North Coast Jan 2024

February 26, 2024

PRE-PRIMARY

Benefits of Messy Play

Messy play holds significant value in early childhood development and our beautiful KZN North Coast climate allows ample opportunity for combining messy play with fresh air. Crawford International North Coast Pre-Primary student Ntokozo Mthethwa enjoyed every moment of foam with her friends and teachers at the school recently. This kind of play provides children with opportunities to explore, experiment, and express themselves freely in a tactile and sensory-rich environment. Engaging in messy play fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and enhances cognitive development as children manipulate materials which leads to exciting discoveries. Messy play promotes social skills as children collaborate, share, and communicate with peers, building important foundations for future learning and development.

A little girl in a red shirt is covered in white foam

Forest Research Grade 0

Recently our Grade 0 students embarked on an exceptionally thrilling investigation. They delved into the fascinating realm of 'mini beasts' residing in our enchanting school forest. Outdoor education remains a cherished highlight for our young pupils every day.

A boy and a girl are looking at a plant with a magnifying glass.

PREPARATORY

The Joy of Exploring Nature

Crawford International North Coast Grade 3's launched their "Sharing the Planet" Unit of Inquiry, by exploring the forest area on the school’s beautiful North Coast campus. As students will be looking at biomes and how biodiversity relies on maintaining balance within these systems, the students had to identify living organisms found in this habitat. They also had to find examples of how this habitat can be destroyed - e.g.: by litter, the recent floods, etc. and how this will affect the balance within this biome. The Grade 3's were intrepid explorers who demonstrated an interest and curiosity about our natural world and a love of nature - they are eco-warriors in the making!

Grade 7 Induction Day

Crawford International North Coast held its prestigious Grade 7 Induction ceremony recently, where Grade 7 students were inducted as councillors. Each pupil took delight in signing the Councillor’s Pledge, witnessed by proud parents, the Campus Head, the Pre, Prep and College Principals, staff and fellow students. The highlight of the event was the lighting of candles, which symbolised the passing down of authority from the Preparatory Principal to the Deputies, to the Grade 7 teachers and then to the students.

A woman in a black jacket is smiling while standing at a table.

Feeling the Love this Month of Love

Our Grade 7 students embarked on a special mission this February. With Valentine's Day approaching, the Grade 7s decided to spread love and joy to the residents of Westbrook Retirement Village by bringing along sweet treats and heartfelt sentiments. The joy on the faces of the elders was palpable and their spirits lifted by the genuine kindness of their young visitors. Our students engaged in heartfelt conversations with the residents, listening attentively to their stories and experiences, and learning valuable lessons about empathy, resilience, and the importance of cherishing every moment. The Grade 7 students' visit to Westbrook Retirement Village was more than just a charitable act. It was a testament to the power of love, compassion, and community. Through this outreach programme and leadership initiative, our young leaders demonstrated the importance of empathy, kindness, and making a difference in the lives of others.

A young girl is standing next to an older woman in front of a brick building.

COLLEGE

North Coast Track Star Qualifies for SA Nationals

Crawford International North Coast Grade 11 student Noa Reinstein has been at the school since Grade 000, and her love of running goes right back to her Preparatory days. The school shared in her delight recently when she reached the qualifying times for SA nationals. The 400m athlete is also currently placed first in KZN for both the 200m and the 400m in her age group. At the same time as preparing for events in Pretoria, Noa will be representing both Crawford and Ilembe at the District Championships in mid-February at Kings Park and competing in the KZN Championships in Pietermaritzburg at the end of March.

Noa’s love of running began with cross country in her primary years on the school’s beautiful Westbrook campus and by Grade 5 she commenced with track training. The North Coast star trains at Kings Park Athletic Stadium five times a week and says she is inspired by Sydney McLaughlin, the 400m US hurdler, whose inspirational social media content helps motivates her.

Numbers are her favourite topic - both on and off the track! Mathematics is a much-loved subject at school, and when she is on the track, she keeps her eye on beating her personal best time of 58.22 seconds for the 400m and 25.93 for the 200m. Her top-tip to any aspiring runner is to build a cardio base and then train with a coach.

Noa’s short-term goal is to be placed in the Top 3 in SA, as well as obtaining a scholarship to study in the US or Netherlands where she can continue to train throughout university. Her proud mom Dorine Reinstein says ‘I am so proud of Noa, she works so hard. So much time and dedication go into shaving a few milliseconds off your time when you are a sprinter. I think we spend more time at the track than at home!”

A woman is running on a track with a stadium in the background.

Top National Award for Crawford International North Coast Student

Top academic students were recently honoured at the ADvTECH Top Achiever Awards at a glittering ceremony in Johannesburg. Crawford International North Coast student Daisy Pybus was placed second amongst 1800 students from the ADvTECH group. She richly deserves the award after achieving an impressive overall aggregate of 94.62%, Top 1% in the country (English, Afrikaans, Life Orientation, Life Sciences and Marine Sciences) and earned a place in the IEB Top 5% Outstanding Achievement category. Well done Daisy!

