From the Principal’s Desk

From the Principal’s Desk, 20 August 2021

Dear Parents

DROP AND GO

We would like to remind parents that children should always exit/enter vehicles on the left hand side. We would like to ensure that our students remain safe at all times.

COVID AND ONLINE LEARNING

Due to the Covid situation in the Western Cape, our hybrid teaching will continue for the remainder of this term.

Please ensure that if your child learns from home they are committed and attend every lesson. Sadly, we do have students who take advantage of the situation.

Every BIS student has an iesmail.com email address. Students are reminded that this address is for school related matters only. All private chats should be done using a private email address.

FEATURE PHOTO

Mr Brian Sizani is our Mathematics and Physics teacher at the High School. He has been at BIS since October 2017.

Did you know…..

• He only reads novels by Martina Cole. He has quite a collection of them.
• He aspires to be an Astrophysicist.
• He was part of the UWC choir for 4 years, singing tenor. He is also a choir member at church, singing tenor solos and at times he gets to conduct the choir.
• He loves traveling and exploring/learning about various cultures, especially indigenous cultures.
• As much as he admires the natural beauty of this planet, he has not been able to overcome his fear of the ocean yet. One day!

Thank you, Brian, for your commitment to the students and the school.

WEEKLY THOUGHT: Discipline in Life

“Only the disciplined ones in life are free. If you are undisciplined, you are a slave to your moods and your passions.” – Eliud Kipchoge

Freedom to do what we want to, when we want to, is usually the type of freedom that the majority of people wish for. But what does this “freedom” mean and how does it manifest practically in everyday life?

For us to better understand what Kipchoge – the world record holder in the marathon – is trying to bring across, let’s take a simple example that most of us can relate to:

Each of us believes that we are free to eat whatever we like. We also believe that we have the choice to exercise as much or as little as we want to. “Yes, we are truly free,” some will remark. But wait, there is a catch…

We all know that if a person eats without any restraint and does no exercise whatsoever, chances are very good that he/she will gain weight. If this continues over an extended period of time, they will gain a lot of weight. This lifestyle has long-term implications, including susceptibility to certain diseases and a variety of other health risks. People in this category are also often not able to participate in many activities, both indoor and outdoor. Though sad and unfortunate, these are facts.

Life gives us many examples like these, proving that exercising our “freedoms” does not always lead to true freedom.

Let’s look at Kipchoge’s words again. He is in fact saying that if we are not slaves to our moods and passions, but live lives of discipline, we will find true freedom.

This may not be the most encouraging message; but when it’s applied, it can be life-changing indeed.

Question: What “freedoms” in your life could lead to circumstances that you would rather avoid?

Have an amazing weekend, let’s remember to be grateful for all the privileges we enjoy daily.

Andre

From the Principal’s Desk, 12 August 2021

Dear Parents

WHAT OUR SCHOOL STANDS FOR…

We would like our school to be known as a “Bully Free Zone”. Let’s consider this a little.

More details to follow!

COVID AND ONLINE LEARNING

I have had a few queries as to what extent the school is affected by Covid cases. As with most other work places we are most certainly affected. However, we try and manage it per class/group and discreetly as possible. We have over the past 3 weeks closed certain classes or phases and isolated staff where necessary. During these times we follow all health & safety protocols and often ask for professional advice.

We continue with Hybrid teaching until the end of August. We will re-assess this towards the end of the month before we communicate the way forward in September. Thank you to everyone for working together and supporting one other.

Online learning should be taken seriously, and all classes should be attended.

FEATURE PHOTO

Our main newsletter photograph features our newly appointed Key Stage 2 Coordinator, Ms Katherine Nel. Katherine started her journey at BIS in 2016. She then moved to Dubai in 2018 where she taught at an international school. In 2020, Katherine came back to our BIS family.

• Katherine is originally from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and moved to Cape Town in 2016.
• She has three dogs and shares a birthday with her Poodle, Bentley.
• She has lived and worked at schools in both London and Dubai.
• Katherine enjoys studying (maybe a bit too much) and has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Media, Communication and Culture (majoring in English Literature and Public Relations), a Postgraduate Degree in Education, an Honours Bachelor of Education- with specialisation in Inclusive Education, an Honours Bachelor of Education- with specialisation in Psycho-Educational Support and she is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Psychology. She also hopes to one day complete her Master of Education in Educational Psychology. Wow!
• When she was in pre-school, she wanted to be a waitress in Paris.

Thank you, Katherine, for your contribution in making our school a great place to be.

