St Catherine’s School

2024

SENIOR SCHOOL
PARENT INFORMATION
BOOKLET
 2024 ACADEMIC YEAR

TERM ONE TERM TWO TERM THREE

Start Tues 16 January Tues 7 May Tues 3 Sept

Close Wed 10 April Wed 7 Aug Wed 4 Dec

Close Thurs 22 Feb @11:45 Close Fri 28 June @ 14:00 Close Thurs 24 Oct @ 11:45
Midterm Return Tues 27 Feb @ 7:40 Return Mon 8 July @ 7:40 Fri 25 – Tue 29 Oct @ 7:40

Public and Human Rights Day

Thurs 21 – Fri 22 Mar Youth Day Heritage Day
School Easter Mon 17 June Mon 23 – Tues 24 Sept
Holidays Fri 29 Mar – Mon 1 Apr

2024 SCHOOL TIMES

2024 SENIOR SCHOOL TIMES

Normal times Assembly & Assessment day times House meeting day times
(Usually Mondays and Thursdays) (Usually Tuesdays and Wednesdays) (Usually Fridays)
Staff meeting 7:30 – 7:40 Staff meeting 7:30 – 7:40 Staff meeting 7:30 – 7:40

Homeroom 7:40 - 7:55 (15 min) Assembly / Assessment 7:40 - 8:35 (55 min) House meeting 7:40 - 8:05 (25 min)

Period 1 7:55 - 8:50 (55 min) Period 1 8:35 - 9:25 (50 min) Period 1 8:05 - 9:00 (55 min)

Period 2 8:50 - 9:40 (50 min) Break 9:25 - 9:50 (25 min) Period 2 9:00 - 9:50 (50 min)

Break 9:40 - 10:05 (20 min) Period 2 9:50 - 10:40 (50 min) Break 9:50 - 10:15 (25 min)

Period 3 10:05 - 11:00 (55 min) Period 3 10:40 - 11:25 (45 min) Period 3 10:05 - 11:00 (55 min)

Period 4 11:00 - 11:55 (55 min) Period 4 11:25 - 12:10 (45 min) Period 4 11:00 - 11:50 (50 min)

Break 11:55 - 12:15 (20 min) Break 12:10 - 12:30 (20 min) Break 11:50 - 12:10 (20 min)

Period 5 12:15 - 13:10 (55 min) Period 5 12:30 - 13:15 (45 min) Period 5 12:10 - 13:05 (55 min)

Period 6 13:10 - 14:00 (50 min) Period 6 13:15 - 14:00 (45 min) Period 6 13:05 - 14:00 (55 min)

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 2024 DATES TO DIARISE

TERM ONE TERM TWO TERM THREE

JANUARY 2024 MAY 2024 SEPTEMBER 2024

10 - 12 Grade 8 Camp 7 Pupils return to school at 7:40 3 Pupils return to school at 7:40

16 School starts at 7:40 17 Mothers' Day Mass 4 Induction of new Executives

23 Grade 12 Induction 5 - 27 Grade 12 Preliminary examinations

30 Grade 8 Induction 23 - 24 School holiday & Heritage Day

FEBRUARY 2024 JUNE 2024 OCTOBER 2024

8 - 10 Midmar Swim 14 Fathers' Day Mass 7 Grade 12 Retreat

14 Ash Wednesday Mass 16 - 17 Youth Day & Public Holiday 8 Grade 12 Parents' evening

22 - 26 School closes at 11:45 for midterm School closes at 14:00 for midterm 11 Valedictory
28
27 Inter House Easter Egg competition Matric Dance 14 Grade 8 & 9 Retreat

21 Grade 10 & 11 Retreat

25 - 28 School closes at 11:45 for midterm

MARCH 2024 JULY 2024 NOVEMBER 2024

14 Maths Day 8 Pupils return to school at 7:40 1 Year mark reports emailed to parents

21 - 22 Human Rights Day & School Holiday 9 - 26 Midyear examinations 4 - 22 Grade 8 - 11 Final examinations

29 Good Friday

APRIL 2024 AUGUST 2024 DECEMBER 2024

1 Family day 6 Parents' Evening 2 Awards ceremony

6 Mr & Ms St Catherine's at 18:30 7 School closes at 11:45 4 Reports emailed to parents

9 Parents' Evening 16:30 - 19:00

10 School closes at 11:45

10 - 12 Grade 11 Camp

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 HISTORY OF THE SCHOOL

St Catherine's Convent was founded in 1908 as the first Convent on the East Rand and the first
high school in Germiston. In 1948 the school was transferred to the current location. Towards
the end of 1968, the Board decided, in conjunction with St Dominic's, Boksburg, to close the
high school and cater for co-ed primary school children only. The school opened enrolment for
Grade 8 in 2001 with the first pupils matriculating in 2005. Founders’ Day is celebrated on the
Friday before the start of the final examinations.

VISION

St Catherine’s is a Catholic School whose Ethos is based on Christian values through actions,
worship and prayer. Our excellent reputation is based on our high academic standards, the
compassion shown to all pupils and the safe, disciplined environment in which pupils are
holistically educated by passionate, well-qualified teachers.

St Catherine’s encourages respect, self-discipline, and service to the community within the
framework of critical thinking and active learning. St Catherine’s aims to produce pupils who
will function confidently in the community and commit themselves to respect and accept the
uniqueness and diversity within individuals.

MISSION

As an independent Catholic school and member of both ISASA and the CSO, we agree to:

● Provide a community environment based on the values of Truth, Respect, Caring, Love,
Acceptance, Tolerance, Patience, Humility, Support, Hope, Discipline, Dedication and
Determination.
● Create an environment in which pupils can develop holistically i.e. spiritually, morally,
intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically.
● Develop in the pupils a sense of independence and self-worth as human-beings, giving
them confidence in their ability to contribute to society in different ways.
● Maintain effective partnerships between the school, child, parents, and the community
and to keep the channels of communication open between all stakeholders by means of
the website, newsletters, parents’ meetings, D6 connect and various electronic media.
● Employ qualified teachers who are dedicated to both the school and pupils, and to
provide them with opportunities for professional development.

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 SCHOOL ETHOS

CORE VALUES

Our Catholic-Christian Ethos is a vital part of our school life. Ethos is concerned with people, how they
are treated, how they treat others and the values and expectations that underpin these relationships.
Our core values are respect, love, honesty, compassion, trust, and integrity.

ASSEMBLY, MASS, AND RETREAT

The attendance of Mass, Assemblies and Retreats is compulsory although the individual beliefs of pupils
will be respected. Pupils are requested to assist with food donations and any collection of items in
preparation for Masses and special charitable events.

PRAYERS

Pupils are encouraged to put their faith in Jesus and pray to Him when they are experiencing hardships,
stress and anxiety, fearfulness etc. Also, to say Thank You for their blessings. Also to say grace before
eating. The Bell is rung and the Angelus prayer is recited at 11:45 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Pupils may use the Chapel for praying during non-academic time.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Religious Education is a compulsory part of the curriculum and must be treated as seriously as any other
subject. The RE mark is a component of Life Orientation and as such will be included in the pupils’
average. The nature of the tasks will not be discriminatory against pupils of different faiths.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Service is at the core of who we are as an educational community. All pupils are required to complete
15 hours of Community Service each academic year. Pupils’ giving of their time is the main component
of this service. Community service must contribute to those in need and may only be completed at an
institution or event approved by the RE Co-ordinator and signed off by RE teachers.

Grade 8 & 9 pupils can earn community service hours by assisting the Preparatory school and Pre-School
when they have special functions.

For Grades 10 to 12 pupils, Community Service means voluntary involvement in the greater community
and does not include service to the school. Where possible, outside organisations facilitating community
service should provide the pupil with a letterhead and stamped certificate of completion outlining what
the pupil has done and the total number of hours completed.
The written reflection piece should focus on the pupil’s personal growth, challenges associated with the
task and remediation.
The IEB-recognised community service includes:

● Assisting at SPCA, soup kitchens, hospitals, rehabilitation centres etc.

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 ● Assisting at retirement homes, e.g. reading to the elderly.
● Visiting Children’s homes.
● Environment clean-ups with a recognised organisation, including removal of alien plants.
● Outreach services with a recognised organisation.
● Blood donation (one hour per donation).
● Knitting squares, scarves or beanies (three 20x20cm squares or 1 beanie or 1 scarf = 1 hour).
● Making Christmas crackers (6 homemade crackers = 1 hour). Pupils may only claim 2 hours per
year for this.
● Preparing food parcels for families in need.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAMME (COPS)

The COPs team consists of pupils who work with the relevant teacher to perform charitable tasks which
benefit those who are less fortunate. This can involve hosting a party/tea for needy children, elderly,
mentally ill or those in a specialised home; sorting and delivering of donated items; assisting, sorting,
and counting money for the poor; teaching others etc. COPs is voluntary.

