Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff and Students,
As I write this newsletter article, I am sitting in a delightful B and B in Bloemfontein while attending the South African Girls’ Schools Association (SAGSA) Conference, hosted by St Michael’s School for Girls.
We spent the afternoon at Oranje Meisies Skool – having a most fruitful discussion about striking the right balance among academics, sport, culture, and service, and touring their extensive facilities. We are not the only school to grapple with the sharing of facilities; the extra expectations and pressure on teaching staff and students and maintaining a strong school culture in which everyone participates and buys into the identity of the school.
I am increasingly reminded that a successful school is one that is able to create a strong culture, one in which the community buys into wholly and where the support of the whole community is evident.
The Kingsmead Book Fair held on Saturday, 23 May, was a wonderful example of our community coming together for an event that showcased the very best of our school. Our students were superb ambassadors for the school on the day and we have received many compliments about their behaviour and their willingness to show visitors to the various venues. The MDC was present, selling cold drinks and I was proud of the questions that our students asked in the sessions that I attended.
Thank you to our Estate Manager – Jabulani Maswanganyi, our Facilities and Events Manager – Geraldine Church, and our Housekeeping Manager – Zinhle Sithole, and their teams, for their help on the day, and for restoring the campus to a fully functioning school by first thing on Monday morning.
Thank you to the PTA for their help in volunteering and for decorating the marquee in a most spectacular way. The Kingsmead staff is always involved at various venues, serving as ushers for the authors. They did a wonderful job. The Kingsmead Marketing team was also instrumental in helping with the logistics and organisation of the day.
The Director of the Book Fair – Alex Bouche – celebrated her 10th KBF this year and it certainly stood out as a most memorable one. The programme was carefully curated and put together, and the fact that we had 160 authors in 80 sessions was remarkable.
This event stands as our signature annual event and I am so grateful to everyone who had a role to play in making it such a success.
Thank you for your continued support of our school and for your contribution to building a strong school with a sound culture.
Fond regards,
Lisa Palmer
Executive Head: Kingsmead College
Academics
Senior Geography Olympiad Participation
Our school proudly participated in the Senior South African National Geography Olympiad (SANGO), where 10 students from Grades 10–12 represented us with enthusiasm and dedication.
The Olympiad, conducted on an online platform, challenged learners with a range of questions that integrated both current global events and senior geography curriculum content. This approach tested not only their academic knowledge but also their ability to apply geographic thinking to real-world situations.
Our students approached the competition with focus and determination, demonstrating critical thinking and problem-solving skills throughout the assessment. Participation in SANGO encourages learners to deepen their understanding of geography beyond the classroom.
We eagerly await the results and are hopeful that some of our participants will be selected for the second round later this year. Regardless of the outcome, we are incredibly proud of their commitment and willingness to embrace this opportunity.
Congratulations to all participants for representing the school with excellence!
Grade 12 Geography: Rosebank Precinct Urban Walk
Our Grade 12 Geography students recently stepped beyond the classroom and into the dynamic environment of the Rosebank Precinct for an immersive urban geography field experience. This enriching excursion allowed learners to observe, analyse, and connect key curriculum concepts with real-world examples.
A central focus of the walk was urban climate, particularly the role of human activities in shaping microclimates within cities. Students explored how urban design can either intensify or mitigate environmental impacts. By examining the Standard Bank Building and the Rosebank Link Building, learners observed how modern architecture incorporates environmentally responsive features. These include energy-efficient design, green spaces, and materials that help reduce the urban heat island effect. The integration of urban gardens further highlighted how cities are adapting to promote sustainability, improve air quality, and regulate temperature.
The concept of urban renewal was brought to life through visits to landmarks such as the Monarch Hotel and the Workshop17 Fire Station Building. Students discussed how these redeveloped spaces contribute to economic revitalisation, enhance urban appeal, and support community engagement while preserving elements of historical significance.
Commercial geography was another key area of exploration. Students engaged with ideas such as neighbourhood shopping centres and Central Place Theory, using the Seattle Coffee Company to understand the variables that influence the classification of goods as higher- or lower-order.
A standout moment of the day was the unexpected opportunity at Workshop17 Fire Station. Thanks to the building manager’s generosity, students were invited inside for an impromptu visit with the local fire and rescue team. This hands-on experience provided valuable insight into emergency services, highlighting the extensive equipment, specialised training, and critical role firefighters play in urban safety. It was an inspiring and memorable encounter that broadened students’ understanding of urban infrastructure beyond the textbook.
This urban walk not only deepened students’ understanding of key geographical concepts but also encouraged critical thinking about how cities evolve and function. Experiences like these reinforce the importance of experiential learning and bring Geography vividly to life.