WEEKLY THOUGHT: Little Things

“Sometimes when I consider what tremendous consequences come from little things, I am tempted to think there are no little things.” – Bruce Barton

We live in a culture where everything is measured by size and numbers. A normal meal doesn’t catch the eye until it’s “SUPER-SIZED”; when we expect 30 people at a gathering and only 5 people pitch, the event is considered a failure; when raising funds for a certain cause and end up with less than expected, we become discouraged.

We live in a world in which size matters more than ever before. Although most families can live in a home of around 150 square meters, we look at the guy living in a 1,000-square house and somehow think that’s better.

All these ways of thinking have brought us to a place where we no longer take notice of the little things. This is very detrimental, as we will most likely miss some wonderful opportunities in life because of it.

Take business for instance: How do the majority of businesses start? With 100,000 clients on day one? Of course not – they start with one! Valuing that client and giving them the best possible service will then hopefully draw the 2nd, 3rd, 5th & 10th clients in.  And so, it starts.

Looking for that business or opportunity that will give you “instant” wealth or success will lead you down a road of emptiness and discouragement – not because there aren’t opportunities, but because you aren’t sensitive to the ventures and opportunities in life that start off small.

Once we reset our bias toward big things and tune in to the many small opportunities all around us, we, like Barton, will start to consider the consequences of little things and realize that they weren’t all that little after all.

“Let’s get all the little things right”. The big things will take care of themselves.

Have a brilliant weekend – give someone a reason to smile.

Andre

From the Principal’s Desk, 5 August 2021

Dear Parents

WHEN YOUR CHILD IS NOT WELL

Please be reminded that if your child is not well, rather keep them at home. Given the current pandemic we would prefer you err on the side of caution.

We are aware that this may be an inconvenience for you but this is to ensure that we all stay healthy and safe.

ONLINE LEARNING

We continue with Hybrid teaching next week. Thank you to everyone for working together and supporting each other.

Please do not keep your children at home if they do not have access to the learning platforms. If there are concerns or problems, please contact me so that we can assist.

HAPPY WOMEN’S DAY

Monday, 9 August, is Women’s Day. While this day may be celebrated for various reasons, I believe it is a day where we should honour and celebrate the ladies/girls in our lives. This is a perfect opportunity to spoil our wives, girlfriends, daughters and mothers.

While we are celebrating Women’s Day, let us honour our latest Olympic gold medallist, Tatjana Schoenmaker. What an incredible swim in the 200m breaststroke final – Gold medal and a world record.

Happy Women’s Day to all the ladies/girls in our community.

FEATURE PHOTO

Our main newsletter photograph features Mrs Beverley du Plessis. Beverley is one of our Music teachers and started at BIS in 2018.

Did you know….

• She is pregnant with her second daughter.
• She does Triathlons and has done various races like Ironman 70.3 and Double Century cycle race.
• She enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and running.
• She loves to explore new places and travel. Having been to various countries, the most recent was Bali, just before Covid.
• She has a lot of animals and only adopts animals to give them a second chance at life.

Thank you for all your amazing work, Beverley.

WEEKLY THOUGHT: What am I alone with?

“Being alone with fear can rapidly turn into panic. Being alone with frustration can rapidly turn into anger. Being alone with disappointment can rapidly turn into discouragement and, even worse, despair.” – Mark Goulston

In a time where “lockdown”, “social distancing”, and “curfew” have become all-too-frequent words in our vocabularies, it may be a good time to ask the question: “What am I alone with?”

Goulston suggests that being alone with fear, frustration and disappointment can lead to panic, anger, and despair. It also seems as if mainstream media and news outlets want to push us toward these negative and very detrimental human emotions. Do you agree?

Although there are a multitude of wonderful stories of hope, courage, and survival against all odds playing out in our communities every day, these don’t seem to appear on our social feeds. We need to guard against becoming prisoners of what we do see and hear on a daily basis.

Yes, there certainly is hurt and pain – even death – closer to us than ever before in our lifetimes, but by making these things our only reality, we will inevitably go down an ugly road of which our minds were partly the architects.

If each of us are determined to share uplifting stories – the real-life dramas of friends and family showing courage and compassion and coming out on the other side when nobody thought they’d have a chance – I am convinced that they will awaken a sense of hope and purpose in all of us. So, before simply repeating a story we’ve heard or read, we need to ask ourselves: “Am I building or breaking with what I am about to say?”

Whenever speaking with others, reading articles or watching news clips, let us continue to ask ourselves: “What am I alone with?”

Have a fantastic weekend and encourage those around you. It’s all or nothing in SA’s final test against the British and Irish Lions on Saturday!