TRANSFORMATION, GENDER EQUALITY AND DISCRIMINATION

St Catherine’s is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all pupils, members of staff, and the
broader community. We strive to uphold the Bill of Rights by ensuring the non-discrimination of any
person who enters our premises.

Our school prohibits any form of discrimination, harassment, or exclusion based on one or more
grounds, including but not limited to race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, ethnic or social origin,
colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, conscience, belief, culture, language and birth. The
guilty party will be dealt with according to the Code of Conduct.

MENTAL FITNESS (Mental wellness)

At St Catherine’s, we strive to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for both staff and
pupils. By prioritizing mental fitness, our school aims to create a nurturing and empowering environment
that supports the holistic development and success of all individuals within the school community while
also creating a culture of empathy and support. Measures will be taken to prevent and address bullying,
harassment, and discrimination, as outlined in the Code of Conduct for both staff and pupils.

Mental fitness education is incorporated into the guidance and religious education curricula, addressing
topics such as stress management, coping skills, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness.
Furthermore, we will strive to destigmatise mental health issues, and promote peer support as well as
professional support structures which includes access to a full-time school psychologist, school
counsellors, religious counsellors, and therapists. Where the school is unable to provide a required
resource, it will assist in providing information of external resources.

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 THE ROLE OF PARENTS

Parents are encouraged to interact with Heads of Departments, Grade Heads and teachers throughout
the year, either by means of e-mail, telephonically or by appointment. Parents’ Evenings are held
periodically to give parents the opportunity to meet academic teachers and discuss the progress of their
children. Parents may not approach teachers without making an appointment.

Parents are requested to play an active role in the school by:

• Ensuring that their children attend school regularly; pupils must arrive at school before 7:40 each
day and be collected promptly after an activity. Parents will be held accountable for the
unnecessary absenteeism of their children.
• Keeping the school well informed of matters that could affect the pupil’s performance at school
e.g., reasons for absence, problems at home etc. and informing the Senior School secretary of any
changes of address, phone numbers, name/status, etc.
• Promoting the school and its staff in a positive manner, and assisting the school in enforcing all
school rules e.g., punctuality, uniform, behaviour, school attendance, etc.
• Supporting the staff in their decisions when dealing with pupils who have disregarded the school
rules.
• Ensuring that all items of clothing are marked with the pupil’s name.
• Doing random checks on the quality of work that their child is producing in their exercise books.
• Attending Parents’ Evenings to discuss the progress of their children.
• Taking responsibility for their children’s safety after school. Children may not wait in the
school grounds beyond 16:00 (Mondays to Thursdays) and 14:30 (Fridays). At these times, pupils
will be sent to wait unsupervised on the south field or pavement.
• Ensuring that suitable transport arrangements are made for pupils to be collected promptly each
day after school, co-curricular activities, and other school functions.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS

• School fee statements are sent via email to parents each month by the Fee Administrator.
• School fees must be paid on or before the 7th day of each month. Parents whose fees are
outstanding risk having their contract with the school terminated at the end of the term.
• The following are included in the school fees:
o Additional academic support
o All co-curricular activities, including transport, but not excursions and tours
o Retreats
o Services of the Educational Psychologist, Mrs Collins
o Use of the Computer Centre at specified times
o Grade 8 and 11 camps
o Grade 8 and 9 textbooks
o School magazine
o School diaries

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• The following expenses are to be paid in addition to the School Fee account:

o Stationery as per stationery list

o Optional activities
▪ Academic day trips (±R 250 per day)
▪ Other social events such as Mr and Miss St Catherine’s, Cultural Evening, etc
▪ Sports tours
▪ Fun days and other fundraising activities
▪ Matric jacket and Matric Dance

• Each year, all parents are requested to complete one payment plan form per family. These forms
are to be returned to Mrs Wilson.
• Parents whose fees are in arrears could be in danger of having their contract with the school
terminated.
• A full term’s written notice is required should you withdraw your child from the school. Failure to
adhere to this will result in a term’s fees charged in lieu of notice.

TEXTBOOKS

• Grade 8 and 9 pupils receive a textbook pack at the beginning of the new academic year. The cost
of these packs is included on their January school fee statement. The cost of the textbooks will be
deducted from the first payment received and the balance of the payment will be allocated to school
fees. Pupils who have misplaced their textbooks from Grade 8 will be required to purchase
replacement copies.
• Grade 10 - 12 pupils are required to purchase their own textbooks. It is imperative that books are
ordered no later than the end of November to ensure that they are received by the start of the new
academic year. The PNA in New Redruth is our preferred supplier and they offer St Catherine’s
parents a 10% discount on their textbooks.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Parents are to ensure that:

• Each Grade 8 – 11 pupil is involved in at least three co-curricular activities per year.
• Their children have the correct kit for the activity in which they are involved.
• They make arrangements for their child to be collected promptly after activities. The security
guard is only on duty until 17:15 each day.
• Teachers will wait with pupils who return to school after 17:30 for a maximum of 30 minutes.
Please do not jeopardise the safety of your children by leaving them outside the school
grounds unattended.

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MEETINGS WITH PARENTS

Parents’ Evenings are designed to serve as opportunities for parents to meet with teachers to discuss
the progress of their children. Parents are welcome to make an appointment to see the relevant HOD or
teacher whenever they have a concern regarding their child’s education.

The following Parents’ Meetings are scheduled each year and are reflected on the calendar:

● Grade 8 Parent and Pupil Orientation Day

● Grade 8 Induction
● Grade 12 Induction
● Gr 8 - 12 Parents’ Evening (Term 1 report)
● Gr 8 – 12 Parents’ Evening (July exam results)
● Grade 9 Subject Choice Evening
● Grade 12 Parents’ Evening (Prelim exam results)
● Gr 12 Valedictory Mass and Awards Ceremony
● Grade 8 – 11 Awards Ceremony
● Discussions with parents of possible failures (By appointment)

Parents are encouraged to communicate with the Grade Head, Subject HOD or subject teacher via
email to discuss concerns as soon as they arise.

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 2024 SCHOOL MANAGEMENT TEAM

HEAD OF SCHOOL - Mr Maritz

It is the task of the Head of School to act as the custodian of the school’s Ethos and also to provide
strategic vision and overall academic leadership.

SENIOR SCHOOL PRINCIPAL – Mrs Crosby

Mrs Crosby is responsible for creating a disciplined environment where mutual respect is a priority.

ACADEMIC HEADS OF DEPARTMENT are responsible for all aspects of the academic programme.

The team consists of:

Mrs Smit English, Afrikaans, isiZulu

Miss Beukes Mathematics, Maths Literacy, Geography and CAT
Miss Rosa Life Sciences, Physical Science and Life Orientation
Mr van Tonder Accounting, Business Studies, Creative & Visual Art and History

WHOLE SCHOOL HEADS OF DEPARTMENT

The following two HODs are members of the Pre-School, Prep School and Senior School Management
teams:
Mr Wild Head of Co-curricular
Mrs Karam Head of Ethos

GRADE HEADS

The Grade Heads are responsible for monitoring the academic, physical, emotional and spititual well-
being of the pupils. The Heads of each of the grades are:

Grade 8 Miss Erasmus erasmusj@stcatherines.org.za

Grade 9 Miss Rosa rosap@stcatherines.org.za
Grade10 Mr van Tonder vantonderr@stcatherines.org.za
Grade 11 Mrs Smit smits@stcatherines.org.za
Grade 12 Miss Beukes beukest@stcatherines.org.za

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Mrs du Plessis is the Senior School secretary who deals with all general matters. She can be contacted
by e-mail on hsadmin@stcatherines.org.za.

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EXECUTIVE TEAM

The team consists of Grade 12 pupils who are appointed to assist staff in enforcing the Code of Conduct.
The teacher in charge of the Executives will assist with the development of their leadership skills.

The current Executive team consists of:

Head Boy: Musa Mnguni

Head Girl: Lidija Lazovic
Head of Culture: Phetogo Madigage
Head of Culture: Lehlogonolo Chukudu
Head of Ethos: Owethu Qenebe
Head of Public Relations: Akhona Ndlovu
Head of Grade 8: Fortress Imalenia
Head of Grade 8: Jade Cardy
Head of Sport: Themba Mashinini
Head of Sport: Chelsy Jacobs
Head of Student Affairs: Tapiwanashe Muzanechita
Head of Student Affairs: Yamke Kasoka

HOUSE CAPTAINS

The house captains play a significant role in promoting school and, more especially, house spirit and
driving interhouse competition. They may also be required to promote St Catherine’s at various events.

Head of St Catherine’s: Teija Ashby

Head of St Patrick’s: Lesedi Ntsane
Head of St Dominic’s: O’Lerato Magooa

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL

The SRC consists of one representative from each homeroom class. Their role in the school is to be a
means of channelling the pupils’ suggestions, requests, and concerns to Management. They are to be
actively involved in the various aspects of our school and must work together with the Head of Ethos
for charity drives and Head of Student Affairs, to arrange special fun days.

