Things are changing faster than ever before. Most industries are experiencing rapid and substantial disruptions. Education is no different. In most parts of the world, the traditional view of education in a classroom with a teacher and 25 to 35 children is becoming outdated. Parents and employers are demanding more from the learners who emerge from our education system. Gone are the days when we produced wave upon wave of school leavers who were expected to fit into a highly standardised world. The new buzzword is individualisation, a strong post-modern shift in society and one of the most important challenges for 21st century education.

The ancient Greeks understood how to individualise the learning journey and develop learners’ full potential. They employed tutors to guide individuals or small groups, covering a broad set of skills and topics. Learning was often based on the Socratic Method, a way of questioning learners to help them arrive at new insights. Similar examples of individualised learning techniques can be found in most ancient civilisations, from India and China in the East to Africa and the Islamic world, Europe and the Americas. Since then, children of wealthy parents have often been schooled by a highly skilled (and often very expensive) private tutor. Even children from less wealthy families could become apprentices under a master, receiving personal instruction in their craft. This level of focus on the abilities and needs of individual learners typically results in superior-quality learning outcomes.

Unfortunately, most people cannot afford a private teacher. The introduction of formal schooling over the past 200 years aimed to create a system in which most of the population could be schooled to an acceptable standard at an affordable cost. Affordability and consistency meant that we had to compromise on quality: larger groups of learners were assigned to teachers (with less individual focus), and learning topics were standardised into a curriculum.

This carbon-copy learning approach is becoming obsolete and is being challenged in the modern economy. Most people agree that the future will require adaptable and multi-skilled individuals to contribute to society. We must transform the education system to match this requirement; however, we do not have to reinvent the wheel. We will do well to incorporate the wisdom of ancient civilisations when building education for the future. They understood that the focus should be on truly individualised learning across multiple topics, competencies and character qualities, at the learner’s optimal pace to reach their full potential.

How will this happen? Technology will play a critical role in the individualised learning environment. Technology can effectively customise the ongoing guidance of each learner. It can transform the content learners engage with and effortlessly link learners to each other and the wider global community, irrespective of location. It can also continuously gather information about a learner, using this to customise the learning journey. This means that the traditional role of the teacher can change from having to control the highly complex combination of learning journeys for everyone in their classroom to that of a facilitator for individuals or smaller groups when they need specific assistance. Our traditional narrow focus on subjects must also be re-evaluated to ensure that learners can apply knowledge and skills across a broader set of modern encounters.

At Optimi, we keep challenging ourselves to develop the future of learning. We are building an ecosystem to support GuidED Learning, a term we use to describe the individualised learning journey of a child or adult to achieve a specific outcome. We believe that individualised learning can be solved at costs that are affordable to every person in the world. Our focus in changing learning should be to emulate the highly individualised and successful learning environment that was created by tutors or masters with individual learners or smaller groups throughout ancient history. A big challenge, but we are up for the task! 

For more information, visit www.optimi.co.za or send the company an e-mail at info@optimi.co.za.

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being. This indirectly affects day-to-day functioning in terms of how we think, feel and act.

The importance of mental health cannot be stressed enough – from childhood, through adolescence and into adulthood. Poor mental health does not necessarily mean that you will be diagnosed with a mental illness. However, it may be detrimental to your overall physical health.

Many families and cultures shun the idea of seeking professional help from psychologists, psychiatrists or therapists. This has had a significant impact on how these individuals grow up and experience life.

The important questions we must ask are:

• What is the quality of life of someone with mental health-related issues?
• How much are they affected when they do not deal with the issues using professional help?
• How do we even begin to recognise that we need professional help?

Young adults sometimes feel that their busy lives keep them from attending to their mental health. It becomes something they hardly think about, until one day they are fit and energetic and the next, they suffer a panic attack. Life has a curious way of reminding you to look inward and become more intentional about taking care of yourself.

What signs can we look for in children and young people that tell us their mental health needs special attention?

