Category: News

For parents and students seeking an exceptional education that goes beyond the basics, independent schools like Riverside College are an excellent choice. With a focus on academic excellence, personal growth, and individualized attention, independent schools offer a unique approach to education that empowers students to achieve their full potential. In this article, we’ll explore five ways that Riverside College’s independent school education unleashes the potential of its students.

From smaller class sizes to rigorous academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and a strong sense of community, Riverside College provides a supportive and challenging environment in which students can thrive. Whether your child is an aspiring artist, athlete, scientist, or entrepreneur, Riverside College’s independent school education is designed to help them achieve their dreams and reach their goals.

Independent schools have been gaining popularity over the years due to their commitment to providing a high-quality education that goes beyond just academics. Riverside College, an independent school located in South Africa, is no exception. In this article, we’ll explore the top five reasons why independent schools like Riverside College offer a better education.

Student empowerment examples:

Smaller Class Sizes:

Smaller class sizes are a hallmark of independent schools like Riverside College and for a good reason. When classes are smaller, teachers are able to provide more individualized attention to each student. This means that students can receive more one-on-one time with their teachers, allowing for a deeper understanding of the material and more effective feedback on their work. With fewer students in each class, teachers can also better manage classroom behaviour and foster a more collaborative and inclusive learning environment.

More Individualized Attention:

In addition to smaller class sizes, independent schools like Riverside College offer more individualized attention in other areas as well. Teachers are able to tailor their instruction to the needs of each student, providing personalized learning opportunities that aren’t always possible in larger public schools. This can be particularly helpful for students who may be struggling in certain subjects or who have unique learning styles. By taking a more individualized approach, teachers can help students reach their full potential and develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

Greater Opportunities for Extracurricular Activities:

Independent schools like Riverside College also offer a wider range of extracurricular activities than many public schools. From sports teams to music and theater programs, students have more opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills outside of the classroom. This can be particularly beneficial for students who may not excel academically but have a passion for something else. By participating in extracurricular activities, students can develop teamwork and leadership skills, build self-confidence, and make connections with their peers that can last a lifetime.

More Rigorous Academic Programs:

Independent schools like Riverside College often have more rigorous academic programs than public schools. With a focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, students are challenged to think deeply about complex issues and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. This can be particularly helpful for students who are preparing for college and need to develop strong academic skills in order to succeed. By providing a more challenging curriculum, independent schools can help students develop the intellectual and academic skills they need to succeed in higher education and beyond.

Stronger Sense of Community:

Finally, independent schools like Riverside College often have a stronger sense of community than public schools. With smaller class sizes and a greater focus on individualized attention, students and teachers are able to form closer bonds and develop stronger relationships. This can be particularly helpful for students who may be struggling with social or emotional issues and need a supportive environment in which to grow and thrive. By fostering a strong sense of community, independent schools can create a safe and nurturing environment in which students can learn, grow, and succeed.

In conclusion, there are many reasons why independent schools like Riverside College offer a better education than public schools. From smaller class sizes and more individualized attention to greater opportunities for extracurricular activities and more rigorous academic programs, students who attend independent schools are well-prepared for success in college and beyond. With a strong sense of community and a commitment to academic excellence, independent schools like Riverside College are an excellent choice for students and families who are looking for a high-quality education that goes beyond just academics.

Student empowerment activities

An essential component of independent school education. At Riverside College, these activities provide students with opportunities to take ownership of their learning, develop leadership skills, and make a positive impact on the school community. These activities include student government, community service projects, and extracurricular clubs and organizations. By participating in these activities, students gain valuable experience in collaboration, problem-solving, and communication, and they develop a sense of responsibility and agency over their own education. Through these empowerment activities, Riverside College helps prepare students for the challenges of the future, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and passion needed to succeed in all aspects of life.

Moving Beyond Compliance and Engagement to Empowerment

In education, we often discuss the transition from compliance to engagement, aiming to create an environment where students are motivated to learn instead of feeling obligated to do so. While high levels of engagement are a laudable goal, we must go beyond merely committed and focused students. We must empower them to take charge of their learning.

At Riverside College, the independent school education model is designed to move students beyond compliance and engagement and towards empowerment. This shift involves creating a culture of learning that inspires and supports students to take responsibility for their academic and personal growth. By offering a range of opportunities for student agency, from project-based learning to leadership roles, Riverside College’s students develop a sense of ownership and pride in their education.

