Academic extension
We offer the Further Studies Mathematics subject from Grades 9 to 12. In Grade 12 the pupils write the IEB examination in the subject. We also offer Further Studies English for Grades 11 and 12, with learners writing the IEB examination in Grade 12. Grade 10 to 12 learners may take Dance as an eighth subject through a preapproved dance studio.
Many of our learners enter annual Olympiads in various subjects such as English, Afrikaans, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Accounting, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and Computer Applications Technology. Some of our girls do exceptionally well in these examinations.
Our Music and Drama departments enter girls in various categories in the eisteddfods. Their results are often outstanding. Each year there are also Music students selected to perform in the National Youth Orchestra. Girls also enter the Afrikaans Kunstefees.
Each September all Grade 8 to 11 pupils write the national SACEE language examination, with our girls frequently achieving a top place in their grade.
A positive work ethic
According to the Mail & Guardian, “Homework has no single purpose. The following themes predominate in the homework policies posted by South African schools on their websites and printed in their brochures:
- To increase learners’ knowledge and improve their abilities and skills
- To reinforce what learners have already learned
- To prepare them for future lessons
- To extend what they know by having them apply what they have learned to new situations, or to integrate their abilities by applying many different skills to a single task
- To provide ongoing opportunities for parents to participate in their children’s education.”
(Source: https://mg.co.za/article/2010-10-13-hassling-about-homework-heres-the-answer/)
It is recommended that a Grade 8 learner should do 80 minutes of homework a day; a Grade 9 should do 90 minutes a day; a Grade 10 should do 100 minutes a day; a Grade 11 should do 150 minutes a day; and a Grade 12 should do three hours a day. We know that sometimes it may be more than this and sometimes less, and we know that sometimes life gets in the way and these time frames are not attainable.
However, learners must become able to study independently with a determined approach to doing homework for their own advancement. Too often learners only do homework to stay out of trouble, or for the teacher. There needs to be a focus on wanting to do homework. If your child tells you that there is no homework, remember that you may have used that line as a youngster and you know the truth – there is always homework or revision.