La Lucia August 2026

September 18, 2026

Queensburgh Festival Outstanding Results 

Over 50 Crawford International La Lucia students from Grade 1 to Grade 11 participated in the Piano, Woodwind (Recorder and Flute), Strings (Violin and Guitar) and Percussion sections of the recent Queensburgh Festival.  We are incredibly proud to share an overview of their outstanding results. 

TROPHIES AWARDED 

Recitals 

Beginner Pianist Junior Trophy: Emily Lin 
Beginner Pianist Senior Trophy: Joelle Govender

Instrument Solos and Duets 

Junior Recorder Solo: Magdalene Huber  
Classical Guitar Solo: Avesh Jayasekera 
Classical Guitar Duet: Ashean and Avesh Jayasekera 
Percussion Solo: Shivay Govender and Uzimangaliso Ngcobo (tied) 
Senior Strings Solo: Xizhi Aiden Luo

Concertos 

Woodwind Concerto: Wan Yuan Lai 
Senior Strings Concerto: Xizhi Aiden Luo 
Piano Concerto Over 14: Xizhi Aiden Luo

Age Group Winners 

U10: Derren Hsu 
U16: Xizhi Aiden Luo

Top Overall Mark in a Section Throughout the Festival 

Early: Xizhi Aiden Luo 
Sonata: Xizhi Aiden Luo 
Romantic: Xizhi Aiden Luo 
Modern 3: Xizhi Aiden Luo

SPECIAL TROPHIES 

Best All-Round Performer: Xizhi Aiden Luo 
SASMT Top Junior Performer (up to Music Grade 5): Derren Hsu 
Most Impressive Performer Throughout the Festival: Derren Hsu and Xizhi Aiden Luo (tied)

FESTIVAL CERTIFICATES 

We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of all our students who participated in the Festival. 

33 A++ certificates – 90% and higher 
30 A+ certificates – 85-89% 
25 A certificates – 80-84%

Congratulations to ALL our students for their dedication, commitment and courage. Performing on stage requires confidence and perseverance and we are immensely proud of every student who participated. 

We are particularly proud of the progress each student has made throughout the year. Every performance is an opportunity to learn, grow and develop as a musician, and our students have embraced this journey with enthusiasm.

Pre-Primary
Grandparents Days

Our Crawford International La Lucia Pre-Primary children were so excited to welcome their grandparents for their mornings filled with music, movement, laughter and togetherness. 

The children sang and danced for their special guests before heading outside to enjoy the beautiful school garden. From activities and games to plenty of laughter, there was something for everyone to enjoy before ending the morning with a picnic in the sunshine. 

As we watched our little ones proudly share their world with their grandparents, we were reminded that some of the most meaningful learning happens when we bring generations together.  

Thank you to our wonderful grandparents for spending the morning with us. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did! 

Today’s memories will become tomorrow’s stories. 

Mandela Day Initiative

This past Nelson Mandela Day, our Crawford International La Lucia Pre-Primary students discovered that kindness is something we can do, not just talk about. 

Inspired by Nelson Mandela’s call to dedicate 67 minutes to serving others, each of our Pre-Primary Grades played their part: 

Grade 000 made play dough 
Grade 00 baked chocolate cookies 
Grade 0 prepared sandwiches

The most meaningful part came when a number of our parents and students joined us at Sinakekele Children’s Centre where they handed over the goodies and spent time connecting and playing with the children. 

These moments give our young students a real understanding of service, kindness and community. They experienced firsthand how even small acts can make a difference and how giving our time, care and presence can be incredibly meaningful. 

We are so proud of our little ones and the families who joined us in making our 67 minutes count!  

Preparatory 

Mandela Day Initiative

In celebration of Mandela Month, our Crawford International La Lucia Preparatory students dedicated 67 minutes to making a difference through creativity, compassion, and sustainability. 

Using recycled materials, our Grade 1-6 students lovingly created a variety of educational toys designed to support fine motor development, coordination, communication, and early literacy. These handmade creations will be donated to preschool children in the Valley of a Thousand Hills, giving them the opportunity to learn through play. 

This meaningful initiative reminded our students that even the smallest act of kindness can have a lasting impact and that by working together, we can help build a brighter future for others. 

