Date: 10 May 2024 | Issue no.

: 14

Dear Parents, Guardians and Staff

Exam season can be a stressful time for both students and their families. As your child prepares to showcase
their knowledge and hard work, here are some ways you can offer invaluable support:

Creating a supportive environment:

 Minimise distractions: Dedicate a quiet study space with minimal clutter and limited access to
electronics. Encourage breaks but establish boundaries to prevent extended screen time.
 Maintain a healthy routine: Ensure your child gets enough sleep (aim for 7-8 hours) for optimal focus
and memory retention. Provide nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day to keep energy levels
high.
 Open communication: Keep communication channels open. Be a sounding board for their anxieties
and encourage them to express their concerns.

Empowering their learning:

 Collaborative planning: Instead of dictating a schedule, discuss study strategies and help them create
a personalised timetable that accommodates their learning style and subject needs.
 Active listening: Offer to listen to them explain concepts or practise answering past exam questions.
This can solidify their understanding and identify areas that require further revision.
 Positive reinforcement: Acknowledge their efforts and celebrate their progress. Express confidence in
their abilities without putting undue pressure on them to achieve a specific grade.

Focusing on well-being:

 Manage expectations: Discuss the importance of doing their best rather than fixating on perfect
scores. Exams are just one aspect of their learning journey.
 Encourage breaks and relaxation: Schedule time for physical activity, hobbies, or mindfulness
practices. Taking breaks helps to manage stress and prevent burnout.
 Celebrate after exams: Plan a relaxing activity or outing after each exam to help them de-stress and
recharge.
Remember, your role is to empower your child, not pressure them. Encourage them to ask for help when
needed and provide resources like extra tutoring if available. By focusing on their well-being and creating a
supportive environment, you can help them navigate exam season with confidence and achieve their full
potential.

Johann du Toit – Head of High School

PRE-PRIMARY SCHOOL NEWS

Group RE5
The Grade RE5 Green class children learnt about symmetry during their Mathematics lesson. They first
identified symmetrical objects around the classroom and on pictures. Each one of them got a piece of paper
folded in half with a half-drawn 2D shape which they cut along the outline of it to see the full shape and its
line of symmetry. They also identified the line of symmetry where the midline of their bodies is. Symmetry
helps learners to develop visual, spatial skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity.

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PRIMARY SCHOOL
Grade 1-3
Career Day is an exciting opportunity for our students to explore various professions and envision their
future paths. To make this experience even more engaging, we encouraged our students to dress up as
professionals in the field of their choice. The effort that was put into their attire was amazing. The dedication
they showed in their attire was remarkable. Additionally, they were delighted to discover that some of their
peers shared aspirations in the same or similar fields. Students engaged in conversations with their
teachers and classmates about the fields they had selected.

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Fire Safety
The Group 4 to Grade 3 students received a visit from the fire department. Firefighters provided valuable
information to the students on fire safety procedures, emphasising the importance of not playing with fire
and knowing who to contact in case of a fire emergency. The students had the opportunity to wear the
firefighter uniforms, received demonstrations on how to operate the fire truck hose, and were thrilled to
listen to the sound of the fire truck siren.

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Grade 2
Our learners were busy lining up their Afrikaans vocabulary with their immediate environment this week.
“binne my huis” (inside my house).

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Grade 3
Life Skills is the backbone to teaching and learning in the Foundation Phase. It captures all foundational
skills which are vital to learn to read, write, reason, and think critically. The Grade 3s are currently learning
about various life cycles in insects and animals. A life cycle is a series of stages a living thing goes through
during its life. All plants and animals go through life cycles. They were intrigued to learn about the life cycle
of a butterfly and dog. They watched videos about the various stages that a butterfly and dog go through
and learnt a lot. They had to complete their activities in their Life Skills books and enjoyed it thoroughly.

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Grade 5
The Grade 5 learners delved into the realm of 3D objects during their recent Mathematics lessons. Utilising
the GeoGenius construction kits, they embarked on investigations and explorations of 3D objects.
Following instructions, the learners constructed a variety of 3D objects. This engaging activity proved to be
both educational and enjoyable, as the learners actively participated in their learning while delighting in the
exploration of various 3D objects.

