Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,
Courage
We have come to the end of a most successful first term and I thank you for your support of the school over these busy weeks. The Courage Festival held at Kingsmead over this past weekend was a showcase of sportsmanship and a love for sport. I saw so much dedication and passion shown by the teams and I believe that many memories were created over the four days.
The school campus looked beautiful and I thank our support and services teams under Mrs Geraldine Church and Mr Jabulani Maswanganyi for their hard work in getting the campus ready for the festival. The PTA volunteers were wonderful and I thank them for their dedication and for selling so many delicious goodies. Thank you to Ms Bianca Meyer for coordinating the festival and ensuring its success.
The marketing team ensured that the festival was well covered from a social media perspective and we have had many compliments about the wide and professional coverage. Thank you to the marketing team for all your hard work to promote the festival.
I also commend our First Netball Team, who had a successful tournament at St Andrew’s, and our U15 Netball Team, who played at St Mary’s in a tournament. Please see Ms Meyer’s article in this newsletter about all the festivals and the results.
While thinking about courage, I fortuitously came across an article in a McKinsey bulletin this week, in which I found the following profound statements:
Winston Churchill: “Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities, because….it is the quality which guarantees all others.”
Courage is both moral and practical. It is not sentiment or bravado and today’s world makes the choice to be courageous even more urgent.
I wish you all a blessed Easter break and a happy holiday ahead. We will see you all back on 4 May 2026 for Term II.
Fond regards,
Lisa Palmer
Executive Head: Kingsmead College
Academics
Grade 10 Relaunches Geography – Themed Baker Baker
Our Grade 10 Geography class has relaunched the ever-popular Baker Baker project, where creativity meets geography in the sweetest way possible! To date, the students have already enjoyed two imaginative cakes, each inspired by geographical themes.
The first cake was crafted by Ms Rademacher, who cleverly used the theme of topographical maps. A section of a map was recreated using sweets to represent various map symbols, turning geography into a deliciously visual experience.
The second creation came from Amanaah Ebrahim, who drew inspiration from Windy.com, a digital weather platform. Her cake showcased Southern Africa, beautifully blending geography and artistry in edible form.
The class is eagerly looking forward to more inventive creations as the year unfolds. This fun initiative not only brings Geography to life but also encourages students to think creatively about the subject while enjoying a tasty treat in the last lesson on a Friday together.
Grade 10 & 11 Geography Outing to Hartbeespoort Cableway
Our Grade 10 and 11 Geography students recently enjoyed an exciting and enriching outing to the Hartbeespoort Cableway. This excursion gave them the opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences while exploring the Hartbeespoort Dam and its surrounding landscapes.
The day began with a journey through the Brits tunnel and across the impressive dam wall, where students could appreciate the striking poort (gap) through the Magaliesberg Mountains, the site of the dam wall, an ideal setting to discuss how and when the dam was constructed. From this vantage point, they gained insight into the dam’s vital role in supporting the local community through tourism, leisure, and irrigation for local agriculture.
At the top of the cableway, students worked collaboratively on activities that applied their term’s learning. They sharpened their mapwork skills and studied landscapes associated with inclined horizontal strata, all while enjoying panoramic views of Schoemansville, Brits, and the dam itself.
Of course, it wasn’t all work! The girls had time to relax, enjoy a delicious pizza lunch, and complete their workbooks in the fresh air of the Magaliesberg. The combination of academic focus, teamwork, and fun made this outing a memorable highlight of the term.
This experience not only deepened their geographical knowledge but also showcased how learning can be both engaging and enjoyable when taken beyond the classroom.
Grade 12 Geography Field Trip to Delta Park
As part of their Matric IEB Portfolio, our Grade 12 Geography students embarked on an exciting field trip to Delta Park to study the Braamfontein Spruit. This outing was a key component in completing one of their required Portfolio pieces, designed to deepen their understanding of the river theory they are currently studying.
The experience challenged students to apply a wide range of geographical skills. Before the trip, they worked through questions about the drainage basin and used Google Maps to study their route and apply their knowledge of geographical information systems. This preparation ensured they were ready to explore the spruit with confidence and purpose.
On the day, students captured images of the river landforms they had studied in class, bringing textbook concepts to life in the field. They also conducted a critical observation of human impact on the Braamfontein Spruit, reflecting on how communities interact with and sometimes alter natural environments. These observations will form the basis of an essay, allowing them to combine practical fieldwork with analytical writing.
