TMC

The Horse's Mouth
Thomas More College
News from the Horse's Mouth
 08 November 2016
Newsletter 36
Letter from the Editor

Please find the Scripture for the week here.

 

    Some points of particular interest in the expanded sections below include:
  • Shane Cuthbertson - spares a thought for Varsity students being affected by unrest.
  • Dave Wiggett - shares thoughts and discussions being had in the High School around pupils having a balanced school experience, without burnout and over-participation. 
  • Barbara Taljard - shares tips to assist parents in helping their children cope with exams.
  • Deni Hornsey -  shares the changes that will take place in the FP next year.

FB

Congratulations

Congratulations to Leanne Frisinger (HS Teacher) & her husband Travis on the safe arrival of their baby girl, Zenith Mae Frisinger, born on 28 October at Hillcrest Hospital weighing a healthy 3.3kgs.  We wish their family all the very best as memories are made.

 

Stock Shop - New Uniform purchases

All pupils needing new uniforms for 2017, especially those going in to Grade 1 and Grade 8 please contact the Stock Shop as soon as possible to secure an appointment to kit out your child.

 

The diary is open and appointments will be available from 1st November. The Stock Shop will be closed from 10th December up until 12th January. The shop is open in January for top ups and last minute purchases only, and as this is a very busy time we ask that you do not leave full uniform purchases until January as we cannot guarantee stock availability.

 

Please call the Stock Shop on 031 764 8640 / 082 4601 688 during Stock Shop trading times or email us on stockshop@thomasmore.co.za, and we will get back to you. 

 

School-Days®

Dont forget to swipe your card at the following retailers to accumulate your School-Days®

 

Dis-Chem Pharmacies, Hirsch's Hillcrest, Booking.com, Rentalcars.com, Tinklepea, Poolware & Service, Durban Computers, Stretta Cafe, Nambiti Hills, Sure Aeroflite Travel, Champagne Sports Resort, Pumula Beach Hotel, Hippo Hideaway, Europcar & Trifin Financial Services - visit https://www.schooldays.co.za/ to learn more, or to order your card.  Mobile app now available via the following links:

appstore  appstore

Editor Picture

Have a great week,
Kim Hooper
Marketing Manager

The Thomas More Education Trust

The Thomas More Education Trust is an initiative of Thomas More College and works in partnership with the College. The Trust is registered separately as a non-profit (NPO) and public benefit organisation (PBO) and runs independently of Thomas More College. The Thomas More Education Trust has already seen a number of pupils through Thomas More College and on to tertiary education, as well as a number of teacher interns and assistants.

 

The objectives of the trust are: 

  • Funding of primary, secondary and/or tertiary education of previously disadvantaged South Africans;

  • Funding of South African teacher internships;

  • Creating a financial conduit through which current pupils of Thomas More College may demonstrate their social responsibility and participate in the general educational upliftment of previously disadvantaged South African communities;

  • Providing short-term financial assistance to deserving pupils of Thomas More College.

 

The Thomas More Education Trust offers donors an opportunity to become involved in the upliftment of previously disadvantaged individuals and communities. Donations primarily provide education to previously disadvantaged South African children, but also support Black teacher interns and, in certain selected cases, provide short term financial assistance to existing pupils. The trust is a well-managed, controlled and audited conduit for investment in the future of South Africa through the education of our children.

 

An investment, made by donors to the Trust, entitles businesses to:

  • A tax deduction;

  • BBBEE points in the Socio-Economic Development category.

 

Should you wish to support pupils or teacher interns in need, please contact Claudia Levarelli, the Thomas More Education Trust secretary, on (031) 764 8646 or clevarelli@thomasmore.co.za who will furnish you with all necessary info.

