Blog Post

How To Set Goals For 2020 | SMART Goal Setting

Jan 29, 2020

Helping your child set SMART goals for 2020!

When it comes to helping your kids live happy, fulfilled lives, goal setting is an important tool that should never be overlooked. Your child should learn how to set goals because it can lead to several benefits. For starters, it becomes a habit for life. This empowers them to strive for more and figure out what they want out of life. They also develop a healthy, positive attitude when they realise that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Most importantly, they discover that they are responsible for their own learning and behaviour. So, if they want to achieve something, it’s ultimately up to them to make it happen. 

If you’re ready to guide your child in setting goals for 2020, why not do it the SMART way? This is a method that yields wonderful results and works well for people of all ages. It will also help your child break down their goals in a logical way. Let’s get SMART and get goal setting. 

S is for Specific
The truth is, you’ll never reach those goals if you aren’t specific about them. Get your child to write down exactly what they want to achieve. The key here is to be as detailed as possible. For example, instead of “I want to be in the school play” they should go one step further, “I want to play a lead part in the school play”. 

M is for Measurable 
When a goal is measurable, you’ll know if you’re getting closer to reaching it and when you’ve crossed the finish line. To make a goal measurable, you can help your child break this down into elements that will help them track their progress. For example, getting better Mathematics results should be tracked with every test so that your child can see their improvement in their marks. 

A is for Attainable 
This is one of the toughest parts of helping your child set their goals for a new year – making it attainable. If your child wants to get an A for Science but is currently sitting on a D, guide them towards a smaller improvement like moving up to a C or B in Science so that they aren’t discouraged. 

R is for Relevant 
Your child’s goals need to be relevant to them and something that they actually want. Often, kids try to please their parents, teachers or peers instead of making themselves proud. Your child is twice as likely to achieve the goals they set for themselves if they really want it for themselves. 

T is for Timely
Another key part of reaching those goals is using a time frame. Deadlines can really motivate so try to break the goals up into terms to inspire your child to action. Be realistic though so as to not apply too much pressure. Should your child need a little extra time, tell them it’s okay. 

At Abbotts College, our non-traditional approach to learning helps our students achieve their goals and exceed their own expectations. For more on us and our schools, please click here.  

To apply for your child to join us, please visit the following link: 


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15 Jan, 2024
In recent years, the challenge of overcrowding in public schools has reached alarming levels, leaving many schools and provinces struggling and often unable to accommodate the influx of Grade 8 student applications. "We have received numerous calls since the beginning of the year from parents who are quite desperate to find a school for their child who should be starting Grade 8 this year," says Chris van Niekerk, Managing Director of Abbotts College. He says while this problem might seem insurmountable to parents, there are other options available which should not be dismissed out of hand because of perceptions about, for instance, affordability or logistical concerns. “There are many, many parents and students finding themselves in this predicament. While provinces scramble to make alternative arrangements to accommodate Grade 8 learners who have not yet been placed, parents may be rightly concerned both by the clock ticking on their child’s plans for 2024, as well as concerns about the standard of teaching and learning they might encounter under potentially unusual classroom conditions should they be accommodated under temporary arrangements.” Van Niekerk says those parents who must now either wait, or make alternative arrangements, should investigate their options, as they might just find an alternative path that works for both the child and the family. These options include: Private Schools: Private schools with a reputation for quality education and smaller class sizes can provide a more personalised learning experience. The idea of “private school” is often dismissed out of hand because of perceptions about affordability, however before eliminating this option, parents should contact potential schools and at least enquire whether it would not be within their means to send their child to a private school. Homeschooling: Some parents explore the option of homeschooling, ensuring direct involvement in their child's education and tailoring the curriculum to individual needs. There has been an explosion in homeschooling in recent years, with countless resources available to parents who opt for this route. Online Education: Exploring online education platforms can be a viable alternative, especially in today's digital age, offering flexibility and personalised learning. It is important to establish the credentials of an online school before signing up with one, but schools such as, for instance, Evolve Online School, has an excellent reputation both for academic excellence as well as non-academic and holistic development of students.  “Every child is entitled to a quality education. While we understand the challenges schools and provinces, in particular the Western Cape and Gauteng, face with overwhelming student numbers, parents are not entirely powerless. This situation is undoubtedly placing immense pressure on families, but it is important to understand and investigate options,” says Van Niekerk. “In addition to not being placed, other students find themselves in a situation where they have been placed at schools that were not part of their consideration list or, for practical reasons, simply would not be a fit. Common issues such as distance from home and transport problems can significantly impact the selection of an ideal educational institution. Considering these challenges, it may be prudent for parents to consider private education as an alternative. "While we know this may not be an option for all families, schools such as Abbotts College, which are committed to providing a positive and enriching educational experience have become a lifeline for thousands of families who previously didn’t consider private education a viable option.”
