Want a second chance at matric? Distance education can help you

Thousands of learners who finished their matric studies last year have already started 2019 in earnest with many beginning tertiary education or embarking on a new job.

While the majority of these matriculants have moved on from their schooling careers already, there are those who would like a second chance.

Some matric learners may have obtained their National Senior Certificate but are unhappy with their final pass results. In many instances, it isn’t always possible for these learners to return to their school and rewrite one or more subjects the year afterwards.

Additionally, there are thousands of learners who unfortunately didn’t meet the pass requirements for matric.

“In light of this, most people in South Africa would probably have the perception that once you’ve done your matric – you’re done. But this isn’t true,” says Louise Schoonwinkel, GM of Impaq, a subsidiary of FutureLearn group.

“You can always go back through a distance education provider such as Impaq and redo one or all of your subjects to improve your marks and get the pass you want. Moreover, you can do this with a high degree of flexibility from home, during your own time,” Schoonwinkel.

With over 16 000 registered learners in 2018, Impaq is well known as being South Africa’s leading provider of home and distance education solutions for learners from Grade R – Grade 12.

Impaq is also well-suited to helping learners redo matric in South Africa because it follows the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements (CAPS) and is registered with the assessment body,  SACAI, which is quality assured by Umalusi.

SACAI is also one of the national assessment bodies that manage the National Senior Certificate examination along with the IEB and Department of Basic Education.

How it works

Regardless of the assessment body that learners were previously registered with, any matric candidate who had a final examination sitting – either last year or even in previous years – can register with Impaq to improve or repeat Grade 12.

The final deadline to do this is 15 February 2019.

When it comes to Grade 12 candidates who register as repeaters, there are two options.

1. Learners who are repeating their school-based assessment portfolio and the final examination.

For this option, the candidate has to redo all the tasks and tests, as well as the June exam and the preliminary and final examinations.

The candidate may redo all their subjects or only certain subjects.

2. Learners who are only repeating the final examination.

For this option, the candidate should have had a sitting for the NSC Final Examination and should have a complete and valid School-Based Assessment, or SBA (this involves tasks and tests as well as the June and preliminary examination).

In this instance, the candidate will only rewrite the final examination at the end of the academic year and their current SBA will be submitted as part of the final mark. (It’s important to bear in mind that the SBA is only valid for three years.)

In both options, learners have access to 25 subjects (including the likes of IT and Religion Studies).

“If you’re looking to improve upon your matric, there is hope for you and the tools for you to achieve this. Experts at Impaq are also available to assist you with any queries you may have,” says Schoonwinkel.

For learners who are interested in finding out more and registering, they can do so by clicking this link: https://www.impaq.co.za/improve-matric-results/

Parenting Hub
Latest posts by Parenting Hub (see all)
Post Views: 31,482

1 thought on “Want a second chance at matric? Distance education can help you”

  1. Avatar photo
    Michelle

    Hi There

    Matric is your final year of high school in South Africa. The final exam is called the “matric exams”. This exam is administered by the Department of Basic Education. Students that complete their final year of high school (Grade 12) are also called “matriculants” OR more commonly referred to as matrics.

    Once students have completed their final year and have passed, students are said to have “matriculated”. The qualification received after completing high school is called a National Senior Certificate or a matric certificate. This certificate can be completed through the Department of Basic Education or the Independent Examinations Board.

    Reply

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Bullying: What parents and schools can do

ARTICLE BY PROF RITA NIEMANN, NALIZE MARAIS, ZENDRÉ SWANEPOEL AND MONIERA MOOSA

Bullying is a great concern for both parents and schools. Here we outline a number of measures that can help them both parties deal with bullying.

Parents

When parents notice that their child is behaving differently – not wanting to go to school, using illness as an excuse, suddenly performing poorly at school or enuresis – and suspect bullying, they need to act immediately.

Firstly, they must determine where this is happing (at school, at a sports club, on social media, etc.) and who the perpetrator(s) are.

Secondly, if the bullying is taking place in an organised environment such as at school or sports club, the authorities need to be informed and requested to step in. They are legally bound to protect the rights of the child.

