Dear BOOKSELLER
As schools settle into the rhythm of Term 3 and we slowly but surely begin to feel the last few weeks of winter, we’re reminded of how quickly the year is moving. With July now over, we’re excited to bring you another packed issue of MacNews — filled with updates, inspiration, and a few surprises!
We’ve had the pleasure of connecting with many of you at our recent Bookseller Events in the Western Cape and Gauteng. These gatherings were a true reflection of this year’s theme, “Forecasting the Future: A Climate of Collaboration”. Thank you for showing up, sharing your insights, and helping us shape the future together (see page 4).
One of the most exciting developments this month is the launch of our much-anticipated Bookseller Hub — a central, streamlined space designed just for you. Whether you’re looking for cover images, price lists, catalogues, or out-of-print titles, the Hub puts everything you need at your fingertips (see page 13).
To celebrate this launch, we’ll be running a fun competition — stay tuned for details on how you can win by exploring the Hub and sharing your feedback. It’s our way of saying thank you for being part of this journey.
In this issue, we also shine a spotlight on our exciting new product range: Learning Mates — a fresh, engaging resource designed to support learners in a variety of subjects (see page 10).
You’ll also find updates on new TVET titles (see page 16), and of course, our ever-popular Top Ten Titles feature remains a firm favourite (see page 7).
As always, thank you for your continued partnership. Your support and collaboration continue to inspire us as we work together to impact education.
Until next time, Warm regards, The Macmillan Team
TODAY! MACMILLAN EDUCATION
The six pillars of our transformation journey
Macmillan Education South Africa strives to build a transformed, inclusive and diverse organisation.
Investing in our most valued asset
Our teams represent diverse backgrounds and cultures, and our profile reflects transformation. We recruit and draw from local talent. We invest in the development of our staff’s education and skills and through our Khula Nathi staff share in ownership.
Relevant and engaging local content
Our content is available in print and digital format and is relevant to our South African context. It supports inclusivity. Our stable boasts more than 2 000 books published in all African languages.
Bridging the skills divide
Providing and empowering 100 learners each year since 2019 through learnership programmes by partnering with an accredited and reputable training college, and funding higher education bursaries for aspiring ECD practitioners since 2018. We are also a proud YES corporate partner since 2019.
Towards a greener future: advancing sustainability in our operations
In our quest for a greener, cleaner Earth, we are dedicated to reducing energy consumption, eliminating plastic usage, and conserving natural resources across our offices and warehouses. Our mission extends beyond mere action; we aim to inspire and educate our staff to become catalysts for change.
Central to our efforts is a strategic shift towards eco-friendly consumables and equipment designed to minimise carbon emissions and curb plastic dependency. We are making collective strides towards meaningful climate action by forging partnerships with small businesses that offer innovative climate-friendly solutions aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Together, we are embarking on a transformative journey towards sustainability that will benefit our business and contribute positively to the global environmental agenda.
Supporting local education
We positively impact teachers’ digital fluency though our Macmillan eLearning Development Schools (MeLDS) programme.
We support several educational initiatives through donations and sponsorships. Over the past 15 years, more than 160 000 teachers benefitted from our Professional Development offering. We conducted free training programmes in support of the Department of Basic Education’s objectives and initiatives.
Supporting local enterprise
We offer supplier grants to fund the development of digital projects and appointments. 100% of our Macmillan South African books are printed locally. We support small companies.
FORECASTING THE FUTURE: A Climate of Collaboration Western Cape and Gauteng Events
Dear Bookseller,
As we continue to build meaningful connections, we’re excited to share highlights from our recent Bookseller Events held in the Western Cape and Gauteng. These gatherings were more than just calendar dates — they were vibrant spaces of collaboration, learning, and shared purpose.
Western Cape: A Day of Discovery at Southpoint Studios
Our Western Cape event, hosted at Southpoint Studios, brought together a dynamic mix of booksellers and Macmillan team members. The day was filled with engaging presentations, interactive discussions, and a showcase of our latest educational resources — including the exciting new Learning Mates series, FET Maths and Science posters, and the Little Learner Launchpad School Readiness Parent Guide.
These in-person engagements are incredibly important to us at Macmillan. Being in the same space with our booksellers allows us to listen, learn, and grow together. From our Customer Services team, who ensured smooth coordination, to our Sales team, who provided curriculum updates on the current submission, every department played a vital role. The Marketing team shared the many ways we continue to support our booksellers, while the TVET College team introduced new titles.