1. Anxiety or worry: your child might be preoccupied or overly anxious about managing their schoolwork.

2. Depression: challenges at school may lead to sadness, hopelessness, lethargy and other symptoms of depression.

3. Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate.

These are only a few of the signs to look for – read about mental health and educate yourself to recognise the signs.

As a society, we must step back and consider what is most important for the child. We must let go of the notion that the image or reputation of the family is important, or what our parents and great-grandparents did or didn’t do when it came to their mental health.

We live in the 21st century, with its unique and harsh realities and challenges – how often do we as parents or our children take the time to count the cost? Children today have endured a global pandemic – a first for all of us. They were affected by the stringent rules of lockdown, and we do not think about how they have managed to keep going and live their lives.

Some of us have family members who count among the unemployed youth, which, according to an article written by Ed Stoddard (Unemployment rate in South Africa hits record 35.3% in Q4 2021 2022), currently remains at a staggering 65.5%. We often overlook children and young adults who are facing a mental health crisis because we think they are either too young to be affected or that they are not at risk.

Mental health knows no age, colour or ethnicity. If your child’s cup is running on empty, do not wait until the eleventh hour to step in and assist, take charge now. 

“The more you read, the more you will know. The more you know, the more places you will go.”  – Dr Seuss

What type of reader is your child?

• Loves to read!
• Could take it or leave it.
• Actively dislikes reading.

Reading is an essential part of our lives, and we must help our children find an enduring love for the stories between the pages. Our goal at Arrow is to ignite a long-lasting love of reading and literature. But what if your child is not a reader? Don’t lose hope; there are many ways to approach the issue.

Why doesn’t my child like to read?

Before you can help your child, you must first understand why they resist reading in the first place.

Which scenario best describes your resistant reader?

‘Reading is too difficult’

Most people wouldn’t choose hard work as a hobby, and that’s true for your child too. If they struggle to read, they won’t enjoy it or find it interesting. If your child is struggling, try to determine the root of the problem. Do they have fluency issues or educational gaps in their phonics knowledge? Does your child struggle because they guess words and do not have the necessary vocabulary? Have you ruled out a learning difficulty? Whatever the cause, if your child feels that reading is too difficult or too much work, first address the areas that need support and provide the help they need with the assistance of their class teacher. As your child becomes better at reading and gains more confidence, they will enjoy it a lot more.

‘Reading is boring!’

Some learners find reading easy; they just do not like it. It can be that they haven’t found something they really want to read. Ask your child what they love and enjoy doing. Do they have a hobby or a special area of interest, such as dinosaurs, outer space, or nature? Encourage them to find books on topics that interest them and that they want to read. This will give them the boost they need to fall in love with reading.

Ten tips to turn your child into a bookworm

1. Make time for reading.

If your child has a jam-packed schedule and reading is sandwiched between sports and music practice, it may become an unwelcome chore. Make reading a relaxing and enjoyable time, free from pressure.

2. Set aside regular read-aloud time with your children.

Choose different high-quality, age-appropriate books about your child’s interests. Audiobooks are a fantastic option for reluctant readers. Don’t abandon read-aloud time when your children get older. No one is too old for a great read-aloud!

3. Make sure the reading material isn’t beyond your child’s abilities.

The interest may be there, but if the book is too difficult to read, your child’s motivation will fade.

4. Create a fun and comfortable reading corner.

A cosy reading corner in your home may be all the encouragement your child needs to settle down and spend time with a good book. Create a reading space with your child to make them feel part of the activity and proud of their special place.

5. Look at and encourage a variety of reading materials.

Children often gravitate towards the fiction shelves in the library or bookshop but encourage them to look a bit further. There are many other genres to consider: joke books, cookbooks, how-to books and biographies are all excellent non-fiction possibilities. Children’s magazines and graphic novels are effective in getting children to read – they won’t even notice they are doing it!

6. Try ‘buddy reading’ with your struggling reader.

‘Buddy reading’ or ‘paired reading’ will improve your child’s fluency and make them feel more comfortable about reading on their own. Find a book you want to read. You and your child take turns reading a sentence, paragraph or page. This type of reading has many benefits – the biggest being that it prevents discouragement.