Thirdly, parents have the responsibility to equip their children to cope by:

  • Instilling the knowledge that children must take a stand and that they have a choice in allowing someone else to victimise them.
  • Assisting children to terminate relationships that are potentially harmful, such as blocking a person on social media.
  • Helping them to identify bullies and the different forms of bullying.
  • Creating a safe space for children to speak about what is happening to them.
  • Emphasising assertive verbal communication if threatened.
  • Building children’s self-concept.
  • Getting the help of a psychologist, if necessary, to counsel the victim.
  • Emphasising that respectful behaviour is always the best option and thus preventing retaliation.
  • Fostering problem-solving and conflict resolution skills with the focus on restoring damaged relationships.
  • Working collaboratively to solve the problem with their children so that they can feel reassured.

Schools

As bullying is a deliberate act to hurt someone, there must be consequences for the bully. Once teachers are aware that a bullying incident has taken place at school, the matter must be dealt with by:

  • Asking the victim to provide the names of the perpetrator(s), as well as the names of friends of the victim, as soon as he/she has calmed down.
  • Counselling the victim and finding out whether he/she has been injured and what effect the bullying or harassment has had on him or her.
  • Cultivating a “no blame” approach towards bullying or harassment.
  • Establishing punitive sanctions for both the bully and for any bystanders.
  • Developing a bullying code of conduct/bullying policy and informing learners of this.
  • Having designated teachers to deal with incidents of bullying.
  • Facilitating mediation and discussions with the victim and the bully, depending on the severity of the bullying.
  • Passing the responsibility to the bully or group of bullies to make sure that the problem is solved.
  • Ensuring that potential bystanders understand that they have a vital role to play during bullying incidents.
  • Letting the victims feel protected after they have reported the incident.
  • Encouraging learners to make suggestions on how they can contribute to alleviating the negative experiences of the victim.
  • Scheduling follow-up meetings to monitor the situation where each party has to share how things are going.
  • Informing the parents of both the bully and the victim about the incident/s.

The principal and teachers have a crucial role to play in directing learners towards becoming responsible citizens. They should create a safe and secure environment, establish a non-violent culture, and be good role models for all learners.

Reference

Niemann, R., Marais, N., Swanepoel, Z. & Moosa, M. 2016. Problem areas in schools In: Jacobs, M. Teaching-learning Dynamics, Johannesburg: Pearsons

Parenting Hub
Latest posts by Parenting Hub (see all)
Post Views: 31,482
How to help a learner prepare for university

University presents learners with a range of challenges whether they will be moving out or staying at home, so prepare well ahead of time to avoid any nasty surprises!

When living in residence or off-campus accommodation

Living away from home can be nerve-racking for even the most adventurous of learners. Here are some tips on how to prepare for living away from home:

If the student accommodation doesn’t provide food, learners should learn how to cook easy, nutritious meals if they don’t know how to do so already. Also, very rarely does student accommodation offer laundry service, so learners should make sure they know how to do their own laundry if they’ll be doing it for the first time.

Read more about teaching children life skills. 

Ensure the accommodation has a working internet connection. While Wi-Fi is widely available on campus and most campuses have 24/7 libraries, having internet access at ‘home’ will make completing your studies a lot easier.

Learners should try to get to their new home well ahead of time to familiarise themselves with the surroundings, particularly places like grocery stores and bookstores. Also find a local GP and hospital – if there is an emergency, better to be safe than sorry (and invest in a first aid kit)! Arriving early will also give learners time to buy any things they may need, like cutlery, crockery, and so on.

If the student accommodation is shared, learners should set boundaries with their new roommate(s) regarding socialising hours, cleaning up, quiet time, and so forth. Also, invest in a pair of shower slippers as communal showers are often a breeding ground for nasty fungal infections.

Make a list of things to pack, and tick them off as you pack. Most critical will be paperwork, legal documentation, and a bank card. If necessary, learners should ensure they have all the necessary medication they need and make sure they have a new prescription ready for when refills run out.

When living at home

Living at home as a varsity student might be even more challenging than living away from home for the first time. Here are some tips on how to survive:

Join societies to help make friends. If a learner is not living in student accommodation, it will inevitably be more difficult to socialise and meet new people. University sports and cultural clubs are a great way to socialise with fellow students outside of lecture halls.

Learners and their family members absolutely must set boundaries well ahead of time. These boundaries include:

  • Leisure time: it is vital to give learners some time to rest when they have come home after a long day of lectures. Don’t harass them as soon as they set foot in the door, they’re tired and need rest. Decide on agreeable ‘relaxation time’.
  • Socialising: agree on rules like curfew, staying over at friends’ houses, keeping in contact with parents while out on the town, and so forth.
  • Attending lectures and tutorials: while not ideal, often students will need to skip one or two to study for a test or complete an assignment. Start managing expectