The 2023 Chronicle

B BLOCK EXPLORING CAREERS AND GOAL SETTING

Boys engage in a range of tasks that promote physical and mental well-being, personal growth and critical thinking. These tasks include physical education, mental health awareness, research, and preparation for the IEB examination. The Common Assessment Task (CAT) is a key component of A Block, exposing boys to critical societal issues. This year’s CAT theme, Consumerism , prompted the boys to explore the factors contributing to overconsumption, fast fashion and throwaway culture, and how these factors contribute to environmental degradation. They were challenged to devise sustainable intervention strategies, considering alternative solutions beyond punitive measures. The matric tasks serve as a culmination of boys’ experiences in the Life Orientation syllabus, reflecting their growth, development and readiness to transition into adulthood. Through these tasks, boys have the opportunity to showcase their civic engagement, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, highlighting the multifaceted nature of their education and their preparedness to navigate the complexities of the world beyond the classroom. Life Orientation at Michaelhouse is a dynamic and comprehensive subject that equips boys with essential life skills, promotes personal growth and nurtures a sense of social responsibility. Through a well-rounded curriculum, the boys develop self-esteem, build meaningful relationships, explore career options and engage in community service. The department’s commitment to holistic development empowers boys to become compassionate, resilient and socially conscious individuals, ready to navigate the challenges of the future with confidence and purpose. We say goodbye to Mrs Erasmus and thank her for her valuable contribution to the Life Orientation Department over the years. I personally thank her for being a great source of support to me in my new role as Head of Department in 2023 as well as her vital role as an experienced matric teacher. Richard has accepted a position as head of the economics department at Reddam House, Constantia, which he will be commencing in January 2024. His contributions, not only to our department but also in his extensive extracurricular involvement at Michaelhouse, will be sorely missed. Mr Ernest Rindfleisch left us in August this year to take up a position in the UK. He had been at Michaelhouse since 2014, and was Head of the Economics Department since 2017. Additionally, he was also economics portfolio moderator for the IEB. His wisdom, supreme organization, calm demeanour and insight into the curriculum will be greatly missed, but he will now provide us with a direct link to the UK and insights into the A level curriculum which he is teaching there. Ms Riette White was appointed as the new Head of the Economics Department.

B Block is a pivotal stage where boys begin to explore career options and develop goal-setting skills. They are encouraged to consider both instant and delayed gratification, understanding the importance of setting long-term goals. The Life Orientation curriculum provides insights into different career paths, including university degrees and gap year opportunities, helping each boy make an informed decision about his future. In the third quarter the boys embark on their job-shadowing experiences in preparation for the world of work. Job shadowing allows the boys to engage first-hand in their chosen career paths, as well as network and start to create a professional platform for themselves. Job shadowing helps the boys make informed decisions about possible careers and develop a realistic understanding of the demands and expectations of the professional world. Michaelhouse also held its first World of Work Day for the B Block group in accordance with the focus of their year. The school was able to draw on its network of successful Old Boys to inspire and motivate the boys. The Old Boy speakers were invited to share their experiences, insights and career journeys, providing valuable guidance and mentorship. These sessions exposed boys to a diverse range of professions and provided practical advice for achieving success in their chosen paths. An array of local and international universities were also invited to share their offerings and advice with the boys. It was a very successful event, which will be repeated in 2024.

A BLOCK PORTFOLIO TASKS AND IEB EXAMINATION

A Block marks the beginning of portfolio tasks and preparation for the Independent Examination Board (IEB) assessment.

ECONOMICS

Head of Department: Mr Ernest Rindfleisch Staff members: Mrs Win de Wet (A Block), Ms Riette White (A-D Block), Mr Michael Sevenoaks (A-D Block), Mr Richard Johnson (B-E Block), Mr Brendan Gittins (E Block) Interns: Mr Lwando Saunders, Mr Bruere Venter, Mr Sifiso Lungani Shabangu (from June to December), Mr Lwandiswa Zuma (from June to December) t the beginning of 2023 we welcomed Mr Richard Johnson into the Economics Department as a full-time teacher after his previous involvement as an intern. Richard’s extensive knowledge, having a Master’s degree in economics, as well as his innovative and practical teaching methods assisted in elevating how we approach our subject in the classroom. A

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