Crawford International Bedfordview

Karabo Molokomme • August 30, 2023

Grade 4 Update: Learning and Fun Ahead

Migration is an expression of the human aspiration for dignity , safety and a better future.

Time is flying, and Grade 4 students are diving into exciting knowledge quests. They are gearing up to conduct interviews, channelling their inner Oprah Winfrey and David Letterman, to understand migration choices.

Exploring maps, the students had hands-on compass fun and even learned to make their own. A 'Day in the Life of a Grade 4' welcomed parents, who joined Unit of Inquiry lessons, including a refugee's journey via virtual reality. Brain Buster sessions tested knowledge with puzzles, riddles, and anagrams, sparking family fun and learning.

Camp letters brought smiles – creating lifelong memories is what school is about. The Grade 4s anticipate this special event, cherishing the bonds, learning, and sense of community school brings

A group of people are sitting at a table writing on papers.

A man and a woman are sitting at a table in a classroom.

A group of people are sitting around a picnic table.

Two young girls are sitting at a green table in a classroom.

Women's Day Celebration: Empowering Impact

A fantastic Women's Day event on August 8th celebrated impactful women who break barriers and inspire change. Inspirational talks by our Managing Director, Dr Siza Majola, Dr Lara Cook, Advocates Lucia Mashiane, Ms. Leh Magaseng-Makolare, and Simone Stucke were captivating.

The elegant tables showcased the power of community and influential women within our community, from local charity founders to global superstars and sportswomen. Excitement filled the air with prizes, delicious food, and wonderful company. Crawford students' performances were spectacular, including an emotional rendition by Lesedi Phasha from Bright Spark Foundation.

The Ladies Care Packs that were collected were donated to local charities – House Group, Bienvenu Shelter, Frida Hartley Women’s Shelter, and The Bright Spark Foundation – making a community impact. A big thanks to the incredible women who made this event a success.

A woman is standing behind a table decorated with flowers and candles.

A woman and a girl are sitting at a table

A table set for a party with a vase of flowers on it.

A woman is holding a microphone in front of a screen that says 08 aug

Exploring Traditional African Healing: A Journey Through Time and Medicine – Grade 6

A woman is giving a presentation to a group of children

In the pursuit of comprehending the historical and cultural dimensions of medicine, students were fortunate to have the opportunity to learn about traditional healing practices from various regions of the world. As part of our unit, connecting with medicine through time, the grade 6 class recently had the privilege of hosting a guest speaker, Miss Ziggy Mamane, who shared valuable insights into traditional South African healing. This experience not only broadened their understanding of medicine's evolution but also provided a unique perspective on the rich heritage of healing practices in Africa.

Miss M, who has extensive knowledge of South African healing practices, captivated the class with her wealth of experience and passion for preserving traditional knowledge. Her presence offered a bridge between classroom learning and the lived experiences of healers in South Africa. By sharing her personal stories, she painted a vivid picture of the diverse healing methods employed across the continent.

The grade 6s learned about the role of traditional healers, often referred to as Sangoma’s and Inyanga’s, who act as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual realms. These healers employ a range of techniques, including herbal remedies, rituals, divination, and spiritual healing, to address the health concerns of their communities.

She also shed light on the cultural significance of healing ceremonies, such as the use of dance, music, and storytelling, which are integral to the healing process. Through these practices, communities strive to restore balance, foster harmony, and reconnect with their ancestral heritage.

Moreover, the students recognized the importance of cultural preservation and respect for diverse healing traditions. Learning about traditional South African healing prompted them to reflect on the significance of embracing different perspectives and valuing the wisdom embedded within indigenous knowledge systems.

The visit from Miss M was an enlightening experience that deepened the students understanding of medicine's historical and cultural dimensions. Exploring the practices and philosophies of traditional South African healers allowed us to appreciate the richness of diverse healing traditions throughout the world. This encounter not only broadened the students’ knowledge but also fostered an appreciation for the interconnectedness of medicine, culture, and time.