We're so proud of our students for embracing the spirit of Nelson Mandela and showing that giving back can begin with something as simple as caring hands and creative hearts. 

1000 Days of School 

Our Crawford International La Lucia Preparatory Grade 5 students recently celebrated an incredible milestone - 1,000 days of formal schooling. 

To mark the occasion, our students transformed into their very best “1000-year-old” selves, arriving in some wonderfully creative costumes that brought plenty of laughter to the day. 

The celebrations continued with fun activities, including an exciting Escape Room challenge, where students put their teamwork, communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills to the test as they tackled riddles, puzzles and clues together. 

More than just a celebration of 1,000 days, it was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the learning, friendships, growth and memories our students have built along the way. 

Congratulations Grade 5's! Here's to the next 1,000 days of learning, growing and thriving. 

College 

New Student Executive Body 

At a special assembly, Crawford International La Lucia College proudly introduced our Student Executives for 2026/2027, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter of student leadership. 

These students have been entrusted with the responsibility of leading by example, serving our school community with integrity, and inspiring those around them through their actions. We know they will embrace this opportunity with dedication, compassion, and pride as they help shape the year ahead. 

We congratulate each member of our newly appointed Student Executive and wish them every success in their leadership journey. We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make on our College community. 

Here’s to a year of service, collaboration, and excellence. 

Congratulations! 

Top Row L-R: Slindelokuhle Mnyandu, Sibusiso Zungu, Sebastian Naidoo, Muaaz Ravat, Aran Soodyall, Arman Narotam, Sizwe Mncube, Hohin Zeng, Vivek Rugbeer & Kamlen Naicker. 

Bottom Row L-R: Yuvti Jagdaw, Uvika Rampershad, Mishka Govender, Sarah Tuck, Sitara Govender, Raiya Ambaram & Dhiya Moodley. 

Not pictured: Kalypso Christodoulou. 

College Dance Show “Ruins” 

The Crawford International La Lucia College Dance Show, Ruins, was a breathtaking celebration of creativity, storytelling, and the performing arts. Through an incredible variety of dance styles, our students captivated audiences with powerful performances that showcased not only their technical ability, but also their passion, artistry, and emotion. 

Behind every moment on stage were months of dedication, perseverance, and countless hours of rehearsals. The result was a truly unforgettable production, and we couldn't be prouder of every student who brought Ruins to life. 

A special tribute goes to our Matric dancers, who took to the stage for their final College Dance Show. Thank you for the commitment, talent, and leadership you have shared throughout your journey at Crawford. Your final performance was a fitting celebration of all you achieved and a memorable way to close this chapter. 

Congratulations to our dancers, choreographers, and staff for creating a production that will be remembered long after the final curtain fell.

Mandela Day Initiative

In honour of Mandela Day, the Crawford International La Lucia College community came together to dedicate their time to a meaningful act of service. During assembly, each grade created handmade toys that will be donated to Focus on iThemba, supporting 20 under-resourced crèches in the Valley of a Thousand Hills. 

Working side by side, our students embraced the true spirit of Nelson Mandela, demonstrating that kindness, compassion, and service can have a lasting impact on the lives of others. 

We are incredibly proud of our College students for giving their time and talents to bring joy to children in our wider community. After all, it is often the smallest acts of kindness that leave the biggest legacy! 

Alumni Spotlight: Leah Mari 

From the Crawford International La Lucia College Class of 2019 to the bright lights of the South African stage, Leah Mari is making her mark as a singer, pianist, musical theatre performer and emerging composer. 

A graduate of the Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy (LAMTA), Leah’s impressive journey has seen her perform in productions including The Sound of Music, Company, My Fair Lady, CHICAGO the Musical, and Pretty Woman the Musical. Her portrayal of Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady earned her both a Fleur du Cap Theatre Award and a Naledi Theatre Award for Best Performance by a Lead Actress in a Musical. 

Leah is also an accomplished composer and songwriter, having won the national Cabaret and Beyond songwriting festival in 2021, which led to the creation and staging of her original one-act musical, Call Me A Fool. 

From the classroom at Crawford International La Lucia to award-winning stages and the screen, Leah’s journey is a wonderful testament to the power of passion, creativity and perseverance. 