07 Dec, 2023
As the end of year examination season has drawn to a close, the tension surrounding the end of the year report publishing starts to mount in households around the country. Many parents often feel that they are more concerned about the end of year results and that their teenagers are already in holiday mode and show very little interest in these results. This can merely be a smokescreen for the anxiety and fear that many teens experience, an education expert says. “Children often try to avoid their parents more during this time because they feel as if they are constantly being reminded of the looming judgement day,” says Colette Ehmke, Head of Academics: Abbotts College Pretoria-East. “The way parents approach this potential report-card minefield can cause lifelong damage to their children and their relationship with their child. Like with most things in life, it is vital to approach this with a well-constructed plan of action. When receiving the report, parents need to self-regulate their own response to ensure that they rather show care and not judgement. This is a teaching moment that can help to strengthen your relationship with your child and can help to build mutual trust and respect.” Ehmke says parents and guardians should: Encourage open communication with their child. Determine which results they are most proud of and why. Also discuss the results they feel could have been better and why they think they did not achieve what they had hoped they would. Ask their child what they have learnt about themselves and how their perception of their own abilities, interests and talents may have changed. Determine, together with their child, where they needed extra help and how you as a parent can assist them in the following year. “It is very important that parents are aware that most teenagers have not yet developed self-regulating skills and that they may not be able to manage their own time or create a plan of action for the following year. “Skills that come naturally for adults are not yet developed and needlessly criticising your child’s inability to self-regulate does damage to your trust relationship. You need to assist your child to verbalise where they need help and what exactly they need to do to improve their results in the following year. It is important that you listen and allow your child to speak their own truth.” So how can parents help? “During your conversation with your child, it is important to allow them to evaluate their own goals and to set new or adjusted goals based on their report. Helping them to identify possible career avenues and exploring possible tertiary options based on their current results shows them that you are interested in their well-being and that you want them to succeed,” says Ehmke. “It is very important not to live your own dreams through your child but to allow them to explore their own dreams. In Grade 10 and Grade 11, your child may need to make some subject changes based on their current results. It is very important that parents are realistic about their own child’s abilities. Your child can live a very successful and happy life without taking Mathematics and Physical Sciences. If your child is achieving below 50% in these subjects, they will not be able to gain entry into a Bachelor of Science degree and your child’s current subjects may not be serving them and their future at all.” Considerations to keep in mind Teenagers’ poor academic performance could very well be a symptom of something bigger. “A number of teenagers are experiencing very high incidences of undiagnosed anxiety and depression and this may have a very negative impact on their results. Having some courageous conversations with your teen could prevent dire consequences later in life. Your child’s teachers may also have communicated that they struggle to finish tests or examinations and you may need to consider applying for accommodations to assist them.” Comparing siblings’ results or the results of friends and family are also to be avoided.  “Comparison is the thief of joy and gives rise to the development of lifelong feelings of inadequacy. It is very important not to damage your child’s relationship with learning. We often wonder why older children are no longer in awe of learning but too many negative responses to poor performance destroys your child’s confidence and robs them of the enthusiasm we see in toddlers when they are going to school,” says Ehmke. “Report season does not have to be filled with dread and be a doom and gloom experience. Teach your teenager that you value their input and that results should be viewed as a tool to self-discovery and not as a yardstick for personal value. A disappointing report card need no be more than a bump in life’s journey, as there are always options available for progressing, even if this means changing direction or embarking on a new path.”
07 Dec, 2023
As your child enters the high school years, parenting can become more challenging and complex. Balancing their growing independence with your desire to keep them safe and on track can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. With so many physical and emotional changes happening, it's important to approach parenting a high schooler with care and consideration, an education expert says. “We have seen a sharp increase in the number of students experiencing anxiety. This is due to a greater demand on both children and adults to perform and contribute meaningfully to an ever-changing society,” says Candice Erasmus, Head of Student Behaviour and Wellbeing at Abbotts College Pretoria-East. “These demands result in an increased number of stressors which could be financial, emotional and social. High school students often feel very overwhelmed by the workload, social expectations and navigating their school and social environments. Furthermore, due to their pre-frontal cortex not being fully developed yet, they may struggle with planning efficiently, time management and being organised, which further adds to their feelings of anxiety,” she says. She says parents who are concerned about their child’s anxiety levels, can do the following: Be a “safe haven” for your child. After COVID, a number of children have lost social connection and need a safe place to talk. Consider this safe haven as a harbour for a ship. The ship leaves the habour to explore but it always comes back to the safety of the harbour. The demand on parents is intense in the current economic climate, however, fostering social connection in a family can be as easy as finding opportunities to eat together, play board games and take walks/exercise together. Don’t underestimate the importance of these opportunities for connection. Taking time to assist your child with planning, managing their time and organising their academic and social events may help relieve some potential stressors. Teach your children about Mindfulness. You might not have these tools but there are amazing platforms that have great mindfulness tools, such as Spotify and YouTube. DEALING WITH IDENTITY CHALLENGES All adolescents go through a time called identity formation. During this time they need to engage in a safe exploration of their interests and hobbies, which will allow them to form who they are, what their likes and dislikes are and, furthermore, what their value system is. Parents can do the following to assist their children in developing their identity: Find opportunities to engage with your child about their likes and dislikes and ask them about the experiences that led them to their decision. Explore different fields of interest and how that could lead to a career. Allow them to engage in discussions about their opinions, interests and values. Boundaries and peer pressure are a continuum of deficiency of identity. If a child struggles to set boundaries, they tend to struggle to form their own identity and vice versa. This in turn causes a feedback loop with anxiety. This also leads children to be more vulnerable to peer pressure as they have not set their value system and therefore struggle to say NO. Parents can do the following to assist their children in developing their boundaries: Have a family meeting, in this you as a family can set the house rules and the consequences of breaking these rules. Allow for appropriate boundary-setting in your family and encourage a respect for each other’s boundaries. Use opportunities that are seen on TV or experiences to discuss boundaries and the social/personal consequences of not setting boundaries. Discuss the short-term and long-term consequences of decision-making due to peer pressure for example drug usage, underage drinking and being sexually active. It is important to allow appropriate decision-making to take place and then allow your child to feel the consequences of their decision-making (in the less consequential choices). You as a parent can help them look at the points to consider. EMOTIONAL REGULATION Adolescents have a tough time regulating their emotions for several reasons such as hormonal fluctuations and a developing prefrontal cortex where regulation takes place. We have seen an increase in students who struggle to identify and express their emotions in different settings. Parents can do the following to assist their children in developing their emotional regulation:  Parents can put up an emotional wheel in the house, ( https://humansystems.co/emotionwheels has three wheels that cater for different age groups). This wheel helps parents to teach children how to name what they are feeling (identify), this in turn helps the children to understand what other people may be feeling which will help them form better social relationships.