Bianca Rademacher
Senior School Geography Teacher
Physical Science Outing
On the 21st of May 2026, our Matric class had the pleasure of visiting the Lethabo Eskom power plant, which was a greatly informative and insightful experience. It was an absolute privilege to have our curriculum laid out in front of us in a practical, real-world setting such as this, and I am deeply appreciative of both the school and the Plant for providing us with this opportunity.
While the trip there consisted of a few notable detours (This answered the question of how long it takes a bus full of schoolgirls to travel a distance of 88km at a velocity of 65km/h- 1 and a half hours!), We eventually arrived safely and were introduced to the wonderful Masego and Zandi, who became our tour guides for the day.
We were given a presentation on the internal workings and long history of this particular plant and were then properly equipped in safety gear before entering the plant itself. We wore helmets, goggles, dust masks and headphones connected to Masego’s microphone as we explored the different areas inside. We were shown the “conveyor belts” that carried the ground coal to the boilers or “steam generators” and were able to see one of these generators in person (and hear the deafening noise it produced). Lethabo power station uses extremely low-grade coal with an ash content of up to 42%. This is the only plant in the world that is able to burn such low-grade coal! The plant also prides itself on being a “ZLED” station (Zero-Liquid-Effluent-Discharge), which recycles and reuses its water. They have large filtration and distillation systems that clean the water and release it as steam, which re-enters the water cycle through evaporation.
Overall, this outing was a wonderful opportunity that our class was able to take in as a group and experience together. I am incredibly grateful to have been able to take part in this day and will remember it long after matric.
Emily Donly
Grade 12
Grade 3 and Grade 8 Reading
During Term 1, the grade 8s wrote their own children’s books, and once they had completed the feedback and editing process, they used AI to create the illustrations. The grade 8s learned a lot about using effective prompts. The result was spectacular.
Leading up to Book Fair, our grade 8s could see and share the fruit of their labour. On Thursday, 21 May, our Senior School Grade 8 Afrikaans, isiZulu, and Sesotho students read their own storybooks in the respective languages to the Grade 3 students.
This was part of the Junior School’s Book Week celebrations and presented a wonderful opportunity to highlight the value and impact of reading, particularly in a First Additional Language.
Grade 10 Afrikaans Outing to the Voortrekker Monument
The Grade 10 Afrikaans students enjoyed an educational excursion to the Voortrekker Monument on the 21st of May. During the visit, they explored the monument’s remarkable architecture, including its massive granite structure and the intricate historical friezes depicting the Voortrekkers’ journey.
One of the most fascinating features was the opening in the dome of the monument, designed so that every year on 16 December, a beam of sunlight shines directly onto the cenotaph below, illuminating the words, “Ons vir Jou, Suid-Afrika.”
The students learnt about the historical and cultural significance of this design and gained insight into the lives of the Voortrekkers. They also experienced aspects of traditional Voortrekker life by watching a demonstration of how bread was made in earlier times and tasting freshly baked homemade bread. In addition, the students enjoyed feeding and interacting with farm animals such as goats and horses, making the excursion both educational and memorable.
Grade 10 isiZulu and Sesotho Outing to Soweto
On Thursday, 21 May 2026, the Grade 10 learners participated in an educational excursion to Soweto as part of the school’s commitment to extending learning beyond the classroom. The trip gave learners an opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of one of South Africa’s most important historical locations.
During the journey, Mrs Gamsu from So Where to Adventures shared valuable information about the history and development of Soweto, helping learners gain a deeper understanding of its role in South Africa’s past. Upon arrival at the famous Soweto Towers, learners were warmly welcomed with music and dancing before taking the cable lift up the towers. Although some learners were nervous because of the height, the experience was exciting and memorable for everyone.
The group later visited the Soweto Hotel, where learners enjoyed an energetic gumboot dance performance. The performers also invited learners to join a dance session, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.
Another important stop on the excursion was Regina Mundi Catholic Church, the largest church in Soweto. Learners learned about the church’s important role during the Apartheid struggle, serving as a place of safety and unity for many community members.
The final destination was Vilakazi Street, where learners visited the former home of Nelson and Winnie Mandela. Learners also learned about the Bantu Education Act, the Soweto Uprising, and Hector Pieterson’s role in the fight against Apartheid. The day ended with learners enjoying Kota’s together before returning to school with unforgettable memories and valuable knowledge.