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 PUPIL INFORMATION

PUPIL SUPPORT SYSTEMS

The wellness of our pupils is essential for learning to take place. For this reason, we have a threefold
support system:

SPIRITUAL SUPPORT

Pupils who are experiencing difficulties in their lives are encouraged to spend time in pray, attend J-
Walkers or confide in a teacher who is willing to pray with them.
Pupils may request a Chapel Pass from the teacher which will allow them to spend 15 min alone in the
Chapel to pray. The Chapel Pass must be returned to the teacher afterwards.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

Pupils are encouraged to ask questions in class to ensure that they feel confident with each topic
covered. Teachers are available at least one afternoon a week, and at break, for additional support. Pupils
are encouraged to consult any of the subject teachers, not only their own teacher.

Pupils who achieve below 50% for any assessment task are required to attend the additional support
offered by the teachers after school. This takes precedence over all other co-curricular activities. Parents
will receive an SMS in this regard.

Aptitude testing is offered to pupils in preparation for subject choices.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

In addition to the academic support offered by the subject teachers, pupils who need emotional and
psychological support are referred to Mrs Collins, the Educational Psychologist. All counselling done is
carried out with parental approval. All interactions with the psychologist are strictly confidential as are
the documents pertaining to the counselling sessions. Mrs Collins will give the referring teacher, Grade
Heads and Mrs Crosby limited feedback on the pupil’s progress. Teachers are also willing to listen to
pupils and offer support.

Pupils are encouraged to attend Bee Vocal meetings where they can get emotional support from a staff
member as well as their peers.

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 DRESS CODE

Pupils are ambassadors of St Catherine’s School and are expected to always look neat. As a Catholic
school, we expect pupils to dress conservatively. All clothing must be the appropriate size and in good
condition. Summer uniform must be worn during Term One and Term Three and winter uniform must
be worn during Term Two.

GENERAL ITEMS (GIRLS AND BOYS)

Blazer Official striped school blazer. Blazers are compulsory during Term Two and for all
formal functions e.g., Assemblies, Masses, Awards Ceremonies, etc.
Blazers must be worn over long-sleeved jerseys or shirts.
Blazers may not be worn with the school’s PT kit.
Jersey Black jersey or sleeveless pullover with white stripes on the neck edge only, as
supplied by stockists.
A long-sleeved jersey may only be worn under a blazer.
Grade 12 pupils may wear a white pullover or long sleeve jersey with black stripes
(around the neck only).
Shoes Standard black school shoes with laces or buckles. Shoes may not cover the ankles.
Scarves and Black school scarf with white stripes and plain black gloves may only be worn during
gloves the second term.
Beanies & Beanies and hoodies may not be worn with the school uniform or school tracksuit
hoodies
Caps and A black St Catherine’s cap may be worn while on the sports fields at break and for
umbrellas outdoor extra mural activities but must be removed before moving into the school
buildings.
An umbrella may be used to provide shade during break.
Raincoat Black raincoats or drimacs are only allowed while it is raining.

House shirt The official House T-shirt (green, red, or yellow) depending on which house the
pupil has been allocated to.
School St Catherine’s tracksuit is black and sky-blue with pin stripe down the pants and
tracksuit school badge on the left of the top.
Face mask Unless declared mandatory by the government, the wearing of masks is optional.
Pupils who are ill are encouraged to wear their masks.
MATRIC Jacket: may wear the matric jacket approved by Senior Management in place of a
PUPILS blazer, except for formal functions, i.e., Assemblies, Masses, Awards Ceremonies,
Photographs etc
Jersey: White jersey or pullover with black stripes at the bottom and wrists.
Pullovers do not have the school badge
EXECUTIVES On Fridays and house days the executives may wear
o Plain blue or black jeans without any rips. Jeans must be well-fitting.
o Executive T-shirt with a black undershirt in winter.
o School tracksuits or matric jackets.

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BOYS’ UNIFORM
Terms One and Three (Summer) Term Two (Winter)
White short-sleeved collared shirt with the top White long-sleeved collared shirt with the top
button fastened button fastened
Official school tie Official school tie
Grey socks Grey socks.
Standard, un-tapered grey flannel school Standard, un-tapered grey flannel school
trousers. trousers
Matric boys wear black long pant
Black belt with a SMALL buckle Black belt with a SMALL buckle
A sleeveless pullover may be worn Blazers must be worn
Jewellery NO visible jewellery may be worn.
No body piercings are allowed. Plasters may not be used to hide any piercings.
Religious These may be worn on a chain below the neckline of the uniform or on the wrist
emblems provided that it is covered by the blazer.

Nails Nails may not protrude over the fingertips and must be kept clean.
Tattoos Tattoos are not permitted. Existing tattoos must be covered.
Shaving Boys must always be clean-shaven. Boys who are unshaven will be required to shave
at school.
Hair ● Hair must always look neat.
● Hair must be a natural colour and the same colour throughout.
● Hair may not touch the eyebrows (when leaning forward), ears or shirt/blazer
collar.
● No braids and dreadlocks are allowed.
● Designs may not be shaved into the hair.
● No hair accessories are permitted.
● Sideburns may not be longer than the bottom of the earlobe.
● Only matric pupils may have cornrows. These must take the shape of the head
and must not have ‘tails’ ie must not touch the collar of the shirt or blazer.

GIRLS’ UNIFORM
Terms One and Three (Summer) Term Two (Winter)
Sky-blue short-sleeved St Catherine’s school Black pinafore or black long pants, with a long-
dress, worn not more than 5 cm above the sleeved plain white collared shirt and the official
knee when standing up straight. school tie.
Long pants may not be worn in summer.
White short ankle socks folded over once. Knee-length black socks with white stripes or
black stockings (not sheer.
A sleeveless black pullover may be worn over Blazers must be worn.
the dress.

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Matric girls: Matric girls:
Six-panelled black skirt as supplied by the Six-panelled black skirt as supplied by the
stockist or black long pants stockist or black long pants
Short-sleeved white shirt in summer. Long-sleeved white shirt in winter.
Jewellery ● Girls may only wear a maximum of TWO earrings in the lower portion of each
earlobe.
● No other body piercings are permitted.
● Plasters may not be used to hide additional piercings.
● Only small round studs or sleepers are permitted. These may be only gold or silver
in colour. Small jewel studs are allowed provided that they are colourless.
● NO other visible jewellery may be worn.
Religious These may be worn on a chain below the neckline of the uniform or on the wrist
emblems provided that it is covered by the blazer.
Tattoos No tattoos are permitted. Existing tattoos must be covered.
Nails Nails may not protrude over the fingertips and must be kept clean. Only clear nail
polish may be worn. No nail art or coloured nail polish is allowed.
Matric girls are allowed short, natural looking white French tips not more than 5mm
above the fingertips.
Make-up Make-up may not be worn to school, even on sports or civvies days.
Hair The following rules will be applied to girls’ hairstyles:
● Hair must be a natural colour and the same colour throughout.
● Hair is always to be kept neat and away from the face. Clips must be used to
secure hair in place.
● Hair that is below the shoulders must be tied up with a suitable elastic.
● Hair accessories must match the uniform or hair colour. No beads are allowed.

NON-ACADEMIC UNIFORM
PT uniform May only be worn on PT days
● St Catherine’s black shorts with sky-blue pin stripe and school badge on the
left front or the St Catherine’s tracksuit pants.
● St Catherine’s sky-blue V-neck sports T-shirt, with black trim and black badge.
Plain black long-sleeved T-shirts may be worn under the blue T-shirt during
winter.
● Any kind of sports shoes with plain black or white or black ankle-length or
secret socks.
● School jerseys may be worn in winter.
House Days ● House shirt with school tracksuit pants or PT shorts.
● Only jerseys or tracksuit tops may be worn.
● Sports shoes.
Casual days ● Blue PT shirt with school tracksuit pants or PT shorts.
● Only jerseys or tracksuit tops may be worn.
● Sports shoes – not sandals or sliders.