20 Nov, 2023
Parenting teenagers can be – in fact mostly is – a very challenging endeavour. While there is no foolproof recipe for success, following some guidelines and parameters will indeed make most parenting journeys somewhat easier, if not completely challenge-free, a career educator says. “After more than three decades of being a high school teacher, a principal and parent of a teenager, I know that parenting teenagers can be a challenging journey, especially when they start to pull away and disconnect from their family,” says Sanet Van Rensburg, Principal: Abbotts College Centurion. She says mutual respect plays a pivotal role in surviving the teenage parenting years. “Although it is natural for teenagers to seek more independence and establish their own identities, it's equally important for parents to find ways to stay involved and maintain a strong connection. But how do you stay involved and nurture a healthy relationship with a disconnected teenager? “The answer is effective communication. Effective communication is the root of any healthy parent-teen relationship. Avoid judgment and criticism and instead, listen actively and empathetically. Ask open-ended questions to encourage dialogue and show genuine interest in their lives. A simple rule like “no earphones when we are driving to or from school,” can be the start to opening the door to mutual chats.” Teens will make mistakes (and, as a parent, you will see the red-light flickering), but they sometimes need to take the consequences of their decisions, says Van Rensburg. “The important thing is to be there for them. Do not judge but rather love them unconditionally even though you do not like the decision they made, and rather help them gain self-confidence again. As parents we sometimes think that all questionable decisions are bad, but that is not the truth. All decisions – even bad ones – help teenagers to develop essential life skills.” Teenagers can be moody and unpredictable, and they may not always be receptive to your attempts at connection. “Remember that these phases are temporary, and it's essential to remain patient and understanding. Maintain a consistent, supportive presence in their lives, even when they push you away. You do not need to say anything; they just need to know that you are there,” advises Van Rensburg. “Establish clear boundaries and expectations within your household. These guidelines can help teenagers understand their responsibilities and the consequences of their actions. However, it's crucial to involve them in setting these rules, thus ensuring they feel a sense of ownership and responsibility for their behaviour.” Finding the right balance between involvement and intrusion can be tricky, Van Rensburg notes. “Aim to be present in your teenager's life without constantly hovering over them. Attend their school events, sports games, or performances, but give them the freedom to socialise with friends and have downtime without feeling monitored. The first prize will be for them to want their friends to come over to your house for a braai or to chill. “The important element is not to be a helicopter parent, but to trust the previous 12+ years that you have invested in your teen’s upbringing and guidance in making the right decision in challenging situations.”
By By Marion Kohler, Principal: Abbotts College JHB South 26 Oct, 2023
As the school year progresses, one of the most critical periods for high school students is how to approach the end-of-year exams. Preparing for these exams can be challenging, but with the right mindset, study environment, and helpful tools, students can increase their chances of success. With the support of parents and teachers, coupled with a positive growth mindset, success is imminent. I always tell my students it is a simple equation: Time + Effort = Success. Let us explore tips on how to set up a productive learning environment and introduce some valuable tools that can aid students in their examination preparations. Creating the Ideal Study Space The first step to examination success is setting up an environment that promotes productivity and minimises distractions. Here are some key elements to consider: 1. Choose a Quiet and Comfortable Space Select a quiet and comfortable location where there can be focus without interruptions. Whether it's a corner of the bedroom, a designated study area, or a quiet library, ensure it is free from noise and distractions. Do not study on the bed – this should be kept strictly for sleeping, and the brain needs to distinguish the difference between where one relaxes and where one works. 2. Organise Study Materials Arrange textbooks, notes, and stationery in a neat and accessible manner. This will save time and help maintain focus during study sessions. It is a good idea to buy a Feint and Margin book for each subject early on so that study notes can be written in these. 3. Good Lighting & Ergonomics Proper lighting is essential for effective studying. Make sure the study area is well-lit to reduce eye strain and help concentration. Use a comfortable chair and desk to support good posture. Proper ergonomics can reduce physical discomfort and enable longer study periods without fatigue. 4. Eliminate Distractions Turn off mobiles, log out of social media, and eliminate any other distractions. Consider using website blockers and productivity apps or hand over cellphones to parents when study time has been scheduled. For some students, music without words can help them focus rather than be a distraction. Tools to Help Prepare for Exams In today's digital age, there are numerous tools available to aid students in their examination preparations. In our school at Abbotts JHB South, we have a Mathematics and Science application called AdvLearn which can be used by students to go back to prior content and to review content without supervision. Here are some others that students may find helpful: 1. Note-taking Apps Digital note-taking apps like Evernote, OneNote, or Notion can help students organise study materials. They can create digital notebooks, take searchable notes, and access materials from any device. 