Parenting in the Digital Age and the Balance Between Screen Time and Learning

In this episode, Jabu sits down with Ms. Sameerah Mohamed, Dean of Students at Nova Pioneer Ormonde Primary, to explore the challenges and opportunities of parenting in the digital age. They discuss the impact of electronic devices on children’s mental health and self-esteem, as well as the positive role technology

In this episode, Jabu sits down with Ms. Sameerah Mohamed, Dean of Students at Nova Pioneer Ormonde Primary, to explore the challenges and opportunities of parenting in the digital age. They discuss the impact of electronic devices on children’s mental health and self-esteem, as well as the positive role technology plays in learning. Sameerah shares insights into how Nova Pioneer integrates technology into the classroom and offers practical tips for parents on setting healthy boundaries while leveraging digital tools for education.

Tune in here 

📝 Want to become a Novaneer? ⁠⁠⁠Apply to Nova Pioneer⁠⁠⁠ now and remember to select “Novaneer Podcast” on the “How did you hear about us” section of the online application.

Alumni Summit conversation with Senator Eddy Oketch

This episode features an exclusive interview excerpt from the 2024 Alumni Summit, where Jabu engages in a candid conversation with Senator Eddy Oketch, Senator of Migori State and Founder of Ongoza. They discuss his upbringing, the inspiration behind founding Ongoza amid civil violence in Kenya, and respond to thought-provoking questions

This episode features an exclusive interview excerpt from the 2024 Alumni Summit, where Jabu engages in a candid conversation with Senator Eddy Oketch, Senator of Migori State and Founder of Ongoza. They discuss his upbringing, the inspiration behind founding Ongoza amid civil violence in Kenya, and respond to thought-provoking questions from Nova Pioneer alumni.

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📝 Want to become a Novaneer? ⁠⁠⁠Apply to Nova Pioneer⁠⁠⁠ now and remember to select “Novaneer Podcast” on the “How did you hear about us” section of the online application.

Nova Pioneer’s Unique Delivery of the Cambridge Curriculum

In this episode, the School Head of Nova Pioneer Ormonde Senior, Mr. Theuns Opperman, joins Jabu to reflect on his eight years at Nova Pioneer, the lessons learned about the Cambridge curriculum over the years, and Nova Pioneer’s unique approach to delivering it. As one of the key individuals involved

In this episode, the School Head of Nova Pioneer Ormonde Senior, Mr. Theuns Opperman, joins Jabu to reflect on his eight years at Nova Pioneer, the lessons learned about the Cambridge curriculum over the years, and Nova Pioneer’s unique approach to delivering it. As one of the key individuals involved in developing and currently implementing NP Flex, Mr. Opperman provides an in-depth explanation of its unique benefits for homeschooling students.

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Tune in here 

 

 

📝 Want to become a Novaneer? ⁠⁠⁠Apply to Nova Pioneer⁠⁠⁠ now and remember to select “Novaneer Podcast” on the “How did you hear about us” section of the online application.

Nova Pioneer Ormonde Students Celebrate Cambridge Examination Success 

Nova Pioneer Ormonde Students Celebrate Cambridge Examination Success    Students reflect on a year of dedication and achievement as they comple their Cambridge exams.  Nova Pioneer Schools, a pan-African independent school group, offering the internationally accredited Cambridge curriculum, builds and operates world-class, accessible schools, offering students grades from preschool through

Nova Pioneer Ormonde Students Celebrate Cambridge Examination Success 

 

Students reflect on a year of dedication and achievement as they comple their Cambridge exams. 

Nova Pioneer Schools, a pan-African independent school group, offering the internationally accredited Cambridge curriculum, builds and operates world-class, accessible schools, offering students grades from preschool through to senior school, with established campuses in South Africa and Kenya, celebrates noteworthy individual successes and a superb overall performance, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence and student growth. 

Nova Pioneer’s students have demonstrated resilience and commitment to excellence as they prepare for their future academic and career pursuits both locally and internationally. 

