Curro Hermanus learners shine at the MidMathSchool National Conference
16 April 2025Three remarkable learners from Curro Hermanus – Maya Mbhokota, Kaylin Schroeder, and Calem De Kock – had the extraordinary opportunity to represent South Africa at the MidMathSchool National Conference in Santa Fe, New Mexico, recently. This invitation followed their selection for the MidSchoolMath Big Ideas International Film Series, a prestigious programme that allowed them to showcase their innovative projects to an international audience.
From Curro Hermanus to Santa Fe
Their journey began in June 2024 when Maya, Kaylin, and Calem, all Grade 7 learners at the time, were selected from the top 10 math students to participate in the MidSchoolMath Big Ideas International Film Series. Their work, which included on-campus filming at Curro Hermanus as well as off-campus activities at Stoney Point Nature Reserve, Boulders Beach, and the SANCOB Seabird Rehabilitation Centre, caught the attention of the organisers and set the stage for their incredible journey.
In December 2024, the American film crew returned for more filming, focusing on a project related to load shedding. The learners interviewed Eskom managers, visited Kraaifontein Wastewater Treatment Plant and Ukhanyo Primary School, and experienced a luxury safari trip to the Madikwe Game Reserve. The project was an immersive learning experience for them, expanding their knowledge beyond the classroom.
A standout performance at the National Conference
From 1 to 10 March 2025, Maya, Kaylin, and Calem were flown to Santa Fe, New Mexico, to open the MidMathSchool National Conference. This all-expenses-paid trip was apparently a life-changing experience, giving the learners the chance to showcase the projects they had been working on to an audience of around 630 teachers from across the United States.
Their presentations, which included videos and math cards, were received with immense excitement and positive interest, making both the learners and their mentors incredibly proud. The MidSchoolMath curriculum, which focuses on a unique and engaging approach to teaching, will eventually see their work presented to approximately 50,000 to 60,000 students across the US.
A proud moment for Curro Hermanus
Says school marketer, Tinka Venter, ‘What an incredible opportunity that these three learners grabbed with both hands and excelled, taking Curro Hermanus’s name all the way to New Mexico!’