Blog Post

Lonehill April 2024

April 25, 2024

PRE-PRIMARY

Earth Day 

 

Integrating Earth Day into our 'Where we are in place and time' unit of inquiry, Grade 0 students engaged in activities focused on palaeontology and archaeology. Through discussions and hands-on exploration in sensory trays and the sandpit, they uncovered fossils and artifacts, fostering an appreciation for Earth's history. Reflective discussions also emphasised environmental stewardship, empowering students to care for the planet and envision a sustainable future.


Retro Rewind Countdown: 25 Years of Crawford Lonehill


Crawford International Lonehill turns 25! Here's to a quarter-century of learning, growth, and community.



From the humble beginnings in January 1999 of 17 Matrics, 58 staff and 460 students across all three phases to becoming a cornerstone in our community.


We look forward to parents, staff and alumni joining us at our birthday celebrations on the 4th May 2024 on the College field. We have an exciting line up of a Mardi Gras atmosphere, while families enjoy a picnic and hot air balloon rides, while our talented musical students entertain our families and staff on stage. Happy birthday Crawford Lonehill.


PREPARTORY


At Crawford International Lonehill Preparatory, Grades 4 to 7 students eagerly participate in dynamic Robotics lessons, a recent addition to the school's academic curriculum since the start of the 2023 academic year. These engaging sessions immerse students in hands-on learning experiences, utilising a range of cutting-edge equipment including Spheros, Lego Spike Education sets, Tello Drones, and 3D printing technology.


Under the guidance of dedicated educators, students collaborate to tackle progressively challenging tasks, honing their coding skills while addressing real-world problems. Through activities like coding, debugging, and experimenting with different robotics technologies, students not only witness their creations come to life but also develop essential power skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and organisation.



Despite initial reservations some students may have about programming, the transformative nature of these lessons is evident in the moments of realisation and achievement experienced by students. As Robotics and Ed-Tech Teacher, Mr Khoza highlights, “The most rewarding moments for me are when students have had me explain a task and they apply themselves with little confidence in their ability and then they have that lightbulb moment when everything makes sense and even they are surprised that they managed to succeed and it’s how I know I’ve done my job - when they leave my classroom knowing more than when they got there.”


National Eisteddfod’s Young Performer Awards competition 

 

Five students of Crawford International Lonehill Preparatory were selected to participate in the quarter-final round of the National Eisteddfod’s Young Performer Awards competition. To be invited to participate in this competition, students first must obtain the Eisteddfod’s highest award, a diploma, at the previous year’s festival. They then participate in the first round, from which only the top learners were selected for the quarterfinals. This is an amazing achievement, considering that this is a national competition, with several thousands of entries received each year. 


This year Crawford’s students excelled. They represented the school in Classical/Crossover Music, Contemporary Music, Public Speaking and isiZulu Poetry.



Aliya Sewpersad, a talented young pianist, qualified with a Contemporary Music item, Phakama Dube and Victor Zeelie for Classical piano, Robert Hurly for Crossover Music- Voice, and Gcinakwande Khumalo for isiZulu Poetry. Victor also qualified with his English Public Speaking entry. Robert was a semifinalist in both 2022 and 2023, and Victor a semifinalist in 2023, and a finalist in 2022 for piano. 


Congratulations on this huge achievement!


COLLEGE 

Sports Bulletin at Lonehill


Our U14 netball team recently participated the Roedean Autumn Sport Festival and played a total of 19 matches over the course of the long weekend. They did incredibly well and won 11 of their matches, against schools such as St Stithians, Roedean, St Mary’s DSG and Pretoria Girls High.


The U16s performed phenomenally at the St Andrews festival this at the end of the term. They won 7 of their 10 matches and were exceptionally proud of their win against St Anne’s, St Mary’s Waverley, St Peter’s College and Beaulieu. We applaud our students!



The U17A netball side took part in the Kingsmead festival. It was a tough, yet valuable few days and the team is building well and going from strength to strength. 


Our ladies showed phenomenal team spirit, excellence on the court and dedication to the team. 


Kayden Eckert Achieves Springbok Scout Badge

 

Kayden Eckert was recently awarded with the prestigious Springbok Scout badge, the highest level of achievement for a youth member of the Scout Movement. This achievement is recognised not only as National Colours in Scouting but holds the equivalent status to its international counterparts such as the King Scout Award from England and the Eagle Scout Award from America.


Springbok Scouts are an elite group of individuals who have demonstrated exceptional perseverance, determination, and commitment to the Scouting Movement. Scouting challenges its members to experience fun, friendship and everyday adventure in an outdoor setting, helping them reach their full leadership potential all while having a positive impact on society.


On his journey to accomplish this Award, Kayden had to persevere and complete a number of tasks and challenges as well as planning, organising and leading a team of Scouts in completing a number of special projects. The three major projects included, firstly a 40-hour community service project. This community service project was focused on uplifting a local Bird Sanctuary where he constructed and installed some basic infrastructure such as tables and chairs as well as removing alien invasive species.


Secondly, he had to plan and complete a 3-day expedition of at least 30km together with a hike party of at least 3 other scouts in the Magoebaskloof and this challenge centred around navigation, endurance and perseverance.


Lastly, his Major Project focused on one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals – Zero Hunger as well as teaching the skills of sustainable food gardening. The produce generated by this project was all donated to a local soup kitchen which helps to bridge the gap of poverty in our community.


Even though there was a lot of hard work involved, his Springbok journey has taught him an array of new life skills. This award not only signifies the completion of the requirements, but also a commitment to embodying the values of Scouting in one’s daily life. 


We are proud of Kayden and his Scouts journey. 


Crawford Cares


Crawford International Lonehill is proud to support the Daily Bread Organisation, a non-profit charity dedicated to providing essential aid to children and adults in need. We extend our gratitude to the generous community, to our parents and students for their support. Together, we are collectively making a difference!

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.
March 7, 2025
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.
By Neo Moshoeu February 27, 2025
Explore how hands-on activities and physical engagement benefit kinesthetic learners, and discover teaching strategies that harness movement to boost comprehension and retention.
February 21, 2025
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.
February 14, 2025
Discover how digital literacy shapes modern classrooms by fostering critical thinking, enhancing collaboration, and preparing students for success in our rapidly evolving world.
February 7, 2025
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.
January 31, 2025
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.
By Neo Moshoeu January 24, 2025
Help your kids navigate social media safely and responsibly. Discover tips to teach them smart habits, digital etiquette, and how to manage online interactions.
January 17, 2025
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."
January 10, 2025
Learn what the APS score is, why it matters for university admission, and how to calculate it step-by-step to plan your academic future effectively.
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