All systems go for Grade 1’s first day

The start of big school for 2022’s Grade 1s.

Reddford House Northcliff is looking forward to shaping, support and guiding their newest and youngest learners as they welcome them at the start of the academic year.

With their big bags on their backs and small shoes on their soles, they walked into the school’s Foundation Phase accompanied by their families before they were handed to the teachers.

The journey that awaits the Grade 1s will span over the next 12 years and will need parents to support their children emotionally and psychologically to ensure it’s a fruitful adventure. Grade 1 teacher Adri Basson expressed, “Parents should be actively involved in their children’s academics and sport. They are the best role models for their children’s manners, participation and co-operation in all activities and events.”

She added that parents should be positive about their children’s school and teachers as this will also have a positive effect on their learners’ experience of big school. Parents’ own worries and anxiety can also influence their children’s emotions, which can be detrimental to their progress and development.

To further improve their children’s self-confidence and esteem, parents are advised to listen to their children reading or talking about their daily observations and learning that took place. Basson added, “Parents should also listen to any concerns a teacher might have regarding a child’s challenges so that all parties can act in the best interest of the child and support them accordingly.

“The Reddford House teachers only want the best for each child and would like to see each child reach their full potential by the end of every academic year. The school is looking forward to spending the next year with the learners and helping them become the best versions of themselves.”