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WEEKLY LEAFLET 35

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Dear Parents and Friends

As we send out this final leaflet on the last day of school, we would like to extend our warm wishes to all our families. For those who celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas or Kwanzaa, may these festivals bring blessings upon you and your families.

For primary school, reports can be collected at reception on Monday the 15th and Wednesday the 17th between 8:00am and 1:00pm. Please note that Tuesday is a public holiday. High school reports will be emailed. 

Thank you for your support throughout the year and for all you contribute to our school community.

Celebration of Life - William Bond

We are sad to announce that William Bond, Helen O’Hagan’s father, passed away this last week. He has a very long standing relationship with Michael Oak, as parent to Helen and her siblings and then grandparent. His wife, Winifred, was a dedicated teacher at Michael Oak for many years. We send the family deepest condolences and love.

Happy Birthday To Marion Penfold

We celebrate with joy that Marion Penfold, one of the very first teachers at Michael Oak, has turned ninety and is in Cape Town for her birthday. Marion has long been a guiding presence in our school, and many in our community were taught by her. A bring and share birthday gathering will be held on Sunday 14 December at Sophia House, 18 Firfield Road in Plumstead, from 15:00 to 17:30.

Star Tree Festival

The Star Tree Festival was a celebration of light and togetherness. Parents’ voices opened the gathering like a gentle sunrise, and one by one the children entered, filling the space with song. A single candle in the centre became a beacon as a story unfolded, woven with songs and poems. When the Class 7 students shared their light with the parents, the hall transformed into a sky of twinkling stars, each candle a small spark of joy and connection.

A Gift To The School

A Class 1 parent, Lisa Van Aardenne, kindly donated two trees to the school. A few Class 1 children, with Clinton’s guidance, planted one of the trees, helping to grow something that will bring shade and beauty for years to come. A big thank you, we are truly grateful for this gift.

Kindergarten Final Day

The Kindergarten children had their final day on Wednesday. As a gesture of love and support, the parents of the children who will be moving on to Class 1 next year formed an archway with their arms, creating a pathway for the children to walk through. Each child carried a box filled with the crafts and treasures they created throughout the term. It was a simple and cheerful way to mark the end of their kindergarten year.

Class 1 - The Golden Goose

The Class 1 children delighted their parents with a performance of The Golden Goose. With enthusiasm and charm, they brought the story to life on stage, sharing their joy, creativity, and hard work with everyone watching.

Below are photos from the play as well as a recorder performance of Au clair de la lune.

Class 3 - Market Day

The Class 3 market day was wonderfully successful, the children sold various handmade gifts such as Christmas decorations and jewelry, Sweet treats, Stickers, Gift Tags, Cards . Together they raised R2500. The money that was raised will be donated to Paedspal Paedeatric Palliative Care. As the culminations of their money main lesson, the Class 3 market day was held on Monday.

Class 3 - Gingerbread Houses

The Class 3 children spent part of their week creating their own gingerbread houses. They worked carefully with the pieces, adding sweets and small details to make each house their own. It was a fun and lively activity that brought plenty of smiles into the classroom.

Class 6 - Astronomy Mobiles

As part of their astronomy main lessons, the Class 6 students created hanging mobiles inspired by planets and stars. The project encouraged them to explore the shapes and patterns they have been learning about and to express these ideas through careful, creative work.

From Primary to High School

To mark the exciting journey from primary to high school, the Class 7 students walked through an arch of hands made by all the primary school students and their parents, with many wiping away tears in a heartfelt moment of joy.

Class 7 - A Christmas Carol

Last week the Class 7 students performed Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, managing to put on a full two-hour play with only two weeks to prepare. Both students and teachers were nervous at first, unsure if they would be ready, but the performance went smoothly and was met with great feedback from parents. A big thank you to all the parents who helped put the set together and helped to arrange the costumes. It was a remarkable effort from everyone involved and a memorable highlight of the term.

Click Here To Watch The Full Performance

Class 7 - Doll Making

During their handwork lessons, the Class 7 students created dolls of their own design. They selected their materials, hairstyles, and clothing, making each doll a unique reflection of their creativity and care.

Class 8’s Poetic Evening Under the Sunset by Melissa Smith

What a magical evening we shared on the Oval recently! Parents, grandparents, and siblings joined us for a special occasion showcasing the talents of the Class 8 students. Despite the windy and cloudy conditions, the evening was warmed by a truly beautiful sunset, setting a dramatic stage for the performances.

The Class 8s delivered a powerful recitation of three classic poems, demonstrating the different facets of human experience: “Lochinvar” by Sir Walter Scott represented the Hands, “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe spoke to the Head, and “Annabel Lee” by Edgar Allan Poe touched the Heart. 

Following the performances, the mood shifted to warmth and camaraderie as we fired up the pizza oven for a delightful supper. It was a lovely opportunity for the school community to gather and enjoy time together. 

Our sincere thanks go out to Coach Caleb for his assistance in preparing the Class 8s for their spectacular performance; Cindy Diedericks for her warm and expert guidance; Nicola Rijsdijk for masterfully coordinating the entire pizza supper; and Matthew Dowling and Andreas van Breda for expertly cooking our delicious pizzas! It was a truly memorable evening celebrating poetry, community, and delicious food!

Class 9 – Development Geography

In our Development Geography block, Class 9 learned about the primary, secondary, and tertiary economic sectors. To bring these ideas to life, students created their own economic trading cards representing different products and industries.

They then traded their cards with one another, experiencing how local, national, and global markets work through supply, demand, and interdependence. The activity brought plenty of energy and helped students clearly see how economies are connected.

Class 10 - Physics

The Class 10 students have completed their physics main lesson, which focused on motion. They ended the block with a practical activity that explored the movement of a pendulum, giving them a hands-on way to observe the concepts they have been studying.

New Matric Geographers Hike

To welcome our new Matrics into the adventure of Geography, we decided to explore Cape Town’s natural beauty by summiting Table Mountain! With an early start, we hiked up Skeleton Gorge and down Nursery Ravine – a challenging but unforgettable journey.

What an incredible adventure. Matric promises to be filled with geography action, learning, and fun!

End Of Year Staff Lunch

All of our wonderful Michael Oak staff came together for a lunch to celebrate the last day of school. With plenty of delicious treats to enjoy, it was a joyful and relaxing time shared with colleagues, as we also said a warm and heartfelt goodbye to four beloved members of our staff who are retiring: Leueen Scharnick, Brenda Gunning, Sarah Monaheng, and Caroline Marquardt.

High School Art Showcase

This week’s artwork showcases pieces from the Class 9 art main lesson ‘Aesthetics of Art’, where students explored how different artistic styles, elements, and design principles help us understand and interpret artworks. They studied various artists, examined the intentions behind their creations, and discovered how unique art styles develop. This showcase also features a striking interpretation of Starry Night by Sumita Magan and an evocative untitled piece by Gabriell Haefele, highlighting the individuality and creativity expressed throughout the lesson.

Starry Night
Sumita Magan – Class 10

Study Of Edvard Munch
Amirah Abbas – Class 9

Study Of Pablo Picasso
Amirah Abbas – Class 9

Study Of Edouard Manet
Amirah Abbas – Class 9

Study Of Vincent Van Gogh
Amirah Abbas – Class 9

Study Of Edouard Manet
Gabriell Haefele – Class 9

Study Of Frida Kahlo
Gabriell Haefele – Class 9

Study Of Pablo Picasso
Gabriell Haefele – Class 9

Untitled
Gabriell Haefele – Class 9

A selection of Class 9 creative responses to setwork, Buckingham Palace, District Six by Richard Rive.

Feedback On The Leaflet

The leaflet is continually changing, and your feedback plays an important role in helping us refine it. Please feel free to share your thoughts on this edition and help shape how the leaflet grows in future.

Community Notices

Befriend Your Nervous System

A supportive in person process group for mothers seeking greater self understanding, emotional resilience, and connection. Through mindfulness, expressive art, and somatic practices, participants explore the patterns of their nervous system, deepen their capacity for self compassion, and discover practical ways to navigate the challenges of parenting with greater awareness and confidence.

Winter Holiday Craft Workshops

The Makery is offering a series of Winter Holiday Craft Workshops filled with creativity, and hands on making. Children can enjoy a variety of morning workshops, from biscuit decorating and origami mobiles to wooden wind spinners and string pictures, all in a warm and creative atmosphere.

Live Auction - Imhoff Waldorf

Join us for our annual LIVE AUCTION fundraiser at Cape Point Vineyards on Friday, 12 June 2026 at 6:30pm. An evening of community, celebration, and fundraising in support of our school.

Golden Bridge Tales

Step into the magic of The Fisherman and the Magic Fish, a delightful 30-minute puppet show designed for children aged 4 and up. Perfect for a family outing, this heartwarming tale comes to life with charm and wonder.

  • Tickets sold at the entrance on the day: R30 per adult, R20 per child

  • Venue: Novalis Ubuntu, 39 Rosmead Avenue, Wynberg 7800

  • Date: 27 June

Lectures By Dr. James Dyson

Join Dr James Dyson for a thought provoking two part talk exploring the spiritual dimensions of human relationships through the lens of Anthroposophy. Drawing on his extensive experience in medicine, psychology, and Rudolf Steiner’s teachings, Dr Dyson offers a holistic perspective on human encounter as a path of inner development and meaningful connection. Donations at the door will support the Southern Cross Eurythmy Therapy Training.

These lectures are all open to the public.

Please contact Julia O’Leary for queries and bookings.

0769047632
 juliaoleary021@gmail.com

or Liz Smith (liz@quella.co.za).

Community Quiz Night

Round up a team of friends and join in for an evening of fun, laughter, and friendly competition at Quiz Night on Friday, 19 June. Teams of 4 or 5 players are invited to test their knowledge while enjoying food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.

The 2000s JOL

Step into a night of glitter, throwback tunes, and 2000s nostalgia at the Class 9 party fundraiser. From iconic fashion to unforgettable hits, it promises an evening of music, dancing, and celebration, with the Football World Cup game streaming live on the big screen.

Christian Community Family Fair

Join a day of community, connection, and family fun at the Christian Community Family Fair. Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with activities, entertainment, food, and opportunities to gather with friends and neighbours. All are welcome.

How To Love - In Afrikaans

The How to Love course developed by Dr Tessabella Lovemore is now available in Afrikaans for the first time. It is an online course of 12 lessons over 12 months.  “These 12 lessons have made a significant change in the way I relate to people, loved ones, colleagues, and strangers.”

Cobie Roelvert

Eurythmy Classes

A series of 6 Eurythmy sessions covering the child’s development from three to thirteen as a musical journey. Understand the child (or look back on your own childhood) through dance and song and experience how children’s needs change.

What happens when a strawberry gets run over crossing the street?

Traffic jam.

Events, Time, and Terms