We are incredibly proud to celebrate all that Crawford International La Lucia alumna Leah Mari has achieved and we can’t wait to see what comes next! 

Teacher Spotlight: Les Visser 

For more than 26 years, Les Visser has been an integral part of the Crawford International La Lucia College community. 

After graduating from UKZN with a Master’s degree in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry in 1990, Les discovered her passion for teaching and went on to obtain her Diploma in Higher Education from UNISA. In January 2000, she joined Crawford International La Lucia College - the same year her oldest son started Grade 000. 

Since then, Les has taught Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Technology and Further Studies Physics, always striving to inspire independent thinkers, well-balanced individuals and students with a genuine curiosity about the world around them. 

Some of Les’s happiest memories have been made in the classroom, where she has enjoyed the energy, enthusiasm and meaningful contributions of generations of students. She also speaks fondly of the dedicated and talented colleagues she has had the privilege of working alongside - many of whom have become lifelong friends. 

Crawford International La Lucia College is especially close to Les’s heart, with both of her sons completing 15 years of schooling at CILL. She describes their time at the school as an incredible opportunity for which they remain truly grateful. 

After more than two decades of teaching, Les reflects on her years at CILL as fun-filled, busy and incredibly rewarding, and is grateful to have played a part in the history of this special institution. 

Thank you, Les, for your dedication, passion and the lasting impact you have made on generations of students. We are so fortunate to have you as part of the Crawford International La Lucia College family. 

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What Can You Really Learn From a School Tour?

September 18, 2026

What Can You Really Learn From a School Tour? Choosing a school is about more than comparing websites, prospectuses and academic results. While these can provide useful information, there is something different about seeing a school in person. A school tour gives parents the opportunity to experience the environment where their child could spend some of their most formative years. But what should you actually look for on a school tour? Beyond the buildings and facilities, a visit can tell you a great deal about the school’s culture, its approach to learning and whether it feels like the right fit for your child. Look beyond the facilities Modern classrooms, sports fields, libraries and technology can all contribute to a positive school experience, but facilities are only part of the picture. During a school tour, pay attention to how spaces are used and how students interact within them. Are classrooms welcoming and purposeful? Do students appear engaged? Are there spaces that encourage collaboration, creativity and independent work? These details can give you a better understanding of how the school environment supports everyday learning. Notice how teachers and students interact One of the most valuable things to observe on a school tour is the relationship between teachers and students. A school can tell you about its values, but seeing those values in action can be much more revealing. Notice whether students appear comfortable asking questions and speaking with their teachers. Consider how teachers communicate with students and whether interactions feel respectful, encouraging and supportive. These everyday moments can provide insight into the kind of experience your child may have in the classroom. Get a feel for the school culture School culture can be difficult to understand from a website alone. Listen to what you hear in corridors and classrooms, notice how students move around campus, and consider whether you can picture your child feeling welcome, known and confident there. These impressions may not appear in a prospectus, but they can be some of the most useful things you take away from a visit. Ask ab es out Values You can also ask about the values the school prioritises. How does it support student wellbeing? How are relationships and respect encouraged? What opportunities do students have to contribute to the school community? The answers can help you understand what life at the school is really like. Ask how students are encouraged to grow A strong education should provide more than academic knowledge. During your tour, ask how the school helps students discover their interests, build confidence and develop skills beyond the classroom. Find out about opportunities in sport, culture, leadership, creative activities, clubs and other enrichment programmes. These experiences can help students explore their strengths and develop qualities such as teamwork, resilience, communication and independence. Ask the questions that matter to your child Every child has different needs, interests and ambitions, so there is no universal checklist for a school tour. Think about what matters most to your child before you visit and use the opportunity to ask specific questions. What does a typical day look like for a student in my child's age group? What support is available if my child needs extra help or wants to be stretched further? What opportunities do students have to take part in sport, culture, leadership or creative activities? How does the school communicate with parents? How are students encouraged to take responsibility for their learning? Trust what you see and how you feel A school tour is also an opportunity to consider whether you can picture your child being happy and confident in that environment. Does the school feel welcoming? Do the students seem engaged? Do the teachers appear approachable? Can you imagine your child feeling known, supported and encouraged to grow? These impressions may not appear in a prospectus, but they can be some of the most useful things you take away from a visit. See the school experience for yourself Ultimately, a school tour can turn a list of facts into a real sense of what a school offers. It allows parents to look beyond academic results and facilities and see the people, relationships and environment that shape a student’s everyday experience. This is why visiting a school matters. At Crawford International, families have the opportunity to see the school environment, meet teachers and experience the community for themselves. Choosing a school is not only about what it offers, but whether it is a place where your child can learn, grow and thrive. At Crawford International, personalised tours are arranged directly with your chosen campus, giving you and your family the chance to meet our teachers and students on a day that suits you Book a personalised tour and discover the Crawford International experience for yourself.