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DRESS CODE FOR CIVVIES DAYS AND RETREATS
BOYS GIRLS:
TOPS ● No figure hugging vests or shirts. ● Sleeveless tops allowed but not
● Vests can be sleeveless but not strappy or spaghetti straps,
baggy that your chest is visible. ● No crop tops, bodysuits or figure
tight tops,
● No cleavage or undergarments
showing.
PANTS, ● Any colour pant / shorts are ● Not shorter than four fingers above
SHORTS & allowed. the knee.
SKIRTS ● Shorts must be knee-length. ● No skims or figure-hugging skirts or
● Pants may not be baggy, hanging dresses.
by the crotch. No underpants, ● No slits higher than the knee
boxers showing. ● Any colour jeans, cargo pants and
● Rips are allowed but no skin cotton are allowed.
exposed. ● Rips are allowed but no skin exposed.
● Gym leggings, knee-length cycling
shorts allowed together with a thigh-
length baggy top.
SHOES ● Any type of sandals, slops, slides, ● Any type of sandals, slops, slides,
sneakers, takkies. pumps, sneakers, takkies.
JEWELLERY ● No additional jewellery or ● No additional jewellery or accessories
accessories allowed. allowed.
● No make-up

LOST PROPERTY
All lost property is placed into containers in the quad. Pupils who have lost items of clothing, stationery
etc are to look for their belongings in the containers.

UNIFORM STOCKISTS
Uniform items can be purchased from:

SIMPLY SCHOOLS EBSONS

Newmarket Shopping Centre Power Street
Alberton Germiston
Tel: 011 907-0512 Tel: 011 873-3288

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 CODE OF CONDUCT

In the interest of ensuring that St Catherine’s School continues to provide a safe school environment in
which good teaching and learning practices are upheld, it is essential that the school rules are enforced
in a fair and consistent manner. Pupils who can be associated with the school in any way are ambassadors
for St Catherine’s and may not bring the name of the school into disrepute through their behaviour or
appearance. As part of their developmental process, pupils need to be held responsible for their actions
and accept the consequences thereof.

The underlying principle of the Code of Conduct is to modify behaviour rather than to punish, to
constructively develop the norms and values of the pupils. If the expected norms of conduct are not met
by any pupil, informal or formal corrective action will be undertaken by the school in an effective and
equitable manner, in the interests of the school.

Please note that the infringements listed in the Code of Conduct are not intended to be an exhaustive
listing but rather an indication of the type and severity of an infringement, and a deviation from accepted
pupil conduct. The mitigating circumstances of a particular case under consideration may justify less
severe action than that indicated below.

Repetitive misdemeanours will be referred to the HOD for intervention. Depending on the severity of
the offence, the HOD will meet with the parents and, if necessary, refer the matter to the Disciplinary
Committee which will decide whether or not to proceed with a formal disciplinary hearing which could
result in expulsion.

GENERAL SCHOOL RULES

Pupils are expected to:

● Uphold the name of the school both inside and outside of the school premises. Bringing the name
of the school into disrepute is a serious offence.
● Move in an orderly fashion, keeping left along the passages and stairways.
● Take their earphone/headphones off unless on the field at break.
● Maintain social distance. Physical contact is not permitted.
● Wear the school uniform with pride and abide by the dress code.
● Refrain from entering the following areas unless instructed to do so by a teacher: the area around
the main entrance, teachers’ car park, cleaning staff rooms, swimming pool, hall and stage, tuck
shop, kitchen, and staffroom.
● Refrain from buying and/or selling any edible substances on the school premises. This to ensure
that no pupil is accidentally drugged or poisoned.
● Refrain from playing loud music anywhere in the school grounds as it is inconsiderate and
disrespectful to others.

Page 17
ATTENDANCE

Pupils are expected to:

● Arrive at school before 7:40 and be punctual for all lessons. Pupils who consistently arrive late will
be dealt with by the Grade Head.
● Report to the relevant Grade Head if they are not feeling well and wish to go home. An orange
Leaving Early Form needs to be completed by subject teachers and Grade Head, thereafter
Mrs du Plessis will contact the parents. Parents are required to collect their children from
reception and sign them out. Pupils may not call their parents directly.
● Bring a letter of explanation from their parents on the day on which they return to school after
being absent unless their parents have contacted the Grade Head or Mrs Du Plessis telephonically
or via email.
● Pupils are to refrain from bunking a class or leaving the school premises without written parental
permission. Pupils who miss academic time without a valid reason will be required to do one hour’s
detention for each hour missed.
● Join Google Meetings for each period of the day including Homeroom during periods of lockdown.
Pupils who miss an online class without a valid reason will be required to do one hour’s detention
for each hour missed once onsite teaching resumes.
● Pupils who are absent for 20 days or more without a valid reason will be retained.

ETHOS

Pupils are expected to endorse the Ethos of the school by:

● Showing respect for the Constitution and Laws of the Republic of South Africa, which includes
respecting the beliefs of others and not exhibiting any form of discrimination.
● Showing respect to staff members by greeting all adults both inside and outside the classrooms,
standing to greet the teacher at the beginning and end of each lesson and making way for their
seniors along the corridors.
● Showing members of the Executive the same respect as the teachers and carrying out their
instructions.
● Attending the compulsory retreats.
● Behaving appropriately while on retreat; during assembly or Mass and all other spiritual activities
of the school. Blazers must be worn to all assemblies and Masses.
● Being honest and displaying integrity.
● Refrain from being disrespectful or using foul language.

Page 18
ACADEMIC PROGRESS

Pupils are expected to:

● Show respect towards the subject teacher and co-operate with them in order to obtain an excellent
education. Persistent disruptive behaviour will be dealt with by the relevant Grade Head.
● Use their St Catherine’s diary to record their homework and due dates for assessment tasks.
● Complete homework tasks and bring the correct books to school each day. The following process
will be followed when pupils fail to complete their homework or bring their correct books to
school:
o Pupils who fail to complete homework, or leave their books at home, will have the offence
recorded in their homework diary by the subject teacher. Parents will be required to sign the
offence.
o After five offences, the pupil will be placed in Friday afternoon detention where they will be
required to collect litter, clean desks, wash chairs, or something similar, from 14:15 to 15:15.
Parents will be notified of the detention by means of an email.
o After ten offences, parents will be required to meet with the Grade Head regarding their child’s
behaviour.
o After fifteen offences, the formal disciplinary process will be followed.
● Be present for all formal assessment tasks. Those who are absent on the day must bring a note
from either their parent or a doctor stating the reason for their absence, and will be required to
complete the test/task on the day on which they return to school.
● Submit assessment tasks on the due date. Those who are present without their task will be
required to complete it during that lesson and submit whatever they have done.
● Attend extra lessons for additional support if they achieve a term mark of below 50%.
● Change from Mathematics to Mathematical Literacy should their Mathematics promotion mark
be below 50%. This could have an impact on their subject choices.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Pupils are expected to:

● Commit to participating in at least three co-curricular activities per year. (This excludes Grade 12
pupils)
● Ensure that they are dressed in the appropriate kit for both practices and matches.
● Be punctual for all practices and matches i.e., changed, and ready to start at 14:15
● Stay until at least 15:30 when the practices finish.
● Be collected from school immediately after their extracurricular activity.
● Excuse themselves well in advance if they are unable to attend a practice or participate in a
match.
● Display good sportsmanship both on and off the field.
● Show respect to officials, opponents, and coaches.
● Leave their sporting activity in the appropriate sports kit.

Page 19
Pupils who do not abide by these rules may be suspended for a match. Depending on the severity of
the incident, the Colours’ Committee may decide to withhold any award that the pupil qualifies for.
Academic support and detention take preference over all co-curricular practices.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION

This includes all social media platforms.

Pupils are expected to:

● Assume that all information shared on any social network is public information, regardless of the
privacy settings.
● Refrain from posting comments that infringe on the rights of others or bring the name of the
school into disrepute.
● Follow the same rules for good behaviour and respectful conduct online as offline, thereby
upholding the Ethos of the school.
● Use good judgement - be safe, appropriate, careful, and kind.
● Alert the staff immediately of any concerns for safety or security i.e., if you see a message,
comment, image, or anything else online that makes you concerned for your personal safety.
● Know that all forms of bullying (repetitive offences) are very serious offences which may result in
a disciplinary hearing and possible expulsion.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Pupils are expected to:

● Take responsibility for their electronic equipment and accept that they bring cell phones or other
electronic devices to school at their own risk. The school undertakes to assist in locating
missing items but will not accept responsibility in any way for lost/stolen items.
● Refrain from using earphones (wired or wireless) or headsets along the corridors.
● Use earphones to play music during break or after school to ensure that the noise does not disturb
others. Speakers may not be brought to school.
● Switch devices off during academic time - they may only be used with the teacher’s permission.
● Place all electronic devices in their suitcases during an assessment task as having a device on their
person is classified as an assessment irregularity and will result in zero for the task.
● Hand their electronic devices (cell phones, smart watches etc) in before the start of an examination.
An electronic device in a pupil’s possession during an examination is an exam irregularity even if
it is switched off.

