Spring has certainly arrived and suddenly there is new energy and excitement at the school. It’s a privilege to be able to walk around and meet the learners and have really happy informal chats with them. Your children are special value them.
Applications
The year is rapidly drawing to an end and for many learners that might well be doubt as to what schools they might be attending if they have not already secured an enrollment. There might also be those wishing to change schools. We have vacancies from Grade R through to Grade 10 but we advised that these are filling fast and its likely that they may close shortly. Please feel free to contact refer friends and colleagues to the school or visit the website for an enquiry application.
Matric Prelims
Our matrics are currently writing their prelim examinations. This is always a stressful time but is essential to the preparation for the final examinations.
Subject Meetings
A very successful meeting with parents to discuss subject choice was held recently. Parent participation and involvement in the selection of subjects for Grade 10 is critical and we thank the teachers and parents who participated in this process.
Sports Carnival
We hosted a most successful sports carnival on Friday. The event was wonderfully supported by parents and learners. The staff worked exceptionally well to make sure that the day was a success and we hope to make it an annual event. Special thanks must go to Mrs Teich and Mr Nkomo along with Mr Foord and his team who ensured that the facilities were in excellent shape.
Update on developments
Cleanup – we have embarked on a cleanup of the area around the school. Our ground staff are currently removing bush and litter on the eastern side of the school to improve the general look of out surroundings
Volleyball court – the sand volleyball court is complete and was in action on Friday at the Sport Carnival. The interests in this sport is increasing and its proving to be a valuable asset.
Computer lab – the second IT room is now functional and classes are able to use the facility. We are also upgrading our internet access to allow for wider usage of the facility.
Foundation Phase
We are investigating the possibility of introducing a drop-off and pick-up system at the foundation Phase to improve access and safety for the little ones. We will keep you informed as to developments here.
Foundation Phase Civvies day
Fun fun fun
Food for thought.
Effective communication is one of the keys to success, and when you’re good at it, people notice.
Most people think that strengthening communication skills involves developing persuasive speech and conversational skills, but what you may not realise is just how important effective listening can be.
Without being an effective listener, none of your conversational skills matter. This is because your points of view – no matter how clear – still wouldn’t be heard or understood.
Remember that listening is a full 50% of the communication effort so it’s worth your time to develop this precious skill, too.
Here are some techniques you can use to build your listening skills:
1. Fight the urge to speak
Sometimes when you’re engaged in a heated conversation, you start to concentrate on what you’re going to say next. You may even be tempted to open your mouth before the other person is finished. Make the extra effort to keep your lips sealed until they’re through talking. While they’re speaking, don’t worry about what you’re going to say or how you’re going to say it. Instead, focus on the words and body language of the other person.
2. Look interested
Your nonverbal communication skills are important while you’re listening. If you’re looking disinterested and uncaring, the person trying to communicate with you will likely pick up on these subtle hints. They may be flustered or less likely to share their thoughts. Makes sense, right? Engage with the person talking. Make eye contact and nod your head or smile. Let your conversation partner know that their points are coming across to you.
3. Repeat the highlights
One way to literally tell your conversation partner that they’re effectively communicating is to simply restate their points. You can repeat key phrases in an affirming tone. You can even give them a quick summary of what they just said in your own words. Avoid sharing your opinions when repeating their concepts or ideas. At this point, you simply want to communicate that you’ve completely understood their meaning.
4. Ask questions
Don’t be afraid to ask your conversation partner to elaborate on what they’re saying. If you need further information, then ask for it. The important thing is that you understand what they’re trying to get across.
5. Be patient
It’s also important to maintain patience, especially when working with people who may be shy or may not have the ability to communicate very well. If you’re not patient, you may end the conversation prematurely or scare off your conversation partner.
6. Follow your partner’s lead
Being an effective listener doesn’t mean that your only job is to listen. You can certainly add to the conversation, too. At the same time, you don’t want to overpower the conversation. Add your input when they ask for it or when they’ve finished their point.
Remember that practice makes perfect. After you’ve had an important conversation, ask yourself what you remember from the conversation. Write down the details if necessary. Did you allow the other person to do most of the talking?
When you fight the urge to dominate conversations, you’ll be able to truly hear what people have to say!