The use of VR in teaching

The integration of virtual reality (VR) technology in education has opened up new horizons for educators and students alike. Virtual reality head goggles, once confined to the realm of entertainment and gaming, have found a significant role in transforming the way we teach and learn. Learning is now extended outside of the classroom and allows students to learn anywhere and in a safe environment. This article delves into the multifaceted advantages of utilizing VR headsets in education, highlighting the current revolutionization of education, since the COVID-19 pandemic occurred.

One of the most remarkable aspects of virtual reality in education is its ability to magnify microscopic organisms, molecules and more. Through VR headsets, students can immerse themselves in a world where even the tiniest structures become grand and comprehensible. For instance, in biology classes, students can explore the intricacies of cellular components in a way that no textbook image could capture. A stark contrast from the manner in which we were taught, a mere 20 years ago, having had to draw diagrams from textbook images. This magnification effect not only sparks curiosity but also allows for a more profound understanding of subjects that would otherwise remain abstract concepts, peaking an interest amoungst students. When learning is made relatable and fun, more knowledge is committed to long-term memory. Such a visual enhancement can effectively bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and its practical applications.

The introduction of virtual reality in education encourages the ability to offer personalized learning opportunities for students. No single pair of learners are the same, being able to teach them in a more personal and individual manner, may allow for more fruitful results. VR can adapt to individual learning styles and paces, providing tailored educational journeys for each student. One of its most significant advantages is the flexibility it offers – students can revisit challenging topics as often as needed, reducing the risk of falling behind. This adaptive learning process ensures that students grasp concepts thoroughly before moving on, fostering a strong foundation for advanced studies, as well as self-reflection on their learning journey. As VR technology continues to evolve, its potential to cater to diverse learning preferences is poised to reshape the traditional classroom paradigm.

Traditional classrooms often struggle to maintain students' engagement and attention, particularly when dealing with complex or abstract subjects, common in the sciences. This is where VR's immersive nature comes to the forefront. By creating an environment where students can interact with the subject matter, VR elevates the learning experience to unprecedented levels. Whether it's exploring the cosmos, walking through ancient civilizations, or delving into the inner workings of machinery, VR makes learning a captivating journey. This immersive approach enhances comprehension, as students can visualize and experience 3D models of complex concepts, leading to better retention and a deeper grasp of the material.

Experiential learning has long been considered one of the most effective teaching methods. However, real-world limitations often hinder its implementation. Virtual reality changes this dynamic by enabling students to step into environments and scenarios that might be otherwise inaccessible. Historical events, scientific phenomena, and even virtual field trips can be recreated in meticulous detail, allowing students to learn through hands-on experiences. Whether it's a biology student dissecting a virtual organism or a history student witnessing pivotal moments in time, VR provides a safe and controlled space for practical learning without real-world constraints.

In conclusion, the integration of virtual reality head goggles in education marks a significant advancement in the way we teach and learn. By magnifying minute structures, offering personalized learning experiences, immersing students in captivating environments, and enabling experiential learning, VR technology has the potential to reshape education into a more engaging, effective, and inclusive endeavor. As VR technology continues to advance, educators and students can look forward to a future where learning transcends the confines of the traditional classroom, opening doors to a world of limitless possibilities.

A group of people are sitting in chairs wearing virtual reality headsets

Lady Care Packs at the Leap Sciences and Maths Schools Initiative

A group of children are sitting at desks in a classroom.

During our recent visit to Leap Sciences and Maths School for a charitable initiative, our students engaged in a meaningful experience. One notable activity was the donation of feminine products to the Grade 12 and 10 girls, contributing to their well-being and education. In addition to this, our students had the opportunity to learn about the school's garden, gaining insights into sustainable practices and the importance of environmental consciousness.

The Leap Sciences and Maths School impressively demonstrated to our students their designated space for open discussions, specifically addressing personal matters through the Life Orientation circle conducted in a circular format. This approach fostered a sense of unity and inclusivity. It was evident that some students faced challenges in Mathematics, prompting our team to explore ways to provide assistance in this subject. Overall, the experience at Leap Sciences and Maths School was enlightening and inspiring, leaving a positive impact on both the learners from our group and the students.