Student Spotlight 

Celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of Nova Pioneer students, collectively earning an impressive total of 43 “A” and “B” symbols across various subjects at AS and A-levels. Our students have set a high standard for their peers and have made Nova Pioneer incredibly proud. 

Sumia Mahmood, a top-performing AS Level student, is set to pursue a B.Sc in Chemistry with a Chemical Engineering option at the University of Witwatersrand. She exemplifies the outstanding caliber of students at Nova Pioneer. “Even with t stress and pressure of being a 5-subject warrior, I am delighted that my hard work, coupled with the support from my teachers, family, and closest friends, has paid off.” 

Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana, a top achiever exemplifying Nova Pioneer’s exceptional student caliber reflects “My journey at Nova Pioneer has been a rollercoaste

presenting challenges that have shaped my resilience”. Nkwanyana credits her success to her supportive circle and the school’s ethos. “I’m immensely grateful to my coach and friends for keeping me grounded, and to my teachers for expanding my mind and pushing my limits beyond what I once thought possible, revealing my potential.” 

Fellow AS Level student, Naseeha Majam, aspires to study Computer Science at the University of Witwatersrand. “The most valuable lesson from Nova Pioneer was independence,” she notes. “Hard work and consistency were vital to my success this year. I truly appreciate the support from my friends and family.” 

Nova Pioneer’s commitment to excellence is further reflected in t accomplishments of its IGCSE students. Students have surpassed expectations, achieving an impressive total of 27 A grades, 70 B’s, and 71 C’s. This success brought them a sense of relief and excitement, as they eagerly prepare to tackle the new year with confidence and determinatio 

“I was very anxious before seeing my results, but when I finally saw them, I w incredibly excited. I felt proud knowing that all the hard work had paid off, and I am grateful for the support I received from my teachers, family, and peers,” shares top IGCSE achiever Lindiwe Mashabane, who celebrates 3 A*’s and 3 A’s. 

“The journey was challenging, but once I realised that it was possible, I felt more at ease and motivated to keep pushing forward,” says Mashabane. 

Fellow top achiever, Sehar Mahmood shares, “The weeks leading up to my IGCSE results felt like an eternity! Each day was a mixture of nervous excitement and frantic last-minute revision. Honestly, there were some ups and downs along the way but I still paved through, thanks to my mom. Finally, the day arrived, and clicking open that email felt like a lifetime condensed into a single, heart-stopping moment.” 

“A big thanks to my mom, teachers and friends for their unwavering support,” ends Mahmood.

Theuns Opperman, the School Leader for Nova Pioneer Ormonde Senior, states, “Our students have once again achieved exceptional results, and we are immensely proud of each learner and their individual accomplishments! 

“As new data from Cambridge International becomes available in the coming weeks, we will compare our students’ performance with global standards. We are confide that our students will continue Nova Pioneer’s tradition of exceeding global benchmarks,” Opperman continues. 

“It is incredibly rewarding to witness our students’ successes and their vibrant enthusiasm for their future pursuits. Hearing their stories firsthand, it’s evident th Nova Pioneer has laid a robust foundation for their aspirations. These outcomes reflect not only the students’ persistent efforts and determination but also t unwavering support and encouragement from their educators,” said Opperman. 

“Innovation in education remains central to Nova Pioneer’s curriculum, equipping students with vital knowledge and key cultural principles for leadership and lifelong learning. As we celebrate these young achievers, Nova Pioneer continues to forge a path of academic and personal development, propelling our students towards becoming the leaders and innovators the world needs,” Opperman added. 

Cultivating a Foundation for Student Achievement 

Cambridge is a flexible curriculum that offers students a number of pathways f exit. At a senior school level, there are three main exit examinations: IGCSE which is Cambridge’s version of a General Academic Literacy band, followed by AS and then A-levels. A-Levels are a recommended 13th year at a high school level and provides students a world-recognised and very highly regarded exit qualification to widen t scope of their university studies both locally and internationally. Depending on how students perform in their IGCSE and AS levels, A-levels improves their exit results and gives students the opportunity to improve their options of getting into their preferred course.

