Sandton May 2024

May 22, 2024

Client Experience Training at Crawford Schools

During the recent recess period, we facilitated a comprehensive Client Experience Training for all security, cleaning, and maintenance personnel across Crawford schools. This training is designed to enhance how we interact with our visitors, ensuring every guest on campus receives exceptional service.

Our goal is to have all client-facing staff embody the Crawford DNA, creating a consistently positive and welcoming experience. By focusing on these core values, we aim to reflect our commitment to excellence and care, making every visitor feel valued and supported throughout their time with us.

A group of men standing in front of a mural holding certificates

A group of people standing in front of a sign that says cleveland

PRE-PRIMARY & PREPARATORY

A Day of Heroic Fun and Excitement

On 5th May, superheroes from all walks of life gathered for an unforgettable day at the Superheroes U-Night event. This drama activation transformed the venue into a playground for the brave, offering activities for both the young and the young-at-heart.

Participants embraced their inner heroes by tackling an inflatable obstacle course, testing their agility, and daring. Aspiring makeup artists and costume designers enjoyed decorating masks, adding a personal touch to their superhero personas.

A highlight was the sumo ring, where attendees showcased their fighting skills in friendly bouts. The carousel provided a space for high-speed chases and playful antics, keeping the energy high throughout the day.

To keep the superheroes fueled, vendors offered delicious treats and refreshments. The spin-the-wheel booth provided fun facts and trivia, adding an educational twist to the festivities.

The day culminated in a spectacular fashion show, where attendees flaunted their creative costumes, impressing the audience with their style and ingenuity. Superheroes U-Night was a resounding success, bringing together a community of heroes for a day filled with laughter, learning, and legendary adventures.

A young girl in a wonder woman costume is sitting at a table with her face painted.

A group of children are playing on an inflatable slide

Welcoming Mario and Luigi

Excitement fills the air as we proudly announce the arrival of our newest additions – Mario and Luigi, our adopted baby Barn Owls. These creatures have quickly become cherished members of our school community.

After much anticipation, Mario and Luigi made their grand entrance, capturing the hearts of students and staff alike. Our students suggested names for our feathered friends, and the winning names were unveiled with great enthusiasm at a school assembly.

Mario and Luigi are not only a source of delight but also a testament to our Eco Team's dedication to environmental conservation and wildlife preservation. Their partnership with WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) made this initiative possible, enriching our school environment and instilling in our students a deeper appreciation for nature.

As Mario and Luigi settle into their new home, we look forward to the many adventures and learning opportunities ahead. From observing their behaviours to learning about their role in the ecosystem, our students are eager to immerse themselves in this unique educational experience.

A woman is standing in a cage holding a bird.

A person is holding an owl in front of a crowd of children

Crawford International Hosts Mini Summit for Pre-Primary Teachers

Crawford International recently hosted a mini summit at our Sandton campus, bringing together pre-primary teachers to change early childhood education through innovative teaching methodologies.

The summit focused on integrating science into everyday classroom activities, recognising the potential of early childhood education as the foundation for future learning. Teachers at the Sandton campus curated a series of engaging classes centred on light, blending theory and practical application to make science come alive for young learners.

The hands-on approach and interactive sessions allowed teachers to explore novel teaching techniques firsthand. By encouraging experimentation and exploration, Crawford International empowered educators to embrace innovative pedagogical approaches.

The summit underscored the importance of making learning captivating and immersive for children at the pre-primary stage. By leveraging young learners' inherent curiosity, educators can lay a solid foundation for lifelong learning.

As the summit concluded, participants left inspired and armed with innovative teaching strategies, reaffirming Crawford International's commitment to fostering excellence in education through continuous innovation and collaboration.

A group of women are posing for a picture in a hallway.

A young boy is standing in a room with his arms outstretched.

Two young boys are playing with glow in the dark paint on a table.

A little girl is standing on a brick sidewalk holding a wind chime.

Mother's Day Celebration at Crawford International Sandton Pre-Primary

On 10th May, Crawford International Sandton Pre-Primary hosted a Mother's Day celebration. The campus was filled with excitement as mothers and their children gathered to honour their special bond.

Mothers and their little ones dressed in matching outfits, symbolising their connection. The highlight was a picnic, where families enjoyed a feast and created cherished memories.