Does Your Child Have a Voice in Their Education?

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Don’t Just Tour a School. Imagine Your Child’s Future There

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What is the Purpose of a School Open Day

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Helping Your Child Develop Leadership Skills at Every Age

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Crawford International Partners with Momentum

July 29, 2026

Helping Your Child Transition Back to School After the Holidays The end of the school holidays often brings a mix of emotions for both children and parents. While many students look forward to seeing their friends and teachers again, others may feel nervous about returning to routines, new classrooms or the challenges of a new term. A smooth transition back to school doesn't happen overnight. With a little preparation and a positive approach, families can help children return feeling confident, organised and ready to learn. The key is to focus on creating healthy routines, encouraging open conversations and making the first few days back feel exciting rather than overwhelming. Re-establish a School Routine Before the First Day One of the easiest ways to prepare your child for the new school term is to begin reintroducing their school routine a few days before classes resume. Gradually adjust bedtimes and morning wake-up times to match the school schedule. This gives children time to reset their body clocks, making those early mornings much easier when the term begins. You can also use this time to prepare school uniforms, organise stationery and pack school bags together. These small tasks help children feel organised and reduce first-day stress. Talk Positively About Returning to School Children often take emotional cues from the adults around them. Speaking positively about the new school term can help build excitement and confidence. Ask your child what they are looking forward to. It could be seeing friends, participating in sport, joining a cultural activity or learning something new. If they have concerns, listen without dismissing their feelings and reassure them that it's normal to feel a little uncertain after a long break. Simple conversations can go a long way in helping children feel emotionally prepared for the transition back to school. Encourage Healthy Habits Returning to school is a great opportunity to re-establish healthy daily habits that support learning and wellbeing. Encourage regular meals, enough sleep, daily movement and balanced screen time. These habits not only support physical health but also improve concentration, energy levels and overall readiness for the classroom. Children thrive when they have a consistent routine that balances learning, rest and play. Help Your Child Set Small Goals A new school term offers a fresh start. Encourage your child to think about one or two realistic goals they would like to achieve. These goals don't have to be purely academic. They could include improving time management, participating more in class, joining a new activity, reading more often or simply becoming more organised. Focusing on small, achievable goals helps children build confidence and creates a sense of purpose for the weeks ahead. Stay Connected with Your Child's School A successful school experience is built on a strong partnership between home and school. Taking an active interest in your child's learning helps them feel supported and reinforces the importance of education. Regular communication with teachers, attending school events and checking in with your child about their day all contribute to a positive learning experience. Even simple questions such as "What was the best part of your day?" can encourage meaningful conversations about school. Be Patient During the Adjustment Period Not every child settles back into routine immediately. Some may be tired during the first week, while others may need extra reassurance as they adjust to classroom expectations again. Be patient and celebrate the small wins. Whether it's waking up on time, completing homework independently or returning home with a positive story about their day, these moments all contribute to a successful transition. Remember that confidence grows through encouragement, consistency and support. Key Takeaways Begin preparing for the new school term a few days before school starts. Re-establish healthy sleep, morning and after-school routines. Talk positively about returning to school and encourage open conversations. Support your child's wellbeing through healthy habits and balanced routines. Help your child set small, achievable goals for the new term. Build a strong partnership with your child's school. Be patient as children adjust and celebrate their progress along the way. Returning to school marks the beginning of another exciting chapter of learning and growth. By creating positive routines, encouraging confidence and supporting your child's wellbeing, parents can help make the transition back to school a positive experience for the whole family.