Nova Pioneer works closely with each student and their families, often as early as Grade 8, to create an individual pathway. Families are consulted throughout their time at Nova Pioneer Ormonde to ensure clarity and understanding of the recommended exit pathway. 

As a school network, Nova Pioneer also does extensive predictive work and is happy to report that their AS and A-level students have yet again performed in line with or better than expected, whilst their students writing IGCSE outperformed all expectations. Many of their AS students have opted to stay with the school for A-levels to ensure an even more competitive set of results. 

Ready to Excel Beyond the Classroom 

As students at Nova Pioneer South Africa Schools conclude their A-Levels and embark on the next phase of their academic journey, they do so with a robust sense of purpose and confidence in their future aspirations. Rahel Wondwossen, Chi Operations Officer, attributes this assurance to the comprehensive support provid by our Post School Success (PSS) Team and the Psycho-Social Support Team. 

“We established the PSS Team with the objective of equipping our students with the practical tools and insights necessary for making informed choices about their future beyond school,” Wondwossen explains. “The team aids students in understanding their options, along with the advantages and challenges each pathway might present.” 

Working hand-in-hand with the Psycho-Social Support Team, the PSS Team offers personalized career guidance and assessments that align with each student’s strengths and ambitions. This holistic strategy reinforces Nova Pioneer’s commitment to fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership, ensuring that our students are thoroughly prepared to meet the demands of higher education and the professional world.

Rahel Wondwossen elaborates, “By focusing on each student’s unique strengths and interests, we cultivate a community of visionary leaders. Nurturing these talents is central to our mission of shaping Africa’s future, where there is a need for creative, adaptable leaders to spearhead change and innovation.” 

Beyond academic success, Nova Pioneer is dedicated to maintaining strong connections with its alumni, emphasising the importance of a supportive network for long-term success. Rahel Wondwossen notes, “The resilience and adaptability we instill in our students are qualities we hope will persist in their future endeavors, allowing them to become the leaders of tomorrow.” 

As Nova Pioneer celebrates its students’ achievements, the school’s steadfast commitment to inspiring and empowering them to forge a bright future for Africa remains unwavering. 

Introducing NP Flex

In this episode, Nova Pioneer Ormonde Dean of Academics, Mr. Basil Mackenzie, explains the context and reasoning behind Nova Pioneer’s new service offering, NP Flex.   Tune in here – – – – – – – – – –    Want to become a Novaneer? ⁠⁠⁠Apply to Nova Pioneer⁠⁠⁠ now and remember to

In this episode, Nova Pioneer Ormonde Dean of Academics, Mr. Basil Mackenzie, explains the context and reasoning behind Nova Pioneer’s new service offering, NP Flex.

 

Tune in here

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📝 Want to become a Novaneer? ⁠⁠⁠Apply to Nova Pioneer⁠⁠⁠ now and remember to select “Novaneer Podcast” on the “How did you hear about us” section of the online application.

Happy New School Year

In this episode, Jabu is joined by Nova Pioneer founding group member and current Ormonde Head of School, Ms. Happy Seshoka, for a wide-ranging conversation ahead of the 2025 school year.. Ms. Happy reflects on Nova Pioneer’s 10th anniversary, comparing their time as Head of Pastoral Care (2015–2017) to her

In this episode, Jabu is joined by Nova Pioneer founding group member and current Ormonde Head of School, Ms. Happy Seshoka, for a wide-ranging conversation ahead of the 2025 school year.. Ms. Happy reflects on Nova Pioneer’s 10th anniversary, comparing their time as Head of Pastoral Care (2015–2017) to her current role as Head of School (2022–onwards), and her leadership and professiona development approach at NPO Primary, challenges and rewards of being a principal. Ms. Happy also offers a word of encouragement and advice to Novaneers preparing for an exciting new year.