Andre

From the Principal’s Desk, 29 July 2021

Dear Parents

As some of you may know, International Friendship Day is on Friday, 30 July. The idea behind the day, which was proclaimed by the UN in 2011, is that friendship between people, cultures, and countries has the power to inspire peace and build bridges between communities. I believe that there is no better time than right now, to celebrate those close to us and show gratitude and support for our peers, friends, family and staff.

This day is a great opportunity for parents, students and educators to share in the spirit of human solidarity.

“The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, not the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when you discover that someone else believes in you and is willing to trust you with a friendship.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

PYJAMA DAY

Friday, 30 July is “Pyjama Day” at Blouberg International School.  Students are encouraged to pay R10 and come to school in their PJ’s.  They have also been selling candy floss @ R10.

This is a matric farewell fundraiser.

Events like these create energy and positivity on campus and is good for our wellness and mental health. Let’s enjoy the day within all necessary protocols.

“We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference” – Nelson Mandela

ONLINE LEARNING

We move into the next 2-week period at BIS

Monday, 2 August – Friday, 13 August

Hybrid Teaching

We are mindful of the fact that statistics show that there is still an increase in Covid cases in the Western Cape and we will therefore continue with hybrid teaching during the first two weeks of August. We will not have any extra-curricular activities during this period, but we sincerely hope that from 16 August we can re-introduce extra-curricular activities. Additional academic lessons may be scheduled by various teachers during this time.

I request that parents inform the respective class/tutor teachers of their choice for the next two weeks (2^nd – 13^th August). Once a choice has been made, we expect students to stick to that choice for the duration of that period. It becomes very disruptive and disorganised if students do not stick to their choice. Please could you let teachers know by the end of this week so they are prepared for Monday.

I am aware of a number of students who believe online learning is optional. Online learning is no excuse for students not to attend classes. It is normal school. Please assist all students in maintaining their full commitment.

“Stronger together”

FEATURE PHOTO

Our main newsletter photograph features Mrs Charlotte (Charlie) Cronje. Charlie is one of our Year 1 teachers and started at BIS in 2018.

She believes a cup of tea makes everything better!

• Charlie was born in Kent, England, and she obtained her BSc Degree in Psychology. After working with psychopathic men with personality disorders she went onto pursue a Masters in Social work.
• She loves trampolining and was captain of the Trampolining Club at Liverpool University.
• She enjoys travelling, but camping is a family favourite.
• Her favourite film is ’The Sound of Music’ closely followed by ’Mary Poppins’.
• She plays the trumpet and enjoys playing in the Cape Town Concert Brass Band. (CTCBB).
• She likes to hike. She completed the 3-peak challenge in England which involved walking the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales in 24 hours and she would like to try the 3-peak challenge in Cape Town.

Wow, certainly an interesting life! Thank you for being a ray of sunshine at our school.

“Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” – Voltaire

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to our IT teacher, Mr Gemayel Kroukamp, on the birth of his son, Sebastian Jacobus. We trust that he will be an incredible blessing in your life.

WEEKLY THOUGHT: Pain and Suffering

“The climb might be tough and challenging, but the view is worth it. There is a purpose for that pain; you just can’t always see it right away.” – Victoria Arlen

This is what Wikipedia has to say about Victoria Arlen, the lady who made the above statement:

“At the age of eleven, Arlen developed two rare conditions known as transverse myelitis and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. This was an extremely rare scenario, and Victoria quickly lost her ability to speak, eat, walk, and move at all. She slipped into a vegetative state from which recovery was highly unlikely. Arlen spent nearly four years “locked” inside her own body, completely aware of what was going on, but unable to move or communicate. Doctors saw little hope of survival and believed recovery to be improbable.

In 2010, after almost four years, Arlen started re-learning how to speak, eat, and move. In June 2012, after a world record-breaking performance at the U.S. Paralympic swimming trials, Arlen qualified for the London 2012 Summer Paralympic Games. In London, she won four medals as a proud member of Team USA – one gold and three silvers.”

Our challenges may not be as severe as those faced by Victoria Arlen, but they can often feel like insurmountable mountains.

When looking back on our own lives and seeing the countless times when pain and suffering birthed new and exciting things, we can take courage in the following:

• There is always hope;
• We will leave stronger than we started;
• We are not alone – there are others going through tough times too.

May we encourage others who are facing difficult circumstances, the same way in which we confront and handle our own pain and suffering. Who knows, maybe someone else will encourage us too. That’s what community, family, hope and life are all about!

Have a great weekend, stay warm, enjoy the Olympics and the 2^nd test match between the Springboks and the British and Irish Lions. Go Bokke!