The outing also introduced students to sustainable lifestyle practices. They enjoyed a wholesome vegetarian and vegan lunch at Fresh Earth Food Store/Café in Blairgowrie, Johannesburg, a health-focused café and deli that emphasises mindful eating and sustainability. Later, they visited the Conrad Collection, a popular thrift shop, where they explored sustainable fashion and alternatives to fast fashion.
The day was not only academically enriching but also an eye-opening opportunity to see how geography connects with broader themes of sustainability, lifestyle choices, and community impact. By linking theory to real-world examples, the students gained valuable insight into the dynamic relationship between rivers, human activity, and sustainable living, an experience that will serve them well in their final year of study.
Bianca Rademacher
Geography Teacher
Grade 8 Aeroplane Design Experiment
On 17 March, our Grade 8 students put their scientific method skills to the test in a hands-on aeroplane design experiment as part of the Curiouser and Curiouser module. After several weeks of unpacking and practising the steps involved in conducting a scientific investigation, the Grade 8s were tasked with their final experiment: investigating how the design of a paper aeroplane affects its distance.
Students researched a range of paper aeroplane designs, constructed their models, and carefully gathered data to support their scientific write-ups. Throughout the process, they embraced the opportunity to have fun while remaining focused on accuracy and fair testing. This practical experiment provided a fitting conclusion to the term, allowing students to consolidate their skills, apply their knowledge meaningfully, and truly see their scientific potential reach new heights.
Grade 11 Brain Dissection
On Monday, 30 March, our Grade 11 Life Sciences students engaged in a hands-on brain dissection practical, providing them with a valuable opportunity to consolidate their understanding of the nervous system. During the dissection, students were able to observe the protective layers surrounding the brain, carefully remove it from the skull, and examine its major structural regions in detail.
This practical allowed students to develop an appreciation for the physical fragility of the brain and to make meaningful connections between its structure and function, reinforcing key concepts covered in class. The experience promoted careful observation, respect for biological specimens, and thoughtful scientific discussion. Having this real-life exposure help students translate the diagrams in their books into real life and get them thinking about their thinking.
Idiom Day
Students from Grades 8 to 11 brought language to life on the 13th of March 2026 as they participated in the vibrant and imaginative Idiom Dress-Up Day. The event, organised as part of the Additional Languages programme, aimed to deepen learners’ understanding of idiomatic expressions through creativity, collaboration, and interactive learning.
Working in pairs, students transformed familiar idioms into visual representations, arriving at school dressed as everything from “raining cats and dogs” to “the early bird catches the worm.” Each group not only showcased their costumes but also explained the meanings and origins of their chosen idioms, encouraging both humour and thoughtful reflection on language use.
The day was filled with energy as learners engaged in a variety of activities, including interactive games and lively Kahoot! quizzes that tested their knowledge in a fun and competitive environment. Adding a modern twist to the celebration, some groups went beyond traditional presentations, creating AI-generated songs inspired by their idioms that blend technology with linguistic creativity.
The Idiom Dress-Up Day proved to be more than just a fun event; it was a meaningful educational experience that highlighted the richness of language while fostering teamwork and innovation. Students left the day not only with a better grasp of idiomatic expressions but also with lasting memories of a shared celebration of imagination and learning
April Fool’s Day
April Fool’s Day at Kingsmead took on a refreshing new approach this year, as students enjoyed a lively “learning through play” day. Those who attended were treated to a meaningful and enjoyable experience, making it unfortunate that some students missed out due to high absenteeism. The school encourages families to take advantage of these end-of-term wellness opportunities, which are designed to support students’ mental, physical, and emotional health.
As part of the school’s bell-to-bell cell phone ban, the day emphasised that disconnecting from devices is not a punishment but a chance to reconnect with others. Research shows that students benefit from learning how to play again, engaging face-to-face, building teamwork, and communicating without the pressure of academic demands. These interactions help rebuild social and neurodiverse skills.
Activities included breathwork sessions, where students practised breathing, mindfulness, and being present, as well as yoga, which encouraged relaxation and focus, and journaling. Drum circle and games such as Twister and Jenga added excitement while developing coordination and motor skills. Classic games like Ludo and Uno also made a comeback, and students even created their own games when they were done or felt bored.
The school encourages parents to allow children time to be bored, as it can spark creativity and imagination. As the holidays begin, students may even bring these games home to share with their families.
Academic Committee
Beyond the Classroom
Sports Festival Highlights
We extend our congratulations to all our sports players who represented the school with pride at various festivals this past term.
Our netball teams delivered outstanding performances across the board. The 1st Team showed great determination and teamwork at the St Andrew’s Netball Festival, while our U15 team impressed at the St Mary’s Netball Festival.