7. Have your reluctant reader read easy picture books to younger siblings or family members.

This is excellent practise, builds confidence and doesn’t feel like work.

8. Let humour work its magic!

Select a humorous book at your child’s reading level and read the first chapter aloud. Then stop reading. If your child wants to find out what happens next, they must read it themselves! Laughter is the best medicine and combining humour with reading will encourage your child to read and they will realise that books can be funny and fun to read at the same time.

9. Show a love of reading.

Put down the smartphone, switch off the television and let your children see that you love to read. They will most likely develop a love for reading if they see you read books too.

10. Provide regular access to books.

Visit your public library or create a home library. Make books accessible to your child. When they want to read, make sure there are books available to them. Build a magical home library with the help of your little reader.

The late academic Charles W Eliot wrote: “Books are the quietest and most constant of friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counsellors, and the most patient of teachers.” (The Durable Satisfactions of Life)

Reading will mould the resilient and adaptable leaders we need to steer our country into the future. Especially if they enjoy it, too!

Let’s get reading!

Kofi Annan believed in the importance of youth leadership. “Young people,” he said, “should be at the forefront of global change and innovation.’

As teachers, parents, young people and adults, we have a unique opportunity and important responsibility to secure the future of our communities. We do this by empowering our children and young people. 

As they listen to everyone around them and watch what others do, their ideas and thoughts about the world are shaped by these experiences. This allows us to help them develop strong social-emotional intelligence, resilient and innovative minds, and a sense of pride that they are heard and acknowledged as the youth of our country.

Ageism is prevalent in communities worldwide. Being aware that this affects all of us is the first step in giving our youth a voice. The term ‘youth’, as defined by the South African National Youth Commission Act (1996), refers to people between the ages of 14 and 35. This age group makes up the majority of our population, which provides many opportunities if we make it our priority to empower our youth.

Social-emotional learning is the main pillar when we talk about empowering our children and young people. With the current rate of gender-based violence and violence against children in our country, community intervention is desperately needed. We must educate our children on issues of self-respect, respect for others, self-love, kindness to others and conflict resolution. Above all else, we must instil the courage to do what is right and make the right decisions, even when no one is watching.

We must include them in conversations where conflict is dealt with appropriately, and we must model what self-care looks like by practicing it ourselves. We have a responsibility to exemplify a life of purpose. A life in which we, as adults, set life goals and extend empathy to those around us by simply listening and understanding, where we use our life to achieve great things or care for others.

Schools and parents can empower children by knowing about and understanding their interests and strengths. Create opportunities with your children where they can freely explore the things that interest and excite them. This is where innovation is born, in the mastery of strength and the freedom to explore. What they love doing or learning about might not make sense to us, but have we so easily forgotten that we once built a spaceship out of a cardboard box? Giving them the chance to express their ideas or make decisions is fundamental to their future.

Too often, children and young people are dismissed and refused a platform to speak and express themselves. Many adults can relate to this dehumanising experience, and we must actively guard against doing this to our children. Encourage them to let you know how they feel about a situation. Allow children in your household to have a voice in family decisions. Hold them accountable when necessary and tell or show them why their actions or decisions were not appropriate. This builds critical thinking and teaches cause and effect. As for us adults, we must learn to take a deep breath and intentionally use a tricky moment as a teaching opportunity. We will see the results in young people who can think for themselves and act with empathy.

At Arrow, we do our part by living the Arrow values. We encourage debate and critical thinking by allowing our learners to participate in class discussions and engage in 21st-century learning.

We ask our families to listen to their children with empathy, make time to explore their interests, and remember that we are role models for the future of our country. 

All parents want the best for their children, and a fundamental part is giving them a solid educational foundation. A good education equips children with knowledge and nurtures their skills, confidence and character. But how does quality education give your child an advantage?

The concept of ‘education’ can be defined in many ways. It is not only about learning new things; education also provides intellectual, moral and social instruction. Research shows that early childhood education includes many areas of development, such as social, emotional and cognitive skills, as children prepare for primary school and beyond.

