By Jenny Street Successful schools

For a school to be a success it must SERVE the community in which it is situated. Service is made up of ‘technique + attitude’. Technique comes from Greek: techne = an art, artifice, and means, ‘The method or details of procedure essential to expertness of execution in any art or science’. Attitude, on the other hand, comes from Latin: aptus = suited, and means, ‘State of mind; Posture; position assumed or studied to serve a purpose’.

Will Rogers once said, “In order to succeed, you must know what you are doing, like what you are doing and believe in what you are doing.”

Schooling begins in Grade R, which forms a critical start to the formal Foundation Phase. It is essential that a solid foundation is laid in Literacy (language of instruction of choice) and Numeracy. Good values need to be taught and instilled as good habits. The Intermediate Phase is equally important in that it forms the pre-teen period, and is an ideal opportunity to impress the concepts of choices and responsibilities, should you want terrific teenagers. There is a popular school of thought that Matric begins in Grade 8, not ignoring the importance of the former grades. Successful schools do whatever it takes: whether it is arranging for extra lessons or additional evening classes.

Learners need stability and a sense of belonging. They need to be encouraged to take pride in themselves and in their school. The home, school and community should clearly communicate their expectations to learners. Successful Schools are developed by nurturing partnerships between the school, home, community, learners and Department of Education. The latter playing a critical role in ensuring the schools have their quota of teachers, as well as, functional and adequate infrastructure.

Good schools have a core staff that live and breathe school. They have committed long-serving staff members that care

deeply about their school. They have a committed Board of Governors, as well as a dedicated Past Pupils Association which both add value and richness, financially as well as skills-based.

Good schools have good discipline. Any serious educator will tell you, “Where there is no good discipline, effective teaching cannot take place.” Discipline should begin at home and be supported by the community at large. Schools need the support of their community and this is how you, the community, can assist schools to be successful:

• Churches can host an active Youth Programme which supports schools in teaching values and righteousness.

• Police can be actively curbing anti-social behaviour, particularly that of our Youth. • The Neighborhoods can assist schools to improve their school environment by helping to make them litter-free, painting the buildings, planting and watering trees, repairing windows, attending functions like sport matches, school plays or fundraising events. Lastly, here are some TIPS FOR LEARNERS:

• Be organized! I quote one of our Graaffreinet principals, “An organized learner is a successful learner.”

• Work hard at Academics and also take part in Sport and Culture, which enrich your lives with many opportunities.

• Cultivate the attitude ‘It’s cool to do well!’ • Develop spiritually and become all that our Creator has planned for you to be.