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The results in the Cambridge International Academic Awards have been announced, and Reddam House Durbanville has once again achieved top placements both nationally and globally.

The Class of 2022 scooped one Top in the World award, 11 Top in South Africa awards, and five High Achievement awards across their IGCSE, A-Level and AS-Level student groups. Two students achieved First Place in South Africa awards, winning ‘Best Across Three A-Level subjects’ and ‘Best Across Eight IGCSE subjects’ respectively.

The Cambridge International School leaving qualifications are a growing option for many parents in South Africa. As at the end of 2022, more than 120 Cambridge International centres offer this acclaimed curriculum to South African students. These qualifications are benchmarked internationally, with the curriculum being offered in over 160 countries around the world.

Commenting on the exceptional results achieved by the Class of 2022, Executive Head, Barry Nieuwoudt, says, “Every year we are overwhelmed by the tenacity, determination and competitive spirit of our Cambridge International students, and this year is no exception. These awards firmly cement Reddam House Durbanville’s reputation as a top Cambridge International centre in South Africa, and as a school with proven results driven by the exceptional quality of teaching. We thank our teaching staff for their dedication and congratulate our top achievers on their exceptional results.”

The top achieving Cambridge International students from Reddam House Durbanville’s Class of 2022 are:

• Top in the World for A-Level Art & Design: Laura Brink (95%). Laura has begun her first year of studies in English Literature at Oxford University in the UK – the world’s number one ranked university
• Best Across Three A-Levels (first place in South Africa): Victor Vermeulen (94.7% aggregate average). Victor Vermeulen is currently firmly entrenched in his degree in Applied Physics at Eindhoven University in the Netherlands
• Top in South Africa for A-Level Chemistry: Victor Vermeulen (93%)
• Top in South Africa for A-Level Mathematics: Victor Vermeulen (96%)
• Top in South Africa for A-Level Physics: Victor Vermeulen (95%)
• High Achievement for A-Level English Literature: Laura Brink (94%)
• Top in South Africa for AS-Level Business: Sarah Webber (91%)
• High Achievement for AS-Level Spanish: Rafael Montero da Silva (91%)
• Best Across Eight IGCSE subjects (first place in South Africa): Minkyum Kim (96.4% aggregate average)
• Top in South Africa for IGCSE Mathematics: Minkyum Kim (99%)
• Top in South Africa for IGCSE Chemistry: Jake van der Westhuizen (99%)
• Top in South Africa for IGCSE Computer Science: Jake van der Westhuizen (97%)
• Top in South Africa for IGCSE Physics: Jake van der Westhuizen (99%)
• Top in South Africa for IGCSE Biology: Emma Nel (98%)
• Top in South Africa for IGCSE Business Studies: Emma Nel (96%)
• High Achievement for IGCSE English Literature: Jake van der Westhuizen (98%)
• High Achievement for IGCSE Drama: Emma Willcox (92%)
• High Achievement for IGCSE Music: Talitha Vermeulen (93%)

Ravi Nadasen, CEO of Inspired Education Group Africa concludes, “We are extremely proud of the accolades received across so many faculties, both those in which we are proud to regularly receive awards such as Mathematics and the Sciences, as well as in the Arts, Humanities and Commerce. We look forward to seeing these young people go on to excel in their studies at university.”

Dual Curriculum Offering

Reddam House Durbanville offers a dual assessment opportunity for students, including both Cambridge Assessment International and the Independent Examinations Board (IEB). Cambridge Lower Secondary is offered from Grade 7 to Grade 9, after which students can select either the Cambridge IGCSEs and AS Levels or the South African IEB examinations. A Levels are taken as a post matric option and are an elective that students choose to better their prospects of entering South African universities or the opportunity to study abroad at prestigious universities.

The dual offering gives students the opportunity of a win-win choice between two renowned, quality options, both preparing candidates more rigorously for tertiary education requirements, as well as workplace critical thinking and problem-solving expectations.

For more information, visit the Inspired Schools website and click on Africa & Middle East link.

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Alongside sustainability and quality lifestyle, community remains a core ethos of the Serenity Hills eco-estate development taking shape on Margate along the KZN mid-South Coast. This is well evidenced by several on-site projects, including the Sweetbike Community Project, a non-profit organisation – operating in collaboration with Serenity Hills - which recently donated 30 bicycles to deserving high school pupils at Mhlabuhlangene Senior Secondary School on the lower KZN South Coast.