Two women standing next to each other in front of a banner that says rawford

Thando Mthembu Gets DSTV Interview

17-year-old Crawford International North Coast student Thando Mthembu was thrilled to be invited to take part in an interview for DSTV’s The Get Real Show hosted by Denver Naicker recently. The current Grade 12 A aggregate student, who won a 2023 Dale Carnegie High Achiever Award is a boarding student at the school. She loved the experience in front of the camera. She says ‘I was a little nervous the night before but, on the day, I felt calm and really enjoyed the experience! It was great to talk about preparing for the matric year ahead and how much I love the boarding experience.’ Her favourite subject is Life Sciences, and she is preparing for 8 subjects to write in her IEB matric examination in November. 

A young woman in a white shirt and tie is sitting on a bench.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Does Success at School Have to Mean Straight A’s?

September 25, 2026

Does Success at School Have to Mean Straight A's? For many parents, academic results are one of the clearest ways to measure how a child is doing at school. Good marks can be a source of pride and can open doors to future opportunities. But does success at school have to mean achieving straight A's? Academic achievement is important, but a child’s school experience is about more than a report card. Success can look different for every student and recognising that difference can help children develop a healthier, more confident approach to learning. Marks matter, but they are not the whole picture Strong academic performance can reflect hard work, understanding and commitment. Schools have a responsibility to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to achieve their academic goals and prepare for their next steps. At the same time, marks do not always capture everything a child is learning or how much they are growing. A student who becomes more confident speaking in class, learns how to manage a difficult subject or perseveres after making a mistake is experiencing meaningful progress, even if that progress is not immediately reflected in a higher mark. What does success look like beyond As? A broader view of school success can include a range of personal and academic milestones, such as: Becoming more confident in asking questions and sharing ideas. Developing resilience when faced with challenges or setbacks. Learning to work effectively with others. Discovering an interest or talent in a new area. Taking greater responsibility for learning and personal goals. Developing leadership, communication and problem-solving skills. Every child has a different path Children do not all learn in the same way or at the same pace. One student may excel academically from an early age, while another may need more time and encouragement before a subject clicks. Some may find their confidence through sport, music, art or leadership, while others discover it through academic challenges. This does not mean lowering expectations. Instead, it means understanding that high expectations and individual support can work together. Children should be encouraged to aim high while also being given the guidance they need to recognise their own progress. The importance of confidence and resilience School inevitably comes with challenges. Students will encounter subjects they find difficult, assignments that do not go to plan and moments when they may not achieve the result they hoped for. Learning how to respond to these experiences is an important part of growing. A child who understands that a setback is not a definition of their ability is more likely to try again, ask for help and keep going. Over time, these experiences can build resilience and a willingness to embrace challenges rather than avoid them. Making room for different kinds of achievement A well-rounded school experience gives students opportunities to succeed in different ways. Sport can develop teamwork and discipline. Cultural and creative activities can encourage self-expression. Leadership opportunities can build confidence and responsibility. Academic challenges can strengthen knowledge, critical thinking and problem-solving. These experiences do not compete with academic achievement. They can complement it, helping students develop the wider skills and qualities they need to navigate future study, work and life. How parents can think about success Parents can play an important role by looking beyond individual marks and asking broader questions. What is your child enjoying? What are they finding challenging? Where have they grown in confidence? What new skills or interests have they discovered? Celebrating effort, improvement and perseverance alongside academic achievement can help children understand that success is not about being perfect. It is about learning, growing and continuing to move forward. A broader definition of success Straight A's can be an achievement worth celebrating, but they are not the only measure of a successful school experience. True success can also be seen in a student who becomes more confident, learns to persevere, discovers a passion, or begins to believe in what they are capable of. At Crawford International, academic excellence is supported by opportunities for students to develop their interests, confidence and wider skills. This balanced approach recognises that every student has different strengths and that success is about helping each child make meaningful progress while preparing them for what comes next. As a school, the goal of education is not simply to collect the highest marks. It is to help young people develop their knowledge, character and confidence to make the most of their potential. Discover our holistic approach to education by booking a personalised tour.

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?

September 11, 2026

Student voice builds confidence and independence. See what having a say looks like from Grade 1 to Grade 11, and how parents and schools support it.

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

September 4, 2026

A school tour shows you the buildings. Picture your child inside them. What to look for beyond the facilities when you are choosing a school.

The Questions Parents Often Forget to Ask at an Open Day

August 21, 2026

Most parents ask about fees and academics. These are the seven questions that tell you far more about whether a school is right for your child.

What is the Purpose of a School Open Day

August 14, 2026

A school Open Day shows you what a website cannot. Here is what happens on the day, what to look for, and why visiting in person matters so much.

Helping Your Child Develop Leadership Skills at Every Age

August 7, 2026

Leadership starts long before the boardroom. See how children build confidence, empathy and decision making from pre-primary through to matric.

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.