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.”
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.
HEAD OFFICE
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 Click on the video to Watch Now!
LUCAS MEYER PRIMÊRE SKOOL
LMS Atletiek 2024
Trofeewenners. Baie geluk aan elke atleet wat ‘n trofee ontvang het. Harde werk word beloon!
NUWE REPUBLIEK PRIMARY
Entrepreneurs Day
Gholf
Wishing Heike Venter all the best for the Nomads SA u.13 Championships at Kruilsrivier Golf Club on the 25th - 27th September.
Mieke Cilliers
Ruben Potgieter
Janicka Harmse
Luthando Ngobese
Wiehan Harding Kayla Scheepers
Clarissa Holmes
Elzanni Erasmus
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LENNOXTON PRIMARY SCHOOL
Aphelele Ngwenya participated in the EMS QUIZ at District level on the 6th of August. She produced excellent results by being placed 3rd overall and achieving 83%. Congratulations to Aphelele! You have most certainly done us proud!!!
to Vritika Gopi for
first place in Round 2 at the Reading for Meaning competition held at the Town Hall.
Northern KZN Regiona Science Fair 2024
Some of our learners participated in the Northern KZN Regional Science Fair 2024 held at the Newcastle Farmers Hall on 26th July 2024. We are extremely proud of our learners who did very well. The final results are:
Participation Certificates:
• Samiya Mathadeen (Grade 6)
• Lubanzi Mabanga (Grade 6)
Highly Recommended Certificates:
• Tahir Sooknannan (Grade 6)
• Abha Sukram (Grade 6)
• Vritika Gopi (Grade 4)
• Kenisha Govender (Grade 7)
• Amanda Mbatha (Grade 7)
Bronze Medals:
• Pratik Ajodhi (Grade 6)
• Afsar Razak (Grade 5)
• Ayabonga Nyembe (Grade 6)
Silver Medals:
• Vaishavi Singh (Grade 4)
• Abhay Singh (Grade 5)
• Yusuf Aboobaker (Grade 7)
• Ariya Harriparsad (Grade 5)
Special mention must be made of learners who won trophees:
• Yusuf Aboobaker - Best Earth Science (Primary School)
• Abhay Singh - Best Energy Project (Primary School)
South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement
The South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) invited our school LPS to participate in the Astro Quiz aimed at Grade 7 learners only. 16 learners qualified for round 1 at school level, 8 learners thereafter proceeded to round 2 at District level. Both teams comprising of 4 learners each advanced and participated at Provincial Level. This quiz aims to improve teaching and learning in primary schools of basic astronomy, contribute to the improvement of awareness, interest, understanding and insight into basic astronomy and to create an appreciation of South Africa’s place in astronomy. The Science Dpt at LPS wish to place on record our sincerest thanks to our learners for always flying the name of our school high. - Mrs C Singh.
ARBOR PARK PRIMARY
Arborpark Primary School’s Sevens Rugby teams have wrapped up an incredible season, giving everyone plenty to be excited about for the future of Arrie Rugby. Both the u.13 and u.12 teams had a fantastic run, making the school proud. The u.13 team finished 3rd at the annual Umbani Tournament, and they kept up the momentum by placing 3rd at the JARU Sevens Festival in Rustenburg, a tough competition usually featuring strong club and provincial teams. It’s also worth mentioning that the Umbani Invitational Team, selected during the Umbani Tournament, went on to win the whole thing, showcasing just how talented our players are. The u.12 Sevens team, on the other hand, was unrelenting, winning the NRS Action Tournament, the Michaelhouse Tournament, and the Sevens Festival in Kloof. Their unbeaten streak and outstanding play have put them in the spotlight as a team to watch. Not only is it our current stars who are making waves, our u.10 and u.11 players are coming through with serious potential. These young talents are already showing skills and teamwork beyond their years, and they’re definitely ones to watch in the future. Arborpark Primary couldn’t be prouder of all its rugby stars. They’ve not only had a great season, but have also set the stage for an exciting future in Arrie Rugby.
Front: Caleb Chutel, Mnqobi Msomi, Khethelo Khuzwayo and Sbongankonke Malinga. Back: Mphumeleli Dlamini, Hlogi Lenonyane, Liyanda Makhubu, Zenande Khambule, Letho Msimango and Alondwe Sithole.
