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LOCKDOWN LEARNING: HOW TO MAINTAIN A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT AT HOME

AdvTech Group • May 8, 2020

LOCKDOWN LEARNING: HOW TO MAINTAIN A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT AT HOME

A young boy is sitting in front of an apple computer playing a game.
South African families are going through tremendously challenging times as most continue to stay at home during the country’s extended lockdown. While it is not yet clear when schools will start to re-open, thousands upon thousands of learners are working hard to stay on top of their educational journeys, while those parents who can do so are still working from home. External pressures combined with fear and anxiety about the future are taking their toll on parents who are, at the same, tasked with ensuring their children don’t fall behind. These, and other factors, are exacting an undeniable emotional toll in homes during this time, an educational expert says.
“The current situation facing those parents who are trying to do their best on the work front to ensure the sustainability of their companies and their livelihoods, while having to oversee their children’s schoolwork is without a doubt extremely stressful, and it is important to take a step back and gain perspective at this time,” says John Luis, Head of Academics at ADvTECH Schools.
“It is no easy task to keep children productive and learning at home, while also trying to get your own work done under trying circumstances. But we urge those parents who are ready to throw in the towel, and who quite simply have had enough, to aim to regain a sense of equilibrium and a positive environment even if it seems impossible right now,” he says.
Luis says that ADvTECH, in its preparation ahead of lockdown, introduced Pastoral Care Teams at all their schools in recognition of the fact that the current situation would come to pass.
“From the start, we were ready and committed to continuing our teaching and learning through our online and distance offering, and recognised that parents and family members would need to support, guide and monitor the learning taking place at home.
“But addressing the continuation of the curriculum was only one part of the story. We realised very early that this was going to be an unsettling and uncertain time for everyone concerned, and that we also had to support our parents and learners in the challenges and demands that would accompany this time in addition to the learning aspects.
“So we put in place Pastoral Care Teams at each school to help learners, staff and parents maintain a sense of community by maintaining regular contact, and to ensure that we are firstly aware of, and then able to help them address issues arising during this time. Many of these issues, as flagged by our partner schools abroad who went through lockdown for up to nine weeks before South Africa did, are now being realised in homes across the country.”
Luis says despite the fact that public and private schools are all planning and preparing for the return to physical sites, the approach will be phased, which means that many learners outside of the designated first returning grades will still be learning from home for several weeks and even months.
“It is very important that the educational journey continues for these learners so that they do not fall behind their peers. But at the same time, the situation needs to be managed in a way that no harm is done do the relationships within the family, as a result of this pressure to continue.”
So parents should aim to re-establish a productive yet calm environment even in the face of the challenges of this time, he says.
“One way in which this can be achieved, is by creating a schedule which allows for both family connection and deep focus time. We as parents must set the example by demonstrating that while things are different, we can build our resilience muscles.
“In the mornings, before children start their work and parents dive into their to-do lists, make the time to connect – read your children a book, get some fresh air, and just be. When the work starts, be realistic. Don’t try to make your average 9-to-5 happen. Structure the day to allow for work-immersion slots, and during this time don’t feel guilty for not engaging directly with your children. Too much screen time is still not advisable, but if it allows the children to decompress while you can apply intense focus to your own work, it will do more good than harm.” 
Parents should also dedicate some time to being able to assist their children – and must ensure that they can focus on their child’s needs and learning during this time - without running over their own pending work repeatedly in their minds.
“Try to banish your own concerns during this time, and give your child your full attention. It may only be half an hour, but make that half an hour count in terms of connection,” he says.
Finally, everyone should have some downtime together during the day, potentially around lunchtime, he says.
“Build up your reserves for the afternoon shift by going offline, taking a tea break, hanging up the washing, and so forth. It is important for parents during this time to look after our own wellbeing and state of mind by actively managing these factors, and not allowing our fears and anxieties to rule our entire days or our interactions with our families. By realising the need for, and then ensuring we maintain positive space and connection despite challenging times, we will be better positioned to continue our lives post-lockdown without having to start rebuilding our personal relationships as well.”

ABOUT ADvTECH 
The ADvTECH Group, a JSE-listed company, is Africa’s largest private education provider and a continental leader in quality education, training, skills development and placement services. The Group reports its performance in a segmental structure reflecting the Schools and Tertiary as two separate education divisions, and Resourcing as the third division. 
ADvTECH’s Schools division comprises 10 brands with more than 100 schools across South Africa, including Gaborone International School in Botswana and Crawford International in Nairobi, Kenya. 
It owns 9 tertiary brands, across 30 campuses across South Africa and the rest of Africa, and its higher education division, The Independent Institute of Education, is SA’s largest and most accredited private higher education provider. ADvTECH’s 9 resourcing brands places thousands of candidates annually, assisting graduates to make the transition from the world of study to the world of work.