Page 20
FORMAL DISCIPLINARY PROCESS

The following infringements are serious forms of misconduct, or repetitive minor forms of misconduct,
and a zero-tolerance approach will be adopted. Serious infringements must be dealt with as follows:

o Staff members must take written statements for each pupil who is suspected of being involved,
as well as the staff member who witnessed or was made aware of the offence.
o The information must be handed to the Grade Head for further investigation.
o The Grade Head and Mrs Crosby will discuss the situation.
o Letters will be sent to the parents informing them of the offences and the pupil’s suspension
from school, either pending a meeting with the parents or pending a formal disciplinary hearing
where 5 days’ notice must be given.
o In the case of a formal hearing, the Grade Head must prepare the hearing documentation, discuss
the appointment of a chairperson with Mrs Crosby and follow up with a letter stating the
outcome of the hearing.

Staff will be informed of the offence, but the outcome is confidential.

The following are the minimum sanctions that will be applied:

● First offence: Suspension from school pending a meeting with the parents followed by a written
warning. In extreme cases, the first offence can result in a disciplinary hearing.
● Second offence: Final written warning and/or disciplinary hearing depending on the severity of
the offence.
● Third offence: Disciplinary hearing, with the possibility of expulsion.

The Chairperson of the Disciplinary Hearing will decide on a suitable sanction after considering all the
evidence. Pupils have seven days to exercise their right to appeal the outcome of any disciplinary
hearing.

FAILING TO UPHOLD THE ETHOS OF THE SCHOOL

Our core values are Truth, Respect, Love, Trust, Honesty, and Integrity. Any behaviour which undermines
these values is a serious offence. Examples include:

• Any form of dishonesty, fraud, or rewarding others to be dishonest or to cheat.

• Theft, or attempted theft.
• Extortion, bribery or corruption.
• Forgery or falsification of documents or results.
• Being associated with any online site or group that brings the name of the school into
disrepute, whether you have posted comments or not.
• Actions that expose others to danger or injury or expose the school to potential accidental
loss or damages.
• Wilful disruption of school activities, interference with school authorities.
Page 21
FAILING TO UPHOLD THE ACADEMIC OBLIGATIONS OF A PUPIL

Pupils are expected to be prepared for all lessons and complete all assessment tasks according to the
instructions given by the teacher. The following offences will not be tolerated.
• Being in possession of or distributing material or information that may give an advantage in a
test or an exam.
• Plagiarism, including using any form of AI to create an unfair advantage.
• Repetitively failing to complete homework, bringing the incorrect books to school.
• Repetitively submitting tasks late or being absent on the due date for an assessment task.
• Having an electronic device on their person during an assessment task.

FAILING TO UPHOLD THE HUMAN RIGHTS OF OTHERS

Respect for others is one of our core values. Action which exhibit a lack of respect for others will not
be tolerated. Such actions include:
• Violent, abusive, or threatening behaviour (verbal or physical).
• Intimidating or wilfully interfering with others (attempted or actual).
• Intentional and offensive, insulting, abusive, racist, sexist, or lewd behaviour.
• Bullying (repetitive behaviour) others either physically, emotionally, socially directly or using
social media.
• Sexual harassment; inappropriate sexual innuendos or graphic comments; obscene, indecent,
or sexually explicit behaviour or gestures, or attempts to make unwanted physical contact.
• Taking photos or videos of others without their permission.
• Viewing, creating, or distributing pornographic, obscene, or offensive material, either electronic
or paper copies or photographs/recordings of someone without their permission.

FAILING TO ABIDE BY THE LAW OF THE LAND

All St Catherine’s pupils are required to be law-abiding citizens. The following actions will not be
tolerated.
• Vandalising the property of the school or belongings of others.
• Sabotage, malicious or wilful damage to the school’s or others’ property or equipment.
• Being in possession of potentially dangerous weapons at school or at a school event.
• Being in possession of, or under the influence of, alcoholic, hallucinogenic or
dangerous/prohibited substances, or distributing, storing, or consuming any of these
substances at school or at school events or while wearing the school uniform.
• Smoking or being in possession of tobacco, cigarettes, vaping, or e-cigarettes on the school
premises or at school events or while wearing the school uniform.
• Acts or behaviour designed to create a hostile or threatening school environment, or that may
reasonably have resulted in such an environment.
• Blocking of any entrances or exits to or from the school premises, with the intention or effect
of interfering with free access/egress by others.

Page 22
 ACADEMIC INFORMATION

2024 ACADEMIC STAFF

NAME SUBJECTS Email address

Mrs Suzette Smit English Gr 11 & 12 smits@stcatherines.org.za

English
Miss Laura Barrow barrowl@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 9 & 10
English
Mr Michael Pienaar pienaarm@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 & 12
English Life Orientation Gr
Miss Christobell Mandaza mandazac@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 9 & 11 10 - 12
Afrikaans
Miss Ina Viljoen viljoeni@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 10 - 12
Afrikaans
Mrs Jo Steenkamp steenkampj@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 - 10
isiZulu
Miss Thandazile Khumalo khumalot@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 - 12
Mathematics Maths Literacy CAT
Miss Tonette Beukes beukest@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 11 Gr 12 Gr 10
Computers Maths Literacy
Miss Janet Erasmus erasmusj@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 & 9 Gr 10 & 11
Mathematics
Mr Mzwandile Maphanga maphangam@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 9, 10 & 12
Mathematics
Miss Linda Shamuyarira shamuyariral@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 & 9
Life Sciences
Miss Paolina Rosa rosap@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8, 10 & 11
Life Sciences Physical Science
Miss Sajna Sivnarain sivnarains@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8, 9, 10 & 12 Gr 8
Physical Science
Mrs Gill Galiani galianig@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 10 - 12
Physical Science Mathematics
Mr Connor Winchester winchesterc@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 - 11 Gr 9
Business Studies
Mr Rian van Tonder vantonderr@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 11 & 12
Business Studies Accounting
Miss Meriesha Lubbe lubbem@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 & 9 Gr 10 - 12
Accounting Business Studies
Mr Tawe Shoko shokot@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 & 9 Gr 10
RE
Mrs Bethnye Karam karamb@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 - 12
Geography
Mrs Ursula Killian killianu@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 - 12
History
Miss Morgan Larangeira larangeiram@stcatherines.org.za
Gs 8 - 12
CAT
Mrs Sonia Pita pitas@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 10 - 12
Creative Arts Visual Arts
Mrs Liezel Champion championl@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 & 9 Gr 10 - 12
PT Guidance
Mr Siyabonga Dube dubes@stcatherines.org.za
Gr 8 - 12 Gr 8 & 9

Page 23
LANGUAGE POLICY

● The language of teaching and learning is English, which means that all pupils must take English
Home Language as a subject.
● Afrikaans and isiZulu are offered at First Additional Language level. Pupils must choose one of
these two languages.
● For academic reasons, pupils are encouraged to speak the language used for teaching the subject
i.e., Afrikaans pupils are required to speak Afrikaans while in the Afrikaans class, isiZulu in the
isiZulu class and English in all other academic classes.
● Formal communication must be in the language of teaching and learning which, at St Catherine’s
School, is English.
● Pupils are allowed to speak their home language but must be respectful towards others who are
unable to understand their language.
● Pupils and staff members must refrain from using language which can be deemed to be
inappropriate.

TEXTBOOKS

GRADE 8 & 9 TEXTBOOKS

● In September teachers are required to select textbooks for the pupils for the following year.
● Pupils are supplied with a set of textbooks at the start of the academic year.
● The cost of these books is included in the school fees.

GRADE 10 – 12 TEXTBOOKS
● A list of prescribed, as well as recommended, textbooks is included in this document. Our preferred
supplier is PNA New Redruth. Parents are welcome to purchase at any supplier.
● Please ensure the ISBN number is correct when purchasing the textbooks.

STATIONERY
● Parents are required to purchase stationery for their children according to the lists found in this
booklet.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Pupils are expected to take responsibility for their electronic equipment and accept that they bring cell
phones or other electronic devices to school at their own risk. The school undertakes to assist in
locating missing items but will not accept responsibility in any way for lost/stolen items.
Pupils will be given the password to gain access to the Wi-Fi and internet to use for educational
purposes. The security measures in place will ensure that pupils do not have access to social media or
undesirable websites.

Page 24
ACADEMIC SUBJECTS

SUBJECTS OFFERED
● English and Life Orientation are compulsory for all pupils.
● Pupils must choose between Afrikaans and isiZulu as a First Additional Language.
● Grade 8 & 9 pupils must take Mathematics, Physical Science, Life Sciences, Accounting, Business
Studies, History, Geography, Computers and Creative Arts.
● Grade 10 – 12 pupils must take Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy in addition to THREE of the
following eight subjects: Physical Science, Life Sciences, Accounting, Business Studies, History,
Geography, Computer Application Technology and Visual Arts.

SUBJECT RESTRICTIONS
● Grade 9 pupils who achieve below 60% in their final Mathematics examination will not be allowed
to choose Physical Science or Accounting for Grade 10.
● Pupils in Grade 9 – 11 who achieve below 50% in their Mathematics examination will be promoted
to the next grade on condition that they change from Mathematics to Mathematical Literacy.
Science and Accounting will also have to be replaced by another choice subject.

