FLIPPING BOOK CHRONICLE 2024

We say goodbye to Mr Pachonick and thank him for his valuable contribution to the department over the years. He has been a great source of support as Grade 10 Block co-ordinator as well as carrying out his vital role as an experienced matric teacher.

In the third quarter the boys embark on their job-shadowing experiences in order to prepare them for the world of work. Michaelhouse emphasizes the importance of job shadowing for 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 their possible careers and develop a realistic understanding of the demands and expectations of the professional world. Michaelhouse held its second annual 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 the boys to a diverse range of professions and offered practical advice for achieving success in their chosen paths. An array of local as well as 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 2025. Michaelhouse also hosted the 17th EduLink university careers roadshow, featuring tertiary institutions from 23 countries around the world. This broadened the horizons for many of our boys and exposed them to the possibilities of studying abroad. A Block marks the beginning of portfolio tasks and preparation for the IEB assessment. Boys engage in a range of tasks that promote physical and mental well-being, personal growth and critical thinking. These tasks include physical education, practical skills, research and preparation for the matric examination. The Common Assessment Task is a key component of A Block, exposing boys to critical societal issues. This year’s theme, Industry 4.0, required boys to explore the concept of the fourth industrial revolution. They needed to understand the previous industrial revolutions and the changes they brought to the world. The technologies of Industry 4.0 were explored in depth, as well as the emerging Industry 5.0. Arising from their understanding, the boys explored the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes required to be successful in a future world of work, which is yet to be defined. The theme showcased 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 our 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 the boys to become compassionate, resilient and socially conscious individuals, ready to navigate the challenges of the future with confidence and purpose. A BLOCK PORTFOLIO TASKS AND IEB EXAMINATION

MANAGER ON DUTY, WITH A TWIST Written by Mr Tim Jarvis

‘ Twas 31 nights before Christmas, when all through the House, Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; But as for the boys that’s a whole other story, So, strap in please Exco, this is going to be gory. At the start most children were hunkered at work by their beds, With mathematics and science going round and round in their heads; A number were gaming or listening to rap, While a few had settled in for a quick prep time nap. When in the Main Quad there arose such a clatter, I sprang from up from my desk to see what was the matter; Intending to move to the door in a flash, Instead hitting my knee on the desk with a crash. When finally, I got to the door to take stock, I saw a matric being carried by boys from E Block; As he was dumped in the pond without any say, I knew in a moment it must be his birth day. Calming my nerves with a campus wide stroll, I thought I smelt someone smoking a Zol; As I followed the scent, with nostrils agape, I discovered some boys with sugar plum flavoured vape. Down the corridors they ran from me without any shame, And I chased them, and shouted, and called them by name; “Now, Carlyle! now, Kaufmann! I’ve had my suspicion! If I catch you, you buggers, I’ll Donder and Bliksem! But I couldn’t catch them as you might have guessed, With a bruise on my knee and a pain in my chest; And partly on account of them being more slender, But mostly their conditioning in the high-performance centre. At this point in the evening, I was feeling quite stressed, And determined I needed just a moment of rest; I limped to the Chapel and sat in repose, There my eyes grew heavy and started to close.

Waking with a start, I heard on the roof, The prancing and pawing of many teenage youth; As I clambered up the bell tower in a now manic state, I was knocked down by a figure and laid out straight. 60