Cape Academy School Band: Hitting All the Right Notes
Cape Academy School Band: Hitting All the Right Notes https://youtu.be/zn6WHl6q6_E The rhythmic heart of the Cape Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology beats strong through its school band—a talented ensemble made up of Grade 10 to 12 learners. Coordinated by the dedicated Mr. Jacobs, the band brings energy, creativity, and spirit to the school, performing at key events and assemblies. One such performance was recently captured during a vibrant school assembly. The band, showcasing a diverse range of instruments and musical styles, captivated students and staff alike. Their passion for music and their synergy as a group reflect the culture of excellence and dedication that the Academy strives to promote across all spheres—academic and extracurricular. Mr. Jacobs, the driving force behind the group, not only arranges performances but also mentors learners, encouraging them to explore their musical potential. His leadership has transformed the band into a cherished part of the school community, giving learners a platform to express themselves and build confidence. Beyond entertainment, the school band plays a vital role in building camaraderie and teamwork among its members. Music becomes a unifying language, helping learners from diverse backgrounds connect, collaborate, and create something meaningful together. Whether it’s a lively assembly or a formal school event, the Cape Academy school band never fails to impress. They are a living example of how talent, practice, and passion can harmonize to produce something truly memorable.
Cape Academy Learners Embrace Global Dialogue Through the Global Classroom Partnership
Cape Academy Learners Embrace Global Dialogue Through the Global Classroom Partnership Czech Republic 2008 Germany 2007 Japan 2006 The Cape Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology has been a proud member of the Global Classroom Partnership (GCP) since 2005—an international initiative uniting students and educators from across the globe to foster mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and collaborative learning. This groundbreaking program, operational in South Africa since 1996, connects schools from seven countries spanning four continents, including Germany, Japan, the Czech Republic, Sweden, the USA, and the Shetland Islands. Each year, the Global Classroom Partnership brings together ten to twelve senior students from participating schools to prepare for and attend an international conference hosted on a rotational basis. These students engage in dialogue, exchange ideas through the dedicated Global Classroom website, and work on projects aligned with a shared theme. The highlight of the program is the annual conference, where students meet in person, stay with host families, and participate in cultural excursions and collaborative presentations. The Cape Academy’s involvement began in 2005, when it co-hosted the Cape Town conference alongside South Peninsula High School. Themed “Sharing Pasts and Shaping Futures,” the event launched the Academy’s enduring commitment to the GCP’s mission of breaking down racial and cultural barriers through meaningful conversation and cooperation. Since then, students from the Academy have proudly represented South Africa at international conferences in: 2006 – Nara, Japan | Theme: “Peace” 2007 – Diepholtz, Germany | Theme: “Responsibility” 2008 – Zlín, Czech Republic | Theme: “Culture” These annual gatherings provide a platform not only for academic enrichment, but also for deep personal growth, as students engage in global issues from diverse perspectives. Living with host families and participating in cultural exchanges allow them to appreciate global diversity while forging lifelong friendships. With continued participation in this global initiative, the Cape Academy remains dedicated to preparing its learners for the interconnected world of tomorrow—one where communication, empathy, and collaboration are the cornerstones of success.
