As parents, we want the best for our children, and their schooling plays a vital role in shaping their future. It’s only natural to have concerns and questions about their educational journey. Let’s explore some of these concerns:
A major concern for parents that has made its way to the forefront over the last few years is their children’s stress and anxiety levels. Today’s educational landscape can sometimes put immense pressure on students, leading to stress and anxiety that may hinder their overall well-being.
The second factor that makes parents anxious about their children is the school’s teacher-to-student ratio. In public schools in South Africa, this number can reach for the skies as high as 50 students per class, with only a single teacher available per class. Now that is just a recipe for disaster. Smaller class sizes often allow for more personalised attention and a better learning experience.
Are you confident that your child is receiving the attention they need to thrive academically and emotionally?
In South Africa, the main way of getting through school involves the infamous CAPS system. It is neither the only way nor the best way of completing school, but that is what most parents and students alike are stuck with (mostly because they just don’t know about alternatives). A big problem with the CAPS system is that it is scheduled and filled to the brim with projects and tons of work. This causes students to constantly do homework and projects that can demotivate them and cause a bit of burnout.
Some parents might think that because their kids are doing more and having to work hard, they will thrive. This is definitely not the case. The 21st century isn’t about hard work, it’s about working smart and effectively. This is not something that is promoted in most of the schools in South Africa today. Striking the right balance between academic rigour and a manageable workload is essential for a healthy educational experience.
Are your child’s assignments reasonable and conducive to learning? This might be a trick for most people to answer. To make it a bit easier we can consider; when was the last time your child actually enjoyed doing an assignment? Studies have shown that people learn and retain information better when they experience strong positive emotions. Life is too short to not have fun, and it’s a shame that children have to still go through the traditional method of schooling; don’t have fun, just do your work.
The stigma that sitting in an instructor-led classroom while being bored out of your mind is the best way to learn has been found to be a bit outdated, and well, wrong. There are many ways to make learning fun and engaging, although it is understandable that it sounds quite intimidating, and some parents and teachers might fear losing control of their children when introducing fun into their learning.
A practical example of learning made fun:
As part of their “Fun Theory” campaign, Volkswagen made a staircase into a giant piano. What was the outcome? 66% more people chose the stairs over the escalator. This just goes to show that fun can change the way people behave in a situation that would otherwise be a boring chore.
Some more concerns that parents have:
Is your child’s self-esteem taking a hit? A positive self-image is crucial for a child’s development.
Do you feel that your child’s schooling experience is nurturing their self-esteem and self-confidence?
Do you crave a more flexible curriculum that suits your child’s needs? Every child is unique, and their educational journey should reflect that individuality.
Are you looking for an educational approach that allows for flexibility and customization?
Is your child feeling burdened by relentless testing? An excessive focus on testing can sometimes overshadow the joy of learning.
Is your child’s education promoting a love for knowledge rather than just chasing marks?
Discover the Benefits of a Holistic Education:
Increased Motivation: Extensive research indicates that when students enjoy a sense of autonomy and choice in their schooling journey, they become more motivated to engage deeply with the material. Autonomy often leads to a heightened level of intrinsic motivation—a motivation that springs from personal interest and sheer enjoyment.
Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Students who are granted the freedom to explore topics and tackle challenges independently tend to develop sharper critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This independence fosters active engagement with the learning process, encouraging students to think creatively and act autonomously.
Deeper Understanding: Allowing students to explore subjects they are truly passionate about can lead to a profound and lasting understanding of those topics. When learning is driven by curiosity and personal interest, it naturally becomes more meaningful and enduring.
Improved Self-Regulation: Holistic education empowers students to take ownership of their education and cultivate essential self-regulation skills. They learn how to set goals, manage their time efficiently, and monitor their progress effectively.
Diverse Learning Styles: Every student is unique, and not all thrive in the same learning environment or respond to identical teaching methods. A holistic approach to schooling caters to a wide array of learning styles and preferences, enabling each student to chart their own path to mastery.
Experience Holistic Schooling at Open Minds Campus:
Open Minds Campus offers the ideal environment for nurturing a holistic approach to education, providing access to valuable resources, mentorship, and expert guidance.
Balancing Autonomy and Structure:
At Open Minds Campus, we understand the importance of finding the perfect equilibrium between autonomy and guidance to cater to the distinct needs of each student.
Keep Your Child’s Well-Being in Mind:
Avoid the pitfalls of overcommitting to numerous activities, which can lead to stress, exhaustion, and burnout in children, affecting their mental and physical health adversely.
Value Unstructured Free Time:
Children require unstructured free time to relax, play, and explore independently. Overloading a child’s schedule can deprive them of these essential moments crucial for their overall well-being.
Preserve the Joy of Childhood:
Don’t let overscheduling rob your child of their childhood. Ensure they enjoy a balanced and age-appropriate life with Open Minds Campus.
Discover the Power of Balance:
Research emphasizes the significance of moderation and balance in your child’s schedule.
Unlock Intrinsic Motivation:
Let go of the reliance on external rewards and punishments, and witness the transformation of learners who are genuinely excited to engage with their studies.
Encourage Curiosity and Exploration:
Foster an environment where learners are free to explore topics that pique their interest, inspiring a more open and inquisitive approach to learning.
Alleviate Stress and Anxiety:
Eliminate the pressure of external motivators, allowing the learning environment to become less stressful and more conducive to effective learning.
Support Lifelong Learning:
Encourage students to embark on a journey of deep and meaningful learning, driven by a genuine thirst for knowledge that endures over time.
Cultivate Creativity and Problem-Solving:
By removing the focus on rewards and punishments, learners are encouraged to think creatively and develop robust problem-solving skills.
Empower Self-Determination:
Allow learners to develop a strong sense of self-determination and self-regulation as they take charge of their educational journey.
What it comes down to
At Open Minds Campus, we empower learners to take control of their schooling, explore their passions, and cultivate a profound love for learning that extends far beyond the classroom. Our holistic approach nurtures students’ growth academically, emotionally, and socially, ensuring they thrive in an environment that values their unique potential. Join us in providing your child with the education they truly deserve.
| Mainstream schools | Open Minds Campus |
| Standardised curricula and textbooks are prescribed. | Flexible curriculum that can be customised to individual interests and needs. |
| Teacher-centred approach; instruction is primarily spoon-fed. | Student-centred approach; active learning, discussion, and exploration are encouraged. |
| Emphasis on standardized testing, marks, passing or failing grades | Emphasis on Mastery |
| Primarily focused on academic achievement and exam results. | Focus on academic mastery and emotional, social, and physical well-being. |
| Regimented grade-by-grade learning. 12 year schooling system. | Emphases on flexible individual Progress with British exit exams for matric once ready. |
| Large class sizes are common. | Smaller class sizes allow for more personalised attention. |
| Structured learning environment | Diverse learning environment |
| External control through marks, fear of failure, rewards and punishment. | Emphasis on intrinsic motivation, curiosity and a love for learning. |
| Uniform approach that may not cater to individual learning styles. | Tailored to individual students, respecting their unique needs and preferences. |
| Potential for high stress due to lots of homework, exams and competition. | Efforts to reduce stress and motivate through a balanced and supportive environment. |
| Limited focus on life skills beyond academics. | Integration of life skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. |