Our Agency team brought exciting updates on products like Learning Mates, and the MTC team highlighted new resources including the School Readiness Parent Guide and FET Maths and Science posters. These collaborative efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to growing alongside our booksellers.
One of the standout moments? The Mercer tablet giveaway, where Sharlene Carew from Cleansafe Books Supplier walked away as the lucky winner after a spin on the “Wheel of Names”!
FORECASTING THE FUTURE: A Climate of Collaboration
Gauteng: Building Momentum at Kyalami Country Club
Just days later, we continued the celebration in Gauteng at the beautiful Kyalami Country Club. The event echoed the same spirit of partnership and progress, with enthusiastic participation from our booksellers. From insightful sessions to meaningful networking, the Gauteng function reinforced our shared commitment to supporting learners and educators. And yes — there was another Mercer tablet giveaway! Congratulations to our Gauteng winner, Estelle Du Plessis from Afro School Suppliers, who walked away with a brand-new device to mark the occasion.
Looking Ahead: KZN, We’re Coming Your Way!
As we reflect on these successful events, we’re already looking forward to our next stop: KwaZulu-Natal. We can’t wait to welcome our KZN booksellers on 13 August at the Premier Hotel Umhlanga. It promises to be another memorable day of learning, connection and celebration. Until then, thank you for being part of this journey. Your partnership continues to inspire us as we work together to impact education.
Warm regards, The Macmillan Team
TeamSpotlight NEW FACE & FRESH CHAPTERS
Jayshil Bhula – New Role & Promotion as TVET National Sales Manager
We’re excited to announce that Jayshil Bhula has stepped into the role of TVET National Sales Manager within the TVET Sales & Marketing Department. Since joining Macmillan in 2018 as a TVET Sales Representative, and later being promoted to Senior Sales Representative in 2023, Jayshil has played a key role in expanding the TVET First brand and introducing newly approved titles to colleges nationwide. We look forward to seeing him thrive in this new chapter of his journey with Macmillan.
Bruce Mpofu – Appointed as Agency & Digital Sales Consultant
We’re thrilled to welcome Bruce Mpofu to the team as our new Agency & Digital Sales Consultant. Bruce brings extensive experience from the education sector, having previously served as a Digital Brand Ambassador and Sales Representative at a Higher Education institution. His ability to build brand awareness, connect with clients, and deliver impactful results will bring fresh energy and insight to our team. We’re excited about the contributions Bruce will make in this dynamic role.
Zubair Cassim – Appointed Head of Customer Services
We’re pleased to share that Zubair Cassim has joined Macmillan as Head of Customer Services. With nearly 20 years of experience at a leading insurance company, Zubair has successfully led both sales and customer service teams. He is passionate about delivering exceptional customer care and believes in achieving excellence through dedication, perseverance and innovation. Zubair is eager to explore how technology can enhance our customer experience. Please join us in giving him a warm welcome to the Macmillan family.
Abbreviations USED IN EDUCATION
You asked what the abbreviations stood for and here they are. A more comprehensive list is also available on the bookseller’s hub.
SCHOOL PHASES
ECD Early Childhood Development
FP Foundation Phase (Grades R–3)
IP Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6)
SP Senior Phase (Grades 7–9)
FET Further Education and Training (Grades 10–12)
TVET Technical and Vocational Education and Training
CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT
CAPS Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement
NSC National Senior Certificate
FAL First Additional Language
HL Home Language
IEB Independent Examinations Board
NCV National Certificate (Vocational)
ABET Adult Basic Education and Training
SCHOOL TERMINOLOGY
LTSM Learning and Teaching Support Material
SMT School Management Team
SGB School Governing Body
LOLT Language of Learning and Teaching
FAL First Additional Language
HL Home Language
GOVERNMENT AND REGULATORY BODIES
DBE Department of Basic Education
DHET Department of Higher Education and Training
SACE South African Council for Educators
Umalusi Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training
QCTO Quality Council for Trades and Occupations
SAQA South African Qualifications Authority
Follow this link to access the Macmillan
Early learning, reading and writing tools and writing tools
Introducing Learning Mates, a proudly South African range of beautifully illustrated tools that make early reading and writing a joyful journey.
Developed in collaboration with local teachers and educational therapists, Learning Mates helps young learners build strong foundations in letter sounds and handwriting, all through fun, relatable and effective activities.
Designed for Grades R to 3 learners, the range supports both home language and first additional language learning. Each product features familiar South African artwork, characters and vocabulary that make learning feel personal and engaging.
Whether you’re a parent or teacher, Learning Mates is your trusted partner in raising confident young readers and writers.