Helping Your Child Transition Back to School After the Holidays

July 24, 2026

How College Students Can Make the Most of the School Holidays

July 17, 2026

How College Students Can Make the Most of the School Holidays For College students, the school holidays are more than just a pause between terms. They are a chance to rest, reset and spend time on the things that often get pushed aside during a busy school schedule. Between academics, sport, cultural activities, friendships, leadership responsibilities and future planning, the school term can move quickly. The holidays offer students time to slow down, reconnect with themselves and return to school feeling more focused. Making the most of the holidays does not mean filling every day with revision or activities. It means finding a healthy balance between rest, enjoyment, responsibility and small steps that support personal growth. Use the Break to Properly Recharge Rest is one of the most important parts of the holidays. After a demanding term, students need time to sleep, relax and step away from constant deadlines. This may mean having a few slower mornings, spending time with friends, watching a favourite series, listening to music, reading, exercising or simply doing very little for a while. The key is to rest in a way that actually feels refreshing. Too many late nights, endless scrolling or irregular routines can sometimes leave students feeling more tired than before. A good holiday should help students feel recharged, not drained. Keep a Little Structure Without Overplanning The holidays should feel different from school, but some structure can make the break more enjoyable. Without it, days can start to blur together and it becomes easy to lose motivation. Students can create a simple rhythm that works for them. This might include time for rest, seeing friends, exercising, helping at home, enjoying hobbies and doing any schoolwork that needs to be completed. This does not need to be a strict timetable. Even choosing one or two things to do each day can create a sense of purpose while still leaving plenty of room for downtime. Stay Connected to Learning in a Low-Pressure Way The holidays are not meant to become another school term. However, staying lightly connected to learning can help students return with more confidence. This could mean finishing assigned holiday work early, reviewing a subject that felt difficult, organising notes, reading something interesting or setting a small goal for the next term. For senior students, the holidays can also be a good time to think about future pathways. Exploring study options, careers, personal interests or skills can help students feel more prepared without making the break feel academic. Use Technology with Intention Technology is part of everyday life, especially for College students. The focus should be on helping them build a responsible, intentional relationship with it. Used well, technology can best support learning, connect with friends, watch useful content, research future opportunities or create something original. Recent research has drawn attention to the long-term effects that constant device use can have on young people. Parents have an important duty to play here too, by staying aware of this research and helping set sensible limits around use at home. Taking regular breaks from devices, spending time outdoors and being present with family or friends can help create a healthier balance. Make Time for Movement and Wellbeing Physical activity is one of the simplest ways to support wellbeing during the holidays. It helps with energy, sleep, mood and focus. This does not have to mean formal sport or intense training. Walking, gym, running, swimming, cycling, dancing, hiking or playing sport with friends can all help students stay active. Wellbeing also includes sleep, nutrition, social connection and time away from pressure. The holidays are a good opportunity for students to check in with how they are feeling and reset healthy habits. Explore Interests Beyond the Classroom During the term, students may not always have time to focus on their own interests. The holidays can create space to explore what excites them outside of the classroom. This could include music, art, photography, design, coding, sport, volunteering, writing, entrepreneurship, cooking, reading or learning a new practical skill. These activities are not just ways to stay busy. They help students build confidence, discover strengths and develop a stronger sense of who they are becoming. Take Responsibility in Small Ways Independence grows through everyday responsibility. The holidays are a good time for students to practise managing their time, planning ahead and contributing at home. This might include organising their room, helping with meals, managing their own school preparation, budgeting for outings, planning transport or taking responsibility for completing holiday tasks without being reminded. These small actions help students build habits that will support them beyond school. Ease Back into the New Term A few days before school starts, it helps to gently shift back into routine. Students can check their school materials, complete any final tasks, review important dates and adjust sleep patterns. This is also a good time to set one or two realistic goals. These could be academic, personal, social or linked to sport, culture or leadership. Starting the term with a clear mind and a little preparation can help students feel more confident and in control. Key Takeaways The holidays are a time to rest, reset and reconnect. Students do not need a strict timetable, but some structure can help. Light learning or preparation can make the return to school smoother. Technology should be balanced with movement, hobbies and real connection. Exploring interests outside the classroom supports confidence and personal growth. Small responsibilities help students build independence. A calm return to routine can help students start the next term well. School holidays are a valuable opportunity for College students to pause, reflect and grow. With the right balance of rest, freedom and purpose, students can return to school feeling refreshed, motivated and ready for what comes next.

