North Coast July 2026
August 6, 2026
Pre-Primary
Father’s Day Celebration
Crawford International North Coast Pre-Primary was delighted to welcome our dads to school for a special Father's Day STEAM Morning.
It was a wonderful opportunity for our children and their dads to spend quality time together while exploring a variety of exciting, hands-on activities.
The school was filled with laughter, teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving as our families moved through the different STEAM stations. From building and creating to experimenting and discovering, it was heartwarming to see the enthusiasm and engagement shared between our children and their dads.
Preparatory
Green and Gold in Support of Bafana
Crawford International North Coast Pre-Primary and Preparatory was abuzz with excitement as students donned their green, yellow, and gold in proud support of our national soccer team, Bafana Bafana.
College
North Coast Sports Desk
Celebrating Kurik Naidoo
At the prestigious SSA Level 2 Championship Gala, held at the Rachel Finlayson Pool from 31 March to 2 April, Kurik Naidoo competed against top athletes from all nine South African provinces, as well as international clubs from Angola, Mozambique, and Swaziland. Over the course of three demanding days, he contested nine events and produced a remarkable medal haul of eight medals, three gold, two silver, and three bronze.
KZN Biathlon Championships - U14, competed as U17 came 2nd overall – Competing in SA Biathlon Championships
Celebrating Snehin Kumar
He has been consistently selected to represent KZN at national events for the past three years. Secured 2nd Position individually in the Inter-Schools Sports Fest 2026 held at Lonehill.
Finished 2nd in the KZN Open Chess Championship 2026 (U16), scoring an outstanding 6/7 points and narrowly missing 1st place on a tiebreak.
Awarded Chess Federation Colours and a Gold Medal for securing 1st Position in South Africa at the MIYCC.
Secured 1st Place in the KwaDukuza CMC League held at Luthuli Museum with a perfect score of 5/5.
Finished 2nd in the U16 section at the eThekwini Youth Championships 2026, tying for 1st place on 5/6 points and receiving both a medal and trophy.
Won 1st Place in the High School Category at the KwaDukuza Mayoral Cup, competing in the Open Section against players of all ages.
Celebrating Ben Tozer
Ben Tozer delivered an outstanding performance at the recent KZN Lifesaving Championships, earning multiple podium finishes and securing second place overall in the Under-15 category across KwaZulu-Natal.
Claimed first place in the highly competitive Run Swim Run event, while also achieving second-place finishes in the Sea Swim, Surf Ski Race, and Iron Man Race. He is Traveling to Port Elizabeth for the upcoming South African Lifesaving Championships.
Boarding Highlights
One of the highlights of the term was our much-anticipated Pizza Making Afternoon. Before the cooking began, each boarder was given a chef's hat to decorate, with prizes awarded for the most creative designs. The competition brought out everyone's artistic side and set the tone for a fun-filled afternoon.
Once the chefs were ready, students created their pizza’s from scratch and selected their favourite toppings to create their perfect pizza. There was plenty of laughter, creativity and delicious aromas as everyone enjoyed making and, of course, eating their own creations.
Paton House Outing
The girls of Paton House enjoyed a special outing to Salt & Citrus Restaurant in Umdloti, organised by their Grade 8 Tutor, Ms. Ncane.
The students spent a relaxing afternoon enjoying a delicious late lunch while taking in the beautiful ocean views. The outing provided an opportunity to spend quality time together outside of the boarding environment and further strengthen the wonderful sense of community within the house.
Sharks Rugby Match
Our Grade 11 and 12 students had the exciting opportunity to attend a Sharks rugby match at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium in Durban.
The complimentary tickets were arranged by Ms Msomi, allowing our students to experience the thrill of live rugby while enjoying an unforgettable day out. The atmosphere was electric, and the students thoroughly enjoyed supporting their team and sharing this special experience with their peers.
Travel Airscape Visit
The excitement reached a new level as Travel Airscape Group Tours visited Crawford International North Coast to officially hand over the airline tickets and Europe tour backpacks to our travellers. With just days to go before departure, there was a real sense of anticipation and excitement as 24 students, accompanied by Ms de Brito and Mr Botha, prepared for the adventure of a lifetime.
Departing on 6 July, the group embarked on an unforgettable 10-day educational journey through Germany, Austria, Slovenia and Italy. Along the way, they experienced world renowned attractions including the BMW Museum in Munich, the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial, the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, the stunning Lake Bled, the canals of Venice, a hands-on Tuscan cooking class, the colourful villages of Cinque Terre, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the historic landmarks of Rome, including the Colosseum and St Peter's Basilica.
This tour is far more than a holiday. It is an opportunity for our students to bring their classroom learning to life, immerse themselves in different cultures, develop independence and create memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
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.
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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 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.
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.
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.