Why choose Learning Mates
Learning Mates offers a complete toolkit for building strong early literacy and writing foundations. Each component is thoughtfully designed to make learning fun, memorable and effective. Learning Mates is also available
Make learning come to life with FET Maths and Physical Sciences Posters!
Inspire Curiosity
Our vibrant, curriculum-aligned posters are the perfect tool for engaging young minds, simplifying complex concepts and creating a classroom environment that inspires curiosity. They captivate the learners’ attention and enhance their understanding of physical sciences and mathematics.
Macmillan Bookseller Hub
Your One-Stop Resource Centre
We’re excited to unveil the all-new Bookseller Hub — a central, streamlined space designed with you in mind. This muchanticipated platform brings together everything you need to support your work as a bookseller, all in one easy-to-navigate location.
Whether you’re looking for:
• Cover images for your marketing and displays,
• Current price lists,
• Out-of-print titles,
• Catalogues, or
• Searchable access to essential resources — the Bookseller Hub has it all, available when you need it, where you need it.
This is more than just a tool — it’s a reflection of our ongoing commitment to making your experience with Macmillan Education
Stand a chance to win a Takealot voucher worth R500!
To enter, simply follow the link below to log in to the Macmillan Bookseller Hub and share your feedback on your experience. Competition ends 30 August 2025. T&Cs apply.
Educational EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS
Delport (Michelle.Delport@westerncape.gov.za) 5 Aug Tshwane South Grade R Speech Festival
Michelle Clarke (064 930 4413)
7–9 Aug Proudly Primary Conference
St Charles College, Pietermaritzburg
Wendy Symington (wendy@cathybraanspr.co.za)
13 Aug GP JHB Central EMS Awards (district level)
Francinah Raseroka (Francinah.Raseroka@gauteng.gov.za)
University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
Ms Tinte (051 404 8426)
14–16 Aug SAPA Capricorn Schools Support
Mr MR Ramulumo (ramulumomr@gmail.com)
15 Aug Western Cape Provincial National Teaching Awards
Gavin de Bruyn (Gavin.debruyn@westerncape.gov.za)
21 Aug Eastern Cape Provincial National Teaching Awards
SP Tabata (pula.tabata@ecdoe.gov.za)
21 Aug Limpopo Provincial National Teaching Awards
JM Maja (majajm@edu.limpopo.gov.za)
21 Aug Mpumalanga Provincial National Teaching Awards
Jasper Zwane (j.zwane@education.mpu.gov.za)
29–30 Aug WCED Provincial Skills Competition
Nathan Joseph (Nathan.Joseph@westerncape.gov.za)
29–31 Aug TEACH! Conference
Grahamstown
Cathy Braans (cathy@cathybraanspr.co.za)
30 Aug Eden Central Karoo Education District (ECKED) Innovation Conference Rolandi Brenkman (rolandi.brenkman@westerncape.gov.za)
3 Sept Speciality Papers’ Back2School Launch Event
Indoor Sports Centre, Epworth School
Sharlene Ramnath (sharlene@speciality.co.za)
3 Sept GP JHB Central EMS Awards (provincial level) Francinah Raseroka (Francinah.Raseroka@gauteng.gov.za)
6 Sept WC Metro Central Education District Social Sciences Intersen Phase Competition
Terence Mdepha (Terence.Mdepha@westerncape.gov.za)
11–13 Sept SAPA National Conference Gqeberha, Eastern Cape sapa@idna.co.za
15–17 Sept ISASA Deputy Heads Conference
Cathy Braans (cathy@cathybraanspr.co.za)
2 Oct GP North District Academic Awards Ceremony Charlotte Modzuka (Charlotte.Modzuka@gauteng.gov.za)
10 – 12 Oct LITASA Conference
Westville Girls’ High School
Taffie Chizu (info@litasa.org.za)
Student’s Book
• Illustrated experimental set-ups for practical activities.
• Labelled diagrams of scientific drawings to help students’ understanding.
• Real world experiments that can be conducted with low-cost materials.
• Summative assessments to help with exam preparation.
