Ruimsig

Karabo Molokomme • December 7, 2023

Ruimsig Celebrate Class of 2023 

On 24 November 2023, we said goodbye to the class of 2023 and shift our focus to the emerging talents of 2036. The Grade 0 students, who are stepping into Grade 1, have significant responsibilities ahead as they follow in the footsteps of their predecessors. While they enter this new phase with pride, it's worth noting that our pride in them is equally profound. 

A large room with tables and chairs in it
A group of children are sitting at tables in a large room.

Personalised Learning at Ruimsig 

At Crawford International Ruimsig, a transformative approach to education unfolds through personalised learning. The Grade 0 classrooms provide a dynamic environment tailored to individual learning styles. 


 



With flexible spaces ranging from cosy reading corners to collaborative group settings, children have the freedom to choose their learning spots. Rotational seating further enhances engagement and autonomy, empowering students on their educational journey. 


The integration of technology is seamless, with iPads and educational apps creating interactive learning experiences that captivate young minds. 


Educators, keenly attuned to each child's strengths, design diverse lessons—whether through storytelling, hands-on experiments, or problem-solving challenges—that ignite a lifelong love for learning. 


Beyond the acquisition of knowledge, the education provided here instils an enduring curiosity. Students leave with a keen eagerness to explore, equipped not only with lessons learned but also with a hunger for knowledge. 


A group of children are sitting around a table using tablets
A group of children are sitting on the floor in a classroom

Grade 6 Leadership Camp 

This Leadership Camp is a testament to our commitment to nurturing leadership skills, fostering unity, and upholding our school's cherished values and ethos.   


A Glimpse into the Journey: 


Identifying Leaders: The camp is tailored to identify and cultivate emerging leaders among our Grade 6 cohort, recognizing their unique strengths and talents. 


Bonding Sessions: Through carefully crafted activities and challenges, students will forge deep connections, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork essential for effective leadership. 


Embracing Values: The heart of the camp lies in integrating our school's values and ethos into every aspect, reinforcing the importance of integrity, respect and responsibility. 


This exceptional experience will introduce our learners to the Ambassador Program, a platform aimed at recognising and nurturing leadership potential. Through this initiative, we aspire to empower our students to become catalysts for positive change within our school community and beyond. 


The impact of this Leadership Camp extends beyond the dates of the event. It lays the groundwork for a future where leadership is defined by compassion, innovation, and inclusive decision-making. 


We applaud the enthusiasm and dedication of our Grade 6 students and teachers in embracing this invaluable opportunity for growth and development. 


A group of people are playing a game in a park
A group of people are sitting around a table with papers and water bottles

Step Up

Grade 3 students eagerly stepped into Grade 4, welcomed by new teachers and a day filled with thrilling activities like the Fear Factor challenge. Despite its name, students fearlessly took on hoola-hooping, sandbag tosses, and relay races, celebrating triumph with cheers and joy. Beyond fun, the day showcased unity, bravery, and eagerness for new challenges. As the sun set, a sense of accomplishment lingered, marking an unforgettable start to their Grade 4 journey in 2024. 

A group of children are sitting around a table with a sign that says tree warts
A group of children are standing on a brick sidewalk.

A Night of Connection and Celebration 

Crawford International Ruimsig hosted the "Quiz with Linz" on 17 November 2023, giving parents a rare chance to relax and connect. The collaborative event raised generous donations for charities. Thanks to contributors like 'Hirsches,' 'Jessica's,' Crawford, and 'JBM Finance Solutions.' Special thanks to Ms Sharyn Hiten for additional prizes. 



Del Forno Featherbrooke catered, and creative teams brought snacks. The night featured awards, dance-offs, and a lively quiz. Kudos to Quiz Master Ms Lindsay van Boven for exceptional organisation. It was a joyous evening of laughter, togetherness, and celebration. 


A group of people are dancing in a room with tables and chairs.
A group of people are posing for a picture on a stage.
A group of people are sitting at tables in front of a large screen that says swap papers for marking.

Ms Sandy Xu – honoured at the ADvLEARN Celebration of Excellence Awards Ceremony  

At the ceremony, held on the 22nd of November 2023, exceptional teachers and schools were recognised for their successful implementation of ADvLEARN. Their use of the platform and integration of data insights to cater to individual student needs were instrumental. 

Congratulations to the 2023 ADvLEARN Celebration of Excellence Awardees. A special mention goes to our campus champion ranking 9th: Sandra Xu from Crawford International Ruimsig.   