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HIGH SCHOOL
Exam procedures
The exam timetable has been uploaded onto Teams and was emailed
to parents. Please ensure that your child is aware when they are
writing.

School will commence at 7:30 am. Please ensure learners are

timeous.

Examination sessions:
1st session on the Quad 7:30 seated 8:00 start 8:20
2nd session on the Quad 11:40 seated 12:00 start 12:20
The length of each session depends on the subject that is written.

Study Venue
During the exams, Ms Matseo’s and Ms Goldman’s classes will be used as study venues with supervision
during the second sessions should parents not be able to pick up learners before 12:00. Learners who are
not picked up by 12:00 will be directed to the study venues and will need to wait there for their transport.
Learners will need to be picked up at the high school gate.

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If learners are not writing an exam on a particular day, they do not need to come to school unless they are
not able to study at home.

English Pit Production

Reminder that PIT Productions will be doing an English performance of Friday 17 May at 12:00 for all Grade
11 & 12 learners. The performance will run for approximately 1h30 min.
Attendance is compulsory for both grades. Please make the necessary transport arrangements.

Exploring Humanity's Dual Nature: Insights from Our Public Speaking Teams
In a thought-provoking and engaging assembly, our school's public speaking teams, Team A and Team B,
presented contrasting perspectives on the nature of humanity. This insightful debate, featuring speakers who
articulated their views with passion and eloquence, sparked meaningful reflections among the audience.

Team A: Why Humans Are Not So Great

Led by speakers Refilwe Sithole, Sidhirti Bhangwandeen, Thato Seboco and Lungile Shezi, Team A
courageously tackled the challenging topic of humanity's shortcomings. The speakers highlighted how human
actions contribute to environmental destruction and pose threats to each other. They discussed issues such
as pollution, deforestation, and societal conflicts, emphasising the urgent need for awareness and change.
Team A's presentation served as a wake-up call, urging us to confront the negative impact of human
behaviour on our planet and communities. Through their articulate arguments, they emphasised the
importance of accountability and collective responsibility.

Team B: Why Humans Are So Great

In contrast, Team B, comprising of Maya Patamadai, Abulele Chiliza, Amelia Thindisa, and Lungelo Shezi,
celebrated the positive attributes of humanity. Their speeches focused on acts of kindness, compassion, and
empathy that exemplify the best of human nature. They shared heartwarming stories and examples of how
individuals demonstrate care and consideration for others.
Team B's presentation reminded us of the transformative power of empathy and generosity in fostering unity
and positivity within our society. They highlighted the potential for individuals to make a positive difference
through their actions.

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Reflections from the Assembly
The assembly provided a platform for meaningful dialogue about the complexities of human behavior and the
importance of striving for a balanced perspective. The contrasting viewpoints presented by Team A and Team
B encouraged introspection and empathy among the audience.
We commend all the speakers—Refilwe Sidhirti, Lungile, Maya, Thato, Abulele, Amelia, and Lungelo—for
their courage and articulacy in addressing such a thought-provoking topic. Their presentations exemplified
the power of public speaking as a tool for critical thinking and social awareness.
As members of this school community, let us continue to engage in discussions that promote understanding
and empathy. By acknowledging both the challenges and the strengths of humanity, we can work together
towards a more compassionate and sustainable future.

Mother’s Day Poem

For the one who gave me life's precious start,
Whose love embraced me from the very start,
On this special day, with a grateful heart,
I dedicate these words, a Mother's Day art.

In your arms, I found my first safe haven,

A place where love's warmth forever woven,
You nurtured my dreams, like seeds in soil,
With gentle guidance and unwavering toil.

Your tender touch wiped away my tears,

Your soothing words erased all my fears,
You taught me courage, taught me to be strong,
You taught me right from wrong, all along.

Through sleepless nights and endless care,

You were always there, my burdens to bear,
Your sacrifices, countless and unseen,
A mother's love, forever serene.

