With three months left before they enter their final year of school in 2018, Grade 11 learners could be tempted to make relaxing their only priority before the whirlwind year that is Matric.
However, an education expert says, now is precisely the time they should be investigating and even pinning down their further study plans.
Peter Kriel, General Manager at The Independent Institute of Education, says many Grade 12s get so caught up in the social and academic demands of their final year, that they don’t spend enough time ensuring they investigate all their options and apply timeously to university or private higher education institutions.
“Grade 11s are often not aware that they can submit applications on the basis of their Grade 11 marks, which means they can then focus wholly and completely on Grade 12.
Kriel says when evaluating institutions future students should attend open days, physically visit the campus and make telephonic or written contact.
For Grade 11s who are serious about getting their ducks in a row before jumping into the Matric pond, Kriel has a handy checklist:
1. How do your class sizes in this particular programme compare to other institutions or universities?
2. How is classroom contact time and self-directed study balanced?
3. How is technology supporting the learning experience of students at this institution?
4. How important is employability of students after studying at their institution? If I get stuck with an assignment or project, which resources and courses of action are available to me?
6. Even if not applicable to you, it may also be a good idea to ask about the institution’s policy and support for students with special needs, for example needing extra time on assessments.