Cape Academy Shines at Eskom Expo for Young Scientists
Cape Academy Shines at Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Joshua Fodor & Yaghia Mitchell – Gr 10 (GOLD) Energy – Township Geyser Sixolisiwe Dlabantu & Jenaide Peters – Gr11 (SILVER) Environmental Science – Water Hyacinth The year 2009 was a landmark one for the Cape Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology, as its students delivered an extraordinary performance at the prestigious Eskom Expo for Young Scientists. From regional to national level, their scientific curiosity, innovative thinking, and months of hard work paid off handsomely. At the Cape Town regional leg, held at the MTN Science Centre, 23 learners showcased 16 thought-provoking projects. The results were nothing short of outstanding: five projects won gold medals, one earned a silver, and two took home bronze. Among the standout entries were “Gardening with Rubble” by Hanim Schroeder and Tanduxolo Nguza, “Global Cooling with SO₂” by Chad Levendal and Chevaan Patience, and “Township Geyser” by Joshua Fodor and Yaghia Mitchell – each receiving regional gold and advancing to the national stage in Pretoria. The national finals were highly competitive, with only 50 gold medals up for grabs across all provinces. Yet, Cape Academy students held their own, earning major accolades. Joshua and Yaghia’s innovative “Township Geyser” not only clinched a gold medal but also won them each a notebook laptop, along with the Best Innovation Award and the Best Energy Saving Device Award. Jenaide Peters and Sixolisiwe Dlabantu’s project on “Water Hyacinth” won silver, while teams behind “Global Cooling with SO₂” and “Gardening with Rubble” secured bronze. This marked the first time the Cape Academy participated at a national level in the Expo – and their success made a lasting impression. Their collective effort reflects a culture of excellence, where late nights and detailed experimentation translated into national recognition. With projects addressing environmental sustainability, energy innovation, and agricultural solutions, these young scientists proved that the next generation of South African innovators is more than ready to rise to the challenge. As the school looks forward to surpassing this success in 2010, the 2009 Expo remains a milestone of academic pride and potential.
South African Students Reach for the Stars with ExoLab Experiments
South African Students Reach for the Stars with ExoLab Experiments https://youtu.be/1tq9OnycW74?si=EDr5ijb-E-JWr766 In an inspiring fusion of education and space exploration, South African learners have been actively participating in the ExoLab program, conducting plant growth experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This collaboration offers students a unique opportunity to engage directly with cutting-edge scientific research in microgravity environments.magnitude.io+1i-can-innovate.com+1 The ExoLab initiative, spearheaded by Magnitude.io, enables students worldwide to cultivate plants in classroom-based growth chambers that mirror those on the ISS. This parallel experimentation allows learners to compare terrestrial plant growth with that in space, fostering a deeper understanding of biology, ecology, and the challenges of sustaining life beyond Earth. ISS National Lab South African schools, including the Cape Academy of Maths, Science and Technology, have embraced this program wholeheartedly. Through partnerships facilitated by organizations like I-Innovate and the Sakhikamva Foundation, students have gained firsthand experience in scientific inquiry and international collaboration. Trisha Crookes, CEO of I-Innovate, emphasized the significance of such initiatives, stating, “The cutting-edge ExoLab programme gives South African teachers and students first-hand, real-time access to global scientists, engineers, and experiments aboard the International Space Station.” magnitude.io+2Good Things Guy+2i-can-innovate.com+2i-can-innovate.com+1magnitude.io+1 These educational endeavors have not only enriched the students’ academic journeys but have also ignited a passion for science and technology. By connecting with global scientists and participating in real-time space experiments, South African learners are positioning themselves at the forefront of the next generation of innovators and explorers. https://youtu.be/VxgdXARtv34
Michelle Obama’s Inspiring Visit: A Message of Hope for the Youth of Cape Town
Michelle Obama’s Inspiring Visit: A Message of Hope for the Youth of Cape Town Cape Times – 24 June 2011 Michelle Jones, Education Writer In a memorable and heartfelt visit to the University of Cape Town (UCT), former US First Lady Michelle Obama delivered a powerful message to 50 high school learners, including pupils from the Cape Academy of Maths, Science and Technology. Her message was clear and empowering: your background should never define your future. The group of learners—selected from schools in historically disadvantaged communities across Cape Town—spent a day at UCT as part of a special programme initiated by Obama. Schools invited included the Cape Academy in Constantia, Leap Science and Maths School, Oude Molen Academy of Science and Technology, Spine Road Secondary, and Sophumelela Secondary. The day was not only a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but a moment of motivation that left many learners with a renewed sense of purpose. During her address, Obama shared her own personal story of overcoming adversity and succeeding despite the odds. She reflected on her journey from a modest background to becoming a graduate of Princeton University, reminding the learners that belief in oneself and hard work are the true keys to success. “There’s no magic dust,” she said. “It’s about first believing in yourself.” Among those deeply inspired by her words was Cape Academy learner Nobuntu Fana, then in Grade 12. She shared how Obama’s encouragement reaffirmed her dream of studying at UCT. “It was motivating. I learnt a lot,” she said. Nobuntu had already applied to study at UCT and could now see that goal within reach. Michelle Obama’s visit, filled with authenticity, warmth, and encouragement, left a lasting impact on all who were present. She reminded South African youth—many from underserved communities—that they are worthy of greatness. Her words continue to echo through the halls of the Cape Academy and beyond: Success is about working hard and believing you can do it.