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Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Parents as Educational Partners

June 6, 2025

Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Parents as Educational Partners In today's changing educational landscape, the idea that learning only happens at school is no longer true. Schools and families working together on education is the most effective way to do it. Parents as educational partners means more than just helping with schoolwork. It is making a long-term, joint commitment to helping a child's emotional, social, and intellectual growth. Why Parental Partnership Matters Many studies have shown that when parents are involved in their children's lives, they do better in school, have better control over their emotions, and feel more motivated (OECD, 2021).When parents are engaged, students experience a sense of consistency between home and school. This alignment reinforces values, supports positive behaviours, and cultivates a lifelong love of learning. Some schools facilitate this through digital communication platforms that provide parents with real-time insight into classroom activities, feedback and progress. This transparency allows parents to reinforce learning at home and address challenges proactively. From Engagement to Partnership Going to parent-teacher meetings or school events is not enough for a good educational collaboration. They require open dialogue, mutual respect and a shared commitment to the student’s growth. At different stages of schooling, parental involvement may take on various forms: Pre-Primary and Preparatory: Reading to kids, playing educational games, and asking questions and having discussions to spark their interest. College Phase: Helping students choose their subjects, talking to them about their future goals, and teaching them how to manage their time and deal with their emotions. Parents' roles change, but the main premise keeps the same: build a secure support system where the child feels seen, listened, and encouraged. Building trust and a sense of shared duty Parents and teachers need to talk to one other on a regular basis. Whether through digital platforms, face-to-face meetings or school-led workshops, the goal is to ensure that families feel informed, respected and involved. Giving parents chances to take part in strategic projects, student celebrations, and community-building events is a great way to deepen the school-home connection. This shared responsibility not only helps students do well in school, but it also shows young people how to work together and respect one another. Promoting independence and responsibility While partnership is essential, it is equally important to support student independence. Parents play a critical role in encouraging autonomy by allowing children to take ownership of their learning, make decisions, and experience natural consequences in a safe and supportive environment. By guiding rather than directing, and supporting rather than rescuing, parents help students build resilience and confidence. This balanced involvement nurtures individuals who are capable of self-reflection and personal growth. In conclusion, learning doesn't happen in a vacuum. It is a group effort that works best when people work together in a meaningful way. When parents, teachers and school leadership work in partnership, students benefit from a coherent and supportive learning environment. Through open communication, mutual respect and shared purpose, we can ensure that every student is equipped not only to succeed academically, but to flourish in life.

Meet Mashudu Bhengu: Bringing out the best in her students at Crawford International Lonehill

May 30, 2025

Meet Mashudu Bhengu: Bringing out the best in her students at Crawford International Lonehill Teaches : Zulu to Grades 1-4 Qualifications: Bachelor of Education: Early Childhood and Foundation Phase (UNISA) Hobbies and interests: Avid reader and gym enthusiast – it keeps her sane and grounded! Teaching is About Serving and Giving Back: Before choosing teaching, Mashudu Bhengu was interested in pursuing a career in nursing or social work, drawn to community service and giving back. In 2013, volunteering at an NGO in Lawley, she facilitated after-school classes for disadvantaged children. This experience sparked her passion for teaching, leading her to enrol in teaching studies at UNISA. One of Mashudu’s favourite aspects of working with children is their purity and honesty. She finds immense joy and fulfilment in teaching, seeing her efforts and commitment reciprocated with love and enthusiasm by her students. For Mashudu, no other career could bring such personal satisfaction. On Her Mentor and Teaching Influence: Mashudu vividly remembers her Grade 3 teacher, Mrs Harding, who significantly impacted her life. Mrs Harding’s patience, empathy, and unwavering support inspired Mashudu’s teaching career. Mashudu aspires to be a ‘Mrs Harding’ for her students, boosting their confidence, instilling a love of learning, and encouraging them to strive for more. On Her A-ha Moments: As a foundation phase teacher, Mashudu often wonders how much her young students absorb. But she is vindicated when she sees them apply their learning to solve problems, which gives her real thrill to see then work things out for themselves. Her A-ha moments come not just from their academic achievements, but also from witnessing her students develop as unique individuals. For Mashudu, teaching at the foundational stage is a profound journey, extending well beyond ‘subject matter’. While she may be teaching Zulu, Mashudu also knows she is nurturing young minds and hearts, instilling essential social, emotional, and life skills. On Teaching at Crawford International: Mashudu loves Crawford’s student-centred approach and the mutual respect between students and teachers. At Crawford, teachers encourage students to be self-empowered, curious, and responsible for their success. They teach the value of kindness, resilience, and curiosity, helping students navigate their emotions and interactions. The pride Mashudu feels when her dedication resonates beyond the classroom is immense. In her Zulu classes, Mashudu balances her student’s tech exposure with activities like singing, music, dancing, and rhymes, engaging all senses and learning styles. These activities provide a welcome break from technology, allowing children to enjoy spontaneity and just be children. Personal Philosophy: One of Mashudu’s favourite quotes is by Will Smith: “Following your dreams is a lonely, solitary, scary pursuit. You can't wait for somebody to think you can do it. You have to be willing to risk everything to become that seed of what you believe is in there. You have to be fearless. You have to be relentless in the pursuit of your dream.”

