21 September 2026

"Another Desire common to all people is the
Desire to be together. We all want company, neighbours, friends, and
acquaintances. Little children love to play with other little children in
the street; you see half a dozen little creatures of two years old or so
toddling about together, talking their baby talk, and taking much pleasure in one another. The great joy of going to school is to be with
other boys and girls of about the same age. The same
reason is at work in them all; all have the Desire of Society. We want to
see each other's faces, to hear each other's voices, to give pleasure to,
and receive pleasure from, each other."

- Charlotte M Mason -

On Thursday morning, our Grade R children from Gardens Nook had the wonderful opportunity to visit Kirstenbosch Gardens. Amidst the breathtaking views and colourful flower beds, the children delighted in discovering the rich diversity of Spring blossoms, while learning a little more about the garden from our knowledgeable field guide.

 

While the beauty of the gardens and the richness of these experiences were thoroughly enjoyed, what stood out most was the simple, profound joy of the children being together. There is something deeply meaningful about sharing experiences with friends and beloved teachers. It is in these moments of togetherness; in the laughter, the wonder, the little conversations and shared discoveries, that treasured memories are gently woven into the fabric of childhood.

After a thrilling few weeks immersed in Romeo and Juliet, our classes have returned to their familiar rhythms and routines, making the most of the remaining days of term to bring studies and tasks to completion. Our books are beginning to display diagrams in all their fullness; table-coaster mosaics are taking shape; and, across the subjects, we can see the steady fruits of learning unfolding.

 

Yet progress is not only found in completed tasks, beautiful handwork or the pages of well-kept books. It is perhaps even more strikingly evident in the children themselves; in the quiet formation of character and the maturing of habits.

 

Across the grades, we have witnessed a beautiful growth in kindness and consideration. Older children are sharing their wisdom with younger ones; children are noticing those on the margins and drawing them into their games; and there is an increasing willingness to come alongside one another with patience and generosity. Looking around the school on any given morning, it is seldom that we encounter a dispute or disagreement. Instead, there is a sense of peace and contentment; children who are learning not only to work alongside one another, but to delight in one another.

 

Perhaps this is one of the most beautiful measures of progress: not simply how much a child has accomplished or how far ahead he has travelled, but how beautifully he is growing into himself.

As we come to the end of this term, we say a fond farewell to Mrs van der Merwe as she concludes her season of teaching and embarks on the beautiful and blessed journey of motherhood.

 

We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for all that she has given to our school community, and for the many treasures of wisdom, kindness and knowledge she has sown into the lives of our children.

 

We are deeply grateful for the lasting impact she has made and the special place she has held in our school family.

 

May this next season of life be filled with abundant joy, precious moments and wonderful new discoveries. May it be a truly enriching and blessed time as she embraces the gift of motherhood.

 

We wish her every happiness and blessing for the journey ahead.

Extra murals have come to an end for the term. Please ensure that you fetch your children at their normal ending time. 

 

Term 4 signups are available here.

School will be closing for the term on Wednesday, 23 September.

Please take note of the following times: 

• Preschool - 10.30 am
• Grade R - 10.45 am
• Grade 1-7 - 11.00 am

Important dates for our fourth term can be found here: 4th Term Calendar

As a school, we are privileged to have Miss Clowes provide remedial intervention for children who require additional, targeted support. Her approach aligns closely with our school philosophy, and she works collaboratively with class teachers to ensure that her intervention complements the curriculum and supports each child’s individual needs.

 

Should you be interested in learning more about the remedial support available, please refer to the attached letter for further information.

Our 4th term will begin on Tuesday, 6th October. 

This week we come to the Lord in prayer:

• thanking Him for a fruitful and enjoyable third term
• trusting Him for safety over the coming holiday
• asking Him for guidance and wisdom in how we raise our children

"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind."

- 1 Peter 3:8 -

Wishing you all a wonderful week and a restful holiday,

Nicolette Skead