Dear Kingsmead Community,
We experienced a rollercoaster of emotions as we said farewell to the Matric Class of 2026 at a beautiful Valedictory Service and Assembly on Friday, 2 October. We wish the class 0f 2026 every success as they prepare for their upcoming Final Examinations. They are so well prepared and I know that they will make us proud.
We also wished our Grade 10 class well as they set off on their long-anticipated Outventure journey, which was postponed from January this year. I look forward to seeing them midway through the journey and I can’t wait to hear all the stories they bring back.
During chapel, I spoke to the students about having an abundant mindset, rather than a scarce one. We discussed five steps to move toward a more abundant mindset. They are:
1. Focus on what you have – the skills, the opportunities, the support you already have around you.
2. Surround yourself with people who have an abundance mindset. Other people’s attitudes do rub off on you, so choose people who inspire you and motivate you.
3. Create win-win situations. If possible, reach a point where all parties leave feeling better and with a sense of accomplishment.
4. Incorporate gratitude into your life. Expressing gratitude improves mental and physical well-being and impacts your overall experience of happiness.
5. Be open to other possibilities. An abundance mentality helps you see more in your life: more options, more choices and more resources.
I used the analogy of lighting a candle. If I light my candle and you light yours from mine, it doesn’t take anything away from my light; it lets us both shine. This is what happens with an abundance mindset: it takes nothing away from you, but it enhances the area and the people around you.
Fond regards,
Lisa Palmer
Executive Head: Kingsmead College
Academics
Grade 12 Business Studies: Banango Traders Entrepreneurs Simulation
On 9 September, our Grade 12 Business Studies students stepped into the world of entrepreneurship through the exciting Banango Traders Entrepreneurs Simulation. Designed to bring classroom concepts and the IEB Business theme to life, this fast-paced, immersive experience challenged students to put their business knowledge into practice.
Working in teams, students experienced the thrill of running their own restaurant, making key decisions around pricing, marketing and purchasing. The simulation encouraged strategic thinking, teamwork and entrepreneurial decision-making in a fun and competitive environment.
Congratulations to À là Banango’, the winning restaurant of the day! The team comprised Kaitlyn Brown, Melokuhle Zungu, Ma’eesha Ramasike, Cameron Haskins and Thanaya Poovalingam.
Well done to all our Grade 12 Business Studies students for embracing this opportunity to learn, collaborate and think like entrepreneurs!
On 17 September, some of our Grade 11 and 12 students took their learning beyond the classroom by attending the Nedbank IMC Marketing Conference, Africa’s largest marketing conference.
The experience offered our students valuable insight into the ever-evolving world of marketing, innovation and communication. They had the opportunity to hear from influential industry voices, explore exhibition stands and connect with marketing professionals, gaining a deeper understanding of the opportunities available within the industry.
Beyond the knowledge gained, the conference encouraged students to look towards their own futures and consider the role they could play in shaping the business landscape. By engaging with real-world ideas and industry leaders, they were able to connect their classroom learning to the possibilities that lie ahead.
Experiences like these empower our students to think beyond the textbook, explore their interests and begin envisioning themselves as the innovators, communicators and business leaders of tomorrow.
Beyond the Classroom: Developing the whole student
A year ago, Kingsmead officially established Beyond the Classroom (BtC), a collaborative approach to all non-academic activities across the school. Its purpose is to provide an inclusive, balanced programme where every student can explore her interests, develop her potential and build lifelong habits for a meaningful, healthy and fulfilling life. We measure success not only by achievement, but by the choices students make and the habits they develop for life beyond school.
Through Sport, Wellness, Arts and Music, and Service, we aim to nurture physical and mental well-being, teamwork, contribution and social responsibility. Our diverse offerings ensure every student has opportunities to participate, find a sense of belonging and discover their own way to contribute, while fostering a lifelong appreciation for an active lifestyle, the arts and service to others.