March 14, 2025
Why the Grade 9 Subject Choice Process is Important The transition from Grade 9 to Grade 10 is a pivotal moment in a South African student’s academic journey. It is during this stage that learners make subject choices that will shape their future career paths and academic trajectories. While Grade 9 students may not yet have a clear vision of their long-term aspirations, understanding the significance of subject selection can help them make informed and strategic decisions. Why Can You Choose Your Subjects in Grade 9? The South African education system allows students to select subjects in Grade 9 to create a pathway that aligns with their interests, strengths, and potential career aspirations. Up until Grade 9, learners follow a generalised curriculum, but from Grade 10 onwards, they start specialising in subjects that will ultimately contribute to their National Senior Certificate (NSC) qualification. The flexibility in choosing subjects is designed to help students focus on areas where they excel and enjoy learning, making their high school experience more meaningful and productive (Department of Basic Education, 2023). The Department of Basic Education highlights that subject choices at this stage have a significant impact on future academic and career pathways. Selecting the right combination of subjects can determine access to university programmes, technical and vocational training, or specialised fields (Department of Basic Education, 2023). Schools, including Crawford International, provide structured subject selection guidance to ensure students and parents understand the weight of these decisions. Why Does Subject Choice Matter? Subject selection has a long-term impact on a student’s educational and professional opportunities. The subjects chosen in Grade 9 will determine the courses available to them in tertiary education and the careers they can pursue. They influence eligibility for specific tertiary education programmes and career fields (South African Qualifications Authority, 2022). Choosing subjects without considering their future implications may limit university and career options, creating unnecessary challenges later on. For example, selecting Mathematics Literacy instead of Pure Mathematics can restrict access to certain degree programmes, particularly in fields like engineering, medicine, and actuarial sciences. Furthermore, making well-informed subject choices can enhance academic performance and motivation. When students select subjects that align with their strengths and interests, they are more likely to remain engaged and perform well. Conversely, poor choices may lead to struggles in comprehension and lower overall academic achievement. What are the Compulsory Subjects? In South Africa, the Department of Basic Education mandates that all students take a set of compulsory subjects to ensure they receive a well-rounded education. These include: Home Language (e.g., English, IsiZulu or Afrikaans, etc.) First Additional Language – (another South African language) Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy – Pure Mathematics is required for careers in science, engineering, and technology, while Mathematical Literacy is an option for students who do not require advanced mathematical skills in their future careers. Life Orientation – This subject focuses on personal development, career guidance, and physical well-being, preparing students for life beyond school. · One additional subject, such as Life Sciences or Business Studies, depending on school requirements (Department of Basic Education, 2023). What are the Elective Subjects? Beyond compulsory subjects, students can select additional subjects based on their interests and future aspirations. Some common elective options in South African schools include: Business Studies – Ideal for students interested in commerce, entrepreneurship, and economic principles. Accounting – Suitable for those considering careers in finance, banking, or auditing. History and Geography – Subjects that develop critical thinking and research skills. Information Technology and Computer Applications Technology (CAT ) – Important for careers in technology, programming, and digital communication. Visual Arts and Drama – For students with an interest in the creative arts and media industries. Each school may offer different elective subjects, and it is crucial for students to research their options and understand the requirements for their intended career path. How Does Subject Choice Impact Career Aspirations? Subject selection plays a fundamental role in shaping future career opportunities. Many universities and technical institutions have specific entry requirements that dictate the subjects a student must have taken in high school. For instance: Medical and Health Sciences: Require Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Pure Mathematics. Engineering and Technology Fields: Require Pure Mathematics and Physical Sciences. Law and Humanities: Prefer History and English at a high level. Business and Finance Careers: Benefit from Accounting, Economics, and Business Studies. In the South African job market, demand for STEM-related careers continues to grow, with fields like engineering, data science, and healthcare requiring Mathematics and Physical Sciences (Maharaj, 2020). Meanwhile, the creative economy offers opportunities in digital marketing, graphic design, and content creation, where subjects like Visual Arts and Information Technology play a crucial role (University of Cape Town, 2021). In addition to academic requirements, subject choices can also develop key skills that are valuable in the workplace. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills are nurtured through subjects like Mathematics and Science, while creativity and communication skills are honed through subjects like Visual Arts and English. Making Informed Decisions. Grade 9 students should approach subject selection with careful consideration and seek guidance from teachers, parents, and career advisors. Schools like Crawford International provide career guidance programmes to help students make educated decisions. Career assessment tools, aptitude tests, and consultations with professionals can offer insights into suitable subject combinations based on individual strengths and interests. Additionally, students should think about their personal learning preferences and long-term satisfaction. Choosing subjects simply because they are perceived as ‘easy’ or because peers are taking them may lead to disengagement and regret in later years. Instead, selecting subjects based on passion and aptitude will result in a more fulfilling academic experience. The Grade 9 subject choice process is a crucial milestone in every South African student’s educational journey. Thoughtful subject selection can open doors to exciting career prospects, while uninformed decisions may limit future opportunities. By understanding the importance of this decision and seeking the necessary support, students can confidently navigate this process and set themselves up for success in high school and beyond.