The Sweetbike Community Project falls under Sweetdale Skills Center established by Swiss entrepreneurs Roland and Sibylle Wenger, alongside their children Sam and Connie in 2015. Sam Wenger, now the Development Director for Serenity Hills, is ensuring this community initiative remains an integral part of this vibrant eco-development.

“The Sweetbike Community Project was established in 2018 as a way to positively impact the lives of South Africa’s most vulnerable school children by providing them with bicycles to get to and from school daily,” explained Wenger. “The reality is that many children in rural areas drop out of school simply because of a lack of transport, and our NPO is aiming to address this one bike at a time.”

Quality bicycles are imported from Europe and refurbished at the Sweetbike Workshop which forms part of the Skills Center, employing and upskilling people from the local communities. Once ready, these bicycles are donated to children attending rural schools from Umzumbe to Port Edward.

Ayanda Masengemi, Assistant Manager at Serenity Hills who oversees the project, explained that the Sweetbike team works closely with local principals and ward councillors to identify the children who would benefit most from the bicycle donations.

“We consider schools where there are no taxis and limited alternative transport, with children having to travel an hour or more for several kilometres by foot every day to get to school,” explained Masengemi. “To date, we have donated more than 2 000 bicycles to schoolchildren, and once they have completed school, these bicycles are then refurbished and donated to others who can benefit from them. It has had a massive impact on the lives of these deserving youngsters.”

The latest handover of 40 bicycles to Mhlabuhlangene Senior Secondary School was well received, with the selection of recipients not only based on distance, but individual needs in terms of affordability, family background and reliance on grants, as well as pupil behaviour inside and outside the classroom. To maintain the safety of the bicycles, the school prints serial numbers on each one and monitors the upkeep by each recipient.

Mr B Dladla, a teacher at the school, said that children are having to travel more than 11km to and from school by foot, negatively impacting their energy and concentration levels. Further to this, he said: “With these bikes, more students will be able to participate in the afternoon classes since they will not have to leave early and walk the 11km journey to get home before dark.”

School principal, Mrs Manciya, noted that  Mhlabuhlangene had achieved a 100% pass rate for the 2022 matric results – something the donation would help them achieve again: “The bikes will cement the school’s 100% pass rate for the year 2023 and the coming years! Late-coming by school learners will decrease dramatically and they will be motivated to do well in class.”

Masengemi concluded: “The project will grow within Serenity Hills as the philosophy of the Wenger family has always been to enrich the community through job creation and skills development.”

Serenity Hills is an exquisite, subtropical paradise with Indian Ocean views and set amid lush coastal forests and rolling hills. Serenity Hills boasts top-class facilities such as The Clubhouse with swimming pools, the Infinity Bar, and The Bistro. Alongside extensive nature trails, there will be Yoga and Pilates spots, bowling greens, a volleyball field, a golf driving range and a tennis court for active residents, with on-site medical care. Serenity Hills’ partnership with @home and Weber further underscores the developers’ commitment to excellence in design. 

To find out more and book a viewing at Serenity Hills, visit www.serenityhills.co.za.

For regular updates, follow @serenityhillsecoestate on Facebook and Instagram.

Now more than ever, society is realising the critical role mental health plays in self-actualisation. This is particularly true for recent matrics and university students. When students pass their matric exams and earn bursaries, it comes with excitement and a huge expectation. However, that excitement can quickly turn into stress, anxiety and depression if they are partnered with a corporate bursar that is not interested in their holistic development.

Craig Barure, Res Manager at Respublica Student Living says, “For many students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, getting a bursary and adjusting to varsity life can put them under immense pressure. Often, corporates do not take their emotional and mental wellbeing into account when handling funding concerns. For example, the late disbursement of bursary funding can cause financial difficulties, feelings of isolation, social pressures, extreme anxiety and studying stress to the student.”

Why corporate bursars must care about a student’s wellbeing:

For students to perform at the standards required by their bursars, it is pivotal that they are in a good state of physical and mental health. According to a recent study, South Africans suffer higher rates of probable depression and anxiety than other countries. This means that more students are likely to drop out if not adequately supported, which is a waste of resources for both the bursar and the student.

Goitseone Moerane, ResLife Manager at Respublica Student Living says, “There is a positive correlation between student wellbeing and academic performance. Students who struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, and mental health have higher failure and dropout rates from universities. This is because it is difficult for them to focus on their studies. Those that pass, do so with lower marks. Our ResLife programme exists to try and help alleviate some of these pressures by giving students a place to get support. But funders need to step up to the plate too.”

How corporates can help:

The most important thing a corporate bursar can do to help develop the students they fund is to ensure timeous payments. If student funding is released late, it can set off a domino effect of negative outcomes. To adjust to varsity life, students need to get their funding early so they can get food, books, laptops, clothes, bedding, and cooking utensils right at the beginning of the academic year. This is necessary for students with financial difficulties to be ready to study at the beginning of the academic year and avoid unnecessary stress at this crucial time of a student’s life.

Most students already survive on tight budgets, and delayed funding often leads to them consuming cheap, unhealthy food, and resorting to destructive coping mechanisms. Additionally, some students end up withdrawing from physical activities arranged for students, which can subsequently lead to mental health disorders.

Student wellbeing is critical for student academic success. Corporate bursars should therefore select universities and student residences that promote holistic wellbeing through residence life programmes like orientation week, academic, sports activities, and easily accessible counselling services.

Creating a holistic ecosystem for student to thrive:

Bronwyn Boavida, managing director at Respublica Student Living, concludes, “Corporate must remember that a bursar is an investment, and you need to nurture investments to ensure you get the proper return on investment. That means you must provide the best possible ecosystem for students to thrive. Thriving bursary students often become the star players in corporate teams, so it is in everyone’s best interest that the companies funding them do their best to help get the best version of that student possible.”

Academic instruction is one of two key components to successful education. The second, equally as important, are the non-tangibles that shape learners and nurture a foundation of lifelong learning, said St. Martin School acting headmaster Warren Venter.

Venter said: “A well-rounded education prepares students for success not only academically but also in all aspects of their lives. While academic knowledge is essential, it is not the only factor that contributes to a student's success and well-being.” He explained that a focus on the intangibles, such as social-emotional learning, health and well-being, and civic engagement, can positively impact a student's academic performance and future success.

Values like courage, kindness, inclusion and empathy are important in the learning cycle.

“It is our intention to build the people who build tomorrow,” Venter added. He said that lifelong learning is the continuous pursuit of knowledge and personal growth throughout one's lifetime. “And for us, it starts here, where we are able to lay solid foundations and a love for lifelong learning.”

St Martin School recently merged its high school and primary school campuses to create a consolidated learning environment. Venter believes that a single geography for primary and high school creates a more positive transition between scholastic stages while also allowing a greater measure of role modelling between older and younger learners, in line with the school’s lifelong learning philosophy.

He added: "Lifelong learning is essential in today's rapidly changing world, where new technologies and innovations are constantly emerging. We want our students to develop a love of learning and to be curious about the world around them. By instilling a commitment to lifelong learning, we are preparing our students for success in a constantly evolving global economy.”

"Our students learn skills that result in a holistic education, we are nurturing a foundation that will serve our students well beyond their time in the classroom,” Venter said.

The school also emphasises the importance of entrepreneurship, critical thinking and  community service and has developed several initiatives to instil this as part of the school’s greater cultural milieu.  Students are encouraged to participate in projects, discourse and volunteer work, both within the school community and beyond.

"We want our students to understand that they have a responsibility to make a positive impact in the world," Venter said. "By instilling a sense of confidence, ambition and civic engagement and a commitment to service, we are helping our students develop the empathy and leadership skills they need to become responsible and contributing global citizens."

By creating a safe and inclusive learning environment where students feel supported and valued, learners develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed academically and in life. Venter said that he believes students must take away more than a set of marks when their scholastic career transitions to tertiary education and later, a career.

Venter said that this is an interpretation of true outcome-based education.

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ISSUED ON BEHALF OF ST MARTIN’S BY G&G DIGITAL 

St Martin’s is a reputable South African private school with world-class facilities, highly-qualified teachers and a notable alumnus. A beacon of excellence, St Martin’s offers students a holistic learning experience and has a reputation for outstanding academics, culture, and sport, as well as for nurturing students to make a positive impact on the world. With fully equipped co-ed boarding facilities, St Martin’s is trusted by parents from all over Southern Africa, to provide their children with a quality education from preparatory to Matric. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT stmartin.co.za OR CONTACT ANNIE HODES ON 083 325 4445 OR This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Steinmüller Africa (SMA) has collaborated with Stellenbosch University in a socio-economic development project to support five secondary schools in Mpumalanga. The programme, and our collaboration, has been ongoing since its inception in 2021. Stellenbosch University, acting through its Technology Research Activity Centre (TRAC) has developed the programme to empower Grade 12 learners’ by enhancing their ability to master Physical Science and Mathematics. These two subjects are a gateway to a wide variety of tertiary studies and related bursaries. The collaboration’s focus is to promote the development of human capital and capacity in South Africa. SMA follows through by not only supporting our secondary schooling system with the programme but also offering opportunities and bursaries in various apprenticeships (Mechanical Fitting, Rigging, Welding and Boilermaking) as well as Mechanical Engineering degrees and National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) courses, respectively.