2. Flashcard Apps Apps like Anki, Quizlet, and Brainscape are excellent for creating and studying flashcards. They use spaced repetition to optimise memory retention. 3. Study Planners Use digital or physical planners to schedule study sessions and set goals. Tools like Google Calendar or physical planners can help students stay organised and assist in managing their time effectively. 4. Online Learning Platforms Take advantage of online learning platforms such as Khan Academy, Coursera, edX to access additional resources, video lessons, and practice exams related to student’s subjects. Online websites such as CrashCourse, YouTube channels and TED-Ed offer educational videos on various subjects that can complement student learning. 5. Revision Apps Apps like Forest and Focus@Will can help improve focus and concentration during study sessions. They use techniques such as the Pomodoro method to structure study time, as well as scientifically optimised music to aid concentration. 6. Study Groups Consider forming or joining a study group using platforms like Zoom or Google Meet. Collaborative studying can help clarify doubts and reinforce understanding of the material. If managed correctly, peer tutoring is an excellent way to consolidate content. Time Management and Consistency Besides the right environment and tools, managing study time effectively and being consistent is crucial for success. Create a study schedule that includes breaks and stick to it. Set specific, achievable goals for each study session and track progress. Parental involvement is critical here for those students who tend to procrastinate. Dealing with Procrastination Procrastination can be a significant hurdle when it comes to preparing for end-of-year exams. In my teaching career, this, coupled with motivation, is the biggest determinant between success or failure. It is that nagging urge to put off studying until the last minute or finding endless distractions. Recognise that this is a common challenge for students and often stems from anxiety, lack of motivation, or poor time management. To combat procrastination, break study tasks into manageable, bite-sized pieces, set realistic deadlines, and rewards for achieving them. Find study techniques that keep students engaged, like the Pomodoro method. Overcoming procrastination is a key step towards effective exam preparation and success. Remember, preparing for end-of-year exams is not just about cramming information, but about understanding the material and retaining it in the long term. In conclusion, creating a conducive study environment and leveraging the available tools can greatly enhance students’ exam preparations. Combine these resources with discipline, time management, and a positive mindset, and they’ll be well on their way to acing those end-of-year exams.
By By Chris van Niekerk, Managing Director: The Bridge Assisted Learning Schools, Abbotts Colleges and Evolve Online Schools. 29 Sep, 2023
In the bustling world of education, school principals often stand as the unsung heroes, who are mostly out of sight while quietly steering the ship of learning toward the shores of success. These dedicated leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the future of students and schools, yet their contributions often go unnoticed. On International Teachers Day, it is therefore worth considering the important role of principals, to shine a spotlight on their invaluable contribution. First and foremost, school principals are the leaders whose vision sets the tone for the entire school community. They create an atmosphere of discipline, respect, and academic excellence. A strong principal inspires not only their staff but also the students to strive for greatness, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Principals are instrumental in the recruitment and development of educators. They seek out and hire passionate teachers who are dedicated to nurturing young minds. Furthermore, they provide ongoing support and professional development opportunities to help teachers refine their skills and stay updated with the latest educational trends. The result is a highly motivated and skilled teaching staff, directly benefiting students. These educational heroes also manage the intricate web of daily school operations. From budgeting and resource allocation to discipline and safety, principals are the glue that holds the school together. Their attention to detail ensures that the school runs efficiently and safely, allowing teachers to focus on what they do best: educating students. School principals furthermore serve as the bridge between the school and the community. They engage parents, local organisations, and stakeholders to build strong partnerships that support student success. Principals are advocates for their schools, securing the necessary resources and support to meet the unique needs of their students. In addition to their administrative duties, principals are often involved in curriculum development. They collaborate with teachers to design engaging and relevant learning experiences that cater to diverse learning styles to empower students to reach their full potential.  Furthermore, school principals are champions of innovation in education. They stay abreast of emerging technologies and pedagogical approaches to enhance teaching and learning. By embracing innovation, principals inspire creativity among both students and staff members. In conclusion, school principals are the unsung heroes of education, quietly working behind the scenes to ensure that every student has access to quality education. Their visionary leadership, dedication to student success, management skills, community engagement efforts, commitment to inclusivity, involvement in curriculum development, and promotion of innovation make them indispensable figures in shaping the future of education.