How to Keep Children Engaged During the School Holidays: Pre-Primary and Preparatory

July 10, 2026

School holidays are an important time for children to rest, play and enjoy a break from their usual routine. After a busy term, children need time to recharge, spend time with family and enjoy the freedom of slower days. At the same time, many parents know that holidays can quickly become challenging when children are restless, bored or spending more time on screens than planned. The goal is not to fill every hour with structured activities. Instead, school holidays can offer a healthy balance of rest, play, creativity, movement and simple learning moments. For Pre-Primary and Prep children, the best activities are often the ones that feel fun, natural and easy to enjoy at home. Keep a Gentle Holiday Routine Children often feel more settled when they know what to expect. A holiday routine does not need to be strict, but a simple rhythm can help the day feel calmer. Parents can include: A regular wake-up and bedtime range Time for outdoor play Creative activities Quiet reading or rest time Limited screen time Small responsibilities at home Family time in the evening This gives children enough structure to feel secure, while still allowing space for holiday fun. Encourage Learning Through Play Younger children learn best through play. Through everyday play, they practise communication, imagination, problem-solving and independence. Simple holiday play ideas include: Building with blocks, boxes or cushions Playing dress-up Creating a pretend shop or restaurant Doing puzzles Playing matching or memory games Using playdough or clay Making an indoor obstacle course Playing board games or card games These activities keep children engaged without making the holidays feel like schoolwork. Make Reading Feel Relaxed The holidays are a good time to encourage reading in a calm and enjoyable way. Reading supports vocabulary, imagination and concentration, but it should not feel like a task. For Pre-Primary children, parents can read aloud, look at picture books together and ask simple questions about the story. For Prep children, allow them to choose books that interest them, whether that is storybooks, comics, fact books or magazines. Even 15 minutes of reading a day can help children stay connected to language and learning during the holidays. Get Creative at Home Creative activities are a simple way to keep children busy while encouraging imagination and focus. Parents can try: Drawing, painting or colouring Making cards for family members Baking simple recipes together Creating a holiday scrapbook Making puppets and putting on a show Building with recycled materials Designing a treasure map The focus should not be on perfection. What matters most is that children are exploring, creating and enjoying the process. Keep Children Moving Movement is especially important for younger children. It supports their physical development, mood, sleep and concentration. Easy ways to keep children active include: Playing outside Going for a family walk Riding a bicycle or scooter Dancing to music Playing ball games Swimming, where safe and supervised Visiting a park Movement does not need to be formal. The aim is simply to help children use their energy in a healthy and enjoyable way. Build Independence Through Small Responsibilities School holidays are a good opportunity to help children practise small responsibilities without the rush of the school morning. Younger children can help with: Packing away toys Making their bed Helping set the table Watering plants Feeding pets with supervision Organising books or stationery These small tasks help children feel capable and trusted. Over time, they support confidence and independence. Set Healthy Screen Time Boundaries Screens can be part of the holidays, but they should not become the main activity of the day. Clear boundaries help children understand when and how screens can be used. Parents may choose to allow screen time after reading, outdoor play or tidying up. Families can also keep mealtimes and bedtime screen-free. It can help to create a simple holiday activity list so children have options before turning to a device. Prepare Gently for the New Term As the holidays come to an end, children may need help adjusting back into routine. A few days before school starts, parents can begin moving bedtime closer to the usual school schedule, preparing uniforms and school bags, and speaking positively about the term ahead. For younger children, reassurance makes a big difference. A calm return to routine can help them feel ready and confident for the new term. Key Takeaways School holidays should include both rest and meaningful activity. Pre-Primary and Prep children learn through play, movement, creativity and conversation. A gentle routine helps children feel settled. Reading, creative activities and outdoor play support development. Small responsibilities help children build confidence and independence. Clear screen time boundaries create a healthier holiday rhythm. Preparing gradually for the new term can make the return to school easier. School holidays are a valuable opportunity for children to rest, explore and reconnect. With a simple balance of structure and freedom, parents can help younger children enjoy their break while continuing to build curiosity, confidence and independence.