Meet Dr Langa Twala - A Crawford Lonehill alumni taking quality healthcare to South Africa’s rural citizens Current occupation: Medical Doctor at the Tzaneen Mediclinic Hospital and Peacemed Medical Centre Further studies & qualifications: MBChB - Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery – University of Cape Town Post graduate qualifications in Basic and Essential Surgical Skills, Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support and Paediatric Life Support. Currently reading towards an Ophthalmology specialization From the classroom to the operating room, Dr. Langa Twala’s journey from Crawford International Lonehill to the forefront of rural healthcare is nothing short of inspirational. Graduating with an impressive 8 distinctions in 2013, Langa wasted no time in pursuing his passion for medicine, earning his MBChB from the University of Cape Town in 2020. After completing his internship and community service, he now serves at Tzaneen Mediclinic Hospital and Peacemed Medical Centre, where he brings hope and healing to underserved rural communities. His work fuels his deep commitment to serving others. “As a medical professional, I pride myself on working in a rural setting where access to quality care is limited. It’s an honour and privilege to be a part of so many big moments in people’s lives, from the birth of a child to the passing of a loved one,” Langa reflects. On his Crawford journey Langa credits the quality of education and the support of his teachers and peers at Crawford International Lonehill in preparing him for life in the real world. “It is often said that a good high school should prepare you for post school studies, however Crawford - in many ways - prepared me for life. In addition to the high standard of academics, the guiding principles instilled in me at Crawford have stood the test of time.” Throughout his school career, Langa loved the individuality and autonomy that students were instilled with. “I was fully aware that I was captain of my own fate and responsible for my outcomes, which taught me a great deal of self-discipline. As I transitioned from high school to university, I never got the sense that I was drowning or that the jump to varsity was too big. Teachers and management staff in Crawford offered support even beyond the classroom. The care and interest that they showed encouraged me to choose a life of service as well, which I have never regretted.” As SRC President at Crawford, Langa was instrumental in launching the very first ‘Crawford’s Got Talent’, an event run by and for the students, with all proceeds going to charity. The support received from the staff was immense, and Langa had no idea how mammoth a task it would be to coordinate so many moving parts. This invaluable experience empowered him with valuable skills that he would use long into his tenure as Health Sciences Students Council (HSSC) Chairperson at UCT. Making a difference while at med school Langa’s leadership abilities only grew at UCT, where he chaired the Health Sciences Students Council and sat on upwards of 10 university leadership structure committees, including with the Vice Chancellor. He also contributed to the reigniting of the Mayosi Impilo Student Bursary Fund in his tenure as HSSC Chairperson at UCT - the fund has since continued running strong through the commitment of many stakeholders, ensuring future generations of healthcare professionals have the support they need. Langa’s leadership has earned him both local and international accolades, including the prestigious Kerry Capstick-Dale Leadership Award. Langa’s proudest achievement stems from his various leadership roles at UCT and seeing the doctors and therapists who today are serving their communities in part because he played a small a role in ensuring they were not financially or academically excluded through helping to reform policies. What’s next? Looking ahead, Langa dreams of expanding his reach in healthcare, specifically by bringing much-needed eye surgeries to rural areas. “Being able to give the gift of sight would be incredible,” he says. Soon to be married, Langa’s personal goals are just as meaningful as his professional ones - hoping to be a loving husband, devoted family man, best son and brother to his siblings. When he is not serving and caring for people in hospital, he is serving them as a minister in his church congregation.  Personal reflections To current Crawford students, Langa offers this advice: “Make the best use of your time and the resources that you have at your disposal at Crawford. There is a wealth of knowledge and experience surrounding you, but it needs you to tap into it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t be afraid not to know every answer, even about yourself or where you want to go. Be anchored by your principles and the people around you who are in your corner and want to help you succeed. Also remember, there are many different variations of success.” Dr. Langa Twala is the embodiment of Crawford’s values – a solid work ethic, compassion, accountability and leadership. His journey reminds us that the impact we can make in people’s lives is limitless.

When broaching the private school versus public school debate, it’s important to remember that your child’s education is about more than gaining knowledge.

There are many factors to consider when deciding if a boarding school is the way to go. Read more on the advantages and disadvantages of boarding schools.

