategan o.13
Atlehang Boshielo u.11
Congratulations to Atlehang Boshielo who was selected for the u.11 South East Rand Team for cricket.
Congratulations to our newly appointed executive councillor body for 2024 /2025.
• Lesedi Gololo
• Grace Guy Nkoy Culture
• Tershan Petersen
• Luca Geldenhuys Welfare
• Zubenathi Ndiki
• Calvin van Staden Sport
• Kiara Jaskolka
• Reece Geldenhuys
Academic
• Amiya Lala
• Jared Wilson
Heads
• Taniel Botha
• Miles Gxumisa
Our First Team Badminton ladies who won SA Schools played the All Africa Games in Senegal and brought home the following medals:
Team Event
• Gold Medal Winners: Kirsty Correia, Jade Henning, Melinda Jaskolka and Kiara Jaskolka
Individuals
• Singles: Kirsty Correia (Silver)
Girls Doubles
• Kirsty Correia and Jade Henning (Bronze)
• Melinda Jaskolka and Kiara Jaskolka (Silver)
Mixed Doubles
• Kirsty Correia (Bronze)
LAERSKOOL ORION
Cross Country Runners Make It To Districts
We had 20 athletes who qualified to run at this year’s District Cross Country Champs in Boksburg.
Wiskunde Olimpiade
At
Sport Achievements
Gautengkampioenskappe
geluk aan elke Orie wat aan die Gautengkampioenskappe
geluk en sterkte aan die volgende leerders wat vandag, 12 Augustus 2024 ons skool verteenwoordig by die Distrikrondte van die Wiskunde Olimpiade by Colin Mann Primary School!
Goue Leeus 7’s Span
Baie geluk aan ons twee seuns wat vir die o.12 Goue Leeus 7’s rugbyspan gekies is!
Die Ories is baie trots op julle manne!
M. Jaskolka, J. Henning, K. Correia, K. Jaskolka.
Front: A. Lala, L. Gololo, K. Jaskolka, T. Botha, T. Petersen, Z. Ndiki. Back: J. Wilson, G. Guy-Nkoy, R. Geldenhuys, M. Gxumisa, L. Geldenhuys, C. van Staden.
Front: A. Lala, L. Gololo, K. Jaskolka, T. Botha, T. Petersen, Z. Ndiki. Back: J. Wilson, G. Guy-Nkoy, R. Geldenhuys, M. Gxumisa, L. Geldenhuys, C. van Staden.
Front: H. Peel, K. Masha, P. Mashiya, C. Rabey. Back: L. Mbotho, J. Mafanya, M. Phitsane, K. Marques, Mr. O. von Platen, M. Gxumisa, K. Maphike, E. Senwedi, S. Esighasi.
Front: Nikita Wyman (Action Netball), Gemma Allen (Powerboating), Taniel Botha (Action Netball), Hayley Peel (Martial Arts). Back: Monthati Qholosha (Action Netball), Konstantinos Stamatelos (Johannesburg Squash), Liam Jonker (Archery), Jared Wilson (Action Hockey), Tristan Blakey (Martial Arts), Caitlin Bennett (Action Netball), Taylin Bester (Karate), Jordan Allen (Action Netball and Powerboating), Madison Bennett (Action Netball), Jamie-Lee Nortjie (Action Netball).
Baie geluk aan die volgende krieketseuns wat gekies is vir
Skandeer die QR kode en lees nog van ons skool se nuus aanlyn!
Hein van der Westhuizen
Lemuel Fourie
MARIST BROTHERS LINMEYER
Marist Brothers Linmeyer Grade 6 and 7 Students Excel in Robotics Class
Marist Brothers Linmeyer is thrilled to announce the remarkable achievements of our Grade 6 and 7 students during their recent Robotics class. Our innovative students took on the challenge of building robots out of Lego, demonstrating exceptional creativity, engineering skills, and teamwork.
This hands-on project not only allowed the students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, but also fostered critical thinking and problemsolving abilities. The enthusiasm and dedication displayed by our students in constructing these intricate Lego robots highlight the success of our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programme.
Marist Brothers Linmeyer Grade 7 Students Celebrate Cultural Diversity Through Traditions and Festivities
Guidance, Marist Brothers Linmeyer Grade 7 students showcased the richness of their cultures through traditional dishes, dress, etiquette, and music. They had great fun presenting their unique
of doing things’ to their peers, fostering better understanding, respect, and acceptance of cultural diversity. #CulturalDiversity #RespectAndAcceptance
TRINITYHOUSE GLENVISTA
Cross Country
Hayley Saunders and Taylor Saunders competed at the SACCSA Nationals for Cross Country and finished in 1st and 2nd place respectively.
Hayley Saunders and Taylor Saunders.
August 2024 was a month of celebration and inspiration at the u.15 Girls Soccer Festival. While the competition on the field was fierce, the true essence of the festival went far beyond the scores and standings.
Our girls faced a challenging series of matches, losing two, drawing two. Yet, amidst the scoreboard, it was their unwavering spirit, teamwork, and resilience that shone the brightest. This festival was never just about winning or losing—it was about celebrating the incredible power and potential of young women.
Women impact our lives in countless ways, from the nurturing figures in our families to the leaders in our communities. They inspire us with their strength, grace, and determination. Our festival was a tribute to these qualities, embodied so perfectly by the players on the field. Every tackle, every pass, and every goal represented more than just a game.