By By Mignonne Gerli, Principal: Abbotts College Pretoria-East 22 Sep, 2023
Much like starting a job and staying with the company until retirement age is a thing of the past, so too is the idea that one must attend only one primary school and one high school during the entirety of one’s schooling journey, no matter what. Yes, it is the ideal and stability and the ability to form and build lasting friendships during one’s schooling journey is important. However, the reality is that the need for some children to change schools during their primary school and high school years is becoming more and more common place. Parents change schools for a myriad of reasons, including: Emigration and semigration, Convenience (closer to parent’s new job or on a transport route), Quality of education, Class sizes, School environment (sense of safety, issues of bullying) and A child’s request for a change. What is important to note is that changing schools is a big decision and one not to be taken lightly. It is important that parents carefully consider and evaluate reasons for wanting to change schools before doing so. Reasons that are unwise and often lead to disappointment and ANOTHER move include: Blaming the teacher if your child performed poorly in an assessment, Not getting your way when wanting to change your child’s teacher or class, A disagreement with your child’s teacher, The school not offering the subject choices in a way that your child prefers, Your child not getting into the first team of his or her sporting discipline and Your child being “in the wrong crowd”. In such cases, rational communication is key. A useful tip is to focus on facts and try to eliminate emotions from the equation. Where applicable, meet with your child’s teacher to discuss your concerns and receive feedback from the teacher. See the teacher as your partner and know that he/she wants your child to succeed. Consider your reasons for wanting to change classes. Is it because your child wants to be in a friend’s class? Is it because this teacher seems strict and places high academic demands on students? Is it because you feel the teacher is useless and a different teacher will teach your child better? Once again, meet with the teacher to discuss your child’s progress. If you are still concerned about the standard of teaching, discuss this with the person’s line manager. Most good schools will investigate allegations of poor teaching practice and will be able to provide parents with feedback and, where need be, take steps if the allegations prove to be true. When it comes to subject choices, these are carefully considered by high schools, bearing in mind what is required for tertiary studies for the various faculties and courses. Even at tertiary level, students will have to take subjects they do not necessarily want to, and they will not get to mix and match as they like. Moving a child because you are concerned about their friendship choices is also not a good idea. Likeminded people seek each other out and your child will find the same “crowd” within minutes of starting at a new school. There are however good and valid reasons for wanting to change schools, including: The school not dealing with issues of bullying and turning a blind eye to discipline issues, Your child feeling unsafe at school, Unapproachable teachers, Little to no communication regarding your child’s poor performance in assessments, including the surprise factor when reports are issued, Non-alignment with the school’s values and policies and Lack of academic focus. If you realise a school is not the right fit for your child and family, it is best to make the change to a new school as soon as possible. At Abbotts College, we enrol students all year round. Support your child to catch up on work they did not cover at the previous school. When finding a new school for your child, you must ensure you do your homework. Visit prospective schools' websites, arrange a tour of the schools you are interested in and arrive armed with questions to ensure that you make the right choice and that there will be no need for another move.  And finally, do not remove your child from their current school until they have been accepted at another school. You do not want to be in a position where you cannot secure a space for your child at a school.
