La Lucia July 2026
August 6, 2026
Crawford International La Lucia Welcomes Guineafowl to Campus Conservancy
Crawford International La Lucia has reached an exciting milestone in its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability through a new conservation partnership aimed at supporting indigenous wildlife in the local coastal ecosystem.
In collaboration with the Umhlanga Ratepayers and Residents' Association (URRA) and KwaZulu-Natal wildlife rehabilitation experts, the school's campus conservancy has been selected as a protected release site for rehabilitated indigenous species. The initiative forms part of a broader effort to restore biodiversity in the coastal belt between the Beachwood area and the uMhlanga River, where rapid urban development has placed increasing pressure on natural habitats.
The first residents to be welcomed into the conservancy are a flock of Helmeted Guineafowl. Before being released into the wider ecosystem, the birds will spend time acclimatising in a purpose-built pre-release enclosure located within the school's conservancy. The enclosure provides a safe and secure environment that allows the birds to adapt gradually to their surroundings.
Guineafowl play an important ecological role and are well known for their ability to naturally control ticks, insects, ants, and weed seeds. Their presence will contribute positively to the health of both the school grounds and the surrounding green belt, while reducing the need for chemical interventions.
This conservation partnership also creates valuable educational opportunities for students. By transforming the campus into a living environmental classroom, students are able to observe conservation in action and gain a deeper understanding of biodiversity, ecosystems, and the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.
The school extends its sincere thanks to Fencerite for assisting with the construction of the pre-release enclosure, helping to ensure a successful start to this important initiative.
As the guineafowl settle into their new home, Crawford International La Lucia looks forward to sharing further updates and continuing its role in protecting and restoring the natural environment for future generations.
International Families Coffee Morning Success
There was a wonderful sense of community as Crawford International La Lucia recently welcomed some of our international families for a special morning of connection and conversation.
The gathering provided parents from around the world with the opportunity to meet one another, share their experiences, and build meaningful relationships within our school community. As a home away from home, we are committed to creating an environment where every family feels welcomed, supported, and valued.
It was heartwarming to see new friendships forming and stories being shared, highlighting the diversity that enriches our campus and makes our community so unique.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the families who joined us and contributed to such a memorable morning. We look forward to hosting many more opportunities for our international families to connect and continue building the strong sense of belonging that makes Crawford International La Lucia so special.
Pre-Primary
Celebrations of Learning
Our Crawford International La Lucia Pre-Primary students recently enjoyed a very special Celebration of Learning, and what wonderful mornings they were.
Parents and loved ones were invited into the classroom to experience first-hand the learning, growth, and creativity that have filled our days this year. From interactive activities to shared moments of discovery, our students loved having the opportunity to showcase their developing skills and growing confidence.
The morning was filled with smiles, laughter, and proud moments as families joined their children in celebrating their learning journey so far.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this memorable occasion. We are incredibly proud of our students and look forward to watching them continue to learn, grow, and shine throughout the year.
Does this Plant Belong Here?
That simple question sparked rich conversations as our Pre-Primary Grade 00 students explored our Crawford conservancy on a recent nature walk.
At just 4 and 5 years old, our students are beginning to understand that nature is made up of many different living things and that every plant plays a role in the environment. Along the way, they noticed differences between plants, asked questions, shared observations, and learned that some plants naturally belong in the conservancy while others have been introduced from elsewhere.
There is something powerful about watching young children learn with their whole bodies and all their senses; walking, looking closely, wondering, discussing, and making connections to the world around them.
These moments remind us that some of the most meaningful learning doesn't happen at a desk. It happens when children are given the opportunity to explore, question, and discover for themselves.
Growing curious minds and nurturing a lifelong respect for the natural world.
Preparatory
Winter Warmth Collection
Crawford International La Lucia Preparatory once again partnered with The Domino Foundation for our annual Winter Warmth Food Drive, encouraging our community to help fill 25-litre buckets with essential food items for families in need.
Inspired by the motto, "Be a Bucket Filler," our students, parents, and staff responded with incredible generosity. No sooner had the campaign launched than requests for buckets started pouring in, and before long, they were returning filled with nourishing food supplies.
Thanks to the compassion and kindness of our school community, we collected an amazing 90 buckets of food.
These contributions will help provide much-needed nourishment and hope to families during the cold winter months. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our Crawford International families for embracing this initiative and demonstrating the power of caring for others.
Together, we are making a difference – one bucket at a time.
Inter-House Cross Country Showcases Determination and House Spirit
The Preparatory recently hosted its annual FP and ISP Inter-House Cross Country events, with both days blessed by beautiful autumn weather and filled with enthusiasm, determination, and outstanding house spirit.
Our picturesque campus once again provided the perfect setting for a true cross-country experience, allowing students to test their endurance across a challenging course while encouraging and supporting one another every step of the way. It was especially pleasing to see the continued improvement in performance and the increase in participation across all age groups, particularly amongst our senior students.
One of the highlights of the Foundation Phase event was the ever-popular parents' race, which brought plenty of laughter and excitement as families joined in the fun and added to the wonderful sense of community.
Congratulations to all our runners for embracing the challenge with resilience, determination, and excellent sportsmanship.
FP Results
- 1st Place: Barrett House
- 2nd Place: Ladson House
- 3rd Place: Cameron House
- Mary Hilliar Spirit Trophy: Ladson House
ISP Results
- 1st Place: Ladson House
- 2nd Place: Barrett House
- 3rd Place: Cameron House
A heartfelt congratulations to all our students for making this year's Inter-House Cross Country another memorable success. We are incredibly proud of the effort, perseverance, and camaraderie displayed by every participant.
College
Grade 12 Spirit Week Fun
The Crawford International La Lucia College Grade 12 Spirit Week brought exciting energy to the corridors recently.
From nostalgic childhood career outfits, to dressing like your teacher, meme day, the always hilarious "anything but a bag" day, and of course pajama day ending the week on a comfortable note.
Beyond the fun and dress-up themes, the week served as a reminder of the strong sense of unity within the 2026 Matric group. As the pressures of the final year continue to build, Spirit Week allowed our students to take a step back, enjoy each other’s company and create lasting memories together.
The enthusiasm and participation from the Grade 12s made the week a memorable success!


