Provincial Cross Country Championships
A huge shoutout to Eli Kairuz, Ivan Ekpoke, James Shabalala, Mukundi Nemaghovani, Katleho Linda, Nkosana Zondo, Qhayiyalethu Langeni, and Siyabulela Siwedi for flying the Trinityhouse Glenvista flag high at the provincial cross country championships! We’re incredibly proud of your hard work and dedication. Keep shining!
The u.15 Girls Soccer Festival
They reflected the dedication and hard work these young athletes put into their sport. Their passion and perseverance are a reminder of the boundless potential women have to shape our world.
In each match, whether victorious or not, these girls demonstrated what it means to face challenges with courage and to support one another as a team. Their performance was a testament to the fact that success is not just about the final score but about the journey, the growth, and the impact we make along the way.
As we look back on the festival, let’s remember that the true victory lies in the spirit and camaraderie we witnessed. The u.15 Girls Soccer Festival was a celebration of what women and girls bring to our lives—strength, resilience, and an indomitable will to excel. Here’s to all the amazing things they do, on and off the field
Front: Olerato Dipyere, Tyra Salimu, Mihle Jobe. Back: Coach Tebogo Modise, Khanya Manong, Bella Naidoo, Mrs J. Sibiya Nhlalala Vumazonke, Lesedi Thabethe, Lwandile Meqe, Lesedi Manong and Coach Patrick Ngubane.
During
‘ways
WATERSTONE COLLEGE
Celebrating Dedication - Honoring 5 and 10-Year Service Milestones at Waterstone College
It is with great pride and gratitude that we celebrate a significant milestone in the lives of several of our esteemed staff members. Their dedication and unwavering commitment to Waterstone College as a Curro Select School have not only contributed to the growth and success of our school but have also had a profound impact on the lives of our students.
Today, we recognize and honor those who have reached 5 and 10 years of service at Waterstone College. These individuals have gone above and beyond in their roles, embodying the values and mission of our school every day. Their passion for education and their devotion to our students are truly commendable.
Each of these educators and staff members has played a vital role in shaping the vibrant and supportive community we have at Waterstone College. Their long-standing service is a testament to their passion for education and their belief in the potential of every student they encounter. We are truly fortunate to have such talented and dedicated individuals as part of our team.
Let us all take a moment to congratulate and thank our colleagues for their remarkable service. May the years ahead bring continued success, fulfillment, and joy in their professional journeys.
With sincere appreciation and best wishes, Mr JC –Executive Head.
HOËRSKOOL MARAIS VILJOEN
CON SPIRITO NATIONAL WINNERS / NASIONALE WENNERS
Etlike eerste plekke word tydens die Con Spirito se Forté-rondte deur Marais Viljoeners ingepalm. Learners took part in various categories, from dancing, art, reading and public speaking and surely did us proud!
DINAMIKA
Rugby Geskiedenis
Vir die eerste keer in Dinamika se geskiedenis het ons o/14 span die Noordvaalbeker gewen!
Hokkiedogters: Noordvaal Grootskole Afdeling A
Ons o.14A-dogters het aan die Noordvaal Grootskole Afdeling-A toernooi deelgeneem. Die Noordvaaltoernooi is n gesogte hokkietoernooi waarin Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Noordwes, Gauteng en Vaaldriehoek deelneem. Ons het gemengde uitslae behaal en die dogters het verbete geveg.
Dinamika 1st Team vs Zimbabwe u.18A
Dinamika batted first and scored 309/10 after 35.1 overs. Top performers with the bat were:
• Dean van Onselen 124 runs of 69 deliveries.
• Nathan Visagie 61 runs of 47 deliveries.
• Ludique de Meyer 53 runs of 34 deliveries.
Zimbabwe u.18 replied with 145/10 after 33.2 overs. Top performers with the ball were:
• Mohammed Valli 8 overs 13 runs 3 wickets.
• Mark van der Berg 4.2 overs 9 runs 2 wickets.
• Devandre Clarke 8 overs 42 runs 2 wickets. Dinamika won by 164 runs.
Die uitslae vir die naweek is as volg:
• Sasol 4-0
• Potchefstroom Gimnasium 4-0
• Pietersburg hoërskool 1-1(43)
• Ligbron 0-2 Ons dogters het ten spyte van alle omstandighede hulle ware Namie-harte gewys vir plek 11.
Dogterkrieketspan
Dinamika het ‘n dogterkrieketspan begin die jaar. Die krieketdogters het die volgende wedstryde gespeel:
• Dinamika wen Leeuwenhof met 30 lopies.
• Dinamika wen Die Anker met 40 lopies.
• Dinamika wen Elspark met 7 wickets.
• Dinamika wen Alberton High met 81 lopies.
Skandeer die QR kode en lees nog van ons skool se nuus aanlyn!
Congratulations to captain Dean van Onselen who was awarded Player of the Match. Congratulations to Mr. Damian Smith and Mr Jaques Venter.
Haden Kinnear Kuns Olie Patstel
Kadey Redgard Redenaars Zanté McCallaghan Creative writing & Drama
Brandon Redgard Redenaars
Cameron Ried Creative writing Ean Jordaan Drama - Poetry
Mieke Lok Wen/won 6 items
Chenique Bokhorst Wen/won 7 items
Jay-Dee Kriek Dans
Danica van Rooyen Wen/won 3 items
Kayla Coetzee Public Speaking
F.C. Eloff Wen/won 3 items
Jean-Mari van Westing, Ninke Botha, Ayva Schutte en Michelle Ferreira.
Leché Steenberg, Carel van der Merwe, Logan van der Merwe en Nikita Hoffman.
Jordann Lategan, Zaviër Swanepoel, Mieke Lok en Scarlett Dippenaar. Groep redenaars/ Group public speaking