10 Homework Tips for Parents As Term 3 is nearing its end, many of us at Crawford International – parents, families, and the entire school community – are beginning to prepare for a well-deserved break. It’s a time to unwind, reconnect, and take a breather from the hustle and bustle of the school year. However, the homework doesn’t stop just because the term is wrapping up. With assignments still coming in, we thought this Friday would be the perfect time to share some valuable homework tips for parents.  Before we dive into the tips, it’s important to remember why homework exists in the first place. Homework is designed to reinforce the learning that takes place in the classroom, helping students develop a deeper understanding of the material. According to Cooper, Robinson, and Patall (2006), “homework is a way to extend the learning process beyond the school day, allowing students to practice skills, apply concepts, and develop self-discipline.” It’s not just about getting the work done; it’s about creating a lifelong love of learning. 10 Homework Tips for Parents: Create a Dedicated Homework Space: Set up a quiet, well-lit area where your child can focus on their work. A consistent space helps them mentally prepare for homework time. Establish a Routine: Consistency is key. Designate a specific time each day for homework to create a routine that your child can follow. Break Down Big Assignments: Large projects can be overwhelming. Help your child break down tasks into smaller, more manageable parts, and set mini deadlines to keep them on track. Stay Positive and Encouraging: Homework can sometimes be frustrating. Offer words of encouragement and keep a positive attitude to help your child stay motivated. Limit Distractions: Turn off the TV, put away devices, and create a distraction-free environment. This helps your child stay focused and complete their work efficiently. Be Involved, but Don’t Take Over: It’s important to offer support and guidance but remember that homework is your child’s responsibility. Encourage them to work independently while being available for help if needed. Encourage Breaks: If your child has a lot of homework, encourage them to take short breaks to rest and recharge. This can improve focus and productivity. Use Resources Wisely: If your child is struggling with a particular subject, don’t hesitate to use additional resources like educational websites, apps, or tutoring. Communicate with Teachers: If homework becomes overwhelming, reach out to your child’s teacher. They can offer insights and suggest strategies to help your child manage their workload. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results: Praise your child for their effort and hard work, regardless of the outcome. This helps build confidence and a growth mindset. As we all gear up for the break ahead, these tips can help make the last stretch of Term 3 a little smoother. Remember, homework is just one part of your child’s educational journey. By supporting them with these strategies, you are helping to create a love of learning that will last a lifetime. We invite you to share these tips with other parents in our community to help support each other during this busy time, and make the end of this term as productive and positive as possible.

Deciding if Your Child Needs a New School for 2025 Choosing the right school for your child is never simple, and as the end of the year approaches, many parents might be wondering if it’s time to make a change for 2025. School choice is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about finding the best environment for your child's academic, social, and emotional needs. Education experts from our sister schools, ADvTECH Schools offer guidance on how to determine if your child's current school is the right fit or if a change might be beneficial. Renie Sutherland, Principal at The Bridge Assisted Learning School Morningside, advises parents to consider several key factors: Progress or Regresses : If your child is no longer making progress or is regressing despite the support in place, it may indicate that the current environment is not meeting their needs. Emotional Distress : If your child exhibits consistent emotional distress, anxiety, or behavioural issues that seem exacerbated by the school setting, this might be a sign that the environment is not conducive to their well-being. Lack of Adequate Resources: If the school is unable to provide the necessary resources, therapies, or accommodations that your child needs to thrive, it might be time to explore other options. Mismatch in Educational Philosophy: If the school’s approach to education and support structures does not align with your child’s learning style or needs, it could be beneficial to seek a school with a more tailored approach. Sutherland suggests visiting potential schools, speaking to principals, and even having your child assessed by a specialist to ensure the new school can meet their needs. Visit Schools : Schedule visits to potential schools to observe the environment, meet the staff, and see how the school operates on a day-to-day basis. Speak to the Principal: Have an in-depth conversation with the principal or head of the learning support team. Discuss your child’s specific needs and how the school can meet them. Assessments : Arrange for your child to be assessed by an educational psychologist or a specialist to gain a clear understanding of their needs and the type of environment that would best support their development. Talk to Other Parents : Connect with parents who have children with similar challenges to hear their experiences with different schools. Marion Kohler, Principal at Abbotts JHB South, adds that while some challenges can be overcome with time and support, persistent issues might signal an incompatibility with the school environment. “A school cannot be everything to everybody,” she says. Kohler also highlights the importance of word-of-mouth recommendations and personal visits to potential schools. “You’ll get a feel for the school’s culture and whether it’s a place where your child could thrive,” she notes. As you weigh the decision, consider the potential opportunities a new school could offer. However, also keep in mind the benefits of staying put—building deeper relationships and developing resilience can be invaluable. If you’re thinking about a change for 2025, now is the time to start exploring your options and finding the best fit for your child’s future.

Explore the fundamentals of scaffolding in education, a proven method that breaks down complex concepts into manageable steps, fostering deeper understanding and student success.

