Dear Parents

A Week of Gratitude at Bishops Pre-Prep

As I reflect on this week at the Pre-Prep, I am struck by just how much there is to be grateful for.

Our Grade R–2 boys stepped into a new arena as they competed in their very first athletics event at Lüt, alongside the Prep. For many of our boys, this was their first experience of a large sporting event, and they met it with bravery, enthusiasm, and pride. What stood out most was not just their participation, but the way they conducted themselves – showing excellent manners, kindness towards others, and true sportsmanship. The same could be said of our swimming teams, who competed in their first gala and represented the Pre-Prep with confidence, respect, and team spirit. We are incredibly proud of them and their coaches.

Yesterday we also hosted our open day, ‘Experience the Pre-Prep’ welcoming approximately 160 prospective parents into our special space. It was a joy to see our Grade 11 PR team leading tours through the classrooms, engaging so thoughtfully with our visitors and speaking with such warmth about their own Bishops journeys. Mr Groom welcomed parents with a video showcasing the progression of our boys from Pre-Prep, through Prep, and into the College. For many of us, this was a moving reminder of the privilege we have in laying the foundations of that journey – there were certainly a few lumps in throats.

We were also honoured to have our Head Boy, Michael Mafunda, speak to our parents. His confidence, sincerity, and genuine love for the school so beautifully captured the spirit of Bishops. Moments like these remind us why environment matters so much – our mountain views, our sense of belonging, our traditions, and above all, our people. Our boys, our staff, and our families make our school what it is.

I am grateful for our exceptional staff, who give so generously of their time, energy, and care. Their work extends far beyond the classroom. Much of it happens quietly, in the playground, during conversations on the field, and in those in-between moments where real learning takes place.

As with all young children, we see a wide range of behaviours emerge as our boys learn how to navigate friendships, emotions, competition, and play. We use the 7 Bees of Behaviour as a shared language to guide behaviour and decision-making. Through this framework, we spend significant time engaging with the boys, helping them to reflect, to understand the impact of their actions, and to learn how to play more positively and respectfully with their peers.

Restorative justice sits at the heart of these conversations. Our focus is not on blame or punishment, but on learning, repair, and growth. This process often takes time. It requires patience, consistency, and many age-appropriate conversations as boys develop the skills needed to manage conflict, regulate emotions, and rebuild relationships. We are grateful for the time we are able to give our boys in these moments, and for the partnership we share with parents as we support them through this important learning.

As we end the week, I am also grateful for the opportunity to connect beyond the school day and look forward to connecting with many of you at the picnic this evening.

There is so much to be thankful for at the Pre-Prep.

Kind regards

TARYN BAIN
HEAD: PRE-PREP

Thursday 12 February

PA Picnic

All families are welcome to join us for a picnic on the school fields. We hope to see you all there later today from 17h00 - 19h00.

As a Christian Anglican School, we will be marking the beginning of Lent in our Ash Wednesday service. It is customary for boys to attend our Ash Wednesday service in the chapel and be blessed with receiving ashes on their forehead.  If you do NOT wish your son to receive Ashes, but rather a blessing, please would you notify your sons class teacher no later than Friday 13 February.  Ash Wednesday will be on Wednesday 18 February for our boys only.

Extramurals

 “A Season to Slow Down”

Dear Pre-Prep Community,

As we come to the end of Week 5, I find myself reflecting on the boys — how much they have grown
already in just a few short weeks.

The excitement of the beginning of term has settled. Routines are established. The boys know their
teachers. Teachers know their boys. What begins to emerge now is something quieter and more meaningful
growth that is not loud, but steady.

Next week marks the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar. In our diverse school community, this is
not about everyone observing the same tradition. It is simply an opportunity to slow down and to be
intentional about the kind of habits we are forming in our children.

As I walk through the Pre-Prep spaces, I see so much potential. I see boys learning to share, to apologise,
to try again after disappointment. I see courage in small steps, a hand raised, a tear wiped away, a brave
attempt at something new.

These moments matter deeply.

1. At this age, the lessons are simple but profound:
2. Learning to pause before reacting
3. Saying sorry sincerely
4. Listening when someone else is speaking
5. Choosing kindness, even when frustrated

These are not small things. They are the building blocks of who they are becoming. Week 5 is often when
tiredness creeps in. Patience can thin. Small irritations feel bigger than they are. It is in these ordinary
moments that boys need steady adults, calm voices, consistent boundaries, and gentle reminders.

What they are learning now is not perfection. It is practice.

1. Practice in self-control.
2. Practice in empathy.
3. Practice in resilience.

Regardless of faith background, this season can simply be a reminder to live thoughtfully. At home, this
might look like noticing effort, affirming honesty, or helping your son reflect on how he handled a difficult
Moment. Children do not grow through pressure. They grow through presence.

As a chaplain and divinity teacher, my desire is that every boy in the Pre-Prep feels seen, guided and cared
for.That he knows he can make mistakes and learn from them. That he understands that strength is shown
in Gentleness as much as boldness.

As we enter the second half of the term, let us continue to walk patiently with our boys. Growth at this stage
is rarely dramatic; it is quiet, consistent and deeply important.

Thank you for trusting us with your sons. It is a privilege to teach them, guide them and journey alongside
them.

With warmth and care,

https://youtu.be/c8UUdLS6-2U?si=VYGQaM5EdZUa4nlj

The video above speaks to something deeply familiar in South Africa. The need for safe spaces. For places where children are seen, supported and given room to grow.

At VUSA, rugby is often the entry point. It is what draws children in and gives them a sense of belonging but once they arrive, they are met with far more than a game. They step into structured afternoons that include academic support through programmes like Reading Eggs, Code4Kids and Matific, a reliable daily meal, caring coaches and teachers, and opportunities to play, learn and experience the world beyond what they know. 

For 1,300 children, these programmes matter. They shape confidence, routine and motivation. They create space for learning, growth and hope. 

As the financial year comes to an end, a reminder that donations to VUSA are eligible for a Section 18A tax certificate. Contributions can be made monthly or as a once-off, and every donation helps keep these safe spaces open.

For more information please visit www.vusarugbyacademy.com or contact Nikki Matthews at the Trust Office.

Our Grade N boys are growing in courage and resilience, and it is only week 5! By walking down independently and even waiting for friends to accompany them, they make their way down to Grade N where their teachers and a jam-packed day await!  

We are so thrilled to hear all the interesting Show and Tell that boys have to share.  This week, we focus on the blessing of Family, bringing much joy as we sing songs and draw pictures of our beloved family members.  Our boys have had some exciting games in the resource room, started making special gifts for the Valentine’s Day celebrations which lie ahead, and explored their outdoor classroom with enthusiasm and delight!  Well done, Champions!

In Grade R this week we have been learning about Dippy Duck. As part of our Letterland programme, we learn each individual letter sound and simultaneously, we learn how to write the letter and create it out of playdough or other art materials. This is creative and helps to make phonological awareness enjoyable and fun. Our weekly Tuesday swimming lesson is a highlight for our boys. The colder weather does not seem to stop our little swimmers from getting in and trying their best. Well done boys! While participating in Mathematics lessons, we have been learning how to count to 20 and understand the concept of symmetry. Outside play is an opportunity to connect with our friends and share with the construction toys and equipment. We hope the boys enjoy the extra day this weekend, spending time with their families and friends.