26 August 2011
Dear Parents / Guardians
It is amazing to believe that we are already mid-way through the 3 rd term, having contended with unusually cold weather and the odd power cut. I am happy to report that all is proceeding well at Midmar House and that minor adjustments have been well adapted to.
The fortnightly activity evenings have provided much laughter and enthusiasm. The Talent Show, organized by Mr Baptista and Miss Bajoo showcased the immense talent amongst our learners. The boys dominated the evening with prizes awarded to the Gr.8 boys, Chopsticks, Kye Seagreen, Jordan Quibell and Chad “Quick Fingers” Atterbury. The Gr.11 Girls, with Leisha van As on guitar, sang a beautiful version of “Shout to the Lord”.
The Hot Dog and Bingo Evening, organized by Mr and Mrs Gardner and Miss Kidia, provided a “Sugar High” for many contestants as we had numerous prize winners and plenty of raucous enjoyment. FORTH COMING ATTRACTIONS include a Drive- In evening, Hostel Braai Night and a Maths Maze.
The prefects were taken out on a Movie and Dinner outing by the Gardner family to the Midlands Mall. This was thoroughly deserved as they contribute immensely to the successful running of the hostel.
Well deserved congratulations go to Lungelo Mlambo on his gold badge award, to Bruce Hayworth for his selection to the KZN U18 cricket squad to attend the SA games in October, and particularly to Ruan Smuts on his appointment as head of hostel for 2011.
With such a positive response to our appeal for literature, we have had to create a larger bookshelf for our mini library. Thank you for your generosity. Bring on the books!
Thank you for the vastly improved utilization of the signing in/out register. This assists us hugely in control of the whereabouts of hostel members.
As in any form of communal living, temptation becomes a factor. So, I appeal to all learners, to use their lockers wisely and not to leave items of value in the path of temptation.
As in any household, and more particularly in communal living, boundaries are essential in the enforcement of a “code of conduct”, and the disciplinary process is vital to the successful operation of the establishment. We would encourage and appreciate your support in ensuring that your children adhere to the boundaries and guidelines of Midmar House. Credit marks will also be issued in order to ensure that learners are acknowledged for positive contributions to hostel life, and they will be rewarded accordingly.
The welfare of all members of Midmar house remains our utmost priority, and with that in mind, we request that any departure from the school premises, during the school week, is pre-empted with written consent from the parent/guardians by either fax or e-mail. A reminder of these contact details as follows:
Fax no.: 033 3305905
E-mail address: midmarhouse@howickhigh.co.za
Telephone number: 033 3304121
Website address: www.howickhigh.co.za
The management, and in particular, Mr Ricardo Parau, of Greendale Kwikspar, have generously agreed that a loyalty programme be implemented. Initially, the agreement will be solely available to learners, staff, parents and family members associated to Midmar House. A credit of 5% of any purchase made at Greendale Kwikspar, or Tops, will be credited to Midmar House. This will enable us to obtain goods for prizes, functions, activities and fundraising purposes at Midmar House. When making purchases at the store, please place your till slip in the “Midmar House hostel” box provided at the Lotto outlet.
This project is obviously in its teething stages and its success and continuation will rely solely on your participation and at the discretion of the Kwikspar management. We thank them sincerely for this opportunity and willingness to assist Midmar House.
Consideration is been given to the design of a Midmar House LOGO and the possibility of creating a T-shirt / jacket / cap, which pupils could wear with pride or earn with positive actions at hostel. Any ideas, sponsors, donors, or positive input would be appreciated.
Miss Froneman will be leaving at the end of the term and we thank her for her input and contribution to Midmar House this past year. Mrs Gardner has willingly offered to assist in the short term on a temporary basis.Mr. Mortimer is expected back in mid-September.
Head of House report: Ruan Smuts
The 3rd term has been busy,rewarding and enjoyable.There has been a great atmosphere amongst the pupils due to the positive changes that have been instituted.The daily viewing of “7de Laan” has created a stir amongst pupils and one often over hears comments regarding “die scandaal”occurring in this soapie and the excitement of awaiting the unfolding plot.As trials and final exams draw ever closer and the endless hours of studying (we hope)continues, I would like to commend the Prefects and Gr 11 assistants on sustaining their loyalty to their duties and the amount of effort and conscientiousness is clearly evident. It is difficult to leave ones home and comfort zone to undertake a task that is not always easy. I would personally, and on behalf of the hostel, like to thank and commend the Gardner family, who have devoted so much time, love and energy to Midmar House. Also, to our matrons, for an often thankless job well done.
The future certainly looks bright at Midmar House.
Kind regards
………………………………. _____________________……………………………………….
Mr M. Gardner ___________________________ R.W.Langley
Superintendant ___________________________Headmaster