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ROXANNE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN

By Neo Moshoeu • May 23, 2025

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ROXANNE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN Crawford International Lonehill | Class of 2009 From the banking halls of one of South Africa’s most prestigious financial institutions to the stages and studios of New York City, Roxanne Van der Westhuizen’s story is one of courage, reinvention and the pursuit of purpose. Chasing the Calling After matriculating from Crawford International Lonehill in 2009, Roxanne was accepted into the Psychology programme at the University of Cape Town. A sudden family crisis and financial hardship brought her back to Johannesburg, where she began working to support her family. Years later, determined to finish what she started, she enrolled at Varsity College in Sandton. Balancing motherhood, full-time employment and a rigorous academic load, she earned her degree with distinction, graduating at the top of her class. Her career began at Investec Bank, where she rose through the ranks, first in client services and later in data analytics. Her success came through persistence, grit and repeated setbacks that ultimately redirected her. A moment of deep personal reflection led her to reconnect with a long-suppressed calling, storytelling through performance. In a bold leap of faith, she left her corporate life behind and relocated to New York to pursue acting. There, she studied under renowned acting coach Terry Knickerbocker, known for mentoring names such as Sam Rockwell and Daniel Craig. She was named Student of the Season at his studio. Today, Roxanne stars in stage and screen productions across the U.S., including her lead role in the upcoming film Emancipation of the Past (July 2025), and a standout performance as Regina in Not to Be Played With (available on Tubi and AppleTV). She is also developing her own series, which she plans to take to festivals and production houses. Achievements and Projects Lead role in Emancipation of the Past (2025 release) Featured in Not to Be Played With on Tubi and Apple TV Collaboration on Spicy Bob alongside Pete Simpson of Blue Man Group Student of the Season at Terry Knickerbocker Studio Creator and writer of a new series currently in development Roxanne reflects on her journey and earning one of her biggest roles yet, “this is the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do, but also the most enriching. The vulnerability required in acting is daunting, but it connects me to myself and others in ways I never imagined. Despite the false starts and failures, I am exactly where I am meant to be.”

Two young girls are hugging each other on a bed.

Social-emotional learning activities for kids & teens

May 21, 2025

Hands-on, practical activities to build on your child’s EQ strengths and skills.

Teacher Spotlight: Mr Chris Herbst Afrikaans Teacher at Crawford International Sandton