Andre

From the Principal’s Desk, 23 July 2021

Dear Parents

Term 3 is a short 9-week term. We should remember that there is much to do as this is a non-exam term and every task is important.

Our school activities remain hampered by the Covid pandemic but we remain positive. We have much to be grateful for and making excuses will not help us. Let us continue focusing on the many blessings we have and make the most of every opportunity.

We welcome Mr Louis Marais (Year 7 & 8 Mathematics, Science and PE teacher) and Ms Michellene Williams (IGCSE, AS and A Level English teacher) to our school. It is with much excitement that we look forward to having them settle in and work with us to reach our goals.

“You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today” – Abraham Lincoln

ONLINE LEARNING

“Accountability is the glue that bonds commitment to results” – Will Craig

Thank you to all concerned for a good start to our 1^st week of online learning despite some connectivity issues on Tuesday. We sincerely trust that our students will fill our school from Monday, 26^th July.

As mentioned at our Parent meeting on Tuesday evening, we have divided the first six weeks of this term into 4 periods. Parents/students have a choice to learn from home or attend school in person from Monday, 26 July 2021.

I request that parents inform the respective class/tutor teachers of their choice for next week (26^th – 30^th July). Once a choice has been made, we expect students to stick to that choice for the duration of that period. It becomes very disruptive and disorganized if students do not stick to their choice. Please could you let teachers know by the end of this week so they are prepared for Monday.

Online learning is no excuse for students not to attend classes. It is normal school. Please assist all students in maintaining their full commitment.

6 Tips for productivity:

• Establish a routine
• Be organized
• Make deadlines
• Take small breaks
• Stay motivated
• Know yourself

“ACCOUNTABILITY – It is not only what we do, but also what we do not do, for which we are accountable” – Moliere 

FEATURE PHOTO

Our main newsletter photograph features Mrs Nadia Mahomed. Mrs Mahomed is one of our Year 5 teachers and started at BIS in 2016.

A little bit about Nadia:

• She was born in Durban, schooled in Johannesburg and currently lives in Cape Town.
• The things she loves the most are being a mum and those moments when she gets to hide in her room with a bag of Simba chips.
• She is obsessed with Thai food and loves cooking. She does not like baking and has been known to set an oven or two (or three) alight in her attempt to bake.
• She has a Bachelors of the Arts Degree, specialising in Industrial Psychology and English Literature. She also has a Postgraduate Degree in Education.
• She loves travelling but stays far away from camping or any place she cannot plug in her hair straightener.
• Kindness and honesty are values of high importance to her.

Thank you, Nadia, for all you do for the students and our school.

WEEKLY THOUGHT: Do We Invest in Ourselves?

“We take better care of our smartphones than we do of ourselves – the phones are always recharged!” – Arianna Huffington

If the above were not so extremely accurate, one might have thought that Huffington was taking a cheap shot. But she really isn’t…

Our cell phones have screen protectors, covers, and are always charged.

When it comes to us humans, however, the reality is that we do not always take as much care of this person – ourself – whom we hope makes it to a 100%.

I am sure you will agree that most of us don’t take enough care when it comes to:

• What we eat and drink, and in what quantities;
• Ensuring we get enough sleep, rest and time for meditation & thought;
• Exercise and outdoor activities;
• Friendships and depositing into the lives of others;
• Spiritual matters.

While most of us get a new cell phone every 2 years, the body we have and the person we see in the mirror each morning, will be the same image we see until the day we die. The better we take care of ourselves, the better shot we have at a long life. But merely reaching a high age is not first prize – it’s reaching those big numbers and still being able to enjoy life at that stage. That’s the trick!

Like most investments, the sooner you start, the better.

Have a brilliant weekend, setting some time aside for a coffee/tea with yourself.

Andre

From the Principal’s Desk, 25 June 2021

Dear Parents

We have reached the end of the term. Thank you to our amazing Blouberg families for your support and commitment during the past term.

Thank you, to our teachers, for your hard work and the extra effort put into providing a great education for our students.

We wish all our families a safe, and wonderful, winter holiday.

COVID-19

We will communicate, with you, during the last week of the holiday regarding the arrangements for the new term.

FEATURE PHOTO

Our main newsletter photograph features Mr Riaan Vosloo. Mr Vosloo is our High School Art teacher and started at BIS in July 2019.

• He was the first South African citizen to challenge Section 9, subsection 4 of the South African constitution at the Supreme Court. A short film, entitled “A Still life” about this was shown at the Sundance Film Festival. The New York Times published a follow up article about him.
• He wrote columns for “Die Burger”, interviewed and photographed IFBB SA athletes for sport magazines.
• He acted professionally for Cape Performing Arts Board (CAPAB). He was always either the antagonist or the “not so smart” character.
• He did conceptual designs for Sun International.
• He was twice in the top 10 of the AngloGold SA jewellery design competition.