The Story of the “Red Tie Guy”: A Legacy of Promise and Inspiration
The Story of the “Red Tie Guy”: A Legacy of Promise and Inspiration https://youtu.be/GXMy7S-azYA?si=6QmjOy4_z1KHQ3Om In 2013, as then-President Barack Obama addressed a captivated audience during his visit to Cape Town, a young man standing behind him stole the spotlight—not with words, but with his presence. Clad in a striking red tie and wearing an enthusiastic smile, Mikhail Hendricks, a matric learner at the Cape Academy of Maths, Science and Technology, became a viral sensation overnight. The world quickly dubbed him the “Red Tie Guy,” and his image was shared across media platforms worldwide. Mikhail’s brief moment in the global spotlight was more than a photogenic coincidence—it reflected the promise of South Africa’s youth. His confident demeanor and pride in representing his school and country resonated with many, becoming a symbol of ambition and hope. Interviews followed, and Mikhail spoke about his admiration for President Obama and his dreams of creating a positive impact in his community and beyond. His story inspired countless others to pursue their own aspirations with similar courage and authenticity. Behind the smile and red tie was a bright, determined student known for his leadership, kindness, and ability to uplift those around him. At the Cape Academy, he was more than a viral moment—he was a role model. His educators and peers remember him as someone with great potential, deeply committed to his studies and passionate about his future. Mikhail’s presence left a mark far beyond the day of Obama’s speech. Tragically, just a few years later, in 2017, Mikhail’s life was cut short in a suspected suicide. The news shocked and saddened his community and the many who had come to admire him. His passing served as a somber reminder of the often-unseen challenges faced by young people and sparked important conversations around mental health and support systems for students. Today, Mikhail Hendricks is remembered not only as the “Red Tie Guy” but as a symbol of hope, brilliance, and unfulfilled potential. His story lives on through those he inspired, and his memory continues to encourage young South Africans to stand tall, dream big, and never underestimate the power of a single moment.
Teen Flying High After Getting Pilot’s Licence
Teen Flying High After Getting Pilot’s License Cape Times – 21 September 2016, 11:36 PM By Raphael Wolf At just 19 years old, Cape Town’s Ijaaz Sayed is already flying high—literally. The former learner of the Cape Academy of Maths, Science and Technology has successfully obtained his Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL), becoming the first among his group of bursary recipients to do so. Supported by the Transport Education Training Authority (TETA), Ijaaz received funding for his PPL while juggling two part-time jobs to assist his parents. Now, he’s heading to Wonderboom Airport in Pretoria to begin his 18-month Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) training. His goal? To serve humanity by flying relief missions into disaster zones. Cape Academy’s aviation course—run in conjunction with the Cape Town Flying Club—is the only programme of its kind in a South African state school. Led by educator Yusuf Sadar, it has opened the cockpit door for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds, making dreams of becoming pilots a reality. The course, which began for Ijaaz in Grade 10, currently includes 16 learners. Five others—Austen Beukes, Zayyaan Williams, Brad Coutts, Saarah Abrahams, and Zaitoonisa Khan—also received R100,000 bursaries to pursue their PPLs. The school community is overjoyed by Ijaaz’s achievement, with his success joining that of past learners like Ricardo Prinsloo and Ronald Davis, who completed their licences independently in 2013 and 2014. Cape Academy continues to prove that with the right support and determination, the sky is not the limit—it’s only the beginning.