Front: Siphesihle Mavuso, Vamo Mnguni, Siyamthanda Ndaba, Tshepiso Mpati and Mukelwa Mbatha. Back: Zoë Masengemi, Thato Mosekiri, Melokuhle Buthelezi, Anami Khumalo and Sanelisiwe Maseko.
In an outstanding display of skill and teamwork, our u.11 boys soccer team finished the season undefeated, securing their title as league champions. Their relentless dedication and sportsmanship have made us incredibly proud. Congratulations to our young athletes for a remarkable season and for bringing home the championship!
We are thrilled to celebrate Weziwe’s remarkable achievement of advancing to the semi-finals of the prestigious ATKV-Redenaars competition. Her dedication, talent, and hard work have earned her this well-deserved recognition, and we couldn’t be prouder. Congratulations, Weziwe, on this significant milestone! ATKV
Congratulations
securing
Redenaars
Front: Nkanyiso Nxele (VC), Lethabo Sithole (GK).
Middle: Mpumelelo Nkomonde Mpilonhle Sithole, Phumelelo Mngadi, Hlelo Zwane, Zimiso Ntombela, Melokuhle Hlatshwayo, Avile August, Khaselihle Mntambo.
Back: Mr A Kunene, Ziyanda Ntuli, Alondwe Mazibuko, Dalisa Nkomzwayo, Nala Nkomzwayo (C), Athandwa Phakathi.
u.12 Team at Kloof Festival
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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
HOËRSKOOL/ HIGH SCHOOL FERRUM
Prefects 2025
Congratulations to the following learners for receiving the prefect role in 2025.
Kyla Beling
Amahle Dlomo
Sweety Mkhonza
Chenique van der Merwe
Frans Botha
Xander Dirks
Olwa Mkhize
Lizandré Berry
Sphe Dube
Mvelo Mngomezulu
Chané van Niekerk
Lwazi Buthelezi
Eli Erasmus
Srikar Mohunram
Ruby Beukes
Abbygale Ferrier
Marché Mortlock
Quené van Rooyen
Pieter Campher
Mihir Gajee
Ntando Ngema
Philip van Tonder
Shaneka Breytenbach
Sisanda Goba
Mary Omole
Lana Walters
Rowen Claassen
Keaghan Gale
Thuthukathulani Nkosi
Jayden van Vurren
Misokuhle Bukosini
Luthando Hadebe
Asiphile Radebe
Caitlyn Whitlock
Wiehan Cloete
Xolani Hadebe
Koketso Phukubye
Emihle Venge
Megan de Jager
Bianca Kock
Marike Rothmann
Charlene Williams
Neil Collyer
Coushay Koen
Aksar Ramdial
Junior Zwane
Janica de Swardt
Jessica Lowery
Lia Uys
Mohammed Bhula
Daniel Danhauser
Juan Kotze
Nkosikhona Shongwe
Akhona Dlamini
Amahle Mbatha
Scarlett Uys
Barend Bootha
Shaun de Beer
Ingumangaliso Kubheka
Zander Struwig
SPORT FIXTURES
RUGBY CRICKET
AMAJUBA SCHOOL / SKOOL
Our u.13 soccer girls triumphed again in Underberg!
Andre Fourie Sport Tournament you were good for us! These past few days our warriors were put to the test. Our u.15 7s Rugby team had a tough pool to start with but through determination, hard work and simply scoring some amazing tries they came 4th overall in the tournament. Well done boys! On to the next one. Our Matric team the u.18 B team shone brightly. Giving everything to the game and playing their last in the Jubies blue and gold. We salute each and every player, their legacy will live on! They unfortunately lost out in the Bowl Semi’s against Vryheid. And then the men who just never gave up: our u.18 A team. You left us breathless! You made us proud! From family tries to gorilla breaks. Gentlemen well done! Beating Vryheid Landbou with a very convincing and hard fought for 33-0 score, they proudly lifted the Bowl! To our coaches, your hours and dedication don’t go unseen. Thank you for sharing your passion and inspiring our leaders. To our Hosts, thank you for a brilliant tournament, it’s an honour to participate every year. Next Tournament is in Vryheid, and we watch on with anticipation. Jubies you make us proud!