Tune in here 

 

📝 Want to become a Novaneer? ⁠⁠⁠Apply to Nova Pioneer⁠⁠⁠ now and remember to select “Novaneer Podcast” on the “How did you hear about us” section of the online application.

Navigating University with Purpose

In this episode, Jabu is joined by University of Pretoria Investment Management graduate, Menzi Nkambule, to reflect on his university experience. The Nova Pioneer Class of 2019 alumnus discusses his motivations for enrolling at a university, how to maximise opportunities through networking and extracurricular activities and the value of completing

In this episode, Jabu is joined by University of Pretoria Investment Management graduate, Menzi Nkambule, to reflect on his university experience. The Nova Pioneer Class of 2019 alumnus discusses his motivations for enrolling at a university, how to maximise opportunities through networking and extracurricular activities and the value of completing the Cambridge curriculum in a tertiary education context. Menzi also shares skills gained from his degree, his future aspirations, and advice for Novaneers exploring their next step.

 

Tune in here

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📝 Want to become a Novaneer? ⁠⁠⁠Apply to Nova Pioneer⁠⁠⁠ now and remember to select “Novaneer Podcast” on the “How did you hear about us” section of the online application.

Referring families to the NP Flex: Holistic Hybrid Programme

As part of our commitment to fostering a community of shared values, our Parent Referral Programme has been extended to include NP Flex! Every current Nova Pioneer and NP Flex: Holistic Hybrid parent who successfully refers a student to the NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid Programme will receive a discount

As part of our commitment to fostering a community of shared values, our Parent Referral Programme has been extended to include NP Flex! Every current Nova Pioneer and NP Flex: Holistic Hybrid parent who successfully refers a student to the NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid Programme will receive a discount on their fees.  

Are you a current Nova Pioneer parent?

As an existing Nova Pioneer parent, you could qualify for a referral discount (a once-off R1,500 off your tuition) when you refer a parent to the NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid Programme and they successfully enrol their child.

What does “Successful Enrolment” look like: 

Step 1: Current Nova Pioneer family/ parent talks to a friend and tells them about NP Flex.

Step 2: The prospective parent completes the NP Flex sign up form and in the ‘how did you hear about us’ section, they select ‘referred by a Nova Pioneer parent’ and write the full name of the parent who referred them. We can only identify the family that referred you if they give us your first and last name.

Step 3: The prospective parent and student engages with our team and complete the necessary steps for NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid Programme. 

Step 4: The referral is then flagged to our Finance Team, who will pick up the name from the original sign up, and ensure your account reflects the referral discount once the student has started.

Which parents are eligible for the R1,500 discount? 

  • When the parent signs up for NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid via our website, they must state that they were referred to by you (name and surname) when they complete the ‘how did you hear about us’ section.  
  • The referred parent needs to successfully enrol in the NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid Programme.
  • Referred students cannot have a sibling currently or previously enrolled in either of the NP Flex programmes. 
  • The referral discount does not apply to students moving between Nova Pioneer and NP Flex.
  • The referral discount is awarded to the youngest child – if you have only one child at Nova Pioneer, that child will receive the discount. 
  • You will be entitled to a R1,500 discount per referral. 
  • If you are not yet an enrolled parent, you ONLY qualify for this discount once you have confirmation of enrolment.
  • The discount is non-transferable and cannot be substituted for cash or a refund.
  • The referral discount will not be applied should the student account be in arrears at the point in time that the discount is allocated.
  • This discount is awarded per enrolled student that is referred, up to five students (or a maximum tuition discount of R7,500).
  • Nova Pioneer / NP Flex staff do not qualify.
  • Terms and conditions apply.

 

Are you a current NP Flex: Holistic Hybrid parent? 

As an existing NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid parent, you could qualify for a referral discount (a once-off R750 off your next semester’s fees) when you refer a parent to the NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid Programme and they successfully enrol their child.

What does “Successful Enrolment” look like: 

Step 1: Current NP Flex family/ parent talks to a friend and tells them more about NP Flex programming and benefits.

