Crawford matrics shine!
As this year’s Independent Examination Board (IEB) results show, the Crawford International Matric Class of 2022 have outdone themselves. This remarkable group of students have faced and met all the challenges of a post-Covid world to achieve results that embody Crawford International schools’ spirit of academic excellence and innovative, future-focussed and globally relevant education.
We couldn’t be prouder of what they have accomplished.
Their Matric results were released on Wednesday 18 January, and each and every one of these Crawfordians has reason to be proud of themselves — we know we are.
Across the six South African Colleges and among 553 students, the Matrics of 2022 have achieved an impressive 1 430 distinctions. That is a remarkable 2.6 distinctions per Matriculant!
Despite navigating high school during and after a major pandemic, and experiencing the fallout from this, they have proved to be resilient, determined and empowered achievers.
A closer look at each campus’s results shows that this is a Matric class that is set to inspire those who follow in their footsteps:
- Crawford International La Lucia’s 100 Grade 12s attained:
- A total of 302 distinctions, with five students achieving an average of over 90%, and 35 students averaging between 80% and 89%.
- At Crawford International Lonehill, the 100 Matric students achieved:
- A total of 246 distinctions, with three students achieving an average of over 90%, and 23 students averaging between 80% and 89%.
- Crawford International North Coast had 84 students in its Matric class, who between them achieved:
- A total of 196 distinctions, with one Matriculant achieving an average of over 90%, and 12 averaging between 80% and 89%.
- Crawford International Sandton’s 101 Matriculants attained:
- A total of 352 distinctions, with six students achieving an average of over 90%, and 35 students averaging between 80% and 89%.
- At Crawford International Pretoria, the 99 Grade 12 students achieved:
- A total of 202 distinctions, with one student achieving an average of over 90%, and a further 18 averaging between 80% and 89%.
- Crawford International Ruimsig had 69 learners in its Matric class, who between them achieved:
- A total of 132 distinctions, with 11 Matriculants averaging between 80% and 89%.
We have no doubt that the four pillars that underpin our academic approach — local and global relevance, future-focused skills, student agency, and a personalised learning journey — have empowered these young adults with the knowledge, skills and enthusiasm needed to not only have achieved these remarkable results in their finals, but to succeed beyond what they think is possible.
Well done to the Class of 2022! We wish you every success as you continue your journeys going forward. We will be looking on as you go on to achieve great things.
Tips for students wishing to explore their education overseas
Gemma Rushton is studying in the US. (Photo: Khomotso Makgabutlane)
Gemma Rushton, a Crawford International Lonehill alumna who is studying computer sciences at the prestigious Harvard University in Massachusetts, has some tips for her fellow South Africans for navigating studying abroad.
Studying in another country can be one of the most exciting chapters in a student’s life. It’s a unique experience that provides the perfect chance to travel, meet new friends, learn a new language, and obtain a world-class education.
“Coming here turned my entire life upside down,” Rushton said. “Everything that I was familiar with became something entirely different — the weather, currency, means of public transport, the food, the people, the culture, the price of a gallon of milk — having to pay taxes. Everything that could be different, was.”
But the Harvard student said she sees the value in the challenges, believing it makes her stronger. “In life, we must constantly adapt to change and grow. Looking back now, I don’t regret these challenges at all; in fact, I’m deeply grateful for the lessons I’ve learnt,” she said.
Rushton shared a number of tips to help fellow South African students adapt should they be studying abroad.
“No matter how difficult it seems at any given time, you will grow into it,” she said. “Remember to give yourself some time to adapt to the new normal.”
It can be easy to obsess over the results of something going on in our lives, and we can be hard on ourselves should those results not go our way early on. Be patient with yourself and give yourself the time to adjust to the new normal.
Rushton emphasised the importance of catching up with friends and family, especially with being in another country.
“It’s easy to get lost in your studies, the new destinations to explore, the people, the hustle and bustle. But you also need to take time to connect with your loved ones back home.”
- Join formal social structures to meet new people and make friends
When in a new environment, it is beneficial to take part in formal social activities, such as playing sports or being part of a committee, as these structures can help you connect with people with a similar interest as you to build life-long relationships.
“We all want to belong somewhere, and it can be daunting to be out in the world on our own.”
“Explore the new world you’re in with an open mind. You’re on a spectacular adventure, even though the homesickness can be incredibly tough. Use the free time you have to explore your surroundings, be a tourist, and be open to the different cultures, food and experiences.”
Rushton advised starting with some research on places like the nearest grocery store, how you’ll travel, and if you can already apply for courses to make the first day on campus less stressful.
“Conducting research before you leave for your studies will ensure that you don’t get information overload once you start. When it comes to achieving your goals, consistency is key — not just in your hard work, but also in your behaviour, values and principles that guide you towards the kind of person you want to be.”