With the release of 2019 matric results only days away, learners anxiously await the announcement which will ultimately decide their future.
On January 7, the results will be released.
Nola Payne, head of information and communications technology faculty at The Independent Institute of Education, said it’s important for learners and parents/guardians to take stock of the big picture
“Anxious parents and guardians need to take a step back and ensure that their concern over what may come doesn’t escalate tension in the house,” said Payne.
“It is important to reflect on the fact that matric results do not define a person forever.”
Payne said many people who did not do well in matric recovered from the situation and reached success down the line, while others, who performed well but never built on their results, did not excel.
“Ultimately, by looking at your results, and objectively and dispassionately considering the best course of action from there, you can ensure that you reach your potential,” said Payne.
She said parents and learners should remember that failing matric is not the end of the road.
If learners are not happy with their results or want to obtain their national senior certificate, they should make use of the following advice:
1. Do supplementary examinations later in the year.
2. Return to school to re-do matric.
3. Go to another school or institution to complete matric.
4. Complete matric via distance learning.
Payne said not achieving what you wanted to in matric does not mean your plans to study a degree must be cancelled.
For those learners who passed, but didn’t achieve the marks required for entrance into degree study, the following options are available:
1. Enrolling for a higher certificate at a higher education institution, which can give access to degree study.
2. Enrolling for a diploma which can give access to degree study.
“Access to study for a higher certificate is available to anyone who achieved a higher certificate pass in their National Senior Certificate exams,” said Payne.
“It is important that you engage fully with your higher certificate studies so that you can develop those key skills you may have been lacking during your final school year,” she said.
Payne explained that higher certificates have replaced many foundation programmes, as they provide students with an opportunity to gain a full qualification while mastering those essential skills needed for higher education success, or academic literacy.
It is important that those who choose this option ensure that their chosen institution is registered and accredited, and will support students with focused academic literacy modules and a full-year programme designed to bridge the gap between school and degree studies.
Payne explained that a higher certificate in business principles and practice, in IT, in support services or in events management, for instance, should give learners access to a BCom, a bachelor of IT in business systems, or BA the year after completion.
“So, while waiting for results day to arrive, take the time to consider your options and understand that no matter what happens, you will be able to get back on track on the path of success,” said Payne.