PUPILS WANTING TO CHANGE SUBJECTS

● Pupils wanting to change subjects in Grades 10 or 11 must first discuss their reasons for changing
subjects with the relevant HOD.
● If it is decided that it is in the best interests of the pupil, and is approved by the new subject
teacher, the pupil must bring a letter from their parents requesting that the change be implemented
and have the Subject Change Form signed by the relevant parties.
● In addition, the pupil must sign the IEB Change of Subject Form. The onus is on the pupil to complete
the portfolio tasks that have been missed.
● As stipulated by the IEB, no Grade 11 subject changes can take place after 30 November.
● These IEB forms must be included in the Gr 12’s portfolio file for the IEB.

ADDITIONAL ACADEMIC SUPPORT

● All teachers offer additional support to all pupils. These extra lessons are compulsory for pupils
who achieve below 50% in a formal test or as a term mark.
● Teachers are to keep a record of who receives additional support each week. This information can
be used when justifying the retention of a pupil at the end of the year.
● These classes must be used to re-explain basic concepts, discuss assessment skills, and give the
pupils additional work to apply the principles.
● Teachers must inform the parents, by means of email, when their children miss the additional
support class.
● Gr 12 pupils who are underachieving will not be allowed to participate in co-curricular activities
until there is an improvement in his/her marks.
● Pupils with barriers to learning must be referred to the Educational Psychologist, Mrs Collins, for
additional support.

Page 25
SUBMISSION OF ASSESSMENT TASKS BY PUPILS

Teachers must collect assessment tasks at the beginning of the lesson to ensure that each pupil has
submitted a task and keep a record of those who were absent to ensure that the task is submitted during
the following lesson. No excuses will be accepted.

● Tasks will not be accepted after the due date.

● Pupils who do not have their tasks at school must be given a piece of paper so that they can
complete the task during that subject lesson. The task must be handed in at the end of the lesson
and marked. The pupil is responsible for catching up the work that they miss while completing the
task.
● Pupils who are absent on the due date must submit the task during the next subject lesson. NO
extensions may be given! ZERO may not be given. The pupil is responsible for catching up the work
that they miss while completing the task.
● Pupils who are absent for a test must write the test during the next subject lesson. The pupil is
responsible for catching up the work that they miss while writing the test.

ASSESSMENT IRREGULARITIES (CHEATING)

Pupils may only be awarded marks for their OWN work. Teachers are expected to check all relevant tasks
for all forms of plagiarism. All plagiarised information will be disregarded when allocating marks.

Before the start of a test or exam, pupils are required to switch off their electronic devices and hand
them in or pack them away in their bag.

Assessment irregularities include:

● Plagiarism, which means submitting someone else’s work as your own or copying someone else’s
work.
● Having access to unfair assistance e.g., crib notes during a test or examination, being assisted by
someone else etc.
● Not submitting the whole assessment task.
● Receiving digital information during the assessment task.
● Using artificial intelligence e.g. ChatGPT to complete a task and submitting the task as your own work.
● Having an electronic device on your person during an assessment task.
● Having a cell phone ring during a formal assessment task.

All irregularities are to be brought to the attention of the relevant HOD who will obtain a written
statement from the pupil and any witnesses. The School Assessment Irregularity Committee, which
consists of the HOD and relevant GH, will meet with Mrs Crosby to discuss the incident and arrive at a
verdict. The HOD will notify the parents and discipline the pupil according to the Code of Conduct.

Page 26
Assessment irregularities will have the following consequences:

● Plagiarism of an assessment task, including copying from another person.

o Pupils must be questioned with regard to the authenticity of the task and be given the opportunity
to delete work that is not their own.
o After investigation, teachers must only mark the pupils’ own work.
o Pupils must be given zero only if there is enough evidence to conclude that the task was not their
own original work.
● Being in possession of notes relating to the assessment topic.
o Teachers must only mark answers that could not have been derived from the crib note.
● Suspected copying from another pupil during a test or examination.
o The teacher is to confiscate any evidence and attach it to the pupil’s answer sheet.
o The pupil is to be given a new sheet of paper and be allowed to continue writing. The teacher must
record the time on both the original and new script.
o After investigation, teachers must only mark the pupils’ own work.
● Being in possession of a cell phone, smartwatch or any other electronic device during a test or
examination
o The pupil will be given ZERO for the task regardless of whether the device was used or not.

The same consequences apply if the irregularity comes to light at a later stage.

PROGRESSION / PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS

Pupils who are absent for 20 or more days without valid reason will be retained.
GRADES 8 & 9 GRADES 10 – 12
Number of subjects 9 subjects 7 Subjects
Subject pass mark 50% for all subjects 50% for all subjects
To pass 50% in English 50% for any four other subjects
50% for five other subjects 40% for three subjects
40% for three subjects
Diploma pass 50% for four other subjects excluding LO
40% for three subjects

Bachelor’s pass 50% English and three subjects excluding LO

40% for three subjects

Grade 10 – 12 pupils may take an additional subject which will only count towards their final matric
certificate. The additional subject will be reflected on their school reports but will not be included in the
pupil’s average.

Page 27
 CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

We strive to foster a spirit of sportsmanship where the joy of friendly competition, playing by
the rules and playing hard, is more important than the result of the match. Team selection
should be based on loyalty and practice attendance as well as ability.

The school offers a variety of co-curricular activities and pupils are expected to participate in at
least two activities per term/year. It is compulsory for Grade 8 to 11 pupils to participate in at
least three of the following activities per year.

CATEGORY TERM 1 TERM 2 TERM 3

Academic support Extra lessons Extra lessons Extra lessons
Sporting activities Swimming Netball Cricket
Netball Girls’ and Boys’ Soccer Athletics
Girls’ and Boys’ Soccer Cross Country Tennis
Athletics Tennis Swimming
Tennis
Cultural activities Public Speaking Chess Chess
Chess Choir Choir
Choir Marimbas Marimbas
Marimbas Eisteddfod
Ethos Bible Quiz Bible Quiz J-Walkers
J-Walkers J-Walkers Outreach
Outreach Outreach
Service Sound Team Sound Team Sound Team
Catering Catering Catering
Timekeepers etc. Timekeepers etc. Timekeepers etc.
The Scoop The Scoop Editor The Scoop Editor
Bee Vocal Bee Vocal Bee Vocal
Social activities Cultural Evening Matric dance
Mr & Ms St Catherine’s

SCHOOL RECOGNITION
Recognition is given to pupils who participate in competitive activities privately or for the school
provided that they meet the requirements listed below. Pupils will be given recognition for their
achievements at the end of the season either at assembly or at the awards ceremony in term three.

Awards are subject to the approval of the Awards Committee who may use their discretion
when making awards. The Committee may issue a meritorious certificate or award for
exceptional achievement and may remove colours as a disciplinary measure.

Page 28
Pupils must meet the following requirements to receive recognition for their achievements:
• Be a good ambassador for the school.
• Take the subject at St Catherine’s for the full academic year, to qualify for colours or subject
awards.
• Attend 80% of practices and participate in all competitions for a non-academic award. All
participants will be awarded a participation certificate at the end of the season provided that
they meet the requirements.

CRITERIA FOR AWARDING OF COLOURS

ACADEMIC AWARDS

● The Top Three pupils in the grade will be acknowledged at the end of each term.
● Pupils will be awarded certificates, scrolls and colours at the awards ceremonies in term three.
● Academic awards are based on the pupils’ promotion marks.
● Subject trophies are awarded to the Grade 11 and 12 pupils with the highest mark provided they
meet the minimum requirement.
● Pupils must have been present for a full academic year and have taken the subject for the full
academic year, to qualify for colours or subject awards.
● Pupils who participate in the Olympiad will receive recognition at the end of the process.
● Half and full colours will only be awarded once per year – not for individual subjects.
● Subject certificates will only be awarded when the minimum promotion subject mark has been
achieved.
● Academic scrolls will be awarded.

SUBJECT CERTIFICATE
SCROLL HALF COLOURS FULL COLOURS
Minimum marks
90% for LO and Min average Min average of 80% Min average of 85%
8&9

Computers of 75%
GR

80% for all other subjects

85% for LO Min average Min average of 75% Min average of 80%
GR
10

75% for all other subjects of 70%

80% for LO Min average Min average of 75% Min average of 80%
11 & 12

70% for all other subjects of 70%

GR

Participated in the first Participated in the Top Ten in the Maths

round of the competition regional finals of the Olympiad regional
Maths Olympiad finals
OLYMPIADS

OR OR
Awarded a silver Top 100 in the Maths
certificate for any national finals
other subjects OR
Gold certificate for
any other subjects

Page 29
ETHOS AWARDS

● All participants will receive a certificate.

● Scrolls are awarded for three or more years’ participation.
● Ethos and Bible quiz scrolls will be awarded.

