19 January 2024

Dear Parents,

Welcome to Clifton, and may this year bring you and your family many blessings and opportunities for growth. As we embark on the journey of 2024, I want to share something that has been on my heart.

Living in South Africa is truly an incomparable experience. While other countries may offer conveniences and infrastructure, there's a unique sense of belonging and relief that comes with being in South Africa. The Midlands, in particular, with its beauty, opportunities, and wonderful people, holds a special place in our hearts. It's a place where children can grow up with a strong value system and experience a freedom to be children that is unparalleled.

Of course, we are not blind to the challenges our country faces, from crime to infrastructure issues. However, we have a choice in how we respond to these challenges. Some things are within our control, and for those beyond our control, we can build resilience and creativity to reach our full potential and make a positive difference in the world.

Imagine if I were to inundate you with daily reports on crime statistics, corruption, and various challenges. It wouldn't be long before discontentment sets in, and despite not personally experiencing these issues, you might be tempted to consider leaving. I believe that fostering a positive outlook on South Africa is crucial. It's about acknowledging the problems but also celebrating the unique qualities that make our country special.

This perspective extends to our school environment as well. In 2024, let's focus on the positive aspects of our school and the incredible opportunities our children have in the Midlands. Instead of dwelling on things that may not be perfect, let's engage in constructive conversations to address concerns directly. Negative discussions can shape perceptions in ways that overshadow the many positive aspects of our school.

I encourage you to consider the impact of the conversations we have with each other. Let's build a positive and encouraging environment where our children can thrive. By focusing on the good, we contribute to a community that uplifts and supports one another.

Here's to a wonderful 2024 filled with growth, positivity, and shared accomplishments.

Staff News:

I am delighted to extend a heartfelt welcome to our newest additions to the team! Please join me in welcoming our six new staff members, whose expertise and enthusiasm are sure to make valuable contributions to Clifton:

Shelley Rossouw - Grade 2 Teacher

Nicole Venter - Grade 3 Teacher

Siné Wagner - SP Afrikaans Specialist

Douglas Neary - Grade 4 Teacher

Lisa Wallett - Riding School Specialist

Angie Terwin - Riding School Instructor

It is with great excitement and pleasure that we introduce the newest member of our peripatetic music team, Ms Keamogetswe Magau. Keamogetswe will be taking over the role previously held by Talisa Symons, who has relocated to Durban. We extend our warmest welcome to Ms. Magau and are thrilled to have her join the Clifton family.

Keamogetswe was raised musically in the capable hands of Peter Guy at a music school called the Mangaung string programme. Her violin teacher, Sharon De Kock, helped her growth immensely at the University of the Free State.

She also plays and sings solo’s on two of the Mangaung String orchestra albums. She has travelled abroad with the MIAGI youth orchestra and had the honour of playing in halls such as the Elb Philharmonie in Hamburg, Konzerthaus Berlin and the Royal Konzerthaus in Amsterdam.

Her first solo performance with the KZN Philharmonic orchestra was in 2016 playing Mozart’s 5th Violin Concerto. 2017 marked the year where she became the concertmaster of the South African National Youth Orchestra. She then joined the Fellowship programme in 2017 at the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra and in just under 6 months got permanently employed by the KZN Philharmonic as a tutti first violin player. She enjoys performing with the orchestra and doing solo ventures.

Not only is Ms Magau accomplished in the world of music, but she also holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management Degree from the University of South Africa, which she completed in 2022.

We are truly delighted to welcome Ms Keamogetswe Magau to the Clifton team. Her passion for music, extensive experience, and dedication to her craft make her a valuable addition to our vibrant musical community. We look forward to the inspiration and guidance she will undoubtedly bring to our children.

Interns:

Additionally, we are thrilled to welcome four new interns who have joined the team. Over the coming weeks, we will be featuring each new intern in our newsletter, providing an opportunity for you to get to know them better.

Justin Kufal

Morghan Flanagan

Nick Ross

Nicole Houart

Pupil News:

We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the matriculants of 2023 for their outstanding achievements in the recent matriculation exams.

This is what you can expect over the next two weeks:

Saturday 20 January