At Arrow Academy, we believe it is never too early to cultivate a spirit of independence, and our early childhood phase includes Grades RRR to R, where learners explore and learn through play. This progressive approach to learning makes Arrow the leader in a new era in education and a 21st century solution for modern families.

No two children are the same, and each child’s learning experience should be unique. Arrow Academy’s curriculum focuses on a child’s complete development and unlocking their true potential, as we gently guide them on their journey to life in society. Learning these skills earlier in their development shapes the adults they become.

Giving your children the best education possible will further help them to develop various vital skills and behaviours to find their place in the world in a meaningful way.

Cognitive development

Quality education stimulates a child’s cognitive development. It introduces them to different subjects, encourages critical thinking and promotes problem-solving skills. Children who learn to analyse and interpret information are better prepared to negotiate life’s complexities.

Social skills

During learning, children interact with peers from different backgrounds and social frameworks. This socialisation fosters important skills such as teamwork, empathy and effective communication, which are essential for building relationships and succeeding in a social context.

Confidence and independence

When children receive a good education, they gain confidence in their abilities. They learn to trust themselves, set goals and work towards achieving them. This sense of independence and self-assurance empowers them to be resilient when facing life’s challenges.

Preparing for the future

An exceptional education keeps pace with changes and advancements. Learners are always aware of any new developments in technology, science and culture. This prepares them for the job market and helps them adapt to changing circumstances in the ever-evolving world.

Moral and ethical values

Education is not only about academics; it also conveys moral and ethical values. Arrow Academy has four core values that teachers and learners live by: me, us, school and the world. These values are about the importance of honesty, respect and integrity. They have shaped our learners’ characters and guided them to make responsible decisions long after they leave the school.

Improved opportunities

There is a world of opportunities out there. By giving your child a good education, you hand them the key to opening doors in the future. It’s never too early to pave the way and prepare your child’s educational prospects. It gives them an advantage and allows them to access decent higher education, scholarships and specialised training. With a proper education, your child can pursue their passions and explore various career paths.

Critical thinking

Perhaps one of the most vital and practical skills, critical thinking teaches learners to make connections and question the world around them. It encourages children to analyse and evaluate information objectively, enabling them to make informed decisions and solve complex problems.

Lifelong learning

When children are immersed in a stimulating and engaging learning environment, they are likelier to become lifelong learners. Their curiosity and desire for knowledge can lead to personal and professional growth.

As a parent, there is no greater gift than investing in your child’s education. You will set them on a path to a brighter and more fulfilling future.

Arrow Academy can help you get a strong head start in your child’s educational development. We teach learners how to learn in ways that feel natural for their developing minds and are fun, exciting, and engaging. We offer a comprehensive educational experience for learners and teachers from Grades RRR–R to Grade 7.

If you live in Centurion or the surrounding areas and want to give your child the best start in life, then register online at https:www.arrowacademy.co.za or contact us at 012 663 3482 for more information. There are only limited spaces available. 

Every year on 18 July – Mandela Day – we are reminded of the causes that were dear to Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela’s heart, affectionately known as Tata, one of which is education. Optimi is delighted to commemorate significant strides made in our country in this regard while acknowledging the ongoing efforts required to empower future generations through education.

In decades passed, South Africa has embarked on a transformative educational odyssey, achieving remarkable milestones that shaped the landscape of learning:

• Access to education became a cornerstone achievement, with efforts ensuring nearly every child had access to primary education, boasting enrolment rates consistently exceeding 90%.
• Curriculum modernisation was another triumph, embracing reforms that integrated technology and critical thinking. The introduction of CAPS (Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements) elevated educational standards, preparing students for a rapidly evolving global terrain.
• Numeracy improvements marked steady progress, laying crucial foundations for academic success. In the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMMS)of 2019, South Africa was one of the three countries with the lowest achievements: 41% of mathematics learners and 36% of science learners had acquired the foundational subject knowledge and skills measured by TIMMS. This, however, is equivalent to a fourfold increase in mathematics (from 11% to 41%) and a threefold increase in science (from 13% to 36%) over 20 years (TIMMS, 2022).
• Investments in teacher training and development have empowered educators, equipping them with the skills and knowledge vital for delivering quality education. Initiatives such as the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme have supported aspiring teachers, contributing to a robust and qualified teaching workforce.
• Technological integration has revolutionised learning experiences by democratising access to knowledge and adopting innovation through digital resources and e-learning platforms, reshaping how education is delivered and accessed across the country.