ETHOS ETHOS ETHOS

ACTIVITIES
SCROLL HALF COLOURS FULL COLOURS
● BIBLE QUIZ All participants Inter-Catholic Bible quiz winners
Full colours are not
awarded for Bible Quiz
● ALTAR All participants Half colours are not awarded for Full colours are not
SERVER Liturgy awarded for Liturgy
SERVICE ● All participants ● Half colours are not awarded for ● Full colours are not
eg Sound team Service awarded for Service

CULTURAL AWARDS

● All participants will receive a certificate. Scrolls are awarded for three or more years’ participation.
● Pupils will only be awarded colours for an activity once per year.
● Scrolls will be activity specific.

ACTIVITIES SCROLL HALF COLOURS FULL COLOURS

PUBLIC All participants A speaker who achieves an A+ in Speaker who is selected
SPEAKING a regional competition for the SA College of
OR Speech and Drama
Eisteddfod public speaking final’s evening
OR
A speaker who achieves an A
symbol in a regional competition
for three years
CHOIR All participants Members of the team who wins Not awarded
the Inter-Catholic competition
OR
Achieves an A+ at the Eisteddfod
choir
MARIMBA All participants Members of the team who wins Not awarded
the Inter-Catholic competition
OR
Achieves an A+ at the Eisteddfod
CHESS All participants Members of the team who wins Not awarded
the Inter-Catholic competition
EISTEDDFOD All participants Achieves an A+ at the Eisteddfod Not awarded
(Other
disciplines)

Page 30
SPORTING AWARDS

● All participants will receive a certificate. Scrolls are awarded for three or more years’ participation.
● Pupils will only be awarded colours for an activity once per year.
● Scrolls will be activity specific.

ACTIVITIES SCROLL HALF COLOURS FULL COLOURS

ATHLETICS All All pupils who won individual All pupils who achieve a
participants events at the Inter-Catholic or minimum of 750 points on
Inter High the Sasol scale
OR
Achieve a min of 550 points
on the Sasol scale at the
Inter-Catholic or Inter High
SWIMMING - All All pupils who won their All pupils who were placed in
POOL participants event at the Inter-Catholic or the first three places at the
Inter High gala prestige gala

SWIMMING – All Pupils who finish TWO open Pupils who finish TWO open
OPEN WATER participants water races within a season water races within a season
with a time of with a time of
Boys: 20 min/ 1000m Boys: 17 min/ 1000m
Girls: 24 min/1000m Girls: 21 min/1000m
SOCCER All All pupils who were a All pupils who were a
participants member of the team that member of the team that
won 80% of their league won the Cup final
consisting of at least 6
matches
NETBALL All All pupils who were a All pupils who were a
participants member of the team that member of the team that
won 80% of their league won the cup final
consisting of at least 6
matches

LEADERSHIP AWARDS

● Scrolls are awarded for three or more years’ participation in the activity.
● Leadership scroll will be awarded.

ACTIVITIES LEADERSHIP LEADERSHIP LEADERSHIP

SCROLL HALF COLOURS FULL COLOURS
LEADERSHIP Activity captain Activity captain for three years Not awarded

Page 31
HONOURS AWARD

● An Honours Award is made to a Grade 11 or 12 pupil who has achieved 15 points from three of
the five award categories within the CURRENT calendar year.
● Points are awarded as indicated in the tables below.
● Pupils will only be awarded points for an activity once per year.
● Pupils are required to complete an Application for an Honours award and attach their supporting
documentation.

CATEGORY ACTIVITY 1 POINT 2 POINTS 3 POINTS

Awards Min average Qualifies for half colours Qualifies for full colours
ceremony of 70% (see
above)
Subject trophy Top in Grade Not awarded
ACADEMICS
Maths Participation Qualifies for half colours Qualifies for full colours
Olympiad
Other Participation Qualifies for half colours Qualifies for full colours
Olympiads

All activities Team captain Team captain for 3 years Not awarded
SRC Team member Chairperson Not awarded
LEADERSHIP House
Team member Not awarded Not awarded
Captains
Executive Not awarded Team member Headboy/Headgirl

ETHOS and Bible Quiz Participation Qualifies for half colours Not awarded
SERVICE Altar server Participation Not awarded Not awarded
Sound team Participation Not awarded Not awarded

Public Participation Qualifies for half colours Qualifies for full colours
speaking
Choir Participation Qualifies for half colours Not awarded
Marimba Participation Qualifies for half colours Not awarded
Chess Participation Qualifies for half colours Not awarded
CULTURE
Eisteddfod Not awarded Qualifies for half colours Not awarded
(non-school
activities)
Non-school Not awarded Selected for a provincial Selected for a national
activities team team

Athletics Participation Qualifies for half colours Qualifies for full colours
Swimming - Participation Qualifies for half colours Qualifies for full colours
pool
Swimming – Participation Qualifies for half colours Qualifies for full colours
SPORTS open water
Soccer Participation Qualifies for half colours Qualifies for full colours
Netball
Non-school Not awarded Selected for a provincial Selected for a national
activities team team

Page 32
INSIGNIA FOR AWARDS

BLAZER
BLAZER CORD SCROLLS
POCKET BADGE
Black badge with Activity scroll
PARTICIPATION Normal
white writing None White activity name on
SCROLLS striped
black scroll
White badge with Activity scroll
Normal None
HALF COLOURS black writing Black activity name on
striped
white scroll
Black badge with Activity scroll
FULL COLOURS Black white writing None Black activity scroll with
silver writing
Black writing on Sky-blue braid stitched Executive scroll
EXECUTIVE Black white badge with along the neck edge White writing on black
laurel leaves only scroll
Silver writing on Round black and white Headboy/Headgirl scroll
HEADGIRL AND
Blue black badge with cord stitched along the Silver writing on black
HEADBOY
silver laurel leaves neck edge only scroll
Round black and white Silver writing on black
Silver writing on
cord stitched along the scroll
black badge with
neck edge only ONLY Honours and
HONOURS Blue silver laurel leaves
Leadership and full
colours scrolls may be
worn
PROVINCIAL Black badge with Black scroll with white
Normal
COLOURS white writing None ‘PROVINCIAL’
striped
(Non-school)
NATIONAL Black badge with Black scroll with gold
Normal
COLOURS white writing None ‘NATIONAL’
striped
(Non-school)

Page 33
 SAFETY AND SECURITY

Schools have a legal responsibility to safeguard pupils from injuries and accidents. The teachers at this
school realize that it is their duty to protect the pupils from harm whilst they are in their care. It is
imperative that parents keep their personal information updated to ensure that they can be reached in
the case of an emergency.

Gates leading to the premises will be locked at 07:40 each day. Thereafter, the only access to the school
property will be through reception. Pupils arriving late for homeroom must report to Mrs du Plessis for
a late note before proceeding to the next class.

Pupils may not leave the school grounds during school hours unless they have written permission from
their parents. Pupils who fall ill during the day are to report to their Grade Head who will give them an
orange Leaving Early Form. This slip must be completed and signed before reporting to Mrs du Plessis,
who will contact their parents. Pupils may not contact their parents to fetch them without first
reporting to Mrs du Plessis.

Upon completion of pupils’ academic or co-curricular activities, parents are responsible for the safety
of their children. Timeous collection of pupils is vital. Pupils may wait within the school grounds until
16:00 at which time the school gates will be locked, and pupils will have to wait on the pavement. Please
ensure that your child is collected promptly to minimise their risk.

Pupils must always keep their valuables with them as the school cannot accept responsibility for
lost/stolen items.

The school grounds are out of bounds to pupils outside of school hours, unless they are under the
supervision of a member of staff, or another person authorised by the Principal or Head of School.

In the case of an emergency, the Principal as well as the First Aid Officer will be contacted immediately.
If necessary, Mrs du Plessis will call the paramedics as well as the parents. The teacher who was on duty
at the time must complete an Incident Report Form, a copy of which will be sent to the parents, as well
as the Chairperson of the Safety Committee.

Teachers use an app to monitor lightning and will move pupils indoors when necessary.

