The process of grade 1 and 8 school allocations is a stressful experience for parents across the country and every year sees parents on the edge of their seats, anxiously awaiting news of their child’s school preferred selection and placement. This is a nail-biting affair for a number of reasons.
One being that grade 1 and 8 school allocations, marks a significant milestone in a child’s education, and finding the right school can have a lasting impact on their academic journey and future. The importance of finding the right school for their child’s education cannot be overstated, which adds to the pressure and tension surrounding this process.
Another reason why the grade 1 and 8 school allocations process is so stressful is the sheer number of learners and limited available spaces. South Africa faces a significant challenge in ensuring that every child has access to quality education, In the Western Cape in particular the booming population due in part to the semi-gration from other provinces has resulted in the demand for spaces in reputable schools far exceeding the supply, resulting in fierce competition and a sense of uncertainty for parents.
In 2022 the situation nationally was particularly disheartening, with thousands of grade 1 and grade 8 learners not being placed in any school. The education department faced immense criticism for failing to adequately address the issue and find suitable alternatives for these learners.
Another aspect that adds to the uncertainty is the ongoing debate regarding the CAPS (Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement) curriculum. Some parents question whether this curriculum adequately prepares their child for the future due to the 30% pass rate criteria or if there are alternative educational approaches that might better suit their child’s needs.
The proposed introduction of the BELA (Basic Education Laws Amendment) act has also sparked concerns among parents. The impact this act will have on a school’s and child’s future education, values, language and religious beliefs remains uncertain. Parents may be apprehensive about how their child’s education will be shaped under these new regulations, further adding to the existing stress and uncertainty. (*see link at the end of this article for more recent news on the BELA act)
In the era of online learning, the introduction of the BELA act raises the question of whether online schools will continue to exist and be registered or accredited by UMALUSI (Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training). The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the growth of online education, and many parents have come to rely on this alternative mode of learning. The uncertainty surrounding the future of online schooling and its legitimacy is of huge concern to parents whose children are currently enrolled at an online school.
Amidst this stressful environment, Melkbosstrand Private School (MPS) stands out as a beacon of hope for parents who can afford and are seeking the best education for their child. MPS has for the past 2 years achieved the status of being 1 of the top small private schools in the country, offers the IEB curriculum, a comprehensive and well-rounded educational experience that caters to the individual needs of each learner. The school boasts a dedicated and experienced teaching staff, a focus on ‘high touch’ education, and a supportive learning environment.
“At MPS we focus on high touch education in a high tech environment and innovative learning methodologies which we align with our Christian values and the accompanying discipline which underpins it all,” says Mr Allan Norton.
“It is the idea of raising our learners to be #ChangeMakers that is central to the core of MPS,” he adds.
MPS is a place where #ChangeMakers are raised and released through a unique combination of High Touch quality education, innovative learning methodologies through our partnership with Keller Education; all underpinned by our Christian ethos and values. (Read more about this in our previous blog articles: “Raising & Releasing #Changemakers & How MPS was re-imagined” and “Launching into the Future with MPS – we’re on the right trajectory!”)
MPS emphasises a holistic approach to education, focusing not only on academic excellence but also on the development of character, values, and critical thinking skills. We pride ourselves on creating a nurturing environment where learners can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Furthermore, MPS remains committed to upholding the highest educational standards, regardless of any changes in the education landscape. The school follows the IEB curriculum while also incorporating innovative teaching methods and approaches to ensure that learners receive a well-rounded holistic education that prepares them for the future.
While the uncertainties surrounding school allocations, curriculum choices, and educational regulations can be overwhelming for parents, Melkbosstrand Private School offers a stable and promising option. MPS stands out as a top choice for parents who want the best education for their child.
“We would like to assure you that once you have taken a look at what we have to offer the decision to become an MPS #Changemaker, will be an easy one and you won’t look back.”
We understand the process of allocations is stressful and more often than not disappointing but we do have some good news for you – MPS still has space available for 2024! Enrolments are open all year round and we still have spaces available in all our grades!
We would love for even more learners to experience the “MPS difference” and change not only their lives but the lives of their parents, families and community too! Take a step closer to becoming part of the MPS family and contact our efficient and friendly enrolment officer today.
* to read the article mentioned above click here: “New laws for schools in South Africa – big changes for homeschooling and language policies move ahead – BusinessTech”
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