Underberg Soccer Rugby Academic
Congratulations to Philasande Mtshali and Anele Bam who made it through to the next round of the u.16 soccer trials!
Philasande Mtshali
Anele
ST DOMINICS NEWCASTLE
St Dominics Newcastle announces prefects for 2025
St Dominics Newcastle is proud to introduce its newly appointed prefects for 2025. Following a rigorous selection process, these outstanding learners have been chosen to lead their peers with pride, integrity, passion, and enthusiasm. Their leadership will be instrumental in guiding the Class of 2025 through a successful and memorable year.
The school extends its heartfelt congratulations to these learners. Their commitment and leadership qualities have set them apart, and we have no doubt they will excel in their roles. The Class of 2025 is in capable hands with this dynamic team at the helm. Well done to all our newly appointed prefects!
The leadership team is supported by several dedicated prefects, each responsible for key areas within the school.
Prefect body for 2025
HUTTENPARK PRIMARY SCHOOL
Safal Ramdharee Academic Prefect
Hamzah Ismail Head of Marketing
Destiny Jones Head of Academics
Shakira Seedat Academic Prefect
Abhay Gurlal Head of Service
Vibhav Ramdas Service Prefect
Nonhlanhla Ntuli Service Prefect
Nhlanhlenhle Mtshali Head Boy
Husna Docrat Head Girl Naeem Bana Deputy Head Boy
Grace Wu Deputy Head Girl
Belicia Sewmohan Marketing Prefect
Phiwayinkosi Sitebe Marketing Prefect Ayandiswa Myeni Head of Sport
Khethabahle Nkosi Sport Prefect
Abongwe Mntambo Sport Prefect
Anahliya Singh Head of Culture Anele Mbele Culture Prefect
Nontsikelelo Nkosi Culture Prefect
Leadership team
Huttie News
On the 6th of September, Huttenpark held their annual Soap Box Derby. The theme was, Huttie Olympics. It was a huge success, with all the classes representing a different country, dressing up and having the best time competing against the other classes in their grade. Fun was had by all!
NEWCASTLE HIGH SCHOOL
NKZN Girls rugby Spelling Bee
Congratulations to the following girls who were selected for the NKZN Girls rugby development team: Fanelesbonge Buthelezi, Cherese Louw, Princess Minhawo, Sibongakonke Dube and Malwande Dladla. Simelokuhle Mabaso of Grade 9, came 2nd at the district Spelling Bee held on, 21 August 2024. Simelokuhle and Dinel Mudimo will be representing Newcastle High at the master Spelling Bee Nationals in October.
EMS Quiz Competition
We are proud of Nivar Hariparsad (Grade 8) and Simelokuhle Mabaso (Grade 9). They both came first in their respective grades at the EMS quiz held by the district.
Tennis: NHS Sports
Our learners participated in the 2025 Tennis Northern KZN trials where Mbali Khumalo was one of the players that has been selected.
Congratulations and keep the Newie flag flying high.
HOËRSKOOL RICHARDSBAAI
Mr & Ms Baaitjie 2024
We would like to congratulate the following learners:
• Ms Baaitjie Jnr - Evangeline Keyser
• 1st Princess - Zuri Sicandar
• Mr Baaitjie Jnr - Johannes van den Berg
• 1st Prince - Kyle Spammer • Ms Baaitjie Snr - Unathi Saki
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our amazing sponsors for making this evening possible.
Congratulations to the HSRB u.15 Boys for their amazing performance at the EHS 7’s tournament this past Saturday. The nail-biting final was put to bed when Siya Mtshali showed some slick skills and offloaded the ball to Jayden Ehlers who bolted down the wing to score the match-winning try.
Tennis
Congratulations to the HSRB Tennis side who achieved silver medals at the recent
Tennis Tournament. Keep Serving up the good results!
Mbali Khumalo
Nivar Harripersad Singh and Simelokuhle M Mabaso.
Fanelesbonge Buthelezi, Cherese Louw, Princess Minhawo, Sibongakonke Dube and Malwande Dladla.
Simelokuhle Mabaso, Dinel Mudimo and Yajna Singh.