Erika Snyman
HOD: Additional Languages
Beyond the Classroom
I recently shared the ‘Tell Them’ Theory with our students. If we could develop a narrative that emphasises positive reinforcement, gratitude, and truly seeing one another, we could shift how we communicate and interact as a school and community. Humans are wired to notice anomalies, pick out errors, and find fault. What our young people need is the opposite. To celebrate our successes, no matter how small they may be; to lift each other up and continue to encourage and support, even when things are tough and the task at hand seems unachievable. Perceived barriers are often the only thing standing in our way of success, as illustrated by the recent records broken at the London Marathon. Once one athlete overcame the obstacle and achieved a sub-2-hour marathon, it became possible for others to do the same.
The Beyond the Classroom team is working hard to develop a culture of collaboration and team spirit. We are assessing what works well at Kingsmead and exploring how we could improve to ensure the best possible learning and growth experience for our students. We are excited for the journey ahead and aim to partner with our parent body and students to see where we can go if we all work together towards a common goal.
Water Polo
The Winter Water Polo League is well underway, with our 1st Team competing on Friday evenings and our U15s taking to the pool on Sundays. The girls have thoroughly enjoyed being back in the water, and the Winter League has provided an excellent opportunity to maintain fitness during the winter season and, most importantly, to gain valuable match experience and game time.
We proudly congratulate Kyla Hall, Erin Boyd, and Kristin Billett on their selection to the U16 South African Water Polo Team. They will represent South Africa on the international stage at the World Championships in Zagreb, Croatia, later in July. This is an incredible achievement of which we are immensely proud. It is a testament to their hard work and our coaches’ mentoring.
We also extend our congratulations to all our water polo players selected for the Gauteng Schools Winter Training Squads. We wish them every success as they continue training and developing within their respective age groups.
Netball
The Senior School Netball league has been incredibly busy and demanding, with many fixtures packed into a short space of time. Despite the intensity of the schedule, our players rose to the challenge and competed with determination, resilience, and passion throughout the season. The league was highly competitive, with teams facing strong opposition each week, yet our players continued to demonstrate growth, teamwork, and commitment on and off the court. This season also presented its fair share of challenges, particularly the seven-players-per-team regulation. However, our players approached these obstacles with maturity and dedication, always willing to adapt and support one another to ensure the season remained successful. Their perseverance and positive attitude have been truly commendable. We encourage all our players to continue nurturing their passion and love for the sport and not let challenges or restrictions limit their growth and development. Netball continues to provide opportunities for resilience, teamwork, leadership, and personal growth, and we are excited to see the programme continue to strengthen in the future.
Special congratulations go to the four teams that qualified for the District Playoffs: the 1st Team, U17A, U15A, and U14A. This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication shown by both players and coaches throughout the season. The U17A team progressed to the final round of the playoffs, where they faced exceptionally strong competition and ultimately finished 3rd in the district for their age group – an outstanding accomplishment.
Enormous congratulations to the U15A team, who delivered an exceptional performance throughout the playoffs, winning all their matches and finishing as District 9 Champions in their age group. Their success has earned them a spot in the Inter-District Playoffs, and we wish them the very best in the next stage of competition.
Thank you to all players, coaches, staff, and parents for your commitment, support, and dedication throughout the season. Your contribution has played an important role in making this netball season such a memorable and successful one.
PrEDA & FEDA
Our Drama department hosted a highly successful PREDA evening with St Stithians Girls’ College in preparation for the FEDA season ahead. In the same week, our team performed at FEDA, where they received high praise for the thought-provoking, clever script, the original, creative score, and thoughtful direction. We are immensely proud of this group of actors, musicians, and crew who were acknowledged by the judges for maintaining the high standard of drama performance that Kingsmead is known for.
Music
Festival season is upon us, and the Choir, Orchestra, Jazz Band, and Marimba bands have been hard at work preparing for the various events.
Last week, our Choir performed at the annual Kingsmead Masicule Sonke Festival alongside 6 other schools. This event is truly a celebration of vibrant and colourful choral singing, and it was a joy to witness the variety of musical styles and genres presented by the diverse choir performances.
On Sunday, the Choir performed at the prestigious CCNF Choral Festival at the Linder Auditorium, another fantastic event known for excellence in choral singing and for celebrating the variety of choral music in our country.
This week, the Orchestra and Jazz band performed at our annual Kingsmead Ensemble Festival alongside a range of bands and ensembles from 8 other schools. The marimba bands welcomed the audience each night as they arrived for the event. It is heartwarming to see the excellent music happening in our schools and the joy with which our students make music together.
On Sunday, our Jazz band will perform at the St David’s Jazz festival, rubbing shoulders with some of the best Jazz musicians in the industry.
Thank you to our Arts & Music parents for their ongoing support of the Arts at Kingsmead.
Kind regards,
Elsabe Fourie
Deputy Head: Beyond the Classroom