 

Achievements   Extra-mural Calendars   Academic Calendars
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Upcoming Events  Quick Links


Whole School Events Calendar
 

Scripture for the week

Scripture“Blessed are the peace makers for they will be called sons of God” Matthew 5:9

Looking at the world around us we desperately see the need for peacemakers. A person who is a peacemaker wants to bring God’s blessing to others. With so many of us lacking inner peace we often reflect this outwardly in our conflict with others and we realise it is due to our lack of peace with God. Consequently, there is an almost desperate cry for peace at all three stages of our lives, inner peace, peace with others and most importantly peace with God.

Jesus promise is that we shall “be called sons/daughters of God” verse 9. We will therefore reflect the character and nature of God the supreme peacemaker. In Romans 5:1 we are told because of the cross He (Jesus) has made it possible for us to have peace with God. Plus the cross has broken down the dividing wall of hatred between people (Ephesians 2:14). However, this was not peace at any price but a costly one for a specific purpose – us as John 3:16 tell us ‘God gave His one and only Son’. Accept the peace that only God can give Philippians 4:7 and may “… the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus”.  

To all the Grade 7 to Grade 11s all the best for the exams and you are in our prayers.

Shalom (peace)
God bless
Rev. Martin Easson
Chaplain
measson@thomasmore.co.za

Whole School News

I trust that the Primary school pupils and staff have enjoyed their mid-term break and come back ready to face the final month. This is very much exam season. Matric examinations are well underway and High School examinations start on Monday. As a result of the chaos at campuses in recent months, University examinations have been hugely delayed. Many students only began their exams today although they should have already been completed. Hopefully these are able to go ahead peacefully. I was appalled to hear this morning that cleaning and catering at UCT has not taken place for over a month and those students who have stayed in res have done so under very difficult conditions. We are extremely fortunate to operate in a very stable environment but we do need to remain mindful of the huge and continuing upheaval in the lives of many who are trying to complete their studies. 

 Shane

Shane Cuthbertson
Executive Principal
scuthbertson@thomasmore.co.za

High School News

I started the year by reflecting on just how busy a space Thomas More College is. My initial impression has not changed one iota. It is a bustling, dynamic and sometimes-frenetic community that very seldom engages the pause button.

From a High School perspective, we have engaged in many productive conversations of late regarding the busyness of many of our children.

Thomas More is special because of its ethos and the balanced, holistic educational experience it offers our children. I do, however, harbour concerns from time to time about children being too busy at certain times of the year. I am referring particularly to those engaged in two or more extra mural activities concurrently, whilst still trying to balance their academic pursuits within that busyness.

One’s school years should be punctuated by exciting opportunities beyond the realm of academia; however, these must be balanced. I have seen a number of our young people suffer from sheer exhaustion in the pursuit of managing multiple responsibilities in the afternoons and evenings. This is not a balanced experience. The importance of regular exercise for the adolescent mind and body must be balanced without falling into the trap of over-exercise.

Whilst one doesn’t want to be too prescriptive about the number of activities per term in which any one child may participate, we must be cognisant of keeping balance firmly in perspective for our children. This is a weighty conversation that is being entertained by the High School management team. I look forward to sharing our findings with you before the end of the year.

I wish you and your children a calm week ahead as we all prepare for the examinations which commence next week.

 

David Wiggett
High School Headmaster
dwiggett@thomasmore.co.za

Primary School News

Our Grade 7s worked hard last week selling yummy, fun and different products as part of their entrepreneurial week. Thank you to Mrs Purdon for organizing this exciting business event as part of the Grade 7 Economic and Management Science (EMS) syllabus, and to all staff and pupils who supported them- despite some rainy and gloomy days.. The Grade 7s have certainly learnt many business skills over the duration of the project. Who knows- we may be developing a future business entrepreneur, or leader?

We trust you enjoyed the Primary School mid-term break and are all relaxed and reinvigorated for the last lap of 2016! Every year at this time, we become aware of the general escalation of stress levels in our society, community, staff and pupils. Everyone has deadlines to meet and the holidays are looming not too far away. Let’s try where possible not to “sweat the small stuff” and to try to remember that each and every one of us is trying to do his or her best, while endeavouring to complete all that is required before the closure of the school year, and to plan for the start of the new year.