Empowered students are not just enthusiastic learners, but active participants in their own education. They have a deep understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, and they use this knowledge to create personalized learning plans that suit their individual needs. With this approach, students are no longer passive recipients of knowledge but active agents of their own learning journey.

Ultimately, moving beyond compliance and engagement to empowerment is critical for preparing students to succeed in college and beyond. At Riverside College, students are not just learning facts and figures; they are developing the skills and mindset they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Making The Shift from Student Engagement to Student Empowerment

At Riverside College, the approach to education is focused on empowering students to take ownership of their learning and personal growth. This shift from student engagement to student empowerment is a key aspect of the school’s independent school education. Rather than simply engaging students in the classroom, teachers at Riverside College work to empower students to take charge of their own learning, and to become active participants in the educational process.

One way this is achieved is through the use of project-based learning. By giving students the freedom to choose their own projects, teachers at Riverside College empower them to take ownership of their learning and explore topics that interest them. This approach not only fosters student engagement, but also promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

In addition, Riverside College provides ample opportunities for students to take on leadership roles and make meaningful contributions to the school community. From participating in student government to organizing charity events, students are encouraged to take an active role in shaping the school culture and making a positive impact.

By shifting the focus from student engagement to student empowerment, Riverside College’s independent school education helps students develop the skills and mindset they need to succeed in college and beyond. With a sense of ownership and agency over their own learning, students are better equipped to tackle challenges, pursue their passions, and achieve their goals.

The importance of empowering students is essential for fostering academic success, personal growth, and lifelong learning. By providing students with the tools, resources, and support they need to take ownership of their education, schools like Riverside College help students become active and engaged learners. Empowerment enables students to develop a sense of responsibility and accountability, which are essential for achieving academic and personal goals. In addition, empowered students are better prepared to face the challenges of the future, whether they are pursuing higher education or entering the workforce. Through independent school education, students are empowered to take on leadership roles, explore their passions, and pursue their dreams. By focusing on student empowerment, schools can help create a generation of confident, capable, and engaged individuals who are equipped to succeed in all aspects of life.

Junior Newsletter

Dear Parents,
The December holidays have become but a memory to us and we are all in the swing of the new year, with its pressures and demands. It is at times like this that we need to sit back and remember that we are not machines on automatic, but human beings with lives, children and families. We need to take time to reflect and just be grateful for what we have. Life is a gift and we often forget that. I try to think of three things that I am grateful for while driving in to work each morning. Yes, sometimes it is difficult, but my three most important are:
• I am so thankful for all my family, in all four corners of the Earth.
• I am so thankful that I have a reason to get up each morning.
• I am so thankful for my amazing colleagues.

Grade 4 News:
The Grade 4’s has been learning about plants and we planted bean seeds to watch grow over the period of about a week. This is not as romantic as it sounds because, not only do bean seeds grow in 7 days, but some also rot in 7 days. The issue is opening the classroom in the morning of Day 6 onwards, when rotting seeds are starting to hum. The idea is to mutter “Hier kom ‘n ding!”, take a deep breath, open the class and run to my table, plonk everything down and rush to open windows before taking my next breath. Some seeds do grow really well. We kept Lexi’s plant for a few more days as it was doing so well. We also tried carrots and nasturtiums. The carrots eventually germinated. Well done Gr 4’s! I hope some of you were able to plant your seedings in soil!

[read more]

Senior Newsletter

Dear parents
A man and his wife were once going with their donkey to the market. As they were walking along, by
his side a countryman passed them and said, “You fools, what is a donkey for but to ride upon?” So,
the man and his wife rode on the donkey, and they went on their way.
But soon they passed a group of men, one of whom said, “Aren’t you ashamed of yourself for
overloading that poor donkey of yours with you and your wife?”

So, the man ordered his wife to ride, but they hadn’t gone far when they passed two men, one of
whom said to the other, “Stupid man, he should ride because he is the boss, not his wife”
So, he ordered his wife to get down and he got to ride.
But they hadn’t gone far when they passed two men, one of whom said to the other, “What a selfish
man! He should be kinder to his wife.”