A lively game of Disney Bingo added extra excitement to the festivities, with mothers and children eagerly participating. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the unconditional love and support mothers provide, reaffirming the importance of cherishing each precious moment together.

A woman and a little girl dressed as princesses are holding a sign that says `` world 's best mom ''.

A woman and a little girl are posing for a picture in front of a playground.

A woman and a boy are posing for a picture in a classroom.

A woman and a little girl are posing for a picture in a classroom.

A woman and a child are standing next to each other in front of a playground.

COLLEGE

Mothers and Daughters High Tea

On Saturday, 11 May 2024, our College hosted our inaugural Mothers & Daughters High Tea. The event, marked by elegance and warmth, offered a perfect setting for not just mothers and daughters but also sons, friends, and family to share a memorable afternoon. This initiative was set up to raise funds for the Matric Dance.

Each table at the event boasted unique decorations, creating an inviting atmosphere. The guests were treated to a selection of teas and filter coffee, complemented by an assortment of savoury bites and sweet treats. The lively conversations around the tables added to the festive atmosphere.

The afternoon began with an inspiring talk by Dr Siza Majola, Managing Director of Crawford International South Africa. Dr Majola shared personal stories and insights, giving us a glimpse into the life and experiences shaping her impressive career. Her speech not only entertained but also motivated our school community, illustrating the impact of strong willed, accomplished women.

The afternoon included a round of handbag bingo and a lucky draw with prizes including Sandton City gift vouchers and beauty vouchers donated by SP Sport and Beauty.

Adding to the excitement, the event featured a fashion show that showcased the creativity of three incredible designers: Laryne Jefferies (https://larynejefferies.com), NM by Nicole Meyerson (https://www.nmbynicolemeyerson.com/) and Nomonde Sindane of IFT Fashion (www.ifollowtrends.com). Our Grade 11 girls had the unique opportunity to model beautiful matric dance dresses, displaying the designers' extraordinary talents. The runway was a full of colours and styles, much to the delight of all present.

The inaugural Mothers & Daughters High Tea was more than just an event; it was a celebration of the special bond between friends and family and a showcase of talent and inspiration within our community.

We cannot wait to host our 2025 event and hope to see you there.

A group of people are sitting at tables in a large room.

A group of women are standing on a stage in front of a red curtain.

Two women are posing for a picture in a room with people.

Student Reflections on Our First Volleyball Tournament

On Saturday, 4th May, Crawford International Sandton College participated in their first volleyball tournament at the American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ). Two girls' teams and one boys' team set off at 07:45, accompanied by our coaches, Claudia and Kevin Accone, and teachers Ms Matadin and Mr Musada.

We arrived at 08:30, eager and in our new uniforms. Throughout the day, we played against AISJ Eagles, DSJ, Michael Mount, Cathula, and Lundulwazi. Lunch, sponsored by Ms Brenda Baijnath from Delforno Parkmore, included chicken burgers, chips, energy bars, apples, and juice boxes, keeping us energised.

The Girls A team played four matches, winning two against Michael Mount and AISJ PTA B. The Girls B team played four matches, keeping the games close with impressive passes. The boys' team also played four matches, with some great rallies and points scored.

Having volleyball at Crawford International Sandton College is exciting. The team is grateful for this experience, full of fun and gameplay. Special thanks to Ashleigh Accone (Grade 9) for helping coach the teams. We look forward to our next tournament.

Contribution by: Sarini Govender and Erin Napier (Grade 9).

A group of children wearing red jerseys are posing for a picture.

A group of kids are playing basketball in a gym

A man in a red shirt with the number 35 on it is talking to a group of basketball players.

Crawford Cares

Peer-to-Peer Teaching at Fidelitas in Soweto

Malaika Mukami one of our Grade 10 students shares his experience with peer-to-peer teaching:

“On Saturday, 4th May 2024, I participated in my first Peer-to-Peer tutoring experience. Peer -to -Peer teaching is an initiative where we as Crawfordians go to Fidelitas Comprehensive School in Soweto and tutor mathematics to their Grade 8 students. Truthfully, I was nervous, and I didn’t know what to expect, but as soon as I began to explain the fundamental algebraic concepts such as ‘The laws of exponents’, I realised that I was doing something so beyond myself: I was helping to lay the foundation for the rest of their high school mathematics journey. 