By Marion Kohler – Abbotts College JHB South 15 Sep, 2023
In my almost two decades as an educational professional, I have witnessed a recurring pattern that I've come to call "Third Term Turmoil." This phenomenon typically occurs in the August/September period, where teenage disciplinary issues tend to peak. I've developed a theory to explain this pattern, which centers around seasonal changes and academic pressures. As spring arrives and summer break approaches, students become restless and eager for leisure, leading to decreased motivation for academic work and a surge in the desire for recreational activities. Academically, the third term is when teachers finalise their curriculum and prepare for year-end examinations and assessments. The mounting pressure for students to excel can contribute to heightened stress and anxiety, often manifesting as behavioural issues in the classroom. Moreover, after months of intense academic and extracurricular activities, both students and teachers may experience fatigue, and plummeting levels of patience and tolerance, which can lead to further discipline problems. Changes in the daily routine, such as field trips and special events, also disrupt the classroom structure and exacerbate discipline issues. While these observations are based on my experience, they reflect a common reality in many schools. Teachers often find themselves struggling to keep students motivated, manage incomplete work, and handle disruptive behavior. The key question we must then address is how to prevent burnout, lack of motivation, and the resulting disciplinary challenges. To assist parents in navigating this challenging period and ensuring a smoother end to the school year, I offer several pointers for discussion with their children: Goal Setting: Encourage your child to set clear academic and personal goals for the remaining school year. Concrete objectives can help maintain motivation. Time Management: Teach your child effective time management skills to balance academic work, extracurricular activities, and leisure time. Open Communication: Create an open and supportive environment where your child feels comfortable discussing challenges or concerns they may be facing at school. Stress Management: Equip your child with stress-management techniques, such as mindfulness exercises or relaxation strategies, to cope with academic pressures. Healthy Lifestyle: Promote a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep, as these factors play a crucial role in maintaining physical and mental well-being. Reward System: Implement a reward system for accomplishing academic milestones or completing assignments promptly. This can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment. Seek Support: If discipline issues persist or escalate, consider involving teachers, school counselors, or other professionals who can provide guidance and support. Parents play a pivotal role in fostering positive behaviour, respect for teachers, and discouraging substance use among their children. Here are additional pointers for parents to guide their children on how to behave at school and cope with stress: Respect for Teachers and Peers: Teach your child the importance of showing respect to their teachers and classmates. This includes active listening, politeness, and courtesy. Responsibility for Their Actions: Encourage your child to take responsibility for their behavior at school, understanding that actions have consequences. Conflict Resolution Skills: Equip your child with effective conflict resolution skills and teach them to communicate concerns or disagreements respectfully. Anti-Bullying Awareness: Discuss the significance of standing up against bullying and supporting classmates who may be victims. Teach your child to make independent, informed choices and develop assertiveness skills. Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Encourage stress relief through sports, art, or music while discouraging substance use. Drug and Alcohol Education: Have honest conversations about the risks associated with substance use, providing accurate information. Lead by Example: Be a role model by demonstrating respectful behaviour, healthy coping strategies, and responsible decision-making. Monitor Online Activity: Keep an eye on your child's online activities to ensure they are not exposed to harmful influences. Maintain regular conversations with your child about their school experiences and emotional well-being. By incorporating these pointers into your parenting approach, you can guide your child toward responsible behaviour, respect for teachers and peers, and a healthy approach to managing stress. Open communication and a supportive environment are key elements in promoting positive behaviours and well-rounded development.