So, the man and his wife tried to think of what to do. They thought and they thought. Until, at last, they
cut down a pole, tied the donkey’s feet to it, and raised the pole and the donkey to their shoulders.
They went along amid the laughter of all who met them until they came to a bridge, when the donkey,
getting one of his feet loose, kicked out and caused the wife to drop her end of the pole. In the struggle,
the donkey fell over the bridge, and with his forefeet being tied together, he drowned.
What lessons can we learn from this?
-You cannot please everybody.
-Whatever you do, there will be people who will criticize you.
-Just do what you believe is right, and don’t be distracted by criticism.
Mr. A. Edwards

Blazer Mondays:
A friendly reminder – All High School learners are expected to wear their blazers to school on Monday
mornings for their weekly assembly. We are cultivating and entrenching the values and ethos of our
school and in doing so this will be a compulsory requirement henceforth. Please ensure that blazers
are clean, marked with your child’s name and that all buttons are sewn onto the blazer. We look
forward to seeing our learners looking smart and proud!

Extra Lessons:
It is the academic policy of our school, that all learners who do not achieve above 50% in a subject,
attend compulsory extra lessons. Please take note that extra lessons have now commenced for high
school learners and that it is imperative that you support us in this endeavor. The only way to achieve
excellence is through discipline and dedication. Please make sure that your child uses this valuable
resource to meet their academic goals

[read more]

Junior Newsletter

Dear Parents,
Our theme for the year is “Reach for the Stars”. Allow every learner to take every opportunity and to
grab it with both hands. We would like to encourage our learners to work hard. They all shine bright like
a star in their own special and unique way. Miss Booysens

Grade 3 News:
Our grade 3 learners went to the library last week. They had so much fun at the library, they took out
books and will return them when they go to the library again. Remember, when it is your turn to go to
the “world of books”, take your library card with. Ensure that all the books taken out are returned to the
library.

Welcome Braai:
Last Friday we hosted our annual Welcome Braai for all parents, old and new. Thank you to all the
parents who made the effort to RSVP and honoured their commitment. It was an enjoyable evening,
and not only did we get to know one another a little better, we also made some new friends.

[read more]

Senior Newsletter

Dear parents,

Life is all about going through difficult situations in pursuit of our dreams. Don’t let any kind of
obstacles and failures pin you down or rob you of your success of life. Fight hard and take on the
challenges with courage, determination, and perseverance. Just keep moving forward with hope. The
day will come when life puts the crown on your head as a successful human being.
Inspirational messages about Life and Success:
To be successful, you don’t need a degree. Your actions will create the path to success.
Life ends when you stop dreaming; hope ends when you stop believing; and love ends when you stop
caring. So, dream, hope and love…Makes Life Beautiful!
Failure is the first step to success.
The secret to success is consistency. Stick to your purpose and work hard. Otherwise, success is just
a dream.
The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The work of life is to develop it. The meaning of life is to
give your gift away.
Mr. C Cronjé

Important Announcement:
Monday 13 Feb school will close for all Grade 7 – 12 learners at 12:30pm.

Welcome Braai:
Last Friday we hosted our annual Welcome Braai for all parents, old and new. Thank you to all the
parents who made the effort to RSVP and honoured their commitment. It was an enjoyable evening,
and not only did we get to know one another a little better, we also made some new friends.

Grade 12 Cake Sale:
Thank you to all the parents that supported our first cake sale of the year. We raised R2174. We
want to purchase new projectors for the school and the money raised will go towards that.
Special events:

Valentine’s Day:
On Tues the 14th of Feb we are having a picnic under the tent of the tuck-shop. We will be handing
out the “love bugs” to those who placed orders for them. We will be playing some music as requested
by the learners for one another and we will be able to dress up in civvies – red, pink or white – for a
small donation of R10 per learner. Heart suckers will also be on sale for those who wish to spoil
themselves or their loved ones at home.

[read more]

Junior Newsletter

Dear Parents,
With our theme for this year being “Reach for the Stars”, each week we try to encourage our learners to
realise their own strengths and abilities. Together we are exploring ways of helping one another shine
even brighter than we already are. Teacher Gabby spoke about the Winter solstice in assembly when the
South Pole is tilted furthest away from the sun, and how this results in the shortest day and the longest
night of the year. In the Southern Hemisphere this occurs around June. Even in the darkest of times, you
can still see the stars in the night sky, and this represents hope for all who find themselves in darkness.
Miss Steyn

Grade 2 News:
The Grade 2’s have enjoyed so many new experiences these past few weeks. While getting used to their
new teacher, the new work and the new environment they find themselves in, they are all very excited
about learning new concepts and the experiences that go along with that. I look forward to watching them
grow, achieve their goals, and reach for the stars. I am already so proud of them!

[read more]

Senior Newsletter

Dear parents
There are a few very exciting events coming up over the next few weeks and we would like to
encourage our learners and parents to support these events! First and foremost, our learners will be
taking part in the interschools athletics that is hosted every year. They have been training for this
event since the beginning of the school year and they need us to support them in showing the other
schools that we have the talent, the speed and the strength to compete and to win.

Special events:
Blazer Mondays:
As of Monday, 6 February all High School children will be expected to wear their blazer to school,
specifically for Assembly. We would like to add to the ethos of our school assemblies, and this will
now be compulsory on a Monday. Please ensure that the blazer is correctly marked with your child’s
name and that all buttons are sewn on to the blazer. We look forward to seeing very smart children!

Interschools:
On February 10, 2023, we will attend the interschool at Swartland High in Malmesbury. Please take
note that there is a R140 charge per learner for this compulsory event. Learners will be representing
our school. This is a great opportunity for them to compete and show their talent.
• DATE: 10 FEBRUARY 2023
• VENUE: SWARTLAND HIGH SCHOOL (Dirkie Uys & Barocca Street), Malmesbury.
• DEPARTURE: 06:00 from Riverside College or 5:30 from Table View to Riverside.• RETURN: The estimate time of arrival back at Riverside College is 16:15.
• DRESS CODE: Students must be dressed in their school uniform on arrival and those who will
be taking part in events will then change into their sports uniform after the opening ceremony.
Please ensure that your child has the correct formal and sport uniform and is neat and
presentable on the day.
Extra classes:
Please take note that extra classes have commenced for high school learners. Please make sure
that your child uses this valuable resource to meet their academic goals

[read more]

Junior Newsletter

Dear Parents,

In assembly this week Teacher Cayla told us a wonderful story about how we choose to look at the world
and our lives. We can either look at the positive or only the negative aspects of our lives. It is sometimes
difficult to look at the positives, especially when things aren’t going our way. With so many things out of
our control (loadshedding being the most frustrating ) it’s hard to be positive or optimistic. That however
is the beauty of choice, we get to control how we react to the tough situations. If we can look on the bright
side of life we can always see hope, opportunity and gratitude shinning back at us.” You may not control
all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them” -Maya Angelou
Miss Barton

Grade 1 News:

The Grade 1’s were hard at work this week. All of them are so excited and to learn and do homework
(I hope this enthusiasm and positive attitude towards homework continues for the rest of the term). It is
wonderful to see how much they want to participate and be heard. They have taken Teacher Cayla’s
message to heart and are all looking at the positive side of life.

[read more]

Senior Newsletter

Dear parents, 27 January 2023
On the banks of a river, there is a tree where a swarm of bees set up their beehive. They remain busy
the entire day buzzing on flowers and collecting honey. One fine day, a bee feels thirsty and goes to
the river to drink some water. As the bee tries to drink, a wave of the current sweeps it away. The bee
starts drowning.
Fortunately, a beautiful dove, who has been watching from a distance, rushes to help the poor bee.
She plucks a big leaf from a tree and flies towards the bee. The dove places the leaf near the bee.
The bee mounts on the leaf and dries its wings. In some time, the bee finds the strength to fly away
to safety. A couple of weeks later, the dove is caught in a dangerous situation. As she is sitting on the
branch of a tree, an archer targets at her. The dove looks for an escape but sees a large hawk
hovering around her. That’s when her good deed returns to her. The bee comes to her rescue by
stinging the archer hard. By then the archer releases the arrow, which misses the dove and hits the
hawk, instead. The dove flies away to safety.

Grade 12 Cake Sale:
This year Riverside College will be having monthly cake sales. Each month different classes will get
a chance to bring some delicious sweet treats to school and sell them to the other learners and staff
members. The cake sale will take place during the school day and all proceeds will go towards
fundraising, so we encourage all learners to participate whether they are buying or selling.

Welcome Braai:
We are looking forward to spending time with you at our Welcome Braai at Riverside College
Burgundy Estate on Friday the 3
rd of February between 6 & 9pm.
Our fire/coals will be ready from 5:30pm onwards and all you need to bring will be:
– Food to braai, rolls, salads, etc
– Drinks for yourself and your children
– Braai utensils
– Eating utensils
– Blanket or camp chairs\

[read more]

Junior Newsletter 

Dear Parents,
It has been an eventful yet wonderful start to the year. Learners have adjusted beautifully and are
forming meaningful relationships with their peers. You can definitely feel the Riverside spirit in the air
this term. We are all ready and eager to commence the new school year with optimism and pride.
– Teacher Gabby (Gr R)

Grade R News:
The Grade Rs have adjusted beautifully and have been super excited to get the year started! They have
been busy these past few days, from getting to know one another, to painting and dancing. The energy
and fun never ends in our class! I am looking forward to seeing the Grade Rs grow as individuals but
most excited to see how they break out of their shell and reach their full potential.