The partnership ensures that Grade 12 learners receive extra afternoon classes in the aforementioned subjects to improve their academic understanding and, ultimately, performance in their matric exams. This is done with the appointment of Physical Science and Mathematics facilitators. In this academic and business joint venture, SMA and TRAC seek to enable and inspire learners to take ownership for a successful future by assisting them to enter appropriate, fully funded higher education courses aligned with their academic potential and interests.

“TRAC believes that education is a fundamental tool for social and economic transformation as South Africa's growth relies heavily on skills in the area of Mathematics. However, the pass rate in this subject remains a matter of grave concern. Through our collaboration with SMA, we aim to not only improve the quality of Mathematics education in the schools where we intervene but, ensure that our learners’ lives are indeed changed. We want to help build a better future for all, by opening up opportunities to the young people of this province and this country. TRAC is indeed instrumental in redressing inequalities of the past by offering opportunities to the most disadvantaged communities in South Africa and, thus, changing lives. We believe in the powerful statement by our late president Nelson Mandela that ‘Education is the MOST POWERFUL tool which you can use to change the world.’ Hence, our bold vision statement – ‘Eradicating Poverty’. Thank you, SMA, for making us an instrument to realise our dream of a South Africa where poverty no longer exists. Together, we are making dreams realities,” said Debbey Olivier, Director of TRAC South Africa at Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Engineering.

“We are very excited and proud to contribute to the education and empowerment of local potential which opens the doors of opportunity to learners from local communities in our area of operations. This initiative is proving successful to our talent strategy by focusing on secondary education and developing academic competence in these fundamental subjects needed for technical tertiary studies and apprenticeships,” said Karin Kaempffer, Executive General Manager: Human Capital Management at Steinmüller Africa.

“We are in our second year of partnering with the university and our selection results and recruitment efforts are already bearing fruit. SMA would like to invite other potential industry partners to collaborate with us in this educational support project. Our focus on foundational technical competence is needed in combating skills shortages for our industry,” said Leon Botha, Talent and OD Manager at  SMA.

At footwear giant Bata South Africa, playing a role in positively impacting South African communities - and schoolchildren in particular - is  an important pursuit central to the company’s purpose strategy. By joining hands and working together with like-minded organisations, Bata sets out each year to extend the reach and impact of programmes aimed at making a meaningful difference in the lives of South Africans.

Michael Wyatt, Managing Director at Bata South Africa, explained: “One of the main pillars in our purpose strategy is to engage in meaningful partnerships with brands who share our values and equally aim to make a difference in the lives of people who need our assistance the most. Whether it’s donating shoes, building new schools and classrooms, or running support initiatives throughout the year, Bata believes strongly in working together, and in tackling global concerns locally, to create a brighter future, today.”

“This is why we are so excited about our collaboration with banking giant, Standard Bank, in their goal this year to put shoes on the feet of over 7 million South African children who do not have this essential item. This partnership aligns perfectly with our own Bata Children’s Programme (BCP), which has been running since 2010 and strives to alleviate the burden on disadvantaged school children,” he added.

Through the collaboration, Bata - which produces South Africa’s best loved school shoe, Toughees -  and Standard Bank aim to raise as much awareness and donations as possible by highlighting the plight of children forced to walk long distances barefoot to get to school daily.

Wyatt called on South Africans who have the means to do so, to support the programme this year.

“We invite you to join us in our efforts to address the plight of vulnerable children and to assist those from disadvantaged backgrounds with school shoes, because together, we can go further!” he said.

Simply visit https://bit.ly/3EhNzd2 to support the cause.

Kicking off their mission at the start of the year, Bata and Standard Bank’s Tutuwa Community Foundation joined forces with Rhodes University Community Engagement (RUCE) to donate school shoes to an Eastern Cape no-fee school.

One hundred and thirty-five (135) pairs of school shoes were handed over to Khutliso Daniels Secondary School in Makhanda, Eastern Cape in January.  This no-fee institution, with almost 100% of parents living on a government grant, faces the ongoing challenge of learners not having access to good quality school shoes.

School principal, Radio Mcuba, said the donation of school shoes would greatly benefit learners. “This is a wonderful response from Standard Bank, Bata and Rhodes University to give back to these poor learners. Our school is on a positive trajectory, having improved our matric results from 55% three years ago to an 89.9% pass rate, and this donation will add to that. These shoes will help us curb absenteeism, especially in winter, when some learners do not attend school on some days because they have no shoes to protect their feet from the cold. We wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the stakeholders involved.”

Visit https://bit.ly/3EhNzd2 to help Bata and Standard Bank put school shoes on a child’s feet this year.

Visit https://www.bata.co.za/about-us/bata-childrens-programme/ to learn more about the Bata Children’s Programme (BCP).

WATCH : Standard Bank, Bata, and Rhodes University support Khutliso Daniels School with school shoes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmIFRsKpfn8&ab_channel=StandardBankSA

Visit Forgoodto donate towards the school shoe donation drive.

South African radio personality Rob Forbes has built a formidable career for himself within the local radio space. Having appeared on a number of community and national stations throughout his two decades on air, the radio jock made a major career move last year when he took over The Drive with Rob and Roz on Jacaranda FM alongside co-host Rozanne McKenzie. The show, which airs every weekday between 16h00 and 19h00, continues to be one of the station’s most coveted shows and the duo have proven to be incredibly popular with listeners around the country.

Now, Rob opens up and shares some tidbits about himself that many may not have known about him.

1) Therapy has been his biggest learning curve
Rob is a massive advocate for mental health. He has often spoken up about the incredible change that he has seen in his own life after he started to see a therapist, something he says is the best thing he has ever spent his hard-earned money on. Rob aims to break the stigma about mental health and, specifically, men dealing with the impact of mental health – especially after his brother commited suicide. “I lost my brother a few years ago, and it’s something we as a society don’t deal with enough,” Rob explains. “It should be normal to talk about our feelings.”

2) The Kgalagadi is Rob’s favourite part of Mzansi
When it comes to travel, Rob loves exploring the road less travelled. In fact, when asked what part of South Africa he loves the most, Rob says it’s the Kgalagadi. The area, specifically the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, is a merger of Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa and Gemsbok National Park in Botswana and is one of the most incredible parks in the country to go on safari. “The Kgalagadi is so incredible,” Rob says. “It’s harsh and far away but it’s so beautiful.”

3) Dreams by Fleetwood Mac is Rob’s favourite song of all time
As both a radio and a club DJ, it’s safe to say that Rob consumes a whole lot of music. As a result of his job, he always has to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to music trends and ensuring he is exposed to as much music as possible to ensure that he can tailor a particular musical experience to a particular crowd. However, when asked what his favourite song of all time is, Rob, without hesitation, answered ‘Dreams’ by Fleetwood Mac. The song remains incredibly popular with Niall Horan and Anne-Marie covering the track last year as a charity single and Jethro Tait’s version became a radio hit around South Africa.

4) Idris Elba is Rob’s style icon
Though he would probably deny it, Rob Forbes is certainly a stylish man. Style and fashion is important to him, especially as someone in the public eye, and he loves how clothing can help tell stories. When it comes to his style inspiration, Rob admits he would love to climb into Idris Elba’s wardrobe. The ‘Luthor’ actor and singer has been names one of the world’s most stylish men for years by some of the biggest fashion magazines in the world, so it’s not surprising that Rob is inspired by the star.

5) Climate change is the one thing that scares Rob the most
When it comes to the negative impact humans have on the world, Rob is very vocal that something drastic needs to happen to ensure that the world doesn’t cave in on itself. He has often said that climate change is the one thing that terrifies him the most and uses his social platforms to have important discussions on the impact climate change is having on the world. “We all live on this one planet, and it’s the only one we’ve got. I can’t understand why we won’t do more to save it”, says Rob.

6) Rob started from the bottom
While the Jacaranda FM DJ has a pretty incredible job right now, Rob admits that is certainly hasn’t always been that way. He recalls that his first (and worst) job involved folding over 2,000 paper airplanes. “I loved folding paper airplanes at school but when it came to folding them as a job, and over 2,000 of them, it was horrible,” Rob jokes.