These moments call on us to not only reflect on our achievements but also to renew our energy towards continuous improvement and empowerment through education. As South Africans, it is our collective responsibility to nurture these accomplishments and pave the way for future successes. Here’s how we can all contribute:

Champion for a more inclusive education in the spaces we occupy – every child, regardless of background or ability, deserves access to quality education. By embedding inclusive practices at every level, we bridge gaps and ensure equitable opportunities for all.

Enhancing infrastructure is vital, particularly in rural and under-resourced areas. Modern classrooms, equipped with technology, and improved sanitation facilities create environments conducive to learning, growth and positive mental development.

Never forgetting the crucial role of community engagement in supporting our learners, reaching out to parents, guardians and local communities creates a nurturing environment where education can truly flourish. For example, initiatives like the Nal’ibali campaign provide storytelling tools and resources to improve literacy, while programmes like Cami offer comprehensive support to enhance literacy and numeracy skills.

Skills development tailored to meet market demands ensures our youth are equipped for future employment opportunities. By focusing on STEM education and vocational training, we not only address skills gaps but also drive economic growth and innovation.

Lifelong learning remains cardinal in a world that’s constantly evolving. Encouraging a culture of ongoing personal and professional development through adult education, skills enhancement programmes and online courses empowers individuals to adapt and excel in ever-changing career landscapes.

We invite communities, educators and students to join us in celebrating Mandela Day by participating in activities and supporting initiatives that promote learning and development. Let’s continue to honour Nelson Mandela’s vision by working together to empower future generations through the transformative power of education.

Our four divisions (Home, Classroom, College, Workplace) reflect our steadfast passion for providing accessible learning solutions, supporting every step of your learning journey. Whatever your age or stage in life, we can meet your educational needs.

For more information about Optimi’s innovative offerings that support the mission of education, visit our website – www.optimi.co.za.

STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering and maths. These four fields share an emphasis on innovation, problem-solving and critical thinking, and together they make up an exciting, fast-growing industry.

According to the Global Gender Gap Report, only 13% of women in South Africa pursue STEM subjects, compared to 28% of men. As a result, discussions around STEM-related programmes have become a presidential priority because too few college students are pursuing degrees in these fields. This is mainly due to children not being fully exposed to these subjects from the Foundation and Intermediate Phase of education.

Optimi Classroom and Optimi Home, divisions of the Optimi Group, offer a wide range of STEM courses and learning kits for Grades 1-12 that make learning fun and exciting for learners.

An exciting recent STEM addition to the CAPS subject list is Coding and Robotics, and Optimi has you covered for this as well. Learners, parents and educators alike can find resources to support them in their learning or teaching journeys.

Parents and learners: For a range of STEM learning tools, including Grades 1-9 coding and robotics kits, visit Optimi Home’s Plus store at www.optimiplus.com.

Coding and robotics educators: Optimi Classroom offers all-inclusive kits and aligned curriculum content for Grades 1-12 as well as educator training. Visit us at www.optimiclassroom.co.za.

Optimi is passionate about assisting institutions and educators in crafting their unique teaching and learning experiences. Through our solutions, we provide accessible and engaging learning solutions that can open a world of opportunities for learners.

South Africa, known for its rich tapestry of cultures, is gearing up to celebrate a unique convergence of its heritage and literary traditions. As the nation eagerly anticipates Heritage Day on 24 September and the entire month as Literature Month, a remarkable fusion of culture and creativity promises to captivate the hearts and minds of its citizens.

