On the surface, the matrics class of 2000 failed to disappoint when compared to the downward trend of recent years. However, beyond the results razzmatazz is the reality that at least another 500 000 adults have been unleashed into the real world, away from the innocent confines of the – sometimes carefree — classroom. Of […]
South Africa fares poorly in mathematics and science, based on world standards, but the numerous trophies and certificates that adorn the principal’s office at Mbilwi Secondary school in the Northern Province prove that hard work pays off. Last year one of its educators won the Sowetan/Protec Maths and Science Teacher of the Year contest. Along […]
As the costs of schooling exceed the government’s limited resources, even the bare necessities can be painfully slow in coming. And no one knows this more than the educators and pupils at Mqanduli Primary School in Mahlungulu, near Umtata in the Eastern Cape. Stuffy and dilapidated rondawels have served as classrooms for 16 years but […]
The history of farm schools has much to do with the present difficulties in which many of them continue to struggle. Reports Julia Grey Between a rock and a hard place is where the majority of farm schools are currently sitting – and they are likely to be stuck there for some time to come. […]
Educators face the hardships of poorly resourced schools, hostile farm owners and a lack of crucial training. ‘We are struggling. There is no electricity, no toilets, and no running water – which is the biggest problem. Nobody supports us and nothing changes. There is no transport for the children. This year we also got nothing […]
The community it is supposed to serve has moved on, just as the farm school is given new life writes Julia Grey ‘WFor thirteen years, Dikeledi Nthethe and Caroline Shai have gone about the business of teaching local farm children in the dilapidated stone building they called school. For accommodation, the two teachers lived in […]
Elaine Cornish returns to school in Guangzhou, China after four years of economic growth and sees how much has changed Brightly painted pictures of communist party icons like Deng Xioping smile down on the pupils seated at modern open-plan tables. Elite primary education in China has changed dramatically in the four years since I last […]
The SWEP project has helped teachers in Soweto to gain confidence. Lorraine van der Merwe reports on its success so far The fruits of in-service training and the dedication of teachers was rewarded at Lejoeleputsoa Primary School in Meadowlands, Soweto when the Principal and staff received the Rector’s Gold medal award from the Johannesburg College […]
IT is encouraging that government is reviewing one of its flagship projects – Curriculum 2005 – so early in the day. It provides us all with a second opportunity to ensure that this bold experiment succeeds. The extremely important process of streamlining Curriculum 2005 is set to begin later this month. A Ministerial Project Committee, […]
Victor Vermeulen was 19 with an exceptional future as a world class cricketer when he jumped into a swimming pool and broke his neck. Eight years later he has become one of South Africa’s leading motivational speakers Nawaal Deane spoke to him about his school days. What was most memorable days at school? I loved […]