7) Rob will forever be a proud Pretorian
Although Rob has moved to the eclectic area of Parkhurst, the radio DJ admits that he is still obsessed with his home town. Rob was born and raised in Jacaranda City where he matriculated from St Albans College before studying at the University of Pretoria, which is where he discovered his love of radio after he applied at the local campus station. More so, Rob says he loves the people and the energy of the city. “It’s the vibe that makes the place so special,” Rob exclaims. “Pretoria people know what I’m talking about!”

8) Law was Rob’s plan B
Rob Forbes has made a name for himself as an exceptional broadcaster. His career is certainly filled with incredible moments and he has definitely made his mark on the local radio space. However, while he was confident he would do great things, Rob studied to become a lawyer. “I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to do with my life after school, but I knew I wanted a profession and I’ve always liked a good argument, so I went to study law. Obviously. Now? I’m very grateful I’m not a lawyer,” Rob jokes.

9) Rob spends a lot of time in the kitchen.
Making dinner with his partner is one of Rob’s favourite things. “I love cooking” says Rob. “Also, I love thinking that I can do what other people can do as well. So every time I have something delicious, I’m trying to work out how I can recreate it at home” he says. Rob also say the kitchen is a fantastic place to unwind after a long day at work and on-air. “I walk into the house, wash my hands and get to chopping. It’s meditative to just do something with your hands while you clear your head.”

10) Rob is a recent convert to the art of boxing.
“I was never an exercise junkie” Rob said. Over the last year however, you’ll often see clips of Rob in the ring on his Instagram stories. “I’ve only learned the true value and impact of exercise late in my life” he says. “Every time I attempted to start exercising regularly, the beginning is unpleasant, and I get really bored of lifting things and running. Then I went boxing and everything changed. I’m working harder than I ever thought I would enjoy doing, and I’m excited to go back the next day. That’s the important thing. Being active has really changed how I feel, and now at 40 I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in.” While Rob says he’s having more fun than ever before, when asked if he wanted to get into the ring one day for real, he laughed it off. “Punching the gloves is exhausting enough without them punching back” he jokes.

Cape Town, South Africa – In an exclusive preview held at Southern Sun’s SunSquare Cape Town Gardens hotel on Friday, 3 March 2023, Calling Cape Town revealed the first exciting scenes from a documentary featuring the Calling Cape Town Extreme Challenge undertaken in support of non-profit organisation, Calling Education.

The Calling Cape Town Extreme Challenge was started by passionate South Africans eager to contribute towards the provision of better education for low-income learners in the country. This swim-bike-run challenge undertaken in support of Calling Education, is a gruelling 24-hour race which includes an 8km Robben Island Crossing swim, a 109km Cape Town Cycle Tour as well as a 50km Three Peaks Challenge Route run.

Stephan May, founder of the Calling Cape Town Extreme Challenge explained the inspiration for the documentary, “Our goal with this documentary is not only to shine a light on the Calling Cape Town Extreme Challenge, but also to amplify the amazing work that so many people are doing in this country. This is a juxtaposition of an extreme sporting event which echoes the incredible challenge of bringing top quality education to as many children as possible. This documentary is about telling that uplifting and inspirational story.”

During his speech at the preview, former Calling Academy school student and Calling Cape Town athlete, Mpilo Ruka, spoke about his personal journey with the organisation and his experience participating in last year’s Extreme Challenge, “Like many children in South Africa, I come from a very humble background. Being given the opportunity to go to Calling Academy was life changing and took a lot of pressure off me during my Matric year because I had mentors and teachers who took a genuine interest in me as a person. They don’t just focus on your academics; they get to know you as a person, support you and help you discover where your talents lie. I have also been able to participate in races like Calling Cape Town which I would never have been able to afford. With their help, I am currently interning at an aviation company and following my dream of becoming a helicopter pilot. Calling Academy empowered me to create a better future for myself.”

The documentary preview evening was made possible by Calling Cape Town’s partnership with Southern Sun as the official hotel partner for athletes participating in this year’s extreme sporting event taking place on Sunday, 12 March 2023.

Southern Sun’s chief executive, Marcel von Aulock commented, “It has been a pleasure to partner with Calling Cape Town this year and we are proud to host the Extreme Challenge athletes at our SunSquare Cape Town Gardens hotel, which is ideally suited to their specific requirements. Equally, we’re thrilled to have hosted the preview of the documentary in support of Calling Education, and we wish the team every success with their impressive efforts.”