Thank you for your commitment to the school. 

WEEKLY THOUGHT: Original

“The point is not to take the world’s opinion as a guiding star but to go one’s way in life and working unerringly, neither depressed by failure nor seduced by applause.” – Gustav Mahler

Why do we do the things we do? Have you ever sat down and given this some proper thought?

Like most individuals, we often look around us and ask: “What will people say of this action or this achievement?” It’s a prominent attribute of human beings to want to be accepted by our fellow humans – well at least for the vast majority of us. Wouldn’t you agree?

But Mahler, the famous composer and conductor, warns that if we want to live meaningful lives, we should make less of the world’s opinions and aim to live perfect and committed lives, always trying to do that which we ourselves know to be right.

All too often we do things because of the applause we think we’ll receive from others. The opposite is also true. In many cases, we decide not to embark on a project because of our previous failures, or sometimes even due to the past faults of others.

What Mahler seems to be encouraging us to do is the following: “Live as wisely and unwaveringly as you can each day, not worrying about previous failures or the applause you might receive from the world. Just do what you find to do and do it well.”

If we do this, our journey will certainly be an epic one, not walked by many others. In one word – “Original”!

Have a wonderful weekend, encourage those around you – they need it more than you may think!

Andre

From the Principal’s Desk, 17 June 2021

Dear Parents

This may be a long newsletter but contains very important information.

NON-ACADEMIC DAY – THURSDAY, 24 June

Our students have worked hard these last six months and we have decided they deserve some fun on the second-last day of the term. Please find the relevant details for Foundation Phase, KS 1, KS 2 and the High School for Thursday, 24 June.

Foundation Phase:

Foundation Phase students must dress up in any colour of the rainbow. They will participate in creative activities that will take place both indoors and outdoors. Students may be collected from 13:30.

Key Stage 1:

Key Stage 1 students must dress up in any colour of the rainbow. They will participate in art and science activities and a scavenger hunt. Key Stage 1 students may be collected from 13:30.

Key Stage 2:

Key Stage 2 will be holding a Games Day. Students may come to school wearing civvies and will spend the day playing a variety of games in their classrooms. The Games Day will end at 14:00.

High School:

High school students will participate in an Inter-house Winter Olympics. Students need to dress in civvies that correspond to their house colours (Bodiam: green; Leeds: blue; Windsor: red). There are a variety of games in which they can participate. Some games will require students to bring supplies (e.g., tape or scissors) so students should take note of ‘required materials’ when signing up for an event. House points will be awarded to the leading house in each event, as well as the best-dressed house and the house that displays the most spirit. High school students may leave from 13:30.

The Matrics will be selling cupcakes on the day. Students from all phases are encouraged to bring money to support them.

Please note that Covid-19 protocols will be adhered to at all times.

YEAR 6 & 7 PARENT EVENING

We are currently planning a parent information evening for Year 6 & 7 parents and students. This will take place early in the 3^rd term. We will communicate details soon.

2022 SCHOOL CALENDAR

This will be circulated to parents by the end of the week. I trust it will help when planning your holidays – Covid dependant, of course.

COVID-19

Let me assure you that all necessary protocols are followed at school, i.e.. wearing masks, sanitizing and social distancing. As the 3rd wave takes hold in the Western Cape, we are on high alert and will do everything possible to ensure our community stays healthy.

Our school term ends next Friday, 25th June and Term 2 work has, mostly, been concluded. We have some other academic and fun activities planned for the remainder of the term and this requires the presence of students at the school.

Before school resumes for Term 3 on Tuesday 20th July, we will make an informed decision regarding online classes. Should the 3rd wave be of such a nature that it poses a risk for our school community, we will not hesitate to consider online classes after discussions with the Board and sister schools.

We will communicate this to parents during the last week of the holidays (12th – 16th July).

Please be assured that the school will do everything in our power to minimize the risks at school.

Thank you for understanding and working with us to fight Covid and the winter colds.

STAFF CHANGES

The following staff changes will come in effect at the beginning of Term 3:

Mr Julian Harrison has a change of title and will now be the title of Cambridge Examinations Administrator.

Mrs Carmen de Villiers has been appointed as High School Coordinator (Year 7 – 12).

Mrs Katherine Nel has been appointed as Key Stage 2 Coordinator (Year 3 – 6).

Ms Yvette Fourie has been appointed as Year 4 teacher in the place of Mrs Marlize Keyser.

