Newsletter No 18 of 2025

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | Jun 19, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

END OF TERM ARRANGEMENTS

Please note that learner reports will be issued on Friday, 27 June 2025 at 11:00 AM, the last day of Term 2.
Parents who wish to collect reports directly may do so from 08:30 AM at the Deputy Principal’s office.

BATTSWOOD ART CENTRE UPDATE

We are proud to announce that seven of our senior learners have been selected to perform in an anti-bullying play as part of the Battswood Art Centre Drama Showcase.
Congratulations to Kelsey Beaton, Phoebe English, Kaylene Louw, Jodi Martin, Tyler van der Merwe, and Zuhayr Williamson, who are currently in rehearsal for this exciting opportunity.

We are incredibly proud of their dedication and talent and wish them all the best in their upcoming performance.

The showcase is scheduled for September, and we will share specific dates, times, and ticket information as soon as they are finalized.

METRO KIDS FUNDRAISER

Metro Kids, a valued partner in our school’s extracurricular programming, is hosting a fundraiser to support their upcoming children’s holiday programme—an event our learners are invited to attend.

To raise funds, the organization is hosting a BINGO EVENING, and we encourage all parents and families to support this wonderful initiative.

Event Details:

RETURN OF TEXTBOOKS

A gentle reminder to all parents:
Please ensure all textbooks currently in learners’ possession are returned to the school by 27 June 2025.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“We tell people to follow their dreams, but you can only dream of what you can imagine, and, depending on where you come from, your imagination can be quite limited.”
— Trevor Noah, Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood

Newsletter No 17 of 2025

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | Jun 12, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

GRADE 2 AQUARIUM VISIT

We are delighted to share that on Tuesday, 10 June 2025, our Grade 2 learners enjoyed an exciting and educational visit to the aquarium. For many, it was their first time experiencing the wonders of marine life up close. Staff members who accompanied the group reported that our learners were exceptionally well-behaved—both during the bus ride and throughout the tour. Well done, Grade 2!

JUNE 16 COMMEMORATION

On 16 June 1976, thousands of courageous students in Soweto stood up against the apartheid regime’s policy of enforcing Afrikaans as the language of instruction. Their peaceful protest turned tragic when police responded with violence, claiming many young lives—including that of 12-year-old Hector Pieterson. His image became a powerful symbol of the youth’s bravery and resistance.

Today, our youth face new challenges such as unemployment, drug abuse, and gang violence. It is more important than ever that we continue to believe in them, support their growth, and nurture their potential as future leaders of our country.

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Regular attendance is essential throughout the examination period. 
• Dismissal times: From 9 June 2025, learners will be dismissed at 13:00 daily. 
• On the last day of the term, 27 June 2025, learners will be dismissed at 11:00. 
• Term 2 reports will also be issued on this day. 

ASSISTANTS UPDATE

We are pleased to announce the successful appointment of additional learning assistants this week. These assistants will focus on supporting learners with reading, and we are confident that their involvement will have a positive impact on each child’s literacy development.

Thank you for your continued support. Let’s keep working together to build a brighter future for our children!

BALLROOM

Learners who are interested in being part of the Delta Ballroom Club are invited to make contact with Mrs M Sauls on the following number: 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Rise with the sun, let your dreams take flight,

At Delta Primary, your future shines bright.

Learn with courage, grow strong and wise,

Reach for the stars that light up your skies.

You are the hope—be bold, soar high!

Newsletter No 16 of 2025

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | Jun 6, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

EXAMINATION PERIOD REMINDER

Dear Parents and Guardians,
Please note that the formal examination period begins on 9 June 2025.

We kindly ask all parents to support their children during this critical time by:

• Ensuring learners are studying regularly at home.

• Monitoring the use of electronic devices to help minimize distractions.

• Providing a calm and structured environment conducive to learning.

Important Reminders:

• Regular attendance is essential throughout the examination period.

• Dismissal times: From 9 June, learners will be dismissed at 13:00 daily.

• On the last day of the term, 27 June 2025, learners will be dismissed at 11:00.

• Term 2 reports will also be issued on this day.

️ CHILD PROTECTION WEEK – AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

On Tuesday, 3 June 2025, during our Intersen Phase Assembly, learners were engaged in a powerful discussion focused on current societal dangers affecting children.

Topics covered included:

• Substance abuse (e.g. drugs, “airpops”)

• Use of counterfeit money

• Gang involvement and imitation behavior

• Human trafficking and bullying

We emphasize that parental monitoring of children’s whereabouts and activities plays a critical role in keeping them safe from these dangers. Let’s continue working together to protect our children.

DARE TO DREAM PROJECT

Our Grade 7 class teacher, Mr. C. de Waal, continues to inspire learners through the Dare to Dream Project – a developmental programme held on Friday afternoons.

Both current and former learners actively participate. This year, we’re proud to see many alumni returning to volunteer, assisting with school projects and mentoring younger students.

Despite the challenges in their communities, these learners demonstrate resilience, purpose, and positivity. We are immensely proud of their commitment and growth. Continued mentorship is key to helping them stay focused and discover their potential.

BALLROOM DANCING

Delta Primary has a proud tradition of producing talented ballroom dancers who have competed at both Provincial and National levels.

Ms. Maxine Sauls, who leads the programme, invites interested learners to join:

• Mondays | 15:30–16:30

No prior experience needed—just enthusiasm and commitment!

SOFTBALL UPDATE

We are excited to announce the official launch of Delta Softball, now introduced across all grades!

Currently in its early stages, learners are being taught rounders as a foundation. This will help them understand the rules and techniques of softball, setting the stage for a strong, skilled team in the near future.

Thought for the Day
“A positive attitude doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges—it means facing them with hope, confidence, and the belief that better days are ahead.”

Newsletter No 15 of 2025

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | May 23, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

ASCENSION DAY 

Parents are reminded that school will be closed on Ascension day which will be celebrated on Thursday 29 May 2025.

BALLROOM

Delta Primary has over many years produced ballroom dancers that have participated at Provincial level and National level. Maxine Sauls has been the driving force behind this initiative. Iam therefore pleased to announce that the ballroom will commence as of Monday 26 May 2025@ 15.30  . All logistical arrangements will be managed by the ballroom club. 

LEARNER REGULAR ATTENDANCE

We are appealing to all parents and learners to ensure that every learner attends classes on every day that they are required to be at school,including Friday.Erratic attendance can lead to long term academic challenges. If we as a collective body do not encourage regular attendance we will continue to see below standard learner achievement.The ultimate goal of Delta Primary has always been to prepare our learners to perform and have access to the very best that life has to offer. Thus a culture of excellence underpins the school culture and all actions on the school premises.Our learner attendance statistics have been sad to say the very least. PARENTS, BOYS AND GIRLS WE MUST FIX THIS SYSTEMIC PROBLEM.

SCHOOL UNIFORM

The school uniform remains the pride of the school. It creates a sense of belonging and gives us a sense of pride. Orders for uniform may also be placed at school or using the online shopping facility on the schools website. The school learner code of conduct gives clear guidance on this:

Boys:

• Grey short pants or grey long pants.
• White, short or long sleeved shirt.
• School tracksuits in winter months only.
• Regular black school shoes with grey socks ONLY.
• Exceptions will only be made on casual days.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” – Marcus Aurelius

Newsletter No 14 of 2025

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | May 15, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

GRADE R SPACES -2025

As you are aware, the introduction of the BELA ACT OF 2024, has made the attendance of Grade R compulsory for children who are 5 years old. We are therefore encouraging parents to ensure that their children are enrolled at a school as soon as possible. Currently Delta Primary has space for 5 Grade R learners (2025 enrolment). Lets encourage and motivate family members and parents in the community to ensure that their children are enrolled with urgency.

SCHOOL UNIFORM 2025

Learners are reminded that they are required to be dressed in school uniform. Our foundation learners have responded to this call in vast majorities, displaying neat and consistent wearing of the uniform. 

I am sure that you would agree what a beautiful sight it is, when learners are dismissed and observers view learners in their school uniform.

We do note with concern that far too many senior learners are dressed with different colour hoodies and expensive takkies while their uniform is amiss. It would be so fantastic to see all our learners neatly dressed in school uniform as prescribed in the code of conduct. Some of the learner`s uniforms require to be stitched and repaired due to daily usage.

 We wish to remind all our parents that the school has introduced a lay-buy system for the purchase of school uniforms. This means that parents may indicate to the school the item they wish to purchase and may then reserve the item and pay off the account over 3 months and upon completion of the payment the uniform is issued to the child. Should this be an option you wish to explore, please make contact with the school secretary either via telephone or via a message in the message book indicating your intention to do a lay-buy.

METRO KIDS PROGRAMME

In term 1 of 2025, the school partnered with METRO KIDS , to address universal values as part of life lessons amongst all our learners. The previous life lesson was centered around choosing your friends carefully, as this impacts your life positively or negatively. On Tuesday the value was FORGIVENESS. Lets reinforce this value as part of our interaction with our children.

RETIREMENT

On Wednesday the 13 May 2025, Mrs K. Vd Ross a long serving staff member of 19 years retired from the school. This is a new phase in her life and the school extends best wishes to her going forward.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Life is constantly changing, and it’s often said that change is the only constant.

Newsletter No 13 of 2025

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | May 8, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

CONCLUDED PARENT ONE-ON-ONE MEETINGS

Our parent one-on-one meetings held over the 5-6 May 2025, gave parents an opportunity to engage the class teacher in relation to the academic performance of their children. It is vital that every parent meets with the class teacher. The month of May will be utilized to ensure that all parents have met the respective teachers, before the June examinations commence.

LEARNER REGULAR ATTENDANCE

It is crucial that all learners attend school for all 5 days of the school week. Chronic absenteeism amongst learners leads to poor school results.Lets all ensure that every child attends school as they should.

SCHOOL UNIFORM

Dear parents, please do a close inspection of the dress code of your loved one before they leave home. A repeat number of learners are coming to school poorly attired. We note learners are still coming to school with torn shirts, trousers, tracksuit pants etc., please repair the clothing, it is a situation that can be rectified with a small amount of effort. 

POST SURFWALK FUNDRAISING

The school will be making contact with individual households regarding their voluntary contributions to the annual surfwalk. As you are aware, schools like any other institution carry financial overheads to make the school functional. While the school is a NO-FEE SCHOOL, it is certainly not a NO EXPENSE SCHOOL.We are therefore urgently requesting that parents who have not contributed towards the surfwalk make a voluntary donation to the school over the remainder of the term. Our budget reflected a minimum income from the surfwalk which we regretfully have not attained. This has the possibility of requiring a reshuffle of the budget to close the deficit for certain line items. Learners who contribute the R150 will still be eligible for the slab of chocolate. PLEASE DO THE RIGHT THING – MAKE YOUR CONTRIBUTION

EXAMINATION ROSTER

All learners in grade 4-7 have been issued with an examination roster. We are encouraging all parents to peruse the examination roster and make  the necessary domestic arrangements to ensure that learners prepare themselves well for the June examination. Simply put: less television, technology and more studying produces good school results.

BATTSWOOD ART CENTRE

Grade 7 parents are aware that as of 2025, our grade 7 learners have the privilege of attending the Battswood Art Centre in Grassy Park. Two of our learners,Vernisha Muller and Dylan Davids were selected to participate in the Creative Arts and Environmental Consciousness Programme. The programme was  hosted at Artscape on 8 May 2025. Congratulations to these artistic learners.

MOTHERS DAY WISHES

We take this opportunity to wish all the mothers a blessed mothers day on Sunday 12 May 2025. May you always know that you are deeply appreciated

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Appreciation is a wonderful thing: It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” – Mary Wollstonecraft 

Newsletter No 12 of 2025

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | Apr 24, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

PARENT ONE-ON-ONE MEETINGS

Dear parents, this is a gentle reminder that parent teacher one-on-one sessions have been arranged for the 5 and 6 May 2025. The 5 May 2025 has been earmarked for the afternoon session starting @ 1pm -4 pm. The 6 May 2025 has been arranged as an evening session from 5pm- 8pm. Confirmation slips have been sent to all parents to confirm their  preferred day. As far as possible teachers will liaise across the grades to ensure that time slots are allocated in a streamlined manner for parents who have learners across various grades. All sessions will be conducted from the main hall. Please ensure that the slip is returned by the 25 April – via your child or via a whatsapp picture to the class teacher. Individual class teacher will communicate the sessions per parent via the individual class group chats

RETIREMENT 

On Thursday the 17 April 2025 we bid farewell to Mr Peter Van Nel the caretaker of Delta Primary. Mr Van Nel has shared 40 years of his life serving the school. It is quite a remarkable achievement given the fact that Mr Van Nel is in such excellent health at his age. He has served as a pillar of strength at levels of the school as well as the Cafda community -fondly referred to as “seun“. We wish Mr. Van Nel all of the best in his retirement.

BOOK CHARACTER DAY

It was quite a beautiful sight from all the pictures we saw as our learners came to school dressed as their favourite book characters or TV characters. Well done boys and girls. You made the day super special.

WINNERS OF THE SURFWALK PRIZES

The winner of the LCD TV was Conner Visagie in Grade 2 and the Winner of the air fryer was Washiela Johnson. WELL DONE TO OUR WINNERS !

SCHOOL CLOSURE

Parents are reminded of school closure for the period 28 April to 2 May 2025.Upon learners return on the 5 May 2025.LEARNERS WILL BE DISMISSED @ 13.00 PM TO ACCOMMODATE THE PARENT ONE-ON-ONE SESSIONS ON BOTH THE 5 AND 6 MAY 2025

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“Don’t wish it was easier, wish you were better. Don’t wish for less problems, wish for more skills. Don’t wish for less challenge, wish for more wisdom.”
This quote encourages personal growth and striving for improvement rather than wishing for easier circumstances. – Jim Rohn

Newsletter No 11 of 2025

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | Apr 10, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

WELCOME BACK

We welcome all our learners and teachers back after the short school vacation. We look forward to a constructive term 2 and appeal to all our parents to assist to ensure that the core business of education is prioritised in the lives of their children. 

TERM 2 PREPARATION

Please, examine and discuss the contents of the term 2 report with your child, giving praise where deserved and encouragement where needed. The second term is one of two examination terms for grades 4 to 7 learners. Learners should apply themselves to ensure that they keep books up to date, complete tasks, homework and come to school ready to learn. Learners who do not sacrifice and apply themselves cannot expect a good report at the end of the term.

We have noted that far too many learners in all the grades are displaying symptoms of disengagement from the learning process. This is noted in part by the high levels of absenteeism in all classes, the attitude of not wanting to do homework and complete assigned work in class.

 The matter of learner absenteeism will receive special attention this term, as it is detrimental to the academic development of any child. We noted learners with absenteeism exceeding 25 days. It is a shocking statistic on every  level ! 

SURFWALK 2025

The weather was absolutely beautiful on Thursday the 10 April 2025 as the school took to the beach. We are happy to report that all our learners returned safely with no incident. Following the surfwalk the following outstanding matters shall be attended to in the following days

1. Learners who have brought in the R350 will receive their Spur Meal.
2. Learners who have collected R500 and more will be entered into the lucky draw to win an Air-fryer.
3. The top collecting class will be given a free civvies day and treat.
4. The top collector will be gifted a TV. 

CURRENT PROJECTS UNDERWAY

• The SGB has approved funds to ensure our computer room is up and running and ready for the computer classes in term 2. We will give reports on this project in follow up newsletters.
• The repair of learner toilets – SGB has engaged in a special repair project to ensure that all learners toilets are in working order – updates to follow.

WELCOME TO NEW TEACHERS JOINING OUR STAFF

We welcome Mrs Dassie (Grade 6b) and Ms Brink (Grade 4C) to Delta Primary and wish them all of their best  for their stay.

DATES TO DIARISE – TERM 2 – 2025

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change”

Newsletter No 10 of 2025 – End of term 1

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | Mar 24, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

HIGHLIGHTS OF TERM 1:

School life remains a deluge of pluralism as well an the eternal conundrum.

It is an empowering practice to engage in critical reflection given the diverse range of activities the school has engaged in over the past term. Not neglecting the fact that all our learners remain the recipients of our collective hard-work. The contribution of our loyal parents and learners who truly show us what it means to be PROUDLY DELTA, gives us the motivation to stay the course.

 I take this opportunity to thank all our parents and learners on behalf of the SGB and the staff of Delta for making the task just a little bit easier. Herewith follows a narrative of the term highlights and pockets of excellence at Delta Primary School.

• • On the sports front the school held a successful inter house athletics competition as well as the Foundation phase sports day.Mia Jaftha excelled during term 1 and was richly rewarded with Zonal colours.
  • The appointment of our prefects to assist with learner management as well as to develop leadership skills. Our prefects embody the desire we have for each learner at Delta Primary School. The current group of prefects is a project in continuous action.
  • The garden project, coupled with the composting project.In this regard I must render thanks and appreciation to Margie who has given her time and effort to support Betty in the garden.The garden continues to flourish and yield an abundance of produce. Currently the soil is being prepared for the winter groups.
  • Our junior boys bathroom clean up project.The bathrooms were painted and damaged toilets repaired.
  • The continued service of the NSNP of which the learners are the beneficiaries.The feeding scheme continues to deliver on its mandate of serving the most vulnerable learners in the community. Presently the school serves approximately 500 learners at any given time.
  • The schools continued partnership with the Carmen Stevens Foundation, supplying the school with top up food for the feeding scheme. This partnership has grown from strength to strength. 
  • The action of the primary healthcare facilities in the HPV vaccination project. The goal was to ensure that learners are vaccinated within a specified time frame. This goal was achieved. 
  • Waves for Change programme to assist grade 4-5 wayward students.This programme was introduced as a change programme for identified learners displaying poor behavior.
  • Mr Clive Jacobs` intervention programme aptly titled ` DREAMS AND BELIEFS` to mediate internal conflict within the identified challenging learners.
  • Delta Primary continues to offer trauma counselling to identified learners via our in-house trauma counsellor. The counsellor also interacts and interacts with parents requiring parent support for wayward learners.
  • The Dare to Dream programme under the tutelage of Mr De Waal. Which seeks to develop current as well as ex Delta Primary learners as they transition into the high school space. 

• Our teachers remain the cornerstone of the academic strategy to ensure that all learners are able to learn. We wish to encourage our parents to support teachers with respect to developing all our learners. Teachers are our partners in the development of our children. Any other view would be a misplaced representation of their value in society.

LEARNER DISCIPLINE

Learner discipline has been particularly challenging and exacerbated by the climate of continued violence plaguing the community. SAPS statistics reveal that sector 2, of which Cafda is included, has amongst the highest incidents of robberies and contact crimes. It is therefore not surprising that many of our learners come to school with the same level of trauma perpetuated in the community and often in their parental homes. The learners come to school tremendously angry and aggressive due to conditions in their home and the community. The very same learners then engage in the same violent acts here at school namely fighting, disruptive behaviour and bullying coupled with a display of anti-social behaviour. 

The school has committed itself to assist families and children who show a willingness to be helped. Regrettably the school cannot change the conditions which exist in many of these homes or society. This is a matter of process which parents must commit to themselves. As a school and community we cannot forget that the core business of the school remains education! 

None of the above commentary detracts from a simple reality that the majority of Delta`s learners behave in a positive and exemplary manner and come to school to learn and improve their lives. As teachers we are committed to assist our learners to achieve academic and cultural success.

SCHOOLS REOPEN

Schools reopen on the 8th of April 2025 for the start of term 2. Learners will be dismissed at 13.00 on that particular day.

SURFWALK 2025

Learners who have forwarded their collecting lists will be boarding the bus on the 10th of April 2025

LEARNER SAFETY

As learners go on the vacation we give this friendly reminder to all our parents to exercise caution with respect to their children’s safety. 

LEARNER REPORTS

Your child will come home with a report. It is extremely important that parents make the time to read the report and discuss with their child where improvement needs to be made. It would also be helpful to help them identify their role and responsibility in thier academic journey at school.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

`Patience, persistence and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success` – Napoleon Hill

Have a pleasant and restful vacation !

Newsletter No 9 of 2025

by hilton.palanyandi@deltaprimary.org.za | Mar 13, 2025 | General Notices | 0 comments

SURFWALK COLLECTING LISTS

We have approximately 4 weeks remaining before the planned 2025 surfwalk which has been scheduled for the 10 April 2025. We are reminding parents that it is crucial to ensure the financial sustainability of the school by contributing towards all major fundraisers.

ANTI BULLYING CAMPAIGN

We need volunteer parents who would make themselves available during the course of the day to assist in the anti bullying campaign. Especially during intervals when learners interact with each other. Parents who wish to be part of a solutions driven approach are encouraged to make contact with the respective teachers and make themselves available to be part of our anti-bullying drive. Many thanks to Tommy, Sammy, Connie and Shamiel who have been volunteering their time in this regard.

ADMISSIONS 2026

Dear prospective parents of Delta Primary School. Be advised that the online admission process for admission 2026 opened on the 11 March 2025. All prospective parents are encouraged to complete the online application as a matter of urgency. Online admissions close on 15 April 2025. Please note the introduction of the BELA Act makes grade compulsory for learners of age.

Applications for Grade R – learner must be 5 years old turning 6 by June 30 in the year of admission. Born in 2020

Applications for Grade 1- learner must be 6 years old turning 7 by June 30 in the year of admission. Born in 2019

EARLY DISMISSAL

Parents, be advised that all learners will be dismissed at 13.00 as of the 24 March 2025 (last week of term 1). 

Term 1, 2025 learner reports will be issued on the 28 March 2025 as of 08.30 am. Learners will be dismissed at 11.00 am on the last day of the term.

Term 2 commences on the 8 April 2025.

VACANCY ON THE SGB

Parents, be advised that a vacancy exists on the SGB parent component. The SGB shall co-opt a parent for 30-90 days during the interim. During this period formal SGB elections shall be planned and communicated to parents. A parent who wishes to serve in this temporary co-opted position may submit a letter of interest directed to the Chairperson of the SGB for consideration by 21 March 2025. 

UPDATED CONTACT DETAILS – URGENT REQUEST

We are appealing to all our parents to ensure that their contact details are updated when it is required. In instances where your cell no has changed, please be so kind as to inform the teacher so that our records may be updated accordingly. We are challenged in cases of emergency when learners take ill as we often cannot contact parents to inform them via a telephone call. To parents who have updated their details we say thank you!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“Change your conception of yourself and you will automatically change the world in which you live. Do not try to change people; they are only messengers telling you who you are. Revalue yourself and they will confirm the change.” – Neville Goddard