Lecturer’s Guide
Full solutions, marking guidelines and other time-saving resources
MACMILLAN READERS AT A GLANCE
PHASE PRODUCT
ECD & Grade R Here we Go Series
Available in English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho and Setswana
View more information
Grade R Grade R Readers
Available in English, Afrikaans and Xitsonga
View more information
FP Snappy Sounds
Available in English
View more information
FP Alphakids Digital Library
Available in English
View more information
FP Solutions for all
Available in English, Afrikaans
View more information
FP African Language Readers
Available in isiNdebele, isiZulu, Sesotho, Setswana and Siswati
View more information
FP/IP Thokozani
Available in isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho and Setswana
View more information
FP/IP Readers are Leaders
FP is available in English, Afrikaans. IP is available in English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, isiXhosa, Sepedi, Sesotho and Setswana
View FP brochure | View IP brochure
FP/IP Flying Start to Literacy
Available in English
View FP brochure
View IP brochure
MACMILLAN READERS AT A GLANCE
PHASE PRODUCT
FP/IP Reading Planet
Available in English
View more information
FP/IP Macmillan English Explorers
Available in English
View more information
FP/IP/ SP/FET Pan Macmillan titles
View English Primary School brochure
View Afrikaans Primary School brochure
View English Secondary School brochure
View Afrikaans Secondary School brochure
IP Reading Worlds
Available in English
View more information
IP Literacy Network
Available in English
View more information
IP/SP Core Readers
IP available in English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sesotho and Setswana
SP available in English, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho and Setswana
View more information
SP Novels
Available in Afrikaans, English, Sepedi, Setswana, Siswati and Xitsonga
View Grade 7 Novels
View Grade 8 and 9 Novels
FET Approved FET literature titles
Available in English, Afrikaans, isiNdebele, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, Sesotho, Setswana, Siswati, Tshivenda and Xitsonga
View more information
ECD/ Grade R/FP/IP Reading corner resources
View more information
Local and international agencies we represent
CONTACT US
NATIONAL
Sibonelo Mkhasibe
Head of National School Sales Cell: 066 474 3793
Email: Sibonelo.Mkhasibe@macmillaneducation.co.za
Antoinette de Vries
Head of National Commercial Sales and Marketing Tel: 011 731 3455
Email: Antoinette.deVries@macmillaneducation.co.za
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Tel: 011 731 3300
Email: customerservices@macmillaneducation.co.za
TVET COLLEGES
Jayshil Bhula
TVET Sales Manager Cell: 076 222 2798
Email: jayshil.bhula@macmillaneducation.co.za
Thantaswa Botile
Sales Representative: TVET Colleges Cell: 071 671 1228
Email: thantaswa.botile@macmillaneducation.co.za
EASTERN CAPE
Ayanda Nkunzi
Sales and Marketing Representative Cell: 082 949 9664
Email: Ayanda.Nkunzi@macmillaneducation.co.za
FREE STATE
Peter Ledwaba
Provincial Sales Manager Cell: 076 994 0986
Email: Peter.Ledwaba@macmillaneducation.co.za
GAUTENG
Nicole Smith
Provincial Sales Manager
Email: Nicole.Smith@macmillaneducation.co.za Cell: 082 944 6968
Phathi Kona
Sales and Marketing Representative Cell: 060 908 8209
Email: Phathi.Kona@macmillaneducation.co.za
KWAZULU-NATAL
Ernest Muzi Mshengu
Sales and Marketing Manager
Cell: 082 528 3712
Email: ernest.mshengu@macmillaneducation.co.za
Qhawe Gumede
Sales and Marketing Representative Cell: 067 187 3166
Email: Qhawe.Gumede@macmillaneducation.co.za
LIMPOPO
Mmatapa Moabelo
Sales and Marketing Representative Cell: 078 804 0612
Email: Mmatapa.Moabelo@macmillaneducation.co.za
MPUMALANGA
Lillian Vuma
Sales and Marketing Representative Cell: 078 803 9918
Email: Lillian.Vuma@macmillaneducation.co.za
NORTH WEST
Mmaabo Modisane Provincial Sales Manager Cell: 071 399 1337
Email: Mmaabo.Modisane@macmillaneducation.co.za
NORTHERN CAPE
Liezl Abrahams
Sales and Marketing Representative Cell: 071 441 9144
Email: Liezl.Abrahams@macmillaneducation.co.za
WESTERN CAPE
Liezl Abrahams
Sales and Marketing Representative Cell: 071 441 9144
Email: Liezl.Abrahams@macmillaneducation.co.za
Tania Zeederberg
Sales and Marketing Representative Cell: 066 211 4352
Email: Tania.Zeederberg@macmillaneducation.co.za
AGENCY AND DIGITAL
Kilayne Pelser
Agency and Digital Sales Manager Cell: 076 994 0985
Email: Kilayne.Pelser@macmillaneducation.co.za
Bruce Mpofu
Agency and Digital Sales Consultant Cell: 066 138 2746
Email: Bruce.Mpofu@macmillaneducation.co.za