A special appeal to you all to ensure that your child’s uniform, hairstyle ( especially regulation boys’ cut) and accessories ( watch, girl’s ear-rings etc.) stays compliant with our code of conduct as we draw to the close of the term with the compulsory Sports and Cultural award ceremony (2/12) and Speech night prize giving (6/12) still coming up.

Best wishes to our Grade7s for their exams which started today, with their shared assessment in Afrikaans or isiZulu. From next week Thursday when exams start in earnest, children may go home after the last exam on each day, or you may fetch them at the normal close of the school day from the McKenzie Centre.

EXAM STRESS: TIPS/ HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR CHILD?

Many parents have once again asked for tips on helping their children to cope during exam time.

Some of the tips provided by educators, counsellors and parents include being supportive and helping children to identify ways of reducing stress by encouraging them to:

a. Eat nutritious meals.

· A good breakfast is key.

· Avoid junk foods that raise blood sugar temporarily.

· Eat a fruit or other healthy snack ahead of studying. (It’s hard to study if hungry)

· Drink plenty of water.

b. Get a good night’s sleep. Get up and go to bed at approximately the same time every night. Have some quiet ‘own’ time before bed (listen to music, have a bath with mind-calming aromatherapy oils, read a book). Avoid last minute all-night study sessions.

c. Have a quiet place to study, away from noisy family members. Hang a ‘do not disturb’ sign if necessary.

d. Switch off cell phones (or remove them) and computers whilst studying, to ensure no interruptions or distractions.

e. If listening to music, select classical and calm instead of fast rhythm and lyrics.

f. Be organised and manage time by having a study guide with allocated time for learning for each exam.

g. Highlight text in colour or draw funny shapes/mind maps next to important points, to help recall.

h.Read notes, re-read and read again.

i.Get some exercise every day, even if it’s only a 20-minute jog or brisk walk.

j.Take regular short breaks e.g. 10 minutes every hour of studying. Ideally do something physical (walk around the garden, play with the dog, skip etc).

k. Avoid having a ‘post mortem’ after the exam. You can’t go back and change your answers so don’t stress about it – just focus all your energy on the next one.

Best wishes to you all for the week ahead.

 

Barbara Taljard
Primary School: Headmistress
btaljard@thomasmore.co.za

Foundation Phase News

We hope you had an enjoyable half term with your children. We look forward to the last few weeks of this term with you and your children as we rush towards the end of the year, it is brings both exciting and sad news. We have sadly accepted the resignation of Jane Phipson in Grade 1 who leaves us to join her husband in selling property. We wish Jane and Howard God’s richest blessings in their new venture.  At the same time, I am very excited to be able to announce the following changes in our Foundation Phase Staff team:

Jenny Sim leaves Grade 0 to teach Grade 00 Purple

Lorna Sachs leaves Grade 00 to teach Grade 1

Amy Munro who has run our Crèche very successfully this year, moves to teach Grade 0 Blue

Candace Leighton leaves Grade 0 and moves to the Crèche

Tayla Godbold leaves Grade 0 and moves to the Crèche

Jenna Hollamby leaves the Crèche and moves to Grade 0

Sophia Jansen van Rensburg leaves the Crèche and moves to our FP Aftercare

 

Change often brings with it an element of uncertainty and anxiety, but also creates a sense of excitement, brings opportunities for new challenges, fresh ideas and renewed energy. Well done to all those ladies brave enough to change – you will make a wonderful addition to your new teams.

 

We have hosted two wonderful concerts and are so proud of the PP and JP children and grateful to all staff and parents for these wonderful events. Well done to Mrs Jagles in pulling these off well in the first year in her new position.

 

Deni Hornsey
Foundation Phase:  Headmistress
dhornsey@thomasmore.co.za

Academic Achievements

PS Weekly Achievers

 

1B

Violet du Plessis - for always trying her best and for improved work pace.  Keep it up.

1K

Emma Croucamp - for being so brave and persevering with her work and sport even with a very sore hand.  I am proud of you my girl.