Mr Louis Marais has been appointed as Year 7 & 8 Maths and Science teacher in the place of Ms Tayla Shergold-Smith.

Ms Michellene Williams has been appointed as IGCSE and AS/A Level English teacher in the place of Ms Alice Pryor.

Mrs Sheila Marais takes on the portfolios of SRC (High School) and Discipline (Whole School).

FEATURE PHOTO

Our main newsletter photograph features Mrs Avril Lai Wing. Mrs Lai Wing is our Administration Secretary at school.

Avril started at BIS on 1 March 2019. She was born in Cape Town and is the third youngest of 7 children. She recently celebrated 23 years of marriage with the love of her life, Brent. They have 2 wonderful children, Tamika 22 who’s an internationally certified PRO make-up artist and Mikhail 15, an enthusiastic soccer player who dreams of going pro one day. Avril worked in the corporate industry for many years, one of it being advertising where she worked in reception but also did voiceovers and jingles for ads. However, she always had a desire to work with children and was fortunate to be granted an opportunity to work in the first collaboration school in Cape Town as a remedial support assistant teacher for 3 years before joining BIS as the Administration Secretary.

5 facts about Avril:

• She is a motivational speaker at events, specifically women’s events like church high teas, ladies’ retreats, couples retreats and youth camps, but her absolute favourite is doing stand-up comedy emceeing at events.
• She loves entering competitions and has won quite a few over the years which included 2 big ones. The 1st being Brent and herself being the first runner ups of a SA Bridal Couple of the Year competition shortly after they got married and the winner of the Volvo V40 T3 Sport Pack in the KFM Pumped up for summer competition in Nov 2013.
• Avril and two of her sisters have been an acapella trio since their childhood and have performed at many events over the years. She has also directed church youth choirs and young adult choirs.
• Avril loves camping and the outdoors, especially nature reserves and off-roading.
• She screams blue murder when someone scares her but has the warped desire to explore a ghost house one day!

WEEKLY THOUGHT: Our Reaction to Others’ Actions

“When we see men of worth, we should think of equalling them; when we see men of a contrary character, we should turn inward and examine ourselves.” – Gustave Courbet

Our actions are so often influenced by how we view the actions of others. Courbet understood this and provided some valuable advice in the quote above.

He describes two scenarios in life:

Firstly, when we see a man of worth – an individual of exemplary character – we should make it our mission to equal him. But if we’re very honest with ourselves, this usually isn’t our first thought when we come across someone walking the “straight and narrow” road of integrity and truth. Instead of wanting to imitate such a person, we often look for something they do wrong, or at the very least, remark that we “can’t live up to such standards”. Courbet encourages us to react in a positive manner towards someone displaying positive attributes.

In the second (and perhaps more common) scenario, Courbet states that, when we see a man with a contrary – flawed and perverted – character, we should first look inward and examine ourselves. Do you find this difficult? I know I do! If we’re like most people, the first thing we want to do is to immediately correct someone acting in the wrong way. Courbet, on the other hand, advises us to first examine ourselves. He understood something of human nature that few people do – the fact that the character flaws we so easily spot in others are the very flaws we battle with most ourselves.

In this second, more challenging, scenario, we’re encouraged to react in a positive manner again, even when confronted with someone else’s flawed character. We are to use these instances as mirrors to examine ourselves.

May we consider this French painter’s advice in each of our interactions with others in the week ahead and see if we can apply it. By doing so, we will most certainly continue to grow and develop as individuals.

Let’s always consider Courbet’s advice when working with each other in Prepaid24 and when working with our clients. If we do, we will gain far more than we could possibly imagine.

Have a fruitful weekend and stay warm.

Andre

From the Principal’s Desk, 11 June 2021

Dear Parents

Our high school students have one more week of exams left before they can have a breather. As we wind down towards the June/July holidays and as the Western Cape enters the 3^rd wave of Covid infections, I urge our families to remain vigilant with regards to health and safety protocols. If we all follow the necessary sanitizing, social distancing and wearing of masks, we will protect our school and community.

YOUTH DAY

Next Wednesday, the 16^th of June, is Youth Day. Let us take time to celebrate our youth. We have such an important task in equipping young people for the future.

It is our goal to ensure that when our students leave school they are resilient, confident, independent, respectful, resourceful, have a positive attitude, adaptable, well-rounded, self-aware, empathetic, critical thinkers, innovative, creative, problem solvers, responsible, good communicators, confident, compassionate, self-motivated, emotionally intelligent, resourceful, free thinkers, good leaders, balanced, flexible, self-regulated, team players, responsible and accountable.

Enjoy the day with your children.