Unathi Saki
Ms Baaitjie Snr
Evangeline Keyser Ms Baaitjie Jnr
Grantleigh
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:
CURRO GRANTLEIGH SCHOOLS
Wonderful end to our very own Sevens tournament. Thank you to all the participating schools for coming through to spend this day with us:
• Grantleigh Schools
• Empangeni High School
• Richards Bay High School
• Ashton International College Ballito
• Curro Salt Rock
• Birdswood Academy
• Richardsbay Christian School Our results for the tournament: •
• Final - Grantleigh
Our u15s lost 22-33 in the finals vs Empangeni High School.
On the 3rd of August our owb Lindelani Makhubu, achieved the following results: Congratulations to Ronewa Myeza who will be representing South Africa in Egypt to compete in the Modern Pentathlon after qualifying at SA Champs!
We all applaud this amazing achievement!
Curro
Congratulations to our golfers, Ruan Loubser and Mathew Richards on obtaining an overall place 3rd at the Richards Bay Primary school Golf Day recently!
• 1st place High Jump
• 1st place 200m
• 1st place 400m
• 1st place 100m including a new Meeting Record
Our u.13 Girls are the champions of our Grantleigh football tournament Our girls finished 1st in their pool beating Felixton in the semi finals on penalties 2-1. Our girls then went on to win the final 2
Grantham Park with some amazing goals . We are very proud of our girls. What an end to the season Our u.13 Boys team played well and kept the Grantleigh flag flying high. Well done boys!
EMPANGENI HIGH SCHOOL
Ruan Loubser and Mathew Richards
Ruan Loubser and Mathew Richards
Lindelani Makhubu
Ronewa Myeza
done to the following learners who were selected to be Mr & Miss Empangeni High School 2024. You all deserve it!
EHS Principal honoured the 2024 RCL Executive Committee with special blazers for their extraordinary leadership.
Wandile Mpontshane
Akhona Nene and Sinakhokonke Zuke
Nqobizwe Myeni
Lethiwe Mkhize and Nonjabulo Moloi
Boys Soccer: EHS Learner Wandile Mpontshane has been selected for the u.19 KZN Soccer Boys Squad. EHS Learner Nqobizwe Myeni has been selected for the u.15 KZN Soccer Boys Squad.
Girls Soccer: EHS Learners Akhona Nene and Sinakhokonke Zuke has been selected for the u.19 KZN Soccer Girls Squad. EHS Learners Lethiwe Mkhize and Nonjabulo Moloi has been selected for the u.16 KZN Soccer Girls Squad.
Jonathan van Heerden and Alexia Montgomery
Egerton boys, Emile King
Rustenburg. Well done boys!
MONUMENT PRIMARY SCHOOL
Athletics
On Friday 30th and Saturday the, 31st of August, 97 athletes from Monument Primary Scool took part in the KZNCSSA athletics championships, held at the Msunduzi Stadium in PMB. This event was covered by Super Sport Schools and shown on DSTV. It was a very successful event with 49 athletes meeting the qualifying standards and included in the KZNCSSA team. They will now take part in the SACSSA athletics championships in Sasolburg on the 20th and 21st of September 2024.
Luné Coetsee broke two records, shot put and Discus girls u.12, and was rewarded the trophy for junior victrix Lodorum as well as 3rd highest points scored for a single event at this meeting. Zanru Biddulf broke the turbo javelin record for boys u.8 and Lwandiswa Sithole broke the highjump girls 10 record.
The runner up for Junior victrix Lodorum was Siyadumisa Msibi and 3rd place Ahlea van der Merwe.
The boys runner up for Victor Lodorum was Connor McMaster. Well done to these athletes. The medal count for Monument athletes were 22 gold, 21 silver and 23 bronze medals. Well done to all these athletes, we are really looking forward to our next championships later this month.
A special thank you to the sponsors aQuelle and Kokstad Coppiers for making this event such a great success and also the management team for all your hard work and dedication towards athletics, setting a very high standard in the competition.
Olympic Star
Zakhiti Nene, an old scholar from Monument Primary, visited Monument Primary on September 6, 2024. He represented South Africa at the recent Olympic Games in Paris, where he made the semi-finals in the 400m track event and the 4 by 400m men’s relay team in the finals. Zakhiti is a humble student who believes that proper education is the most important aspect in life. He achieved a Bachelors B Com degree and found his love for sport from the staff members who coached him. Monument Primary has a significant impact on his life, and we are proud of his achievements.