1P

Naomi Easson - for trying hard to work quietly and for improved handwriting. Keep it up.

2D

Adam Labuschagne - for his improved concentration, effort when working and wonderful conversational chats.

2J

Jared Mallalieu - for working so hard on writing an interesting pirate story.

2R

Dylan Tozer - for his wonderful pirate story.

3B

Gregory Acklom - for showing kindness and thoughtfulness and for his consistent effort in the classroom.

3P

Joshua Fitzpatrick - for his kind assistance at all ties and smart academic progress.

3R

Ruby du Plessis - for her enthusiasm and for always working hard and making good gains.

4dP

Bella Chetty - for her kind and caring nature and for always being so willing to be her teacher's "left-hand".

4M

Alwande Mbonambi - for working hard in class and for his positive attitude.

4F

Matthew Folkes - for his vastly improved handwriting.

5vL

Grace Cason - for her diligent approach to her schoolwork and her kind helpful nature.

5P

Matthew Reinecke - for excellent work in Maths and for always trying to do the right thing.

5L

Kaelah Balarin - for always being willing to help.

6B

James Bartman - for his continued effort in his schoolwork.

6M

Reece Jones - for his happy smile and good sense of humour.

6H

Gareth Serfontein - for his enthusiasm and good sense of humour.

7M

Bronwyn Cason - for being so organised in all she does.

7S

Charlotte Williamson - for diligence and organisation skills.

7C

Brad Ballack - for his enthusiasm and positive attitude this week.

 

Cultural/Outreach

Music

Congratulations to the following pupils:

Benjamin Dedekind passed his Grade 3 Rock & Pop Trinity Drumming Exam.

Brendan Kuhnert passed his Grade 4 Rock & Pop Drumming exam with Merit.  

Samuel Renard passed his Grade 4 Piano exam with Distinction.

Anna Ahlschlager passed her Grade 3 Piano Rock & Pop exam. 

Rachel Montague passed her Initial Piano exam with Merit. 

Mandy Montague passed her Grade 2 Piano exam with Merit.

Aimee Maritz passed her Grade 2 Piano exam with Merit.

Well done to all our musical super stars!

 

Ballet

Congratulations to Tara Saint, Sienna Raath and Sarah Clark who all received Distinctions and Angela Staples who received Merit in the Classical Ballet exams with the Cecchetti Society.  Well done girls.

 

Sporting Achievements

HS Girls' Water polo

TMC 1st Team 17 Hillcrest 0

TMC 1st Team 9 Reddam Umhlanga 0

TMC 1st Team 12 Kloof 0

 

HS Boys' Water polo

TMC 1st Team 19 Hillcrest 0

TMC 1st Team 14 Reddam Umhlanga 2

TMC 1st Team 17 Kloof 1

 

HS Cricket

TMC U15A 203/4 (Meikle 74*, Maree 34, Blythen 33). Crawford LL 132/9 (Naidoo 3/28). TMC won by 71 runs.

Crawford LL 1st Team 105/5. TMC 107/5 (Wesley 37, Olivier 31). TMC won by 5 wickets.

 

U10A Cricket vs St Henry’s

St Henry’s 103/ 6 in 20 overs (Ryan Browning 2/17 Max Buchan 2/11 and Alex Jackson 2/26)

Thomas More 104/4 in 19.3 overs (Ryan Browning 35 and Max Buchan 37 no).  Thomas More won by 6 wickets.

 

SP Girls' Water polo

1st lost to St Marys 1st - 8 - 2

 

KZN Cricket

Congratulations to Dani Rockey on being selected for the U13 KZN Girls' Cricket team.  Well done Dani.

 

Karate

Congratulations to Cathkin Millichip for coming 2nd at the recent Karate Inter Club Championships and Jason Staples who placed 1st.  Well done to you both.

 

KZN Tennis

Congratulations to Ashtyn Cason who won the U10 girls' secition at the KZN Tennis Association Mini Masters Series Finals over the weekend.  Well done Ashtyn.