Dear Parents and Guardians
Strengthening the Home–School Partnership
We extend our sincere thanks to all parents who attended the recent Parent–Teacher Meetings. Your presence and engagement are deeply valued. The feedback received has been overwhelmingly positive and reinforces the importance of strong, supportive collaboration between home and school in shaping each learner’s journey.
Our teachers also benefitted from thoughtful and constructive input across a range of areas. Several key themes emerged:
- The need for structured study techniques training to better equip learners for academic success
- Increased awareness around the responsible and ethical use of AI in learning
- A review of the cell phone policy, with a view to even stricter control during school hours
- Greater emphasis on health education, particularly regarding the risks of vaping and substance abuse
As a school, we take this feedback seriously. It informs our ongoing review of policies, procedures, and educational initiatives as we continue to prioritise a safe, focused, and healthy learning environment for all students.
Upcoming Parent Engagement Evenings
In direct response to parent input, we are pleased to introduce two conversational-style parent talks addressing key areas of concern:
Exam Success: Study Smarter
Date: Wednesday, 13 May
Time: 18h00
We welcome James Buchanan, a school principal with a strong passion for helping students find fulfilment in their academic work. He is the author of Study Smarter – The Journey to Exam Success and will share practical strategies to support effective study habits at home.
James has also kindly agreed to present a session to our students during Assembly on Friday, 15 May.
Understanding the Risks: Substance Abuse Awareness
Date: Wednesday, 17 June
Time: 18h00
We will host Jacqui de Lange, an experienced counsellor and mental health coach with over 25 years of work in substance abuse, relationships, anxiety, and depression. This session will provide valuable insight into the real and growing risks associated with substance access, and how parents can respond proactively.
RSVP and Booking
Please note that RSVP is essential for both events to ensure appropriate planning. Lily, our Admissions and Front Office Coordinator, will be sending out the booking details shortly. Kindly ensure that your place is secured once communication is received.
Looking Ahead
These engagements form part of our broader commitment to partnering with parents in meaningful, practical ways. By addressing these themes proactively, we aim to strengthen both academic outcomes and learner wellbeing.
We encourage all parents to attend these important sessions and to remain actively involved in the life of the school.
Pieter Steyn
Principal
The Bay Academy