You held my hand as I took my first stride,

Cheered for me when I faltered and tried,
You believed in me when no one else did,
And taught me to soar, just like a kid.

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 Your love is a beacon, a guiding light,
A shelter in the storm, when all seems fright,
In your embrace, I find solace and peace,
A love so pure, it'll never cease.

On this Mother's Day, I want to convey,

How much you mean to me, in every way,
Your love, devotion, and selfless art,
Make you the epitome of a mother's heart.

So, thank you, Mom, for all that you do,

For being my strength, for seeing me through,
I cherish the moments, the memories we share,
Forever grateful for a mother so rare.

My first love,
May your heart be filled with joy that's genuine,
Today and always, I'll cherish and adore,
The love of a mother, forevermore.
Bandile Ngwenya Grade 12

Exciting Soccer Matches Against Redford Blue Hills

In a thrilling series of matches, our school's soccer teams recently took on the formidable Redford Blue Hills
teams. Despite some tough competition, our players demonstrated outstanding skills and determination on
the field.

Here’s a recap of the matches:

Under 14 Team
Our Under 14 team played valiantly but unfortunately faced a strong opponent in Redford Blue Hills, resulting
in a 4-1 loss. Despite the score, our players showed great effort and sportsmanship throughout the game.

Under 15 Team
The Under 15 team experienced their first loss of the season against Redford Blue Hills, with a final score of
2-0. This match marked a significant challenge for our team, who had previously won all five of their matches
this season and were leading the Midrand league. Despite the setback, our players are determined to bounce
back stronger in the upcoming games.

Captured by ZURI

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 Under 17 Team
The Under 17 team delivered an exceptional performance, securing a fantastic 3-0 victory over Redford Blue
Hills. With this win, our Under 17s maintain an unbeaten record this season, having won three matches and
drawn one out of their four games played. Their consistent performance reflects their skill and teamwork on
the field.

Captured by ZURI

Overall, facing Redford Blue Hills proved to be a tough test for our school's soccer teams, particularly as our
matches were played away from home. However, our players showcased resilience and dedication,
embodying the true spirit of sportsmanship. Let's continue to support and encourage our soccer teams as
they progress through the season, aiming for more victories and displaying their talents on the field.
Go “Team Sagewood!”

Happening Next Week

DATE DAY ACADEMIC
Monday W1D1
13/05/2024
Exams Gr8 Gr9 Gr10 Gr11 Gr12
Afrik P2 English English
IsiZulu P1 2.5H 2H
2.5H
Tuesday W1D2
14/05/2024 Exams Gr8 Gr9 Gr10 Gr11 Gr12
English Life Science PAT
2.5H 1.5H
Wednesday W1D3
15/05/2024
Exams Gr8 Gr9 Gr10 Gr11 Gr12
LO VA Prac Acc 2H
2H 6H EGD 3H
Thursday W1D4
16/05/2024 Exams Gr8 Gr9 Gr10 Gr11 Gr12
VA Prac Geography LO
6H 3H 2H
Friday W1D5 Grade 11 & 12 English Pit Production 12:00-13:30 Compulsory
17/05/2024
Exams Gr8 Gr9 Gr10 Gr11 Gr12
English P2 Afrik P2 CAT P1 Afrik P2 Bus Stud 3H
2H IsiZulu P1 IT P2 IsiZulu P1 2.5H
2H 3H Econ 3H

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GENERAL
Dates to Diarise
Friday, 10 May
 Preschool, Grades 1 & 4 Mother’s Day celebrations
Monday, 13 May 2024
 Grade 10,11,12 exams start.
Friday, 17 May 2024
 Grade 8,9 exams start.
 Grade 11,12 English Pit Production
Wednesday, 22 May 2024
 Grade 7 exams start
Friday, 24 May 2024
 Grade 4-6 exams start
Wednesday, 29 May 2024
 National Voting Day

MARKETING

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Stay safe
Yours in education

Mr Colston Veater
Executive Head

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