This month’s Alumnus Spotlight features Sean Musgrove, a 2017 matriculant of Crawford International Lonehill. We had the pleasure of catching up with Sean to learn about his journey since leaving Crawford, his cherished memories, and his aspirations for the future. Read on to find out how his experiences have shaped his career and personal growth. Matric Year: 2017 What have you been up to since matriculating from Crawford International? Straight out of Crawford, I completed my undergraduate and postgraduate Honours at the University of Pretoria in Business and Marketing Management. I am now currently doing my Postgraduate Diploma in Financial planning, remotely through the University of the Free State. How has your experience at Crawford International influenced your career or personal growth? I can honestly say that I enjoyed every single day I spent at Crawford from Grade 000 to Matric. Both professionally and personally, my teachers and peers throughout my schooling career have taught me lessons that have shaped where I am today. Can you share a memorable moment or lesson from your time at Crawford International? Where do I begin! As cliche as it may sound, there are way too many memories and lessons to name. I think the first thing that comes to mind, was experiencing and participating in all the unique and student executive run events. The Mr and Mrs Crawford event, Annual 5A Side Soccer tournament, Valentine’s Day Assembly, and Matric Assembly were awesome. The surprise “experiment” in Grade 9, of separating boys and girls for certain classes, also was an epic time! What advice would you give to current students or recent matriculants? ⁠Work hard, play hard—but perhaps not in the way you might think! During and after school, it's easy to become stressed about the workload ahead, whether it's studying or job responsibilities, he chuckles, “and trust me, it never ends!”. It's crucial to prioritise your tasks to achieve your goals. However, it's equally important to take time for yourself and engage in activities that bring you happiness and joy, helping you to momentarily escape the stresses of life. How are you making an impact in your field or community? ⁠I currently work as a Wealth Advisor at PSG Wealth, where I strive to build valuable and trustworthy relationships with all my clients. My goal is to provide sound financial advice to improve their lives. Personally, I aim to keep challenging myself while enjoying every moment to the fullest. What are your future goals or aspirations? After completing my postgraduate studies in financial planning, I aim to write the Chartered Financial Planning board exam in 2025. I also am looking forward to completing my first ultra marathon and full Ironman in 2025 and 2026 respectively! When asked about anything specific from his Crawford experience that he still carries with him today, he quipped with a laugh, "Besides the 2016 Mr Crawford title? Just joking!" He went on to say that he truly cherishes the special relationships and friendships he formed with both his peers and teachers.

How to Promote Independent Thinking in Students In today’s fast-paced world, independent thinking is an essential skill for students. Encouraging children to think for themselves not only helps them navigate complex situations but also prepares them for future challenges. Here, we explore what independent thinking is, why it’s important, strategies for independent thinking and how schools, particularly Crawford International, promote this vital skill. What Is Independent Thinking? Independent thinking refers to the ability to make decisions and form opinions without undue influence from others. It involves analysing information, evaluating different perspectives, and reaching well-considered conclusions. Independent thinkers are confident in their ability to tackle problems creatively and resourcefully. Why Are Independent Thinking Skills Important for Students? Independent thinking skills equip students with the tools to succeed in an ever-evolving world. These skills help students with self-confidence, resilience, and adaptability. Students who think independently are better prepared to face the unknown, approach problems with an open mind, and develop solutions that reflect their own unique insights. How Is Independent Thinking Promoted in School? Schools play a crucial role in nurturing independent thinking. Encouraging students to ask questions, engage in discussions, and explore topics beyond the curriculum helps them develop critical thinking skills. Providing opportunities for project-based learning, where students research and present on topics of their choice, promotes a sense of ownership and initiative. How Does Crawford Encourage Independent Thinking? At Crawford International, independent thinking is at the core of our educational philosophy. Our student-centred approach emphasises inquiry-based learning, where students are encouraged to explore and question. We integrate technology to enhance learning, allowing students to access diverse resources and form their own interpretations. Our curriculum is designed to cultivate critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. Teachers guide students in reflecting on their learning processes, helping them develop the ability to evaluate information critically. By providing a supportive environment where ideas are respected and valued, Crawford International empowers students to become confident, independent thinkers. Five Tips for Parents to Cultivate Independent Thinking at Home 1. Encourage Curiosity – Create an environment where questions are welcomed. Encourage your child to explore their interests and ask questions about the world around them.  2. Promote Problem-Solving – Involve your child in problem-solving activities. Whether it’s planning a family trip or resolving a household issue, let them contribute ideas and solutions. 3. Encourage Decision-Making – Give your child opportunities to make choices, from selecting their clothes to planning their study time. Discuss the outcomes of their decisions to help them learn from experience. 4. Provide Diverse Resources – Introduce your child to a variety of books, documentaries, and online resources. Encourage them to explore different perspectives and form their own opinions. 5. Model Independent Thinking – Demonstrate independent thinking in your own actions. Share your thought process when making decisions and encourage open discussions about differing viewpoints. By implementing some of these independent thinking strategies, parents can further support the development of independent thinking skills in their children, complementing the efforts made at school.

Dive into the concept of active learning and how it's implemented at Crawford International.