FLIPPING BOOK CHRONICLE 2024

BODIES, BOUNDARIES AND BOARDING

DISTANCE PARENTING

A look at your rights and responsibilities as a boarder. This is for our E Block when they enter the school.

This is the third year we have held this course for parents who are new to the boarding experience. Run over three weeks, the course considered how best to support boys who are boarding, given that parents can’t be physically present with them.

SEXY SMARTS

This day-long workshop on sex and sexuality forms part of the D Block Integrated Studies programme. PARENT COURSES

THANKS

With the demands of high-school education there are many boys who need academic support. Our gratitude goes to Mrs Katherine Cass, our Academic Support teacher, whose support often overlaps into the area of pastoral concern. Finally, thanks go to our administrator Mrs Carol Liquorish for the first half of the year, and more recently Mrs Kelly Jacquire. Without the support of all these people it would be impossible to do what we do in terms of support, counselling and pastoral care.

STRONG MOTHERS, STRONG SONS

We have run this course, facilitated by Cape Town psychologist Megan de Beyer, with great success for several years. 2024 was no exception.

LIFE ORIENTATION

Head of Department: Mrs Leigh Kotze Staff: Mr Righardt Kotze, Mr David Pachonick, Mrs Lucy Ivins, Mrs Katherine Cass, Mr Tim Jarvis, Mrs Jenni Clinton-Parker, Mr Luyanda Zondi, Mr Zethembiso Jali ife Orientation is a crucial subject that plays a significant role in the holistic development of our boys. It provides a platform to address important topics that are often overlooked, allowing the boys to gain valuable knowledge and skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. At Michaelhouse, the Life Orientation Department is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that focuses on self-esteem, relationships, personal growth and societal responsibilities. E BLOCK INTRODUCTION TO BOARDING AND STUDY SKILLS The journey of Life Orientation begins in E Block, where the boys are introduced to the boarding experience and provided with the necessary support to navigate this new environment. The school counsellor, Mr Jarvis, plays a vital role in helping them adjust to boarding life, addressing the many concerns they may have. In addition to boarding, E Block boys also delve into study skills with the assistance of the learning support staff, Mrs Cass and Mrs Ivins. These study-skills sessions equip them with effective learning strategies and techniques, ensuring they are well prepared for their first high-school examinations. L

shape their academic journeys. Mr Jarvis, once again, provides guidance and support to help them understand the complexities of relationships during this transitional period. The Learning Support Department also plays a pivotal role in D Block, assisting boys in making informed subject choices. By considering their interests, strengths and aspirations, boys can make well-informed decisions that align with their future goals. C BLOCK BUILDING HUMAN RIGHTS, COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY As the boys progress to C Block, the focus shifts towards building a sense of community and fostering social responsibility. The boys actively engage in community-service projects, allowing them to develop empathy, compassion and a deeper understanding of societal issues. These experiences empower them to become active contributors to their communities and make a positive impact on the world around them. At C Block level, Life Orientation now counts for marks and the boys start learning how to prepare for their matric examination paper. Life Orientation becomes more academic, and discursive essays are introduced alongside critical-thinking skills and an understanding of human rights. B BLOCK EXPLORING CAREERS, LEADERSHIP AND GOAL SETTING B Block is a pivotal stage where boys begin to explore various career options and develop goal-setting skills. The boys also complete a module on leadership as they embark on a journey towards roles as leaders in the school. The Life Orientation curriculum provides insights into different career paths, including university degrees and gap-year opportunities, enabling boys to make informed decisions about their futures.

D BLOCK NAVIGATING RELATIONSHIPS AND MAKING SUBJECT CHOICES

D Block marks a crucial time in the boys’ lives as they navigate relationships and make important subject choices that will

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