Step 2: The prospective parent completes the NP Flex sign up form and in the ‘how did you hear about us’ section, they select ‘referred by a NP Flex parent’ and write the full name of the parent who referred them. We can only identify the family that referred you if they give us your first and last name.

Step 3: The prospective parent and student engages with our team and complete the necessary steps for NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid Programme. 

Step 4: The referral is then flagged to our Finance Team, who will pick up the name from the original sign up, and ensure your account reflects the referral discount once the student has started.

Which parents are eligible for the R750 discount? 

  • When the parent signs up for NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid via our website, they must state that they were referred to by you (name and surname) when they complete the ‘how did you hear about us’ section.  
  • The referred parent needs to successfully enrol in the NP Flex 2: Holistic Hybrid Programme.
  • Referred students cannot have a sibling currently or previously enrolled in either of the NP Flex programmes. 
  • The referral discount does not apply to students moving between Nova Pioneer and NP Flex.
  • The referral discount is awarded to the youngest child – if you have only one child at Nova Pioneer, that child will receive the discount. 
  • You will be entitled to a R750 discount per referral. 
  • If you are not yet enrolled in the NP Flex 2 Programme, you ONLY qualify for this discount once you have confirmation of enrolment.
  • The discount is non-transferable and cannot be substituted for cash or a refund.
  • The referral discount will not be applied should the student’s account, for any reason, be in arrears at the point in time that the discount is allocated.
  • This discount is awarded per enrolled student that is referred, up to five students (or a maximum tuition discount of R3,750).
  • Nova Pioneer / NP Flex staff do not qualify.
  • Terms and conditions apply.

 

Welcome to the next chapter of learning at Nova Pioneer. For more information click here

Celebrating Excellence: Nova Pioneer Ormonde Valedictory Ceremony 2024

At Nova Pioneer, the Valedictory Ceremony is more than just a farewell; it’s a celebration of the exceptional achievements and transformative journeys of our senior students. This year’s event was no exception, shining a spotlight on our outstanding learners and the core values they embody. One of the most anticipated

At Nova Pioneer, the Valedictory Ceremony is more than just a farewell; it’s a celebration of the exceptional achievements and transformative journeys of our senior students. This year’s event was no exception, shining a spotlight on our outstanding learners and the core values they embody.

One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was the announcement of the Culture Principle Awards, honouring students who have consistently demonstrated Nova Pioneer’s foundational values throughout their five-year journey. These awards, decided through a weighted voting process involving Grade 11 and 12 students and long-serving teachers, highlight the essence of what it means to be a Novaneer.

 

Culture Principle Awards

 

Joy of Learning: Kalem Joffe
Kalem’s unwavering curiosity and love for discovery earned him this award, reflecting his enthusiasm for continuous learning.

Solutions First: Princess Ndlela
For her creative approach to problem-solving, Princess exemplified innovation and resilience.

Servant Leadership: Nhlakanipho Magazi
Nhlakanipho was recognized for his humility and commitment to community-focused leadership.

Greater Together: Bhavesh Thulsie
Bhavesh’s exceptional teamwork and collaborative spirit shone through, inspiring those around him.

High Expectations: Sumia Mahmood
Sumia’s relentless pursuit of excellence made her a standout candidate for this award.

Always Growing: Precious Ndlela
Precious demonstrated a remarkable dedication to both personal and academic growth.

 

Grade 12-Specific Awards

The evening also celebrated individual achievements unique to the graduating class:

🏆 Pushing Boundaries Award: Obumneme Junior Okafor
This award recognised Junior’s extraordinary resilience, determination, and growth.

🏆 Phokophela Trendsetter Award: Owami Dladla
Owami’s leadership as Deputy in the SLC and her dedication to political and social causes highlighted her passion for driving Africa forward.

🏆 Chinezi Chijioke Founder’s Award: Nhlakanipho Magazi
A true embodiment of all Nova Pioneer culture principles, Nhlakanipho’s impact on the school community was profound.

