81 80 The Chronicle 2021 Centenary Edition Life Orientation Life Orientation aims to equip boys for life during and after school, and especially, how to cope and thrive in a changing world. Coping with hybrid learning, dealing with change, showing resilience and being self-motivated were just some of the abilities asked of students during another unpredictable year. The Grade 8 boys began the year by unpacking the virtue of resilience. This was especially relevant to them in the way that had to adapt this year. Self-esteem and social media were a big focus of discussions, with boys facing increasing challenges and influences in the online world. Table manners and basic etiquette were learned during class time and the first term culminated in a very enjoyable Formal Dinner for the Grade 8 boys and staff members in the SportZone. Mr AJ Roos, the school biokineticist, addressed the Grade 9 students about steroids and supplements. They also appreciated discussions on the topics of mental health, community responsibility and subject choice selection. Grade 10 students created impressive magazine covers to showcase their personal brands, evaluated the progress that humanity has made on social and environmental issues, learnt some of the basics of personal financial management and enthusiastically discussed the topics of gender equity, and masculinity and femininity. Sex Ed workshops were run by Kearsney staff this year, with the focus on crafting sessions that were best suited to each grade in three broad areas – sex and sexuality education, moral and value formation, and discussion of practical scenarios relating to the topics. Ms Kerry-Jane Coleman, Rev. Kym Bishop, Mr Yanga Sotshangane and Mr Steven Edwards are thanked for their efforts. The focus of Grade 11 this year was to encourage thinking about career opportunities, the skills required for life after school and critical thinking, in preparation for their Grade 12 assessments. The Grade 12s Common Assessment Task theme was related to perspective, conflict and conflict resolution. Many interesting discussions took place aimed at making the boys aware of their role in creating a more accepting and peaceful world. The Matric cohort can be proud of their efforts and achievements in 2021. This year saw the introduction of the Achieve Careers materials being used across the school. These have been an invaluable resource in engaging our boys with relevant topics and material. A sincere thank you to the growing Life Orientation department for making 2021 a valuable year for all the boys – Mr Kyle Eysele, Mr André van Zyl, Ms Lethu Langa, Mr Marco Botha, Mr Pierre Le Roux, Mr Yanga Sotshangane (intern), Ms Kerry-Jane Coleman (counsellor), and Rev Kym Bishop (chaplain). Mr Steven Edwards HOD Life Orientation
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTc3MDU5Nw==