ACADEMIC
Life Orientation We said a sad farewell at the end of last year to Ms Shannon Dowdall, who had been at Rustenburg for 30 years. Her contribution to Guidance, Counselling and Life Orientation was enormous and she left a strong foundation of care and counselling. This year we welcomed Ms Liza September into the department. She comes with wide experience and particular expertise in curriculum matters and training of Life Orientation educators. The girls have been very involved with beneficial job shadow opportunities, including open days for Law, UCT Forensics, PricewaterhouseCoopers, to name but a few. The Grade 12s have had regular career speakers from tertiary institutions such as the universities of Cape Town Stellenbosch, Rhodes, and the Western Cape, as well as the Cape Peninsula Technikon and VEGA. A significant Career Expo was held in June, with 45 institutions exhibiting. Community service formed an important part of the Grade 10 syllabus and the girls found meaningful experiences at a wide variety of organisations including The Bookery and SARDA. Additional lunchtime career talks were also held regularly for all interested girls. We were exceptionally proud of Lauren Denny who achieved eighth place in Life Orientation in the province at the end of 2013.This was an excellent achievement. We must also commend Shannen Beukes (E14) who was awarded the prestigious Yvonne Parfitt Bursary, which pays all university fees for the duration of undergraduate studies.
International Computer Driving Licence This year saw the inception of the latest ICDL programme at Rustenburg. Known as ICDL Profile, this programme is a test of practical skills and competencies covering computer theory and practice. The ICDL syllabus has ensured that this qualification remains relevant and up-todate through adding new meaningful modules to the certification. The Base Profile covers essential skills and knowledge required for digital literacy and involves elements of computer essentials, online essentials, word processing and spreadsheets which are covered in the junior grades. The Standard Profile covered in the senior grades equips individuals to deal and work with a range of skills in their daily activities. These include those needed to use mobile technology, social media, cloud computing, IT security and web design. The ability to use technology effectively is an essential life skill and our goal is to provide our girls with an enriched educational experience that equips them with the digital skills that help them to be more productive in life, tertiary studies and work.
RGHS MAGAZINE 2014
41