[read more]

Senior Newsletter 

Dear parents,
A man needed to take a wheelbarrow to the top of a mountain. As there were no roads, he had to
push the wheelbarrow up a narrow path. Along the way he saw a big rock in the middle of the path.
He decided to put the rock in the wheelbarrow and continued with his journey. A few hundred
meters further another rock blocked his path. Again, he decided to put the rock into the
wheelbarrow. The wheelbarrow became heavy, and this made his task more difficult than what was
needed.

Instead of just moving the rocks to the side and leaving it behind, he made a choice that made his
way more difficult than it needed to be.
In life we often carry burdens that we don’t need to. Things that happened in the past that we could
put aside and let go, but don’t often. This places an unnecessary weight on our mind. Sometimes
the past should be what it is. The past.

I have learnt to choose what to leave behind and what to carry forward. Leaving things behind does
not mean that we don’t care. It just means that we care more about the present than the past. It
gives me peace of mind; it could do the same for you also. L. Ortell

Interhouse:
We are proudly to pronounce that we will have our yearly Interhouse Athletics on Friday the
27th
of January 2023.
Students will participate in Javelin, Discus, Shotput, High Jump, 1200m, 800m, 400m, 200m, 100m
and Relay.
As you know, a lot of planning and helping goes into arranging this event. We would like to invite
parents to come and help us during Interhouse. We would also like to ask parents to assist us with
Gazebos or Beach umbrellas. Please contact Mr. Cronje if you can assist us.

Afrikaans Day:
We are excited for Afrikaans Day on Friday, 1 of February 2023. The thought behind the celebration
is to make Afrikaans fun for the learners as it is a compulsory subject from Grade R-12.
We want them to enjoy the day. Please ensure that they have a hat, sunscreen, cold water or tuck
shop money. They can be dressed in their PE uniform upon arrival at school. The opening and
closing times for Wednesday will remain the same.

Grade 12 Cake Sale:
This year Riverside College will be having monthly cake sales. Each month different classes will get
a chance to bring some delicious, sweet treats to school and sell them to the other learners and
staff members.
The cake sale will take place during the school day and all proceeds will go towards fundraising, so
we encourage all learners to participate whether they are buying or selling.

[read more]

Junior Newsletter 

Dear Parents,

Welcome to the start of 2023! I hope you all had a lovely and restful holiday. This term is going to be a
jam packed term full of fun and learning. I hope your children have settled into the new year and to the
new learners and the new parents Welcome!
– Teacher Cayla (Gr 000)

New Staff:
We would like to extend a warm welcome two new members of staff: Ms. Carla Booysen (Gr 3) and Ms. Tarah
van den Bergh (gr 5). Welcome to the Riverside family!

[read more]

Senior Newsletter 

Dear Parents,

Welcome to the start of 2023! I hope you all had a lovely and restful holiday. This term is going to be a
jam packed term full of fun and learning. I hope your children have settled into the new year and to the
new learners and the new parents Welcome!
– Teacher Cayla (Gr 000)

New Staff:
We would like to extend a warm welcome two new members of staff: Ms. Carla Booysen (Gr 3) and Ms. Tarah
van den Bergh (gr 5). Welcome to the Riverside family!

2023 Term Dates:
Term 1
Start Date: Teachers – 11 Jan, Learners – 12 Jan
20 March school holiday (long weekend)
Learners writing until 27 March
End Date: Teachers – 31 March, Learners – 29 March
Term 2
Start Date: Teachers – 11 April, Learners – 12 April
26,28 April school mid term
End Date: Teachers – 23 June, Learners – 21 June
Term 3:
Start Date: Teachers – 18 Jul, Learners – 19 Jul
10, 11 Aug mid term
End Date: Teachers – 29 Sept, Learners – 28 Sept
Term 4:
Start Date: Teachers – 10 Oct, Learners – 11 Oct
End Date: Teachers- 15 Dec, Learners- 13 Dec

[read more]