Subscribe to our Newsletter


click to dowload our latest edition

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

OpEds

Enjoy the journey to infinite possibilities

Published

on

Having just witnessed the glowing matric results released last week, many thoughts filtered through my mind. In the cycle of each school year, there are always a range of emotions that emerge at different times. The hope and excitement at the start; the dread, stress, and exasperation in the middle; and the anticipation, elation, and relief at the end. Writing matric is the culmination of a 15-year period of learning, developing, and growing. It marks the start of the next chapter, forging a path of becoming more independent by moving away from the safety of school out into the world. The entire journey matters.

There are two aspects that keep coming to my mind. The first is when I wrote matric. It was 1989, the year the Berlin Wall came down, leading to the end of the Cold War. This year symbolised so much – both the end of an old order and the start of a new world. Thinking back, writing matric seemed less stressful but more rigid.

The second aspect is that, more recently, as I meet up with or hear from previous students, I’m astounded at their individual journeys – becoming doctors, legal experts, activists, film producers, actuaries, historians, artists, actors, to name a few, gives me goosebumps. They have pursued their passions and from matric, have steadfastly carved out their futures and success.

As a teacher and later as a parent, watching this process for many years, though circumstances have changed and contexts shifted, one thing remains consistent: it’s about constant change, adapting, and that each student is encouraged and celebrated for being the best they can be. The matric year brings all prior learning and experience together. As students move from their last first days, to their last gala or sporting match, or major production, from mini prelims to prelims, to the much-anticipated matric dance, valedictory, and lastly finals, all of these milestones matter.

The pressure felt by students has increased. Many are competing for scarce places at universities, and there’s a lot at stake. As young adults move from their schools to tertiary education, gap years, or the world of work, it’s important to recognise that Grade 12 exams are the culmination of many years of learning. Matric is a stage on a long path of growth, opening the possibilities and opportunities that follow.

The American activist Malcolm X said, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” I believe this to be true. Embracing and becoming involved in all that school offers – academically; on the sports field; on the stage; and providing service to others – is key to achieving the best results and ensuring that the future is prepared for. Having a sense of belonging and feeling recognised and valued encourages growth and development. School provides the foundation of what’s important, it allows lifelong friendships to be forged. It grounds the students in a sense of history, connection, and identity, ensuring that what’s learned and experienced transcends the present moment and builds a future rooted in purpose and pride.

Students are all wired differently, interested and passionate in different things. As teachers and parents, we help to navigate, guide, and nurture different strengths. We also assist those who experience difficulties. We need to see the individuality and humanity in every student, and nurture the spark of potential that lies within them. It’s important to acknowledge this and work towards overcoming challenges. This partnership of students, parents, and teaching staff allow students to flourish as individuals in the years to come. In the education process, curiosity and creativity should be encouraged, and collaboration fostered, enabling critical thought, insight, and free expression.

Here’s some advice on how to write matric effectively:

  1. Plant the seeds of practising and keeping to good habits of planning, preparation, and time management;
  2. Get enough sleep, a good healthy diet, and exercise;
  3. Engage with friends and family and have some down time, away from the stresses of the year;
  4. Foster a positive attitude and a mindset that allows for small steps to be taken each day; and
  5. Be resilient in order to solve problems, and have the grit and determination to persevere.

The purpose of education is to keep playing, to contribute, inspire, help, support, and leave the game better for the next players. In education, the incredible work that teachers, staff, and coaches do has a profound impact on their students’ lives. As schools, we must listen to what people want and give them what they need.

In essence, children should enjoy school and have a sense of belonging. If they are happy and comfortable, they will perform better. I encourage them all to make the most of their opportunities. If they are disillusioned and fearful of underperforming on the academic stage, then we do them an injustice. All students must be embraced and helped towards mastering the skills and content required to begin the next stage. It’s important to celebrate progress over perfection, and foster a culture of collaboration rather than competition. As with each year and each group, it’s the opportunity to inspire, uplift, and guide. Success is enabling them to rise confidently to face challenges and to be open to infinite possibilities.

  • Mandy Gruzd is a mother and teacher, and the head of King David High School Victory Park.
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *