Blog Post

Uncharted waters

Carla Kuhlmey • April 29, 2020

Uncharted Waters

A bunch of sticky notes on a wooden table next to a keyboard and mouse.
Navigating through uncharted waters during this stressful time is very overwhelming for many of us and leads to anxiety and sleeplessness. Keep in mind that this is new territory for teachers, parents and our children. Find peace in knowing that we are all in the same boat. Steer your ship into calmness when there is a storm and choose the rules of your ship together as a family. 

There is structure and routine at school, and children arrive knowing what lessons they have each day and are ready to engage in the wonder of their learning experience. During term time, their day starts with their usual morning routine.  They make you coffee and bring you breakfast in bed, pack your lunch and rush you because they are ready and waiting in the car. Imagine how wonderful that would be! My point is, there is routine and the children learn what is expected of them each morning, from the time they wake up until the time they arrive at school. During lockdown, the routine that has always worked has dwindled into the uncertainty of what the day entails. There are no bells or alarms to assist with time management. It is difficult for the kids to shift their mind-set and realise that home is now school. There are so many toys to play with and their play station calls out hourly.  

Tip One
•  Pre-primary and Primary learners - Create a visual timetable. 
There are editable, free examples available. Below is an example.

The pictures will cue what happens next.  Include  the usual morning routine pictures( dressing, breakfast, teeth etc.) and add the new pictures ,such as a laptop or IPad for their online morning greeting with their teacher,  maybe a see saw logo when it’s time to complete those activities etc. It is important to include a family time, exercise or outdoor activity and quiet time picture. You need your time to do work, cook and clean so add that in so they know you are busy during those times. 

• Senior and College Phase learners - Formulate a timetable with your children. They will have some idea of their workload and limits of sustained concentration. Help them schedule in suitable breaks and down time. Do not forget to add in their chores, responsibilities, and outdoor activities.

There is an endless amount of work to do. Cleaning, cooking, working and now you have to assist the teachers in teaching your children. It is all very overwhelming and results in stress, anxiety and worst of all GUILT! It is important to realise that when you scream at your child because they asked you to play while you are trying to reply to the 200 emails sitting in your inbox, you are not alone. So many parents are finding this a challenging time. This epidemic has caused stress in every family; it may just be packaged differently. 

Tip Two
• Reach out for help - When you feel anxious or overwhelmed reach out for help or an ear to listen. 

• Positive mind-set – Remind yourself of the positive elements of your situation. You are safe in your home with your family. Your kids will love knowing you are close by. The forced family time builds strong connections and opens up pathways of communication. You are able to give your child individualised attention during the ‘School day’, which is invaluable. So many parents, although really struggling, are so grateful to understand their child’s strengths and weaknesses. 

• Organisation and Planning- Do your best to manage your time and plan each day to ensure you can complete your daily-required tasks. 

• Mindfulness- Be mindful of your emotions and know your limits. When you feel the symptoms of your different emotions manifesting, such as a warm sensation in your cheeks due to anger or frustration, remove yourself from the situation and breathe. That is a good time to signal to your partner, if they are available, to step in. You can only do what you can do! 

•  Focus on one thing at a time-  It is importance to realise that it is acceptable for you to lose control and act irrationally. It is impossible for each day to run smoothly. Your children will be more difficult on days and it is not the end of the world if your house is upside down. Take a step back, breathe and focus on one task at a time. You may need to lower your expectations to ensure you and your family are able to achieve realistic goals. 

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle- These habits are essential in keeping our bodies and minds, strong and equipped to deal with our daily challenges.  This will improve your physical, mental, and emotional health. Exercise will reduce stress and improve cognitive function. The endorphins released during exercise will make you feel good and assist in creating a positive mind-set.  

This experience has certainly brought about many challenges and feelings of anxiety and stress. We are all in this together and need to reach out and support one another in our learning community.  Feelings of guilt and failure will soon reduce as you listen to others experiencing the same feelings. Crawford North Coast is a family who looks after every masterpiece under its roof, including the parents. We are here to support you and your children during this time. Remember your best is good enough! 
“Ships don’t sink because of the water around them: ships sink because of the water that gets in them. Don’t let what’s happening around you get inside you and weigh you down.”

Pick up your bucket, empty the unwanted water and set sail into the uncharted seas of online teaching. Good Luck, you know how to reach us. 

Carla Kuhlmey
Teacher - Crawford Preparatory North Coast
March 14, 2025
Why the Grade 9 Subject Choice Process is Important The transition from Grade 9 to Grade 10 is a pivotal moment in a South African student’s academic journey. It is during this stage that learners make subject choices that will shape their future career paths and academic trajectories. While Grade 9 students may not yet have a clear vision of their long-term aspirations, understanding the significance of subject selection can help them make informed and strategic decisions. Why Can You Choose Your Subjects in Grade 9? The South African education system allows students to select subjects in Grade 9 to create a pathway that aligns with their interests, strengths, and potential career aspirations. Up until Grade 9, learners follow a generalised curriculum, but from Grade 10 onwards, they start specialising in subjects that will ultimately contribute to their National Senior Certificate (NSC) qualification. The flexibility in choosing subjects is designed to help students focus on areas where they excel and enjoy learning, making their high school experience more meaningful and productive (Department of Basic Education, 2023). The Department of Basic Education highlights that subject choices at this stage have a significant impact on future academic and career pathways. Selecting the right combination of subjects can determine access to university programmes, technical and vocational training, or specialised fields (Department of Basic Education, 2023). Schools, including Crawford International, provide structured subject selection guidance to ensure students and parents understand the weight of these decisions. Why Does Subject Choice Matter? Subject selection has a long-term impact on a student’s educational and professional opportunities. The subjects chosen in Grade 9 will determine the courses available to them in tertiary education and the careers they can pursue. They influence eligibility for specific tertiary education programmes and career fields (South African Qualifications Authority, 2022). Choosing subjects without considering their future implications may limit university and career options, creating unnecessary challenges later on. For example, selecting Mathematics Literacy instead of Pure Mathematics can restrict access to certain degree programmes, particularly in fields like engineering, medicine, and actuarial sciences. Furthermore, making well-informed subject choices can enhance academic performance and motivation. When students select subjects that align with their strengths and interests, they are more likely to remain engaged and perform well. Conversely, poor choices may lead to struggles in comprehension and lower overall academic achievement. What are the Compulsory Subjects? In South Africa, the Department of Basic Education mandates that all students take a set of compulsory subjects to ensure they receive a well-rounded education. These include: Home Language (e.g., English, IsiZulu or Afrikaans, etc.) First Additional Language – (another South African language) Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy – Pure Mathematics is required for careers in science, engineering, and technology, while Mathematical Literacy is an option for students who do not require advanced mathematical skills in their future careers. Life Orientation – This subject focuses on personal development, career guidance, and physical well-being, preparing students for life beyond school. · One additional subject, such as Life Sciences or Business Studies, depending on school requirements (Department of Basic Education, 2023). What are the Elective Subjects? Beyond compulsory subjects, students can select additional subjects based on their interests and future aspirations. Some common elective options in South African schools include: Business Studies – Ideal for students interested in commerce, entrepreneurship, and economic principles. Accounting – Suitable for those considering careers in finance, banking, or auditing. History and Geography – Subjects that develop critical thinking and research skills. Information Technology and Computer Applications Technology (CAT ) – Important for careers in technology, programming, and digital communication. Visual Arts and Drama – For students with an interest in the creative arts and media industries. Each school may offer different elective subjects, and it is crucial for students to research their options and understand the requirements for their intended career path. How Does Subject Choice Impact Career Aspirations? Subject selection plays a fundamental role in shaping future career opportunities. Many universities and technical institutions have specific entry requirements that dictate the subjects a student must have taken in high school. For instance: Medical and Health Sciences: Require Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Pure Mathematics. Engineering and Technology Fields: Require Pure Mathematics and Physical Sciences. Law and Humanities: Prefer History and English at a high level. Business and Finance Careers: Benefit from Accounting, Economics, and Business Studies. In the South African job market, demand for STEM-related careers continues to grow, with fields like engineering, data science, and healthcare requiring Mathematics and Physical Sciences (Maharaj, 2020). Meanwhile, the creative economy offers opportunities in digital marketing, graphic design, and content creation, where subjects like Visual Arts and Information Technology play a crucial role (University of Cape Town, 2021). In addition to academic requirements, subject choices can also develop key skills that are valuable in the workplace. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills are nurtured through subjects like Mathematics and Science, while creativity and communication skills are honed through subjects like Visual Arts and English. Making Informed Decisions. Grade 9 students should approach subject selection with careful consideration and seek guidance from teachers, parents, and career advisors. Schools like Crawford International provide career guidance programmes to help students make educated decisions. Career assessment tools, aptitude tests, and consultations with professionals can offer insights into suitable subject combinations based on individual strengths and interests. Additionally, students should think about their personal learning preferences and long-term satisfaction. Choosing subjects simply because they are perceived as ‘easy’ or because peers are taking them may lead to disengagement and regret in later years. Instead, selecting subjects based on passion and aptitude will result in a more fulfilling academic experience. The Grade 9 subject choice process is a crucial milestone in every South African student’s educational journey. Thoughtful subject selection can open doors to exciting career prospects, while uninformed decisions may limit future opportunities. By understanding the importance of this decision and seeking the necessary support, students can confidently navigate this process and set themselves up for success in high school and beyond.
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Determining Your Child’s Personality Type Understanding a child’s personality type is crucial in supporting their development, communication, and learning. Every child is unique, and recognising their individual traits can help parents and teachers nurture their strengths while addressing their challenges. By identifying personality types early, caregivers can tailor their approach to education, discipline, and social interactions, ensuring that children feel understood and supported. In South Africa, where diverse cultural influences shape upbringing and education, recognising personality differences can be especially beneficial in creating inclusive learning environments. What is a Personality Type? A personality type refers to a set of behavioural traits and characteristics that shape how individuals interact with the world. Various theories categorise personality into different types; one of the most widely recognised is Carl Jung’s theory, which forms the basis for the popular Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) (Brown, 2018). While adult personality assessments are well-developed, children’s personalities emerge gradually, influenced by genetic factors, environmental experiences, and social interactions (Smith & Taylor, 2020). In South Africa, many schools incorporate personality-based learning approaches to accommodate diverse student needs, particularly in environments that embrace multiple languages and cultural backgrounds. Signs of Different Personality Types in Children Children display unique behaviours that can indicate their personality type. Some common personality distinctions include: Introverted vs Extroverted: Some children thrive in social settings and seek external stimulation, while others prefer solitude and engage in deep, independent thinking (Johnson, 2019). Logical vs Emotional: Certain children make decisions based on logic and rules, whereas others are more intuitive and empathetic, often prioritising emotions in their interactions (Morris, 2017). This is evident in South African schools, where subjects like Life Orientation encourage both structured reasoning and emotional intelligence. Structured vs Flexible: Organised children prefer routine and predictability, while flexible children adapt easily to new situations and enjoy spontaneity (Lee & Patterson, 2021). In South Africa’s evolving educational landscape, schools that incorporate inquiry-based learning, such as Crawford International, ensure that both structured and adaptable students thrive. Methods for Determining Personality Types Identifying a child’s personality type requires observation, reflection, and sometimes professional assessment. Some effective methods include: Parental and Teacher Observation: Watching how a child reacts in different settings can provide clues about their personality. Do they prefer solitary play or social interactions? Do they follow rules meticulously or question authority? (Williams, 2022). Personality Questionnaires: While formal tests like the MBTI are often used for adults, child-friendly personality assessments can help identify dominant traits (Harris & Clarke, 2019). Many private schools use such assessments to tailor learning strategies to individual students. Educational and Psychological Assessments: In cases where personality influences learning challenges, professionals may conduct in-depth evaluations to guide support strategies (Naidoo, 2021). How Child Personality Influences Learning Styles Personality plays a significant role in how children engage with education. Some key influences include: Introverted learners may excel in individual tasks but struggle with classroom participation. Teachers can support them by allowing alternative ways to express knowledge, such as written reflections (Peters, 2020). Extroverted learners benefit from interactive and discussion-based learning but may need guidance in focusing on independent tasks (Clarkson, 2018). Logical thinkers often excel in structured subjects like Mathematics but may need encouragement to explore creative expression (Ngcobo, 2019). Emotionally driven children engage deeply with literature and arts but may require help developing analytical skills (Mthembu, 2020). In South Africa, the integration of digital education tools, such as those used at Crawford International, allows teachers to personalise learning experiences, ensuring that different personality types receive the support they need. Parenting Strategies Tailored to Different Personality Types Understanding a child’s personality type can guide parenting techniques. Some strategies include: For introverted children : Create a calm, quiet space for them to recharge after social interactions. Encourage deep conversations rather than forcing group activities (Miller, 2019). For extroverted children : Provide opportunities for social engagement, such as playdates and extracurricular activities, to help them thrive (Singh, 2021). For logical thinkers : Encourage structured activities like puzzles and problem-solving games while also exposing them to creative outlets (Jansen, 2018). For emotionally driven children : Validate their feelings and teach them emotional regulation strategies to balance empathy with resilience (Patel, 2020). South African families often embrace a communal parenting approach, where extended relatives contribute to a child’s upbringing. Recognising personality types within this cultural framework can help caregivers provide consistent and effective support across different environments. Recognising and understanding a child’s personality type is essential for fostering their academic and social development. By observing behaviours, using assessments, and tailoring teaching and parenting strategies, caregivers can help children navigate their strengths and challenges. In South Africa, where education is shaped by diverse cultural and social influences, a personalised approach to learning ensures that every child can thrive.
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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.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Crawford International Celebrates the Matric Class of 2024 Crawford International proudly announces the exceptional performance of its Matric Class of 2024. Across all campuses, students collectively achieved 1527 distinctions, with an impressive average of 2.81 distinctions per candidate, reinforcing the school’s commitment to academic excellence and holistic education.  Crawford Sandton emerged as the top-performing campus, achieving 504 distinctions with an average of 4.27 distinctions per candidate. This success reflects the dedication of students and teachers and the strength of Crawford’s academic programmes. Tracey Purkiss, Principal of Crawford Sandton College, praised the achievements of this year’s matriculants; "the Class of 2024 has demonstrated a true Crawfordian spirit in their approach to their final year. Their achievements reflect their hard work and commitment, and we are incredibly proud of their success. I look forward to the positive contributions they will make as global leaders."
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