Page 34
 2024 STANDARD TEST TIMETABLE

TERM ONE Grade 8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Wed 24 Jan Maths baseline Maths baseline English English English

Wed 31 Jan English English Afrikaans / isiZulu Afrikaans / isiZulu Afrikaans / isiZulu

Wed 7 Feb Afrikaans / isiZulu Afrikaans / isiZulu Physical Science Physical Science VA & History

Tues 13 Feb History Geography CAT Life Sciences English

Wed 21 Jan Life Sciences Physical Science Geography Acc & History Business Studies

Wed 28 Feb Maths Maths Maths & Maths Lit Maths & Maths Lit Maths & Maths Lit

Wed 6 Mar Business Studies Accounting English VA & Geography Business Studies

Wed 13 Mar Accounting Business Studies Acc & History CAT Physical Science

Wed 20 Mar Geography History VA & LS Business Studies CAT

Wed 27 Mar Physical Science Life Sciences Business Studies English Acc & Geography

Wed 3 April LO Exam LO Exam LO Exam LO Exam LO Exam

TERM TWO Grade 8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Wed 8 May Afrikaans / isiZulu Maths Business Studies Maths & Maths Lit CAT

Wed 15 May Accounting Afrikaans / isiZulu Life Sciences CAT Business Studies

Wed 22 May Maths English CAT Business Studies English

Wed 29 May Creative Arts Business Studies Afrikaans / isiZulu Life Sciences Maths & Maths Lit

Wed 5 June English History Physical Science Afrikaans / isiZulu Physical Science

Wed 12 June History Accounting English Physical Science Afrikaans / isiZulu

Wed 19 June Geography Creative Arts Maths & Maths Lit English Acc & Geography

TERM THREE Grade 8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11

Wed 11 Sept Physical Science English Physical Science Life Sciences

Wed 18 Sept Business Studies Life Sciences Geography Accounting

Wed 25 Sept Afrikaans / isiZulu Accounting Business Studies Afrikaans / isiZulu

Wed 2 Oct English Maths Life Sciences Physical Science

Wed 9 Oct Accounting Geography CAT Business Studies

Wed 16 Sept Maths Physical Science Maths & Maths Lit CAT

Wed 23 Oct History Afrikaans / isiZulu English Maths & Maths Lit

Page 35
 STATIONERY REQUIREMENTS FOR 2024

General items required:

Dictionary, eraser, ruler, pencils, highlighters, pens, pencil crayons, pritt, scissors.

Note: Each subject requires a Portfolio file and an A4 exam pad.

SUBJECT GRADE 8 GRADE 9 GRADE 10 GRADE 11 GRADE 12

English 2 x 96pg Lever arch Lever arch file; 2 x 96pg 2 x 96pg
hardcover file; 10-tab 10-tab A4 file hardcover hardcover
books A4 file dividers books books
dividers

Afrikaans: 1 x 192pg hardcover book n/a n/a n/a

isiZulu: 1 x 72pg 1 x 72pg 1 x 192pg hardcover book

exercise exercise
book; 1 x A6 book
hardcover
book

Mathematics: 2 x 192pg hardcover books (not quad); maths set; scientific calculator
(recommended Casio FX82ZA/911ZA)

Mathematical n/a n/a A4 punched exam pad; lever 1 x 192pg

Literacy: arch file (big); scientific hardcover
calculator (recommended book;
Casio FX82ZA/911ZA); scientific
highlighters calculator

LO/RE: 1 x 72pg exercise book A4 flip file 10 pockets; 1 x 96pg exercise book

Physical 1 x 96pg exercise book Punched exam pad with lever arch file OR
Science: 2 x 192pg hardcover book
Life Science: 1 x 96pg hardcover book 1 x 192pg hardcover book

Geography: 1 x 72pg exercise book 1 x 192pg hardcover book

History: A4 flip file 100 pockets; A4 exam pad

Accounting: n/a n/a n/a

Business 1 x 32pg exercise book 1 x 192pg hardcover book (same book

Studies: is used for Gr 10,11 and 12)

CAT: n/a n/a A4 punched exam pad; lever arch file; flash
drive; 500g ream of paper

Creative Art/ Graphite pencils (different Graphite pencils (different grades); charcoal
Visual Art: grades); 2 x A4 sketch drawing sticks; putty eraser; paint brushes (flat);
books; colouring pencils 1 x A4 visual diary, 2 x A3 visual diaries; acrylic
paint set; lever arch file; masking tape

Page 36
 GRADE 10 TEXTBOOK LIST 2024

SUBJECT TITLE ISBN NOTES

Romeo & Juliet 9780198321668

Animal Farm 9780636059368

Achieve Career Gr 10 English HL 9781991258229

Goed Beter Afrikaans Gr 10 Werkboek 9781920708047

AFRIKAANS Pandora se boks 9780624047322

Pandora se boks Werkboek 9780987013064

Amanyal 'Enyoka 9780796074423

ISIZULU
IsiZulu Soqobo Gr 10 9780796054418

CORE MATHS MB Mathematics IEB/DBE 9781928462125 Buy from teacher

MATHS LITERACY n/a n/a

Doc Scientia Gr 10 Physics 9780639500522

PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Doc Scientia Gr 10 Chemistry 9780639500461

ACCOUNTING Advanced Accounting Workbook 9780980273021

Notes R120.00 n/a Supplied by school

BUSINESS STUDIES

CAT Computers Part of your Life Gr 10 9780994703200

Focus Geography Gr 10 9780636127388

GEOGRAPHY
In Search of Mapwork (MUST be in colour) 9780195984552 Gr 10-12

HISTORY In Search of History 10 9780199057252

MA Life Science Gr 10 IEB Ed. 9781776116140 2019 Ed.

LIFE SCIENCE
Answer Series 3in1 Life Science IEB 9781920558116 for Self-Study

Visual Art Gr 10 9781920364625 Compulsory

VISUAL ART

Page 37
 GRADE 11 TEXTBOOK LIST 2024

SUBJECT TITLE ISBN NOTES

ENGLISH The Theory of Flight - Siphiwe Gloria Ndlovu 97811415209424

Boesman en Lena - Atholl Fugard 9780195703313

Achieve Career Gr 11 English HL 9781991258236

Goed Beter Afrikaans Gr 11 9781920708054

AFRIKAANS Touwys met Toulopers Workbook n/a Buy from teacher

Perfekte Brander Workbook n/a Buy from teacher

Hlwanyela Uzovuna 9780796037251

ISIZULU Inhliziyo Eyophayo 9780796026378

IsiZulu Soqobo Ibanga Gr 11 9780796054432

MATHS MB Mathematics IEB/DBE 9781928462163 Buy from teacher

MATHS LITERACY n/a n/a

Doc Scientia Gr 11&12 Physics Book 1 9781991210944

PHYSICAL Doc Scientia Gr 11&12 Physics Book 2 9781991210951

SCIENCE
Doc Scientia Gr 11&12 Chemistry Book 1 9781991210838

Doc Scientia Gr 11&12 Chemistry Book 2 9781991210845

ACCOUNTING Advanced Accounting Workbook 9780980273038

BUSINESS
Notes R120.00 n/a Supplied by school
STUDIES
CAT Computers part of your life Gr 11 9780994703323 2nd Ed.

Focus Geography Gr 11 9780636103221

GEOGRAPHY
In Search of Mapwork 9780195984552 keep from Gr 10

In Search of History 11 9780199048847

HISTORY Use for Gr 11 & 12
In Search of History 12 9780199056903

Mind Action Life Science Gr 11 9781776113316 IEB Ed.

LIFE SCIENCE Self study/

Answer Series 3IN1 Life Science 11 IEB 9781920686543
Not compulsory

VISUAL ART Visual Art Gr 11 9781920540425 Compulsory

Page 38
 GRADE 12 TEXTBOOK LIST 2024

SUBJECT TITLE ISBN # NOTES

The Handmaid's Tale - Margaret Atwood 9781784873189

Othello - Shakespeare 9780620319478

Donker Web - Skooluitgawe 9780624093275

AFRIKAANS
Donker Web Workbook n/a Buy from teacher

Inhliziyo Eyophayo 9780796026378

Inhlansi 9780796030955
ISIZULU
IsiZulu Soqobo Ibanga Gr 12 9781920605544

Hlwanyela Uzovuna 9780796037251

MATHS MB Mathematics IEB/DBE 9781928462200 buy from teacher

MATHS LITERACY Via Afrika Mathematical Literacy Gr 12 9781415423431

Exam Aid Mathematics Literacy Gr 12 - 2024 9780987027870 Available Feb 2024

Ed

Doc Scientia Gr 11&12 Physics Book 1 9781928504559

PHYSICAL SCIENCE Doc Scientia Gr 11&12 Physics Book 2 9781928504146

(from Gr 11) Doc Scientia Gr 11&12 Chemistry Book 1 9781928504429

Doc Scientia Gr 11&12 Chemistry Book 2 9781928504436

ACCOUNTING Advanced Accounting Workbook 9780980273045

BUSINESS STUDIES Notes R120.00 n/a supplied by school

CAT Computers part of your life Gr 12 9780639904948

GEOGRAPHY Focus Geography Gr 12 9780636142244
HISTORY In Search of History 12 9780199056903

Mind Action Life Science Gr 12 IEB - 2017 Ed. 9781776113170

LIFE SCIENCES Answer Series 3in1 Life Science 12 IEB Bk 1 9781920686567

Compulsory
Answer Series 3in1 Life Science 12 IEB Bk 2 9781920686574

VISUAL ART n/a

Page 39
Page 40