By Ivan Horn, Principal: Abbotts College Rondebosch 07 Sep, 2023
It is not uncommon that high school learners are uncertain about their careers and subject choices. If one were to ask Grade 1 learners what they would aspire to become when they grow up, you will be met by an enthusiastic choir shouting: pilot, astronaut, police officer, and so forth. Many will instantly express a career choice. By contrast, many high school students will have little or no response to the same question, as the reality of life after school hits home.  In my experience, the most common answer is “I’m not sure” or even “I have no idea”. This is not completely surprising, because there are so many career paths and jobs to choose from. We are often training students for careers that are still emerging and do not even exist yet. We must also be mindful that the majority of people change their minds about a career several times. It is also not uncommon that people change jobs, but it has also become more common for people to move between careers and industries. The days of 20 year services awards at companies are a thing of the past, with many businesses only awarding 5 years (and even 3 years) long service incentives these days.
By ADvTech 08 Aug, 2023
Most good schools, whether public or private, incorporate art into their curricula – especially during the primary school years. This subject sometimes has the reputation for being the class where you can take a break from the ‘real work’, which is why its importance as a developmental tool for critical thinking isn’t well understood. But parents and teachers can use art to the great advantage of the child, if they know how important its role is and how to practically go about art education and appreciation, an education expert says. “Art incorporates all the important factors required in critical thinking – observation, reflection, interpretation and application,” says Desiree Hugo, Academic Head: Schools Division at ADvTECH, SA’s leading private education provider. “Parents of younger children know this scenario well: your child arrives home with a piece of art, you praise them for their good work, stick the artwork on the fridge, and move on. However, by taking some more time discussing what went into the construction of the work, parents can gain invaluable insight into their child’s thinking, as well as develop their ability to communicate their thinking,” she says.  Hugo advises parents to ask their children specific questions about their artwork, for instance “what is that you drew there?”, “why did you decide to do this?”, “why did you choose these colours?”. “When you hear their explanations as to their thoughts, it gives you a window into their world and elevates their work from just another pretty piece to a connection and discussion opportunity. It’s important that parents take the time and make the effort to do that,” Hugo says. Teachers should also aim to guide students to create observational art if they want to develop critical thinking capacity. “If you ask someone to draw a flower, they’ll typically draw that one we all do from memory, with the circle in the middle, the little arches around the circle, and a stem with perhaps a leaf or two. But if you put a flower in front of the child along with a magnifying glass and ask them to draw what they see, you are going to find they do a greater dive into deep observation,” says Hugo. 4 PRACTICAL WAYS TO USE ART TO DEVELOP CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS 1) OPEN-ENDED ART PROJECTS Provide opportunities and materials for students to freely express themselves without tight guidance or direction on expected outcomes or deliverables. This helps them assess the tools at their disposal, use their imagination and problem-solving skills, and hone their craftsmanship. 2) ARTISTIC ANALYSIS Expose students to a wide range of art and lead in-depth discussions about their observations. What do they think the artist was thinking, why do they think certain choices were made in creating the artwork, how does the art make them feel, what do they see in the art? This develops their visual processing skills, linking them up to their analytical skills. 3) COMBINE ART AND STORIES Extend the art lesson by tasking students with developing stories based on their work. These stories can include characters and character development, plotlines, and inspiration for follow-up art. 4) COMBINE ART AND ACADEMICS Maths problems have long been approached by drawing a simple sketch of the problem at hand. This can be extended to various other subjects, by asking students to create a visual representation of the matter before them, as well as their proposed solution. This helps them visualise the problem and helps with brainstorming all while exercising creative muscles. “Imagine believing that children have the ability to express themselves in more than one way. Now times that by 100, if they are given the tools and encouragement to extend their potential range,” says Hugo. She notes that Loris Malaguzzi, founder of the Reggio Emilia Approach, described the "infinite ways that children can express, explore, and connect their thoughts, feelings and imaginings” as follows: “These languages (the Hundred Languages of Children) are symbolic and are open to the endless potentials in children. They believe in the potential of a child's ability to wonder. It is the belief that there are "multiple ways of seeing and multiple ways of being." “A high quality, holistic academic offering will consider this approach to all learning, to ensure students build critical thinking skills, while being offered opportunities to inquire and develop creative theories.”The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
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