Heritage Day is a day of unity, diversity and a sense of national pride. It invites South Africans to celebrate their cultural roots, languages, traditions and the harmonious co-existence that characterises this vibrant nation. On this day, communities across the country come together to showcase their heritage through food, music, dance and storytelling.

Simultaneously, September has been designated as Literature Month in South Africa, an annual celebration of rich literary heritage and contemporary literary achievements. This month-long celebration pays homage to the nation’s diverse literary voices. Writers that have captured our local voice and heritage through stories.

Optimi Group, which positions itself as a leading educational organisation, is excited to announce the launch of a new Mandela Day initiative aimed at motivating children to read. The programme will provide free virtual lessons to aid grade 4 children in improving their reading comprehension and ultimately enhance their reading scores. In the spirit of Mandela Day, the lessons will total 67 minutes.

Literacy plays a fundamental role in shaping the future of our society, and at Optimi, we firmly believe in the power of education to transform lives. However, we understand that motivating children to read and learn can sometimes be a challenge. Therefore, we have developed this innovative initiative to inspire and encourage young minds to embrace the joy of learning.

Research has shown that reading with comprehension is a vital skill that not only enhances academic performance, but also promotes creativity, empathy and cognitive development. The recent Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS, 2021) survey results are, however, worrisome. As published by the Department of Basic Education, 81% of grade 4 children were not able to reach the lowest benchmark of the study. Equitable access to learning materials is sited as a contributing factor.

The Mandela Day initiative extends Optimi’s commitment to make education accessible and enjoyable for all children. By providing free virtual lessons, we aim to foster a love for reading and equip children with essential skills that will benefit them throughout their academic journey and beyond.

In addition to the virtual lessons, we will also provide resources and reading materials to supplement the learning experience. We believe that access to quality educational materials is crucial in creating an environment conducive to learning.

Optimi Group invites schools, parents and organisations to join hands with us in this initiative. Please share these free resources, easily accessed on YouTube, with any learner aged 10. By working together, we can inspire a love for learning among children and empower them to become lifelong learners.

For more information about the Mandela Day initiative and how to participate, please visit Optimi’s YouTube page.

As the 2023 academic year draws to a close, matriculants across South Africa are gearing up for their final exams, demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of South African challenges. 

Aunyana Moloisane, Managing Director of Optimi Classroom, noted: “The 2023 academic year has been marked by unprecedented hurdles, from disruptions caused by external factors like load-shedding and the escalating costs of learner necessities, to the ever-evolving landscape of education. Learners have displayed incredible adaptability and strength. We must not forget that the upcoming final exams represent a crucial milestone in the academic journey of these learners. Countless hours of preparation and dedication are culminating in this significant moment, with the results set to shape their futures.”

As the final exams approach, the focus shifts to acknowledging the dedication and hard work of these matriculants. It is a time for focus and preparation, highlighting the determination they have demonstrated in the face of adversity. Parents, educators and the community are encouraged to offer their unwavering support and encouragement to these learners during this critical period.

In the coming weeks, as matriculants prepare to sit down to take their final exams, Optimi Classroom would like to offer five top tips to prepare themselves for their last dance.

1. Start early and create a study schedule – Begin preparing for exams well in advance to avoid last-minute cramming. Develop a study schedule that allocates sufficient time for each subject, focusing on weaker areas.
2. Use effective study techniques – Employ active learning strategies such as summarising, mind mapping and flashcards. Practise with past exam papers and mock tests to familiarise yourself with the exam format.
3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle – Prioritise physical and mental well-being by getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals and staying hydrated. Incorporate short breaks during study sessions to recharge your focus and energy.
4. Seek help and support – Don’t hesitate to ask teachers, tutors or classmates for clarification on challenging topics. Parents, offer emotional support and create a conducive study environment at home.
5. Manage exam stress – Failing to plan is planning to fail. Having a study plan and preparing will help learners feel in control and reduce their anxiety ahead of their exams.

“This moment calls for collective support and belief in the abilities of our matriculants as they embark on this significant journey. Their future is bright, and their potential is limitless, and we wish them the best,” Moloisane concluded.