‘All milestones not lost for Gr 12 learners’
One’s matric year is typically a memorable one, a rite of passage into the world of work or study.
When Gr 12’s across the country are expected to return to school on 1 June, they would have missed out on two months of what was supposed to be a milestone year.
One’s matric year is typically a memorably one, a rite of passage into the world of work or study, and bidding farewell through various traditions at school.
Counsellor Carmen Jooste explains the developmental stage Gr 12 learners typically find themselves in, and how this is affected by the lockdown.
“Gr 12’s find themselves in a stage of identity versus role confusion. During this stage, they are becoming more independent, and begin to look towards their future, their careers and their prospects. This lockdown may have caused conflict for many in terms of their future path as this independence is beyond their control. This can cause role confusion.”
Learners in this final step of their high school careers, have now not been able to participate in and have the full experience of being the seniors at their schools, and naturally missed out on what those who came before them, had the privilege to, according to Jooste.
“They might still be able to enjoy some of these traditions once they return to school, but it will be in a way never done before. This is generally a fearful year for them as the year determines which direction they will follow into the real world.”
Jooste says many Gr 12’s may be struggling with anxiety, which can affect the learning process and their psychological state of mind.
“It is necessary that they have access to some form of social support, counselling service, or even psycho-educational workshop to ensure they are in the right space to give their best,” she concludes.
Psychometrist Juanita Marx explains how the lockdown has, on a positive note, redirected the focus back to academics for many Gr 12 learners.
“Due to the stress and uncertainty they experience during the lockdown, their attention was less focused on sport and socialising, and more on schoolwork. This will stand them in good stead going forward this year.”
With the lockdown, many of the goals they may have had were taken away from them, Marx says. “This can be very difficult for teenagers and they often fall into a depression. Some, for example, would have had only this year to play rugby for their school’s first team, which they will no longer be able to do.”
Marx advises parents to provide the necessary support for their children who are in Gr 12 this year.
“Help them to simply shift the goal posts in terms of timing. They can still exercise, even though they will not play for the first team. They will one day be able to play rugby again. Change their goals if need be. Be willing to achieve your goal at a later stage.”
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