The BtC Heads of Department oversee their respective disciplines across the College, promoting consistency in the student and parent experience throughout the Kingsmead journey. Mieke Kunz, Head of Junior School Arts and Music and Head of Music, and Kailin Pillay, Head of Senior School Arts, lead the Arts and Music portfolio, supported by Graham Diesel, our newly appointed Music Centre Coordinator. Nene Golele coordinates Service, with Junior School representatives Claire Rowan and Raeesa Kaka, and Senior School representatives Philisiwe Malevu and Aida Pereira. Sport and Wellness are managed by the Heads of Sport and Sport-specific Heads of Department: Bianca Meyer, HOD of Senior School Sport, Netball, Diving and Wellness; Samanatha Drysdale, HOD of Junior School Sport, Soccer and Equestrian; Mujahid Padayachy, HOD of Tennis and Hockey; Aaliyah Osman, HOD of Water Polo; and Annie Koekemoer, HOD of Swimming, Athletics (JS) and Squash. The overall programme is coordinated by Elsabé Fourie, Deputy: Beyond the Classroom, who works with the portfolio leaders to provide strategic direction and support.
The past year has been one of exploration, learning and collaboration. Looking ahead, we remain committed to strengthening the programme and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to participate and flourish. In the new year, we look forward to sharing our strategic direction and introducing policies and procedures to support Beyond the Classroom’s long-term success for the benefit of our students and the wider Kingsmead community.
Regards,
Elsabe Fourie
Deputy Head: Beyond the Classroom
Kingsmead Debaters Shine at Gauteng Debating Provincials
Our Kingsmead debaters took to the stage at the Gauteng Debating Provincials, one of the province’s largest and most prestigious debating tournaments, competing with confidence, determination and a passion for constructive argument.
Both teams represented Kingsmead with pride, demonstrating their ability to think critically, communicate effectively and work collaboratively under pressure.
Kingsmead Kermits ft Gertrude, comprising Josephine Less, Adiva Tickoo, Sophie Wolstenholme and Ren Clement, secured three wins out of their six debates.
Kingsmead Emerald Crusaders, comprising Kristen Benjamin, Isabella Cadman, Zahreen Moosajee and Nina Schoenman, delivered an impressive performance, winning four of their six debates.
Congratulations to all eight debaters for their commitment, courage and teamwork. Their participation reflects the importance of developing confident voices, thoughtful perspectives and the ability to engage respectfully with different ideas.
We are incredibly proud of our debaters for representing Kingsmead so admirably!
Running Club
Term 3 of Running Club has been another hugely successful term, with numerous students and staff, both old and new, joining us.
Some of our service staff who run on Friday afternoons have joined us for the morning Running Club too and we have loved the mornings they’ve run with us.
We said goodbye to our special Matric runners, many of whom have run regularly with us for five years and have been so consistent throughout their final year at Kingsmead. We really will miss them!
Even in inclement weather, our hardcore, dedicated students and staff have kept exercising! Come rain or shine, people are always there to run on Wednesday and Friday at 06h00. The commitment and enthusiasm have been really impressive.
Well done to every student who has joined us this term and helped ensure Running Club remains so well supported. It is incredible to see teenagers pounding the streets, chatting away, having a laugh and enjoying the fresh air before school starts.
It shows a real sense of community and creates a sense of belonging.
Keep it up! We are so proud of all of our Kingsmead runners.
VUMA
Vuma participated in the inaugural student-led St Andrews’ Heritage Festival, a celebration of dance, music and Gwijo. The girls performed a contemporary interpretation of isiZulu and Sesotho traditional dances to rousing applause. The dances were choreographed by Mogau and Molemo Mathebe.
The performance centred around a skit portraying a lobola negotiation ceremony between the two cultures, culminating in the merging of the two ‘families’. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the outing and look forward to participating in the festival again next year.
Congratulations to Ofentse Dikgale for her leadership this year and for advocating for opportunities to perform beyond the school. Well done to the girls for being exceptional ambassadors for our school at St Andrews School for Girls. We look forward to seeing them continue to showcase their talent at more external events.
Photo:
Back row: Ms Abongile Ntshinga, Murendeni Kone, Njabulo Vilakazi, Tshiam Maenetja, Dimakatso Mpati, Tshimollo Molobi, Siyabonga Khumalo, Imani Thomas, Zothile Ndiweni, Lisolethu Cwala, Palesa Mlangeni.
Middle row: Naledi Moletsane, Khuliso Mpilo; Pearl Sithole, Thato Mahlabegwane, Rorisang Morolo, Bonelelwa Bandezi, Liviwe David, Boikanyo Lehlongwane, Nombuso Tshabalala, Thandeka Nzimakwe, Lesedi Maboya, Cebile Danisa, Mogau Mathebe, Lehlohonolo Litabe.
Second row: Genevieve Hodge, Marang Rakumakoe, Muruñwa Mamathuba, Tshenolo Makamedi, Molemo Mathebe, Amantle Mabuse, Marcia Mzazi, Phindile Matjila.
Front row: Ofentse Dikgale
Service Corner: A Term of Action, Connection and Community
This term has been incredibly busy and rewarding for Service at Kingsmead. We are proud of the many ways our students have engaged with and supported our community.
We began the term with a wonderful Deaf Awareness Celebration Netball Match against St Vincent School for the Deaf on 5 September. The event gave students a meaningful opportunity to connect through sport while raising awareness and celebrating inclusion.
Our Service Committee members then participated in IMPACT, hosted in partnership with Jozi My Jozi and the Inter-School Volunteering Committee. The day was highly informative, challenging students to think critically about active citizenship, social impact and how young people can contribute meaningfully to positive change in Johannesburg. They also looked at Service as part of their current curriculum and beyond high school and university.
On 19 September, our campus was buzzing with service activities. Students enjoyed Buddy Reading with our Rays of Hope buddies, while others rolled up their sleeves alongside the Green Team for a Spruit Clean-Up in Craighall, helping care for our local environment.
A highlight of the term was undoubtedly Goodwill Day 2026, where the Kingsmead Community came together in a truly remarkable way. From the Walk for Courage and Service Partner Village to the many volunteers, sponsors (Nedbank, Oracle Brokers, Twisco, Kia and Renault Melrose), parents, staff and students who supported the event, Goodwill Day was a wonderful reflection of our school’s commitment to giving back. Thank you to everyone who helped make the day such a success.
Our Sandwiches for Service initiative continues to grow, providing much-needed support to the Rosebank Soup Kitchen. We are grateful to the many families who continue to contribute each week.
Our Junior School Service partner visits have also continued throughout the term, giving our younger girls valuable opportunities to learn about the challenges others face and the importance of compassion, service and community engagement.
Looking ahead, there are still several exciting opportunities in which to get involved:
• Crazy Sock Day 16 October
• Breast Cancer Awareness Day on 19 October
• World Arthritis Day on 12 October
Families interested in supporting Arthritis Kids South Africa and its important advocacy work can contact me directly for more information on how they can help.
We are also excited to launch a new Thursday Sandwich Programme in partnership with Arthritis Kids South Africa. The sandwiches will support children attending the Paediatric Rheumatology Department at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, many of whom travel from across the country to access specialist treatment and care.
Finally, a huge thank you to everyone who signed up for the Flamingo Challenge, our exciting collaboration between Sport and Service. It has been wonderful to see participants steadily working towards their goals. We have certainly noticed our dedicated “FlaminGos” putting in the work on Gym Rats!
Thank you to all our students, parents and staff who continue to support service initiatives at Kingsmead. Together, we show that Service isn’t just something we do, but a value we live every day.
Nene Golele
Student Community Service & Marketing Coordinator
Kingsmead College
ngolele@kingsmead.co.za