The general public can get involved by making a donation to Calling Education through their website: http://www.callingeducation.org.za. Spectators are invited to cheer on the athletes at the event on March 12 from 13:00 at a supporters’ station positioned at Dead Man's Tree.

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ISSUED BY SOUTHERN SUN. FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT:

• Candy Tothill | General Manager of Corporate Affairs | 084 516 7525 | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Southern Sun is Southern Africa’s leading hospitality group comprising an extensive collection of strategically located hotels, resorts, restaurants and conference facilities in South Africa, Africa, the Seychelles, and the Middle East. With a rich heritage of excellence and dedication to delivering service with flair, Southern Sun provides guests with unforgettable experiences at destinations that offer unparalleled variety and scale. The group’s portfolio of brands comprises award-winning luxury hotels such as 54 on Bath, Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa, the Beverly Hills, Mount Grace Hotel & Spa, the Sandton Sun & Towers and Paradise Sun, as well as renowned brand collections, including Southern Sun Hotels, SunSquare, Garden Court, StayEasy and SUN1 hotels, as well as a selection of Southern Sun Resorts in idyllic settings.

Southern Sun is committed to transformation and is proud to be a Level 1 Contributor to B-BBEE in South Africa – a certification that demonstrates the spirit in which Southern Sun actively contributes to broad-based black economic empowerment through its commitment to maintaining workforce diversity, developing and transferring skills, and providing support to small businesses and local communities. Southern Sun is consciously committed to integrating best environmental practices into its core business strategy and endeavouring to ensure that its conduct meets the needs of the present, while minimising the cost to future generations.

Escape to the world of Southern Sun, where exceptional experiences are created with passion and every day is a celebration. Visit southernsun.com. Follow Southern Sun on Twitter (@SouthernSunGrp), Instagram (@SouthernSunHotels), Facebook (Facebook/SouthernSunHotels) and LinkedIn (@Southern-Sun).

Treverton College Matric students, Kai Broom and Jarred van Alphen, aged 18 and 17, came first in the two man team category in the Expedition Africa 120 km Adventure Race which was held on Saturday.  They were also the youngest competitors in the 120 km event. 

John Collins who is one of the top Adventure Racers in the world was part of the 4 man (Merrell Songlines) team which came first in the 200 km race. Both he and his brother, Mark Collins are alumni of Treverton College.

Kai Broom says “This was a 12-24hr 120km adventure race. It consisted of 4 legs, the first one was a 40km track, we had to summit the berg and back down, we had to find the check points along the way and if you didn’t you obviously got disqualified. The second leg was a 20km bike ride to a dam, then the third leg was a 12km paddle across the dam and of course finding the check-points. The last leg was a 25km cycle back to the finish. It took us sixteen hours and five minutes to finish the race.  We did have a few issues - we got a little bit lost in the forest, it rained a lot and there was lots of lightning and we got drenched. Jarred also got a few cramps but nothing we couldn’t handle, it was super fun. It was a challenge but we managed to finish top of our category and second overall.”

This extreme adventure race route was designed to take roughly 12 hours for the top teams to finish and 24 hours for the last team to finish. The first trekking leg had 2 170m of altitude gain and loss alone.  The Expedition Africa-Mnweni-Drakensburg 120 km Adventure Race forms part of the Africa Series which is part of the Adventure Racing World Series and for the first time ever Adventure Racing World Champs will be held in South Africa in the Eastern Cape in October.

For further information please visit https://expafrica.net/expedition-africa-drakensberg/

Midrand, Johannesburg - Reddford House Blue Hills, an Inspired School, is proud to announce the appointment of Vilandre Lubbe as the new Head of Campus. Vilandre joins the Reddford House Blue Hills community with more than ten years of teaching and educational management experience. She is passionate about education and is committed to excellence both inside and outside the classroom.

Vilandre is no stranger to the Reddford family, having held management positions as a coordinator and Deputy Head at Reddford House for most of her professional career. She started her teaching career at a government school after obtaining her teaching qualification from the North West University of Potchefstroom. Vilandre completed several courses such as Teaching with Technology, Thinking Skills, Reggio Emilia, and Safeguarding in Education.

Vilandre's experience in education stretches from the Foundation Phase to Matric and she has taught various subjects over the years. In 2020, she relocated to the UK where she spent just over two years in the field of Education, gaining international experience. Her focus was on attendance, pastoral care, safeguarding, and discipline. On her return to South Africa she re-joined Reddford House as Preparatory Teacher at Reddford House The Hills before being appointed as Head of Campus at Reddford House Blue Hills.

