Bedfordview
Karabo Molokomme • October 12, 2023
Grade 3 – Term news
As we bid farewell to a bustling Term 3, marked by an array of enriching experiences, we reflect on the vibrancy that filled our campus. From captivating educational language shows in isiZulu and Afrikaans to the festive celebrations of Brain Buster Morning, Student Led Conference, Spring Day and Roald Dahl Dress-Up Day, our children embraced a whirlwind of learning and joy.
The educational language shows not only celebrated linguistic diversity but also reinforced the PYP principles of promoting intercultural understanding and respect. Students were immersed in the rich tapestry of isiZulu and Afrikaans, fostering a deeper appreciation for linguistic nuances and cultural contexts.
Spring Day and Roald Dahl Dress-Up Day brought an air of freshness, aligning with the PYP's emphasis on nurturing creative expression. Amidst these festive events, the commitment to cultivating foundational skills in reading and writing, numeracy, and problem-solving stayed unwavering.
In the words of Matilda Wormwood herself, "Somewhere inside all of us is the power to change the world." Here's to a term 4 filled with transformative learning and the empowerment of our students to shape a brighter future.
Special People’s Day
The morning was spent demonstrating to our visitors our classroom activities and showcasing how much progress we have made in the past few months. We enjoyed some time in the garden, indulged in a biscuit or two, and then proceeded to the grand walk, where we confidently paraded around the field. The morning event highlighted our enthusiastic young learners, who were incredibly happy to share their school environment with their loved ones. We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this morning so delightful.
The 10 reasons why the first six years of a child's life are crucial when it comes to early childhood development, read all about it in this article.
Crawford schools blog article on one-to-one correspondence in early development and the importance of this developmental skill that adults take for granted.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK Crawford International Sandton From the classrooms of Crawford International Sandton to the forefront of aeronautical engineering in the Netherlands, Dylan Bizjak’s journey is one of ambition, resilience and innovation . Pursuing a Passion for Engineering After matriculating in 2019, Dylan initially pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Wits University. However, six months into his studies, a new opportunity emerged, one that would take him beyond South Africa’s borders. He secured a place at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Delft, Netherlands, where he embraced the challenge of international study, even navigating his first year remotely due to the pandemic. Now a graduate with a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering (2024), Dylan has stepped into the professional world, joining Eve Reverse, a pioneering start-up dedicated to climate-positive innovation. What began as an internship in his final year evolved into a full-time role as a Research and Development Engineer, where he contributes to the creation of sustainable, carbon-negative materials. His proudest achievement? Playing a key role in the development of the Eve Dry Tile, an innovative flax fibre material designed to reduce emissions and waste in manufacturing. Achievements at Crawford International Sandton Gareth Beach Award (2019) – Recognised for bravery, dedication, self-development and outstanding achievement in swimming. Sportsman of the Year (2019) – Acknowledged for excellence in swimming, basketball and boxing. Reflections on Crawford Dylan credits his time at Crawford for preparing him for both academic and personal success on the global stage. “Crawford’s approach equips you for university and beyond, whether in South Africa or internationally. It’s not just about academics but about becoming a well-rounded critical thinker and team player. Exposure to diverse cultures, teamwork, individuality and taking responsibility for my outcomes were invaluable lessons I carried with me.” Words of Wisdom To his younger self, Dylan would say: “Step out of your comfort zone sooner. Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Leaving home was tough, but the personal and professional growth was worth every stumble along the way.” Dylan’s story is a testament to courage, hard work and the power of embracing the unknown. From South Africa to the Netherlands, he is proving that the sky isn’t the limit, it is just the beginning.
Let’s try and make sense of career guidance by giving you some information on how to choose your Grade 10 to 12 subjects. Read on to find some helpful pointers.
Empower yourself as a parent by learning how to determine your child's personality type. Read more at Crawford International.
Explore how hands-on activities and physical engagement benefit kinesthetic learners, and discover teaching strategies that harness movement to boost comprehension and retention.
Learn how warm demanders—teachers who combine firm expectations with genuine care—can foster positive student-teacher relationships, boost academic achievement, and strengthen learners’ resilience in the classroom.
Discover how digital literacy shapes modern classrooms by fostering critical thinking, enhancing collaboration, and preparing students for success in our rapidly evolving world.
Discover essential insights and practical tips to help you navigate your child’s first year at school, from enrollment steps to building a positive learning environment.
A Guide To Parent Teacher Meetings The new academic term has just started a few weeks ago, and families with school-going children are settling into their routines. However, as students transition back to the classroom, another important aspect of the school calendar looms, parent teacher meetings. While these meetings are integral to nurturing strong collaboration between families and schools, they can also bring a mix of emotions, from curiosity to unease, for parents. In South Africa, where over 12 million students attend public and private schools (Department of Basic Education, 2023), the importance of such interactions cannot be overstated. These sessions offer invaluable insights into a child’s academic progress, social development, and overall well-being. What Are Parent Teacher Meetings? Parent teacher meetings are structured conversations between parents and their child’s teachers, aimed at discussing the student’s academic performance, behaviour, and overall development. These meetings create an opportunity for open communication, ensuring that both parties can collaborate effectively to support the student’s educational journey. They are not just a platform for addressing concerns but also for celebrating achievements and setting shared goals. What Do They Entail at Crawford? At Crawford International, parent teacher meetings are designed to be more than just routine check-ins. They reflect our commitment to fostering strong partnerships with families. During these sessions, parents meet with teachers to gain a holistic view of their student’s progress, not only academically but also socially and emotionally. Teachers share personalised feedback, highlight areas of growth, and discuss strategies to address challenges. These meetings are tailored to align with our ethos of developing well-rounded students, emphasising collaboration to ensure every child reaches their potential. How Often Are They? Parent teacher meetings at Crawford typically occur once per term, although additional sessions may be scheduled based on specific needs or requests. Regularity ensures that parents stay informed about their child’s journey throughout the academic year. These consistent touchpoints help to build trust and maintain a steady flow of communication between parents and teachers. How Best Should Parents Prepare for Them? Preparation is key to making the most of parent teacher meetings. Here are a few practical tips: Review Reports and Notes – before the meeting, review any recent academic reports, test results, or communication from the school. This provides a foundation for meaningful discussions. Prepare Questions – jot down specific questions or concerns you want to address. For example, ask about areas where your child excels or struggles and how you can support them at home. Engage with Your Child – have a conversation with your child about their experiences at school. Understanding their perspective can provide valuable context for the meeting. Be Open-Minded – approach the meeting with a collaborative mindset. Remember, the goal is to work together with the teachers to support your child’s growth. Take Notes – during the meeting, take notes on key points discussed, including recommendations from teachers. This ensures you can follow through on agreed actions. Parent teacher meetings are more than a requirement; they are an investment in a child’s future. By approaching these sessions with preparation and a collaborative spirit, parents can play an active role in shaping their child’s educational journey. As families across South Africa embrace this vital part of the school experience, let’s work together to make each interaction meaningful and impactful.