The engagement, willingness to learn and overall enthusiasm impressed me. The Grade 8 students showed dedication and resilience, constantly asking questions when they didn’t understand the concepts. I especially enjoyed it when I divided the class into smaller groups, and I was able to help each student individually.

The experience reminded me of how privileged I am to share my passion and knowledge for the subject Mathematics.” 

A group of students are sitting at desks in a classroom.

A group of children are sitting at desks in a classroom with a bag that says jeep on it

A group of children are sitting at desks in a classroom

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Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Parents as Educational Partners

June 6, 2025

Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Parents as Educational Partners In today's changing educational landscape, the idea that learning only happens at school is no longer true. Schools and families working together on education is the most effective way to do it. Parents as educational partners means more than just helping with schoolwork. It is making a long-term, joint commitment to helping a child's emotional, social, and intellectual growth. Why Parental Partnership Matters Many studies have shown that when parents are involved in their children's lives, they do better in school, have better control over their emotions, and feel more motivated (OECD, 2021).When parents are engaged, students experience a sense of consistency between home and school. This alignment reinforces values, supports positive behaviours, and cultivates a lifelong love of learning. Some schools facilitate this through digital communication platforms that provide parents with real-time insight into classroom activities, feedback and progress. This transparency allows parents to reinforce learning at home and address challenges proactively. From Engagement to Partnership Going to parent-teacher meetings or school events is not enough for a good educational collaboration. They require open dialogue, mutual respect and a shared commitment to the student’s growth. At different stages of schooling, parental involvement may take on various forms: Pre-Primary and Preparatory: Reading to kids, playing educational games, and asking questions and having discussions to spark their interest. College Phase: Helping students choose their subjects, talking to them about their future goals, and teaching them how to manage their time and deal with their emotions. Parents' roles change, but the main premise keeps the same: build a secure support system where the child feels seen, listened, and encouraged. Building trust and a sense of shared duty Parents and teachers need to talk to one other on a regular basis. Whether through digital platforms, face-to-face meetings or school-led workshops, the goal is to ensure that families feel informed, respected and involved. Giving parents chances to take part in strategic projects, student celebrations, and community-building events is a great way to deepen the school-home connection. This shared responsibility not only helps students do well in school, but it also shows young people how to work together and respect one another. Promoting independence and responsibility While partnership is essential, it is equally important to support student independence. Parents play a critical role in encouraging autonomy by allowing children to take ownership of their learning, make decisions, and experience natural consequences in a safe and supportive environment. By guiding rather than directing, and supporting rather than rescuing, parents help students build resilience and confidence. This balanced involvement nurtures individuals who are capable of self-reflection and personal growth. In conclusion, learning doesn't happen in a vacuum. It is a group effort that works best when people work together in a meaningful way. When parents, teachers and school leadership work in partnership, students benefit from a coherent and supportive learning environment. Through open communication, mutual respect and shared purpose, we can ensure that every student is equipped not only to succeed academically, but to flourish in life.

Meet Mashudu Bhengu: Bringing out the best in her students at Crawford International Lonehill