On the hockey field, our U15 team participated enthusiastically in the Linden Hoërskool Festival and won the Bowl Championship. Our 1st Team demonstrated excellent commitment and skill at the Courage Festival.
A special well done to our U14 Netball, Hockey, and Squash teams, who played their hearts out at the Roedean Netball Festival.
Our U16 Netball, Hockey, and Squash teams showed grit and enthusiasm as they tackled the St Andrews Sports Festival.
We are incredibly proud of all our players’ efforts, we thank them for their dedication, and we can’t wait for the season ahead!
Courage Festival
During the weekend of 26–29 March, the Kingsmead campus came alive as it hosted the annual Courage Festival, welcoming netball and hockey players, spectators, and vendors for a vibrant and action-packed few days.
The festival proved to be a memorable and highly successful event, with 32 schools, 16 netball teams, and 16 hockey teams participating. The weekend was filled with energy, competitive spirit, and camaraderie. With the support of our sponsors, the festival also created meaningful opportunities for less-resourced schools to participate, reinforcing the inclusive spirit at the heart of the Courage Festival.
Our sincere thanks go to all those who contributed to making the event a success. We are grateful to Ms Palmer and the school management team for their support in hosting an event of this scale. Thank you to the PTA for the outstanding braai area, which enhanced the festival’s warm and welcoming atmosphere. We also extend our appreciation to all student volunteers, whose enthusiasm and pride in the school were evident throughout the event.
Congratulations to all participating schools. It was inspiring to witness both the high level of competition and the spirit of sportsmanship displayed throughout the festival. We look forward to welcoming you back next year.
Bianca Meyer
HOD of Sports
Running Club
“Whoever said running is fun was clearly lying”. This was the exact thought I had the first time I went to the running club. After being encouraged by Mrs Anderson and my friends to give running a shot, I decided to run my first ever 5k at the running club. Needless to say, it was painful. I ended the run dripping in sweat and slightly traumatised, but the crazy part was that I immediately became addicted to the running club. The conversations, enthusiasm, and endorphin rush at 6 in the morning were incredible. I continued to show up the next week, which turned into a month, then a term and then all of a sudden, I had been part of Kingsmead’s running club for 2 years.
Not only has this community become one of my favourites on campus, but I’ve also felt genuine support, even though I could barely run for more than 5 minutes when I started. Seeing this community grow and seeing everyone (whether they are a sprinter, jogger, or walker) be embraced is something so special. Whilst I may miss sleeping in a bit, nothing is worth missing out on Kingsmead’s special running club.
Claire Anderson
Service
This term, our Kingsmead community demonstrated a wonderful spirit of generosity and service. Through initiatives such as Footloose Friday, Outfits of Hope, the Matilda – Service and Arts Collaboration, and Share What You Can, we received an incredible response from families.
Thanks to the kindness and support of our parents and broader community, we were able to make substantial donations to our service partners, who benefited greatly from these contributions. These acts of giving continue to strengthen our partnerships and remind us of the impact we can make when we work together. Thank you to everyone who contributed so generously this term.
April Fools’ Day
On April Fools’ Day, Kingsmead replaced the academic timetable with a Wellness, Fun, and Service Day. Students took part in Service Packing, using donations from Share What You Can to create hampers from items donated across the grades.
Donations and Easter eggs and Knitted Bunnies were delivered to Baragwanath Hospital, Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital, Look Forward Children’s Home, and San Salvador. Students also packed mother‑and‑baby essentials for The Grace Factory, supporting new mothers and their babies.
The day reflected the true spirit of kindness and community at Kingsmead.
Elsabé Fourie
Deputy Head: Beyond the Classroom
efourie@kingsmead.co.za
Alumnae
We are so excited to begin planning our Career Exploration Day 2026 and would love your support in helping make it the most inspiring one yet for our girls.
This year’s theme, “Courage to Dream Big,” highlights two of our school values, Courage & Possibility, encouraging our girls to be bold in their aspirations, to explore the many possibilities open to them, and to do so with courage.
The event will take place on Thursday, 7 May, from 13:00 to 19:00. It is compulsory for Grades 9 and 11, while Grade 12 students are invited to join from 14:30 onwards.
Ways to get involved on the day:
1. Share your story – Briefly speak about your journey after school.
2. Networking session – Informal chats with the girls about careers or studies.
If you can’t attend on the day, there are still two ways to get involved:
1. Career interview – Be interviewed about your career (in person or online).
2. Job shadowing – Host a girl for a short workplace visit.
If you’re interested, please complete the form: https://forms.gle/D6remU1GRfXhxYXv6