Vilandre is a passionate advocate of the school's child-centred approach and continuous drive to be better and innovative, which are key components of its curriculum. She is committed to excellence in all spheres of educayion and emphasises the importance of the three pillars of the school, which are the foundation of its success, being the academic programme, cultural and sporting activities, and then adds community in addition, which is inclusive and non-denominational.

“At Reddford House Blue Hills, we take pride in the relationships formed between home, student, and school. This ensures that we provide children with the best education possible. It is thanks to the exceptional Reddford House team that our students can grow and reach their full potential."

As the new Head of Campus, Vilandre hopes to achieve stability and continuous growth for the school. She aims to build on the school's established values and ethos while leading the team to provide the students with every opportunity possible to develop optimally, to fuel their passions and to pursue their dreams.

Asked to share her words of wisdom with future generations, Vilandre says, “Never give up and never believe anyone who tells you that you are not capable. We all have greatness inside of us.”

Q&A with Vilandre Lubbe

Q: What are the biggest lessons you learnt while working in the education sector in the UK for two years?
A: The importance of restorative measures. It is important for us as educators to remember that that sometimes bad behaviour has an underlying cause. We are not in the game of punishing. In education it is our duty to educate and equip our students with the necessary tools to be successful, respectable and kind humans one day.

Q: In your opinion, what makes Reddford House Blue Hills stand out from other schools in the area?
A: The passion and dedication that our staff have for our students is second to none. Every decision we make we make for the benefit of the students. You can have the best of everything, but if your school has no heart or passion, your children will not be happy or successful.

Q: What leadership qualities do you bring to your new role as Campus Head of Reddford House Blue Hills?
A: Kindness, fairness, respect and passion. Everything I do, I do for the greater good of the school and the students.

Q: What is your leadership philosophy?
A: To lead by example with enthusiasm, passion, kindness and humility. Everyone should be treated with respect and kindness, no matter what their role on the campus happens to be. We are all equally important cogs in the wheel of life.

Q: What do you do in your spare time (interests and hobbies)?
A: I love to travel our own country and the world. I have an adventurous spirit and love to try new things. I also love spending time with friends and family. 

Q: What do you believe are the qualities every teacher should have?
A: A willingness to learn. Like the students, we should always show kindness and passion in all that we do. be engaging and seeing what more and better we can do for the lives that have been entrusted to us.

Q: What is your favourite quote?
A: The only constant in life is change.

Q: Who has had the greatest impact on you in your life?
A: My father and Dr Ronel Burger, managing director of Reddford House South Africa.

Q: If you could give your teenage self one sentence of advice, what would you share and why?
A: Be who you are and be true to yourself. Don’t limit yourself. Aways strive to be better. Believe in yourself.

Q: What is a problem in the world you hope to see solved within your lifetime?
A: Basic education for all. Every person on earth deserves the opportunity to be educated and become what they dream.

Q: What are you most grateful for in your life?
A: Family. Without them, I would not be where I am today.

Q: What interests do you hope to pursue this year?
A: I hope to further my career by tackling my MBA.

Q: What subject were you best in during school? Why do you feel you excelled at it?
A: Biology. It was all because of a passionate teacher. From the minute you walked into her class you were hooked.

Q: Do you think the journey or the destination is more important, and why?
A: The journey… if you live for the destination, you will miss all the amazing moments along the way.

For more information, please visit Reddford House Blue Hills.

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For more information, visit https://inspirededu.com/our-schools/ and click on Africa & Middle East link.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
For interview requests, please contact Vanessa Naudé at Strategic Public Relations on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 083 271 6000 (WhatsApp only).

About Inspired Education Group
Inspired Education Group is a leading global premium schools group operating in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America, educating over 65,000 students across a global network of more than 80 schools across 23 countries. It is a co-educational, non-denominational, independent schools group designed to inspire students to achieve their maximum potential in a nurturing, progressive academic environment from ages one to 18. All the Inspired schools are individually developed and designed in response to their environment and location, delivering an excellent education to their respective communities. For more information go to: https://inspirededu.com/

About Reddford House Blue Hills
Reddford House Blue Hills is an Inspired School, situated in Kyalami, Midrand, Johannesburg. The school's child-centred approach and continuous drive to be better and innovative are key components of its curriculum. The school is inclusive and non-denominational, and its three pillars – the academic programme, cultural and sporting activities, and the community – are the foundation of its success.