Magazine 2017

Grade 9 Personal Growth Workshop - 28 March The Grade 9 learners attended a Personal Growth Workshop facilitated by one of our past learners, Cayleigh Lawrence, who now practises as a Registered Counsellor. Through skillful use of various individual and group activities, Cayleigh was able to help learners develop listening and communication skills, promote personal awareness and growth and create a closer bond with all the learners within the group. Feedback from Abigail Rolfe about the workshop: I think I can speak on behalf of every- one in the grade when I say that the workshop was absolutely amazing. We learnt so much and gained a new understanding and respect for each other. New friendships and bonds were formed amongst learners in the grade and most importantly we all realised that you never have to face difficulties alone. There is always someone to cheer you on and be there to help or support you through whatever situation you are going through. Career Guidance As part of an initiative to provide learners with exposure to various local and international tertiary study opportunities, we host numerous events and invite guest speakers from different organisations to personally address our senior learners. Learners who need personalised guidance and support with subject choices or university admission requirements and applications can also make an appointment to meet with the School Counsellors. Careers Expo - 6 March The College hosted its annual Careers Expo. The Careers Expo provides learners and parents with the opportunity to browse exhibition stalls and talk to representatives from over 50 Colleges, Universities and other Higher Education Training Institutions. This year the Expo was well supported by a number of top universities from across the country such as: Stellenbosch University, WITS and the University of the Western Cape. There were also exhibitors catering for learners wanting to explore study paths in various vocational fields such as Design, Sound Engineering and Hospitality. Learners wanting to explore inter- national study opportunities were also spoilt for choice as there were a number of different exhibitors offering support in this field. Grade 9: Subject Choice Evening - 1 August Grade 9 is a very important year, as learners have to make subject choices for the FET phase of their school career which will impact their options for future careers and tertiary studies. The College engages in numerous activities and provides services to guide the grade 9s and their parents to make informed subject choices. The Grade 9 learners and their parents were invited to attend the Subject Choice Information evening. Amanda van der Vyver, an Education Psychologist specialising in Career Counselling, presented an insightful and informative presentation on the importance of choosing subjects that are in line with one’s individual strengths as well as one’s future career or study paths. The learners and parents then had the opportunity to visit a subject exhibition whereby educators were on hand to answer any questions relating to their subject. Guest speakers from University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University and Varsity College In conjunction with the Life Orientation Department, the Grade 11 and 12 learners had the opportunity to attend presentations offered by representatives from the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University and Varsity College. At these talks learners are provided with detailed information about admission and subject requirements. They are also given a taste of student life to help them determine which university or college would be the most suitable to their individual needs and preferences. Sarah, Tania, Irasema and Retha Jordaan at the Blood Clinic Aza Mbovane at Varsity Abroad's Stall Gr 12 US guest speaker 146 Parklands College, Twentieth Edition, 2017