FEATURE PHOTO

Our main newsletter photograph features Ms Heidi La Bercensie. Ms La Bercensie is one of our Music teachers at school. Did you know:

She was born in Port Elizabeth, attended school in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) and in Wolfsburg, Germany. She studied at NMMU and UCT, and she currently performs with a few orchestras and in concerts on a regular basis. As much as she has a passion and love for teaching music and making a difference in children’s lives, a huge part of her passion is being on stage and performing!

Facts about her that not everyone knows:

• She loves travelling & experiencing different cultures around the world, and has been to 12 different countries and counting…
• She has a BMusHons; PGCE, an Associate and a Licentiate degree in Clarinet, and Grade 8 in Violin.
• She was invited to and took part in the annual London Notting Hill Carnival, performing as a steelpan player with the London Mangrove Steelband.
• She is an adrenaline junkie and has a goal to go to as many theme parks around the world as possible.
• She started playing in the South African National Orchestra since 14yrs old.
• She loves quad biking, hikes and doing outdoor adventures.

Heidi started at Blouberg International School on the 1^st of January 2018.

WEEKLY THOUGHT: History

“That men do not learn very much from the lessons of history is the most important of all the lessons of history.” – Aldous Huxley

History. We all remember asking ourselves the question at some point our school careers: Why do I need to learn about that specific event, this famous person or anything else for that matter?

Most of us have a few decades worth of experience behind us and aren’t sitting in school anymore. This being the case, here is another question: Do you still think studying history is a waste of time?

According to Huxley, your answer to this question will put you into one of two categories: You’re either a person that learns from history or you’re one that doesn’t.

Many of our successes and failures in life are a consequence of our attitude towards history and whether we apply its valuable lessons.

Have a brilliant weekend and make an impact.

Andre

From the Principal’s Desk, 3 June 2021

Dear Parents

GLOBAL PARENTS DAY
“The Global Day of Parents is observed on the 1st of June every year. The Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2012 and honours parents throughout the world. The Global Day provides an opportunity to appreciate all parents in all parts of the world for their selfless commitment to children and their lifelong sacrifice towards nurturing this relationship.

In its resolution, the General Assembly also noted that the family has the primary responsibility for the nurturing and protection of children and that children, for the full and harmonious development of their personality, should grow up in a family environment and in an atmosphere of happiness, love and understanding.”

In celebration of Global Parents Day, I would like to thank all the parents of BIS. Thank you for looking after and caring for our children. As a school community, we should be focused on ensuring that, on leaving school, our leaners are resilient, confident, independent, respectful, resourceful, have a positive attitude, adaptable, well-rounded, self-aware, empathetic, critical thinkers, innovative, creative, problem solvers, responsible, good communicators, confident, compassionate, self-motivated, emotionally intelligent, resourceful, free thinkers, good leaders, balanced, flexible, self-regulated, team players, responsible and accountable.

Keep being amazing parents. We appreciate you!

YEAR 4 TEACHER
Following the resignation of our Year 4 teacher, Mrs Marlize Keyser, we have made an internal appointment and Ms Yvette Fourie will assume this position from term 3.

DROP AND GO AREAS:

Gravel Parking area
We have managed to pave the entrance to the gravel parking area and this seems to have made it a little easier for parents.

The area in the middle is for parking. The circular area around the parking is only for “drop and go”. Please do not park in this area as it will cause congestion. We also rely on our parents to be considerate and not to hold up traffic. Thanks to your cooperation the flow of traffic has improved drastically.

Please be vigilant of children and pedestrians. If we all work together, it will make a huge difference. Thank you to all our families for your cooperation and patience.

Main parking area in front of the school
May I request that if you intend to get out of your car that you park in one of the parking bays. We will no longer allow you to get out of your car at the “drop and go” area.

We understand that some parents want to walk their little ones to the sanitizing station, and you are welcome to do so, but please use a parking bay in that case. When cars are left at the “drop and go” it causes congestion and frustration for other parents. Let’s be considerate and work together in this regard.

Your cooperation is appreciated so much.

FEATURE PHOTO
Our main newsletter photograph features Ms Sheila Marais. Ms Marais is our IGCSE & AS/A Level History teacher. Did you know:

• She did horse riding for 21 years.
• She has been a trail runner since 2019.
• She is an avid reader and collects Sherlock Holmes books.
• She also collects vintage and antique items.
• This teacher does in fact have a pet – a 10 year old English Cocker Spaniel called Eli.

WEEKLY THOUGHT: Courage

“Courage is being scared to death… and saddling up anyway.” – John Wayne

For most people, courage is the absence of fear, but John Wayne would disagree.