🏆 Leadership and Innovation Award: Sumia Mahmood
Sumia’s peer tutoring for IGCSE students significantly enhanced academic support and exemplified her transformative leadership.

🏆 Principal’s Award: Bhavesh Thulsie
Bhavesh’s maturity, self-reflection, and commitment to growth earned him this distinguished recognition.

 

A Day to Remember

The Valedictory Ceremony was a heartwarming event, filled with gratitude, celebration, and pride. It served as a powerful reminder of the values that define Nova Pioneer and the extraordinary potential of our students.

As we bid farewell to the Class of 2024, we celebrate their achievements and look forward to the impact they will make in shaping the African Century. Congratulations, graduates—your journey is just beginning! 

Unleashing Creativity: Grade 1-7 SACEE Art Competition

At Nova Pioneer Ormonde Primary, fostering creativity and self-expression is at the heart of our educational approach. Recently, our campus had the pleasure of participating in the SACEE Art Competition, an exciting event for Grades 1-7, where young Novaneers were invited to showcase their unique artistic talents. Organized by Mondeor

At Nova Pioneer Ormonde Primary, fostering creativity and self-expression is at the heart of our educational approach. Recently, our campus had the pleasure of participating in the SACEE Art Competition, an exciting event for Grades 1-7, where young Novaneers were invited to showcase their unique artistic talents. Organized by Mondeor Primary School, this competition was a platform for students to display their imagination, critical thinking, and creative flair.

The SACEE Art Competition was a thrilling opportunity for our students to put their skills to the test. Under the supervision of dedicated teachers, learners from each grade worked independently, demonstrating impressive focus and commitment. With great enthusiasm and creativity, all grades completed their artwork on time, and the top eight pieces from our school were selected to proceed to the finals. These outstanding pieces joined others from participating schools, creating a vibrant exhibition held at The Glen Mall from Tuesday, October 29th, to Monday, November 4th.

The gallery of artworks was a feast for the eyes, with pieces ranging from colourful paintings to intricate drawings. Each piece offered a unique glimpse into the young artists’ creativity and skill, making the judging process both challenging and rewarding. 

Our talented students who made it through to the exhibition were invited, along with their families, to an awards ceremony on November 1st at The Glen Mall. The turnout was fantastic, with students and their loved ones coming together to celebrate this memorable event and recognize the efforts of all the participants.

Celebrating the Winners

We are incredibly proud of our students whose creativity shone brightly in this competition. A heartfelt congratulations goes to our winners:

– Grade 2: Nuha Moolla – Silver Runner-up, Kayden Lee Dunn – Silver Runner-up, Tshimologo Lebuse – Gold

– Grade 4: Adam Lawrence – Silver Runner-up, Chantel Mhlongo – Silver Runner-up, Kamogelo Dikobe – Gold

– Grade 5: Priyal Bhowandas – Gold

– Grade 7: Matthew Naidoo – Gold

Their artwork displayed remarkable talent and imagination, earning them a well-deserved place in this esteemed exhibition.

Here’s what some of the young artists had to say about their experience:

– Nuha Moolla shared her excitement, saying, “On Thursday night, I was so excited. When Friday came, I wanted the day to speed up a bit. At half past 4, I got to the car and we left. My aunt, cousin, and grandmother came as well. By the time we got to the venue, there was a crowd of people already. I waited for announcements to start. When they called out my name, I was excited. I read the certificate as fast as I could. I got a silver award, which means runner-up.”

– Priyal Bhowandas reflected, “My experience at The Glen Mall was amazing. I got nervous when I got there, searching for my art piece. My family was proud and took pictures everywhere. I enjoyed it; in other words, it went well.”

The SACEE Art Competition was a true celebration of artistic talent, encouraging our students to embrace their creativity and share it with the community. We are incredibly proud of each participant and deeply grateful for the support from our teachers and parents. Events like these underscore Nova Pioneer Ormonde’s commitment to nurturing the whole child, inspiring future artists, and cultivating creativity in every learner.