Magazine 2018

2018 marks the centenary of the birth of Nelson Mandela. The life of this inspirational leader constantly encourages us to take upon ourselves the responsibility of solving the challenges of our world. As an esteemed educational institution we have the unique privilege of preparing tomorrow’s generation and its leaders for their role in an ever changing world. “A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.” - Nelson Mandela A new chapter in our Preparatory tale commenced when we welcomed our 2018 families at the start of the school year. Our Grade One learners entered their new classrooms with enthusiasm and enquiring minds, signalling the start of an exciting journey into formal education. As we reflect on the past year, we are impressed at the rapidity with which our learners have settled into their daily routines. They have embraced new opportunities with alacrity, and uncertainty has been replaced with contentment. Our Grade Fours have entered a new campus and have demonstrated confidence in adjusting to the Intermediate Phase and its extended offering. It has been heart warming to observe the new friendships forged amongst classmates and peers, and the joy of sharing special moments and break time chatter. “ Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela Our commitment to excellence remains our prime focus and our academic programme is designed to provide differentiated, integrated and innovative experiences for our learners. The addition of our Oyster Centre has extended our offering to embrace the diverse learning styles of each child. Technology has provided the ideal platform for learners to collaborate and to be fully engaged in their own learning experience. Our media centres are vibrant spaces where children gather to be inspired and are provided with the inquiry skills essential to meaningfully interact with literature and information. Events like World Book Day, Readathon Week, Lit Quiz events and visiting authors, have all fostered a love of reading. Science Week in the Senior Preparatory involved a very successful Grade Six Science Expo with esteemed adjudicators, as well as participation in a Mobile Science Show and Science Movie Day. The event culminated in a Parent Expo, where parents were suitably impressed with the calibre of the Science projects on display. Outings and shows have captured the attention of our nature loving learners who have embraced the programmes on offer and revelled in the activities abounding in their outdoor classrooms. Boat trips around Intaka Island, the scenic offering of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens with its tree canopy walkway, wildlife experiences at Giraffe House and the Lion Park, and the colourful brilliance of Butterfly World have been attractions along the way. Excursions to The Castle, Iziko Museum and !KhwaaTtu were opportunities to explore the history and culture of our land. 50. 21st Edition