Metro East Education District targets excellence in matric exams

Grade 12 teachers at schools in the Metro East Education District gathered at Protea Heights Academy on Monday, 21 August 2023 to motivate them ahead of the National Senior Certificate preliminary exams.

The District Director, Landeka Diamond, said the event was an initiative to boost the morale of teachers and improve the matric pass rate. The district set their sights on a matric pass rate of at least 82%.

The programme provided an overview of the curriculum and a presentation on managing learners at risk. Teachers were also treated to various musical items, traditional dancing and poetry.

David Miller, a former principal and district director, delivered the keynote address in his capacity as a friend of education. He said the most important thing about education is having a great teacher in front of the classroom.

Miller urged teachers to reject mediocrity and extend the boundaries of excellence. “As teachers we have the great responsibility to impact our children’s lives positively. Millar added that the district’s goal of achieving 82% or more in the National Senior Certificate exams is within reach.

Teresa Jones, Principal of Kleinvlei Secondary School, said as a school community, more specifically the school management team and the Grade 12 teachers, they want to express their gratitude and appreciation for a very inspiring, motivational session at Protea Heights Academy. “The session was excellent to boost educators’ morale and it really gives us as a school a clear understanding of the district's expectations from us as a school.

“We will continue to stay committed, motivated and inspire to give our very best every day to support the district in achieving its target of 82% and above.”

Chadley Davids, a teacher at Protea Heights Academy who was the provincial winner in the S/Hero category of the National Teaching Awards and secured third place nationally in 2021, thanked Millar for always inspiring teachers to be the best they can possibly be and for reminding them how important human connections are. “Every kid truly deserves a champion! And every teacher deserves someone that believes in them, thank you for believing in me and rooting for me!”