“Sandy, your remarkable achievement fills us with immense pride. A huge thank you to Rentia for her outstanding efforts in driving the programme behind the scenes” said Senior Preparatory Principal Mrs Steyn. 


We are so proud of Ms Sandy and Ms Rentia van Muylwyk, for their exceptional work in successfully implementing the Mathu programme in Grade 7. 


A man and a woman are standing next to each other holding a certificate.

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

April 25, 2025
A Lifelong Educator Mr Chris Herbst has spent 41 years in the classroom. With a Bachelor of Education from the University of the Witwatersrand, he has taught countless learners over the decades. He joined Crawford International Sandton in 1999 and currently teaches Afrikaans to students from Grade 8 to Grade 12. His role spans across five different year groups, a challenge he embraces. “I have my hands full as I navigate the excitement and challenges of teaching an additional language to five different grades,” he says. Why Teaching Still Matters For Mr Herbst, teaching is not a job. It is something he feels deeply connected to. “Teaching is my great passion and calling. The classroom is where I find my motivation and inspiration,” he shares. “When we have a really good lesson and I see our students leave having learned something new, or figured out a challenging concept, then I am motivated and inspired all over again.” These everyday moments keep him grounded in his purpose. They are the quiet victories that reaffirm his place in the classroom. Freedom to Teach with Meaning Mr Herbst values Crawford’s approach to learning, particularly the way it supports teacher agency and student-centred learning. “I love the fact that the focus is student-centred, and that as teachers we have the freedom and the responsibility to create a teaching and learning environment that works best for every learning need,” he says. He believes this flexibility allows for learning to become more meaningful. “If I identify that a particular topic or poem has piqued the interest of my class, I have the freedom to delve deeper and really explore the subject matter without being bound by rigid syllabus rules and time frames.” Connecting Language to the Real World Teaching Afrikaans in a school where it is often an additional language means finding ways to make it resonate. Mr Herbst understands that for many students, the subject may not come naturally. “For many students, learning another language may initially feel like a requirement rather than a passion,” he explains. To bridge that gap, he brings the language to life through content that students can relate to. “It’s important to integrate engaging, real-world content such as music, movies, and stories that align with the students’ interests.” These tools, he believes, help students see the language in context and build an emotional connection to it. A Teaching Legacy  Over the course of his career, Mr Herbst has taught more than one generation in the same family. It is a milestone he reflects on with pride. “I have taught students who are now parents, and I am teaching their children today. It doesn’t get better than that.” But what stands out most for him is being remembered. “By far my biggest kick is when a past student recognises me and comes over to strike up a conversation and talk about their life and work after school.”
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Toddler putting apples in a muffin pan, one-to-one correspondence

One to one correspondence

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK

March 28, 2025
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK Crawford International Sandton From the classrooms of Crawford International Sandton to the forefront of aeronautical engineering in the Netherlands, Dylan Bizjak’s journey is one of ambition, resilience and innovation . Pursuing a Passion for Engineering After matriculating in 2019, Dylan initially pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Wits University. However, six months into his studies, a new opportunity emerged, one that would take him beyond South Africa’s borders. He secured a place at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Delft, Netherlands, where he embraced the challenge of international study, even navigating his first year remotely due to the pandemic. Now a graduate with a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering (2024), Dylan has stepped into the professional world, joining Eve Reverse, a pioneering start-up dedicated to climate-positive innovation. What began as an internship in his final year evolved into a full-time role as a Research and Development Engineer, where he contributes to the creation of sustainable, carbon-negative materials. His proudest achievement? Playing a key role in the development of the Eve Dry Tile, an innovative flax fibre material designed to reduce emissions and waste in manufacturing. Achievements at Crawford International Sandton Gareth Beach Award (2019) – Recognised for bravery, dedication, self-development and outstanding achievement in swimming. Sportsman of the Year (2019) – Acknowledged for excellence in swimming, basketball and boxing.  Reflections on Crawford Dylan credits his time at Crawford for preparing him for both academic and personal success on the global stage. “Crawford’s approach equips you for university and beyond, whether in South Africa or internationally. It’s not just about academics but about becoming a well-rounded critical thinker and team player. Exposure to diverse cultures, teamwork, individuality and taking responsibility for my outcomes were invaluable lessons I carried with me.” Words of Wisdom To his younger self, Dylan would say: “Step out of your comfort zone sooner. Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Leaving home was tough, but the personal and professional growth was worth every stumble along the way.” Dylan’s story is a testament to courage, hard work and the power of embracing the unknown. From South Africa to the Netherlands, he is proving that the sky isn’t the limit, it is just the beginning.
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A young boy in a plaid shirt is giving a thumbs up.

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