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Determining Your Child’s Personality Type Understanding a child’s personality type is crucial in supporting their development, communication, and learning. Every child is unique, and recognising their individual traits can help parents and teachers nurture their strengths while addressing their challenges. By identifying personality types early, caregivers can tailor their approach to education, discipline, and social interactions, ensuring that children feel understood and supported. In South Africa, where diverse cultural influences shape upbringing and education, recognising personality differences can be especially beneficial in creating inclusive learning environments. What is a Personality Type? A personality type refers to a set of behavioural traits and characteristics that shape how individuals interact with the world. Various theories categorise personality into different types; one of the most widely recognised is Carl Jung’s theory, which forms the basis for the popular Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) (Brown, 2018). While adult personality assessments are well-developed, children’s personalities emerge gradually, influenced by genetic factors, environmental experiences, and social interactions (Smith & Taylor, 2020). In South Africa, many schools incorporate personality-based learning approaches to accommodate diverse student needs, particularly in environments that embrace multiple languages and cultural backgrounds. Signs of Different Personality Types in Children Children display unique behaviours that can indicate their personality type. Some common personality distinctions include: Introverted vs Extroverted: Some children thrive in social settings and seek external stimulation, while others prefer solitude and engage in deep, independent thinking (Johnson, 2019). Logical vs Emotional: Certain children make decisions based on logic and rules, whereas others are more intuitive and empathetic, often prioritising emotions in their interactions (Morris, 2017). This is evident in South African schools, where subjects like Life Orientation encourage both structured reasoning and emotional intelligence. Structured vs Flexible: Organised children prefer routine and predictability, while flexible children adapt easily to new situations and enjoy spontaneity (Lee & Patterson, 2021). In South Africa’s evolving educational landscape, schools that incorporate inquiry-based learning, such as Crawford International, ensure that both structured and adaptable students thrive. Methods for Determining Personality Types Identifying a child’s personality type requires observation, reflection, and sometimes professional assessment. Some effective methods include: Parental and Teacher Observation: Watching how a child reacts in different settings can provide clues about their personality. Do they prefer solitary play or social interactions? Do they follow rules meticulously or question authority? (Williams, 2022). Personality Questionnaires: While formal tests like the MBTI are often used for adults, child-friendly personality assessments can help identify dominant traits (Harris & Clarke, 2019). Many private schools use such assessments to tailor learning strategies to individual students. Educational and Psychological Assessments: In cases where personality influences learning challenges, professionals may conduct in-depth evaluations to guide support strategies (Naidoo, 2021). How Child Personality Influences Learning Styles Personality plays a significant role in how children engage with education. Some key influences include: Introverted learners may excel in individual tasks but struggle with classroom participation. Teachers can support them by allowing alternative ways to express knowledge, such as written reflections (Peters, 2020). Extroverted learners benefit from interactive and discussion-based learning but may need guidance in focusing on independent tasks (Clarkson, 2018). Logical thinkers often excel in structured subjects like Mathematics but may need encouragement to explore creative expression (Ngcobo, 2019). Emotionally driven children engage deeply with literature and arts but may require help developing analytical skills (Mthembu, 2020). In South Africa, the integration of digital education tools, such as those used at Crawford International, allows teachers to personalise learning experiences, ensuring that different personality types receive the support they need. Parenting Strategies Tailored to Different Personality Types Understanding a child’s personality type can guide parenting techniques. Some strategies include: For introverted children : Create a calm, quiet space for them to recharge after social interactions. Encourage deep conversations rather than forcing group activities (Miller, 2019). For extroverted children : Provide opportunities for social engagement, such as playdates and extracurricular activities, to help them thrive (Singh, 2021). For logical thinkers : Encourage structured activities like puzzles and problem-solving games while also exposing them to creative outlets (Jansen, 2018). For emotionally driven children : Validate their feelings and teach them emotional regulation strategies to balance empathy with resilience (Patel, 2020). South African families often embrace a communal parenting approach, where extended relatives contribute to a child’s upbringing. 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