According to Wayne, everybody gets scared in certain situations – even the brave and courageous! BUT, the difference is that the courageous press forward in spite of their fear.
This should be good news for all of us.

Are you currently facing a situation that is daunting and leaves you with doubts and fears? Whether you are courageous or not will be determined by your next action – not by how you feel now.

So often in life, fear makes us feel inadequate, and the perception that others “do not fear” obviously doesn’t help. But what we need to understand is that everyone experiences fear and that fear gives us an opportunity to be courageous.

Victory and success are reserved for those individuals who move forward despite the fear they experience. During the last year, things all across the world have changed dramatically. The fact is that we don’t know what to expect from next month (never mind next year), but this should not paralyze us. Instead, we need to show courage by pressing forth regardless of what tomorrow may bring.

Our prayer is that those who are scared will discover the courage they need to keep going. Let us press on and never give up.

Andre

From the Principal’s Desk, 28 May 2021

Dear Parents

We have reached the business end of the term and this means exam and test time. By now, all students should have a study timetable to ensure that they are able to do THEIR very best.

Student wellness is most important. Let’s all work together to ensure that our children are as relaxed as can be. While these assessments are important, they DO NOT define our children. As parents and teachers, we need to care for our children more than we care for the results.

FEATURE PHOTO

Our main newsletter photograph features Mrs Ann Cordner. Mrs Cordner is our Key Stage 1 Coordinator. Did you know:

• She started teaching at Blouberg International School in 2014 as a Year 1 teacher.
• She was one of two teachers who started a brand new school in Durbanville. She taught Grades 1, 2, 3 and 4 in one class for 6 months, an experience she never wishes to repeat!
• She runs about 5km 3 times a week and has aspirations of one day running a half marathon again. Actually, in her dreams it’s the Comrades.
• During the lockdown in April 2020, she ran a marathon over three weeks doing laps around her garden, each lap was only 120m which equated to 350 laps. So she was well acquainted with every blade of grass by the end of the 42.2 km.
• She loves to sit and read a good book accompanied by a cup of tea and a chocolate.
• She always jokes with the children in her class that she is 99 years old and sadly they find it easy to believe.

Thank you, Ann, for all you do for our school. You are an inspiration for many.

REAL MADRID SOCCER CLINIC FOR SEK AND IES

IES and the Real Madrid Foundation have signed an important agreement, exclusively for our students, with the aim of carrying out high-level sports activities.

From July 4th to the 10th, students between the ages of 11 and 14 will be able to take part in a soccer clinic (intensive soccer program) at “Real Madrid City” in Valdebebas (Madrid), considered the largest sports centre built by a club in the world.

Students will be housed, on a full board basis, in a student residence located in the heart of Madrid, on Paseo de la Habana, next to the Santiago Bernabéu stadium.

Daily soccer training sessions will be led by Real Madrid coaches, offering elite and competitive soccer training.

Our students will also be provided with a complete Real Madrid Foundation training kit.

In addition to sports activities, students will enjoy recreational and cultural activities in the city of Madrid.

The price of the complete course, including transport and transfers in Madrid, is  € 1,190 (excludes flights).

There is limited space in the camp (a total of 25 participants) so if you are interested in having your child participate in the Real Madrid Soccer Clinic please contact our Sport Coordinator, Ms Yvette Fourie (yvette.fourie@iesmail.com) for more details.

WEEKLY THOUGHT: Small Matters

“Big doors swing on little hinges.” – W. Clement Stone

Let that image sink in…

When things go right, it often is not because people or institutions got the “big” things right. This goes the other way too: If things go terribly wrong, it usually isn’t because people made massive and apparent mistakes.

In failures and successes, we must not immediately look for the obvious things. Instead, as Stone suggests, we should rather set our sights on the small things.

We will all do well to look at our own lives and ask ourselves whether we are living life as successfully as we would like to be? If the answer is “No”, we are quick to think that getting a degree or a new job in a different city is what we need to set our lives in a better direction – you know, some “big” changes…

But if we take Stone’s words to heart, we may want to consider the following things: How much we sleep; how much time we set apart just to think and meditate; whether we exercise and eat balanced meals; what and how we read; who we hang out with and call our friends; what we believe and the amount of time we spend on our spiritual lives.

Can you recognise these “little hinges” in your life? If we work on them, we may just find that the doors of opportunity swing open, along with peace and success. Though largely unnoticed, the above aspects of our lives are so much more significant than we could ever imagine.

Shall we try to get the “small” things right in our lives? Doing so may just mark the start of a wonderful new journey – for us and the people dearest to us.

Have a wonderful weekend and let’s execute well on the “small things”.

Andre