April 25, 2025

A Lifelong Educator Mr Chris Herbst has spent 41 years in the classroom. With a Bachelor of Education from the University of the Witwatersrand, he has taught countless learners over the decades. He joined Crawford International Sandton in 1999 and currently teaches Afrikaans to students from Grade 8 to Grade 12. His role spans across five different year groups, a challenge he embraces. “I have my hands full as I navigate the excitement and challenges of teaching an additional language to five different grades,” he says. Why Teaching Still Matters For Mr Herbst, teaching is not a job. It is something he feels deeply connected to. “Teaching is my great passion and calling. The classroom is where I find my motivation and inspiration,” he shares. “When we have a really good lesson and I see our students leave having learned something new, or figured out a challenging concept, then I am motivated and inspired all over again.” These everyday moments keep him grounded in his purpose. They are the quiet victories that reaffirm his place in the classroom. Freedom to Teach with Meaning Mr Herbst values Crawford’s approach to learning, particularly the way it supports teacher agency and student-centred learning. “I love the fact that the focus is student-centred, and that as teachers we have the freedom and the responsibility to create a teaching and learning environment that works best for every learning need,” he says. He believes this flexibility allows for learning to become more meaningful. “If I identify that a particular topic or poem has piqued the interest of my class, I have the freedom to delve deeper and really explore the subject matter without being bound by rigid syllabus rules and time frames.” Connecting Language to the Real World Teaching Afrikaans in a school where it is often an additional language means finding ways to make it resonate. Mr Herbst understands that for many students, the subject may not come naturally. “For many students, learning another language may initially feel like a requirement rather than a passion,” he explains. To bridge that gap, he brings the language to life through content that students can relate to. “It’s important to integrate engaging, real-world content such as music, movies, and stories that align with the students’ interests.” These tools, he believes, help students see the language in context and build an emotional connection to it. A Teaching Legacy Over the course of his career, Mr Herbst has taught more than one generation in the same family. It is a milestone he reflects on with pride. “I have taught students who are now parents, and I am teaching their children today. It doesn’t get better than that.” But what stands out most for him is being remembered. “By far my biggest kick is when a past student recognises me and comes over to strike up a conversation and talk about their life and work after school.”

10 Reasons Why Early Childhood Development is Important

By ADvTECH Group • April 15, 2025

The 10 reasons why the first six years of a child's life are crucial when it comes to early childhood development, read all about it in this article.

One to one correspondence

By Ashmita Mistry • April 8, 2025

Crawford schools blog article on one-to-one correspondence in early development and the importance of this developmental skill that adults take for granted.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK

March 28, 2025

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK Crawford International Sandton From the classrooms of Crawford International Sandton to the forefront of aeronautical engineering in the Netherlands, Dylan Bizjak’s journey is one of ambition, resilience and innovation . Pursuing a Passion for Engineering After matriculating in 2019, Dylan initially pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Wits University. However, six months into his studies, a new opportunity emerged, one that would take him beyond South Africa’s borders. He secured a place at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Delft, Netherlands, where he embraced the challenge of international study, even navigating his first year remotely due to the pandemic. Now a graduate with a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering (2024), Dylan has stepped into the professional world, joining Eve Reverse, a pioneering start-up dedicated to climate-positive innovation. What began as an internship in his final year evolved into a full-time role as a Research and Development Engineer, where he contributes to the creation of sustainable, carbon-negative materials. His proudest achievement? Playing a key role in the development of the Eve Dry Tile, an innovative flax fibre material designed to reduce emissions and waste in manufacturing. Achievements at Crawford International Sandton Gareth Beach Award (2019) – Recognised for bravery, dedication, self-development and outstanding achievement in swimming. Sportsman of the Year (2019) – Acknowledged for excellence in swimming, basketball and boxing. Reflections on Crawford Dylan credits his time at Crawford for preparing him for both academic and personal success on the global stage. “Crawford’s approach equips you for university and beyond, whether in South Africa or internationally. It’s not just about academics but about becoming a well-rounded critical thinker and team player. Exposure to diverse cultures, teamwork, individuality and taking responsibility for my outcomes were invaluable lessons I carried with me.” Words of Wisdom To his younger self, Dylan would say: “Step out of your comfort zone sooner. Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Leaving home was tough, but the personal and professional growth was worth every stumble along the way.” Dylan’s story is a testament to courage, hard work and the power of embracing the unknown. From South Africa to the Netherlands, he is proving that the sky isn’t the limit, it is just the beginning.

Career guidance for grade 9: Student resting against a whiteboard with books

Career guidance for Grade 9: What subjects should you choose?

By ADvTECH Group • March 19, 2025

Let’s try and make sense of career guidance by giving you some information on how to choose your Grade 10 to 12 subjects. Read on to find some helpful pointers.