With hurdles such as the Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing load shedding, it is safe to say that 2021 has been among the most unconventional school years for learners across the country.
The same can be said of this exam period. Hence, The Independent Institute of Education general manager Peter Kriel says parents should play their role in ensuring that the only thing occupying their children’s minds are the main exams.
Kriel says that parent’s, particularly those of matric learners should bear in mind the fact this has been a challenging school year for their children. The main focus for the learners in the household should be on the final exams and nothing else.
The minute my child comes out of a room and starts saying, Dad, What about next year? What about the results? I need to be able to step in and make them feel secure and assure them of what they can and cannot control.
Secondly, parents must pay close attention to any signs of anxiety or depression and know that there are support systems out there.
In the case of not having properly prepared for the desired results, Kriel says it is never too late and that parents should ensure that their children focus on all the areas that they feel they cannot properly understand.
It's not too late to earn that one or two extra marks in your exam paper that may mean you pass or fail. Put in your focus and say 'this is my focus and this is what I'm going to focus on'.
Parents have also been advised to use all the available resources at their disposal to ensure that their children are adequately prepared for an exam.
In the case of not doing as well as the learner may have wanted, Kriel suggests even registering for a one year Higher Certificate in the desired course. Upon successful completion, this will give the learner access to the degree qualification of their choice.
