Blog Post

North Coast August 2024

August 30, 2024

Celebrating Thandolwethu Mthembu 


Thandolwethu Mthembu, a Grade 12 boarding student at Crawford International North Coast, has achieved full colours in Academics, Culture, and Service, earning her the prestigious Honours Blazer. 


Thandolwethu’s journey at Crawford began in Grade 8, inspired to pursue the Honours Blazer after witnessing a former matriculant receive one in 2020. Her impressive results extend beyond academics, with notable achievements in sports and culture. She has earned Senior Half Colours for Netball and the Dale Carnegie ‘Highest Achievement’ Award for 2023. Active in the Student Representative Council since Grade 8, she also contributed significantly to establishing the Boarding Student Representative Council. 


Academically, Thandolwethu has maintained an A aggregate, consistently ranking in the Top 10 of her grade. Her passion for singing is evident through her participation in multiple competitions, including winning a gold medal at the eThekwini Eisteddfod. She is currently at a Grade 6 level in singing under Trinity College London. 


Thandolwethu shares, “I create a very strict schedule, personalised for each new day, where I plan every single activity. This allows me to fill each day with all the necessary tasks that make my life fulfilling. I am an avid planner and take great pride in my daily and weekly plans. Vision boards and reminders on my devices help me stay focused on my goals.” 


Congratulations, Thandolwethu! We are proud of your achievements and dedication. 


Celebrating Neha Moodley 


Neha Moodley, a Grade 12 student at Crawford International North Coast, has achieved the prestigious Honours Blazer, recognising her outstanding accomplishments in Academics, Culture, and Service. Neha’s journey began with an academic scholarship in Grade 8, and her dedication has earned her this esteemed award. 


Neha excels academically and in extracurricular activities. She has been actively involved in soccer, volleyball, chess, and has shown leadership as a member of the Student Representative Council and Student Leadership Body. 


Outside school, Neha’s passion for dance is evident. She has performed in notable productions and recently earned a silver medal with double distinction for ballet. She is also a talented musician and writer, having won a gold medal in the Social Justice Stories competition and contributing to various service projects. 


Neha advises younger students to follow their passions and maintain a healthy balance between academics and personal interests. 


“Your mental health is what's going to stay with you after high school, so treat yourself kindly. Put effort into doing well in school, but don't neglect other things that make you happy.” 


Congratulations, Neha! We are proud of your achievements and dedication. 


Nothing Like a Grandparent’s Love 


Crawford International North Coast honoured Grandparent’s Day with a warm and joyful event for Pre-Primary and Preparatory students. The morning included delicious food, engaging activities, and plenty of hugs, celebrating the special bond between grandparents and their grandchildren.


Celebrating Leadership in Women at Crawford International North Coast 


We are honoured to highlight four exceptional female leaders from Crawford International North Coast featured in the latest GetIt Ballito, Umdloti, and Umhlanga Women’s Month edition. Each leader contributes uniquely to our school’s vision of nurturing future leaders. In case you missed the publication, here’s what they had to say about empowering other women: 



Mrs Smit - Campus Head  


My identity as a woman is integral, not incidental to my role as a leader. It shapes every decision and interaction, enriching my approach to leadership and creating a school culture that values diversity, embraces challenges, and nurtures future leaders. My gender identity does not confine me; rather, it expands the possibilities of how I lead and connect our entire school community, here at our world-class school, right here on the North Coast.   



 I empower women by being a visible role model, mentor and advocate. I amplify women’s voices, ensure equitable opportunities, and cultivate an environment where women feel valued. By sharing my journey, supporting their growth and challenging barriers, I strive to inspire women to lead authentically and unapologetically.   



Mrs Kistan - College Principal  


As Crawford International North Coast College Principal, I have been able to develop and hone my leadership style, being an authentic leader who leads with integrity, grit and passion. Being in the profession for 28 years has made it evident that collaboration with emotional intelligence is key, caring for and mentoring those in our academic community.  


At Crawford International North Coast College, I promote an inclusive and respectful environment for all. I strive to advocate for policies and practices that promote gender equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. I endeavour to ensure that my presence in a leadership role inspires and empowers others, to pursue their aspirations as well.   


Mrs Curtis - Pre-Primary Principal  


Being a woman means empathy, nurturing, and resilience to me. As the Pre-Primary Principal at Crawford International North Coast, it influences my approach to education by fostering inclusive environments, empowering young minds, and ensuring every child feels valued and supported in their learning journey.  


In the workplace I empower other women by mentoring, advocating for professional growth opportunities, and fostering a supportive work culture. I believe in celebrating achievements, promoting leadership skills, and creating pathways for success, ensuring every person in our team feels empowered and valued.  


Mrs de Brito - Head of Boarding  


To me, being a woman represents strength, resilience, and grace. It means being a source of love and nurturing cure, while also being determined, and unapologetically oneself. As Head of Boarding with over 100 students in my care at Crawford International North Coast, my role requires me to lead with empathy, compassion, and strength, creating a nurturing ‘home from home’ environment for all our students, some as young as Grade 5. I work hard to role-model confidence, determination and kindness, fostering a supportive culture, academic excellence and inclusivity.   


I am passionate about empowering women to reach their full potential. I mentor, guide, and encourage our girls to take on new challenges and pursue their dreams. I help our students build confidence, resilience, and strength. Happy Women’s Month to all the wonderful women out there!  


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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