ONLY a minority of the country’s pupils are able to afford private education but this in no way diminishes the relevance of specialised educational facilities in South Africa.
The impressive pass rate of 98.56% – an increase from the previous year’s 98.2% – by the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) matriculants of 2013 encapsulates the hard work, dedication and performance of both pupils and teachers.
In Zululand, we are fortunate to have three IEB schools to choose from, all offering diverse academic, sporting and arts curricula.
And local IEB pupils once again impressed, with all three schools achieving 100% pass rates and outstanding results to culminate the 2013 academic year.
Este Louw of Felixton College flew the Zululand flag high being the only local pupil to be placed in the top 5% in the country on the IEB Outstanding and Commendable List and the top 5% in the country in six subjects, including Life Orientation.
The Hluhluwe maestro obtained a 97% average, nine distinctions and 100% in both pure maths and advanced maths.
Of the 9 580 full-time and 586 part-time candidates from 185 schools who passed the IEB national senior certificate (NSC) exam countrywide in 2013, all achieved tertiary study entry pass rates, which allows them to study at a university or university of technology.
A breakdown of the pass rate reveals that 85% of the group achieved entry to degree study – a 3.5% increase from 2010 – while 12% qualified for entry to diploma study; and 1.5% achieved entry for study at the higher certificate level.
From an early age, parents should identify the skill, abilities and talents displayed by their children.
This will ensure that pupils pursue their passion and excel in their respective fields.
For instance, not every pupil is academically inclined but there is a great need in this country and Zululand for technical skills and artisans in particular.
Other pupils flourish in arts and drama as well as on the sporting field.
Whatever the chosen path, it is imperative that pupils are enrolled at appropriate schools.
There are many advantages to enrolling your child at an IEB school including smaller teaching groups, individualised tuition and quality education.
Private institutions offering bigger packages are known for attracting experienced teachers ensuring quality education.
The IEB has also developed the advanced programme courses in Mathematics, English and Afrikaans, which is equivalent to the United Kingdom’s A level courses which enable local pupils to study overseas and meet the requirements.
And as an additional local benefit, our IEB schools have also established partnerships with less privileged schools, giving those pupils a wonderful boost.
Some people opt for luxury cars, holiday destinations and homes while others invest every last cent in their child’s education.
It is a choice but for the thousands who have chosen IEB schools, it has definitely paid off.