May 30, 2025

Meet Mashudu Bhengu: Bringing out the best in her students at Crawford International Lonehill Teaches : Zulu to Grades 1-4 Qualifications: Bachelor of Education: Early Childhood and Foundation Phase (UNISA) Hobbies and interests: Avid reader and gym enthusiast – it keeps her sane and grounded! Teaching is About Serving and Giving Back: Before choosing teaching, Mashudu Bhengu was interested in pursuing a career in nursing or social work, drawn to community service and giving back. In 2013, volunteering at an NGO in Lawley, she facilitated after-school classes for disadvantaged children. This experience sparked her passion for teaching, leading her to enrol in teaching studies at UNISA. One of Mashudu’s favourite aspects of working with children is their purity and honesty. She finds immense joy and fulfilment in teaching, seeing her efforts and commitment reciprocated with love and enthusiasm by her students. For Mashudu, no other career could bring such personal satisfaction. On Her Mentor and Teaching Influence: Mashudu vividly remembers her Grade 3 teacher, Mrs Harding, who significantly impacted her life. Mrs Harding’s patience, empathy, and unwavering support inspired Mashudu’s teaching career. Mashudu aspires to be a ‘Mrs Harding’ for her students, boosting their confidence, instilling a love of learning, and encouraging them to strive for more. On Her A-ha Moments: As a foundation phase teacher, Mashudu often wonders how much her young students absorb. But she is vindicated when she sees them apply their learning to solve problems, which gives her real thrill to see then work things out for themselves. Her A-ha moments come not just from their academic achievements, but also from witnessing her students develop as unique individuals. For Mashudu, teaching at the foundational stage is a profound journey, extending well beyond ‘subject matter’. While she may be teaching Zulu, Mashudu also knows she is nurturing young minds and hearts, instilling essential social, emotional, and life skills. On Teaching at Crawford International: Mashudu loves Crawford’s student-centred approach and the mutual respect between students and teachers. At Crawford, teachers encourage students to be self-empowered, curious, and responsible for their success. They teach the value of kindness, resilience, and curiosity, helping students navigate their emotions and interactions. The pride Mashudu feels when her dedication resonates beyond the classroom is immense. In her Zulu classes, Mashudu balances her student’s tech exposure with activities like singing, music, dancing, and rhymes, engaging all senses and learning styles. These activities provide a welcome break from technology, allowing children to enjoy spontaneity and just be children. Personal Philosophy: One of Mashudu’s favourite quotes is by Will Smith: “Following your dreams is a lonely, solitary, scary pursuit. You can't wait for somebody to think you can do it. You have to be willing to risk everything to become that seed of what you believe is in there. You have to be fearless. You have to be relentless in the pursuit of your dream.”

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ROXANNE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN

By Neo Moshoeu • May 23, 2025

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ROXANNE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN Crawford International Lonehill | Class of 2009 From the banking halls of one of South Africa’s most prestigious financial institutions to the stages and studios of New York City, Roxanne Van der Westhuizen’s story is one of courage, reinvention and the pursuit of purpose. Chasing the Calling After matriculating from Crawford International Lonehill in 2009, Roxanne was accepted into the Psychology programme at the University of Cape Town. A sudden family crisis and financial hardship brought her back to Johannesburg, where she began working to support her family. Years later, determined to finish what she started, she enrolled at Varsity College in Sandton. Balancing motherhood, full-time employment and a rigorous academic load, she earned her degree with distinction, graduating at the top of her class. Her career began at Investec Bank, where she rose through the ranks, first in client services and later in data analytics. Her success came through persistence, grit and repeated setbacks that ultimately redirected her. A moment of deep personal reflection led her to reconnect with a long-suppressed calling, storytelling through performance. In a bold leap of faith, she left her corporate life behind and relocated to New York to pursue acting. There, she studied under renowned acting coach Terry Knickerbocker, known for mentoring names such as Sam Rockwell and Daniel Craig. She was named Student of the Season at his studio. Today, Roxanne stars in stage and screen productions across the U.S., including her lead role in the upcoming film Emancipation of the Past (July 2025), and a standout performance as Regina in Not to Be Played With (available on Tubi and AppleTV). She is also developing her own series, which she plans to take to festivals and production houses. Achievements and Projects Lead role in Emancipation of the Past (2025 release) Featured in Not to Be Played With on Tubi and Apple TV Collaboration on Spicy Bob alongside Pete Simpson of Blue Man Group Student of the Season at Terry Knickerbocker Studio Creator and writer of a new series currently in development Roxanne reflects on her journey and earning one of her biggest roles yet, “this is the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do, but also the most enriching. The vulnerability required in acting is daunting, but it connects me to myself and others in ways I never imagined. Despite the false starts and failures, I am exactly where I am meant to be.”

Two young girls are hugging each other on a bed.

Social-emotional learning activities for kids & teens

May 21, 2025

Hands-on, practical activities to build on your child’s EQ strengths and skills.

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.”

10 Reasons Why Early Childhood Development is Important

By ADvTECH Group • April 15, 2025

The 10 reasons why the first six years of a child's life are crucial when it comes to early childhood development, read all about it in this article.

One to one correspondence

By Ashmita Mistry • April 8, 2025

Crawford schools blog article on one-to-one correspondence in early development and the importance of this developmental skill that adults take for granted.

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.

Career guidance for grade 9: Student resting against a whiteboard with books

Career guidance for Grade 9: What subjects should you choose?

By ADvTECH Group • March 19, 2025

Let’s try and make sense of career guidance by giving you some information on how to choose your Grade 10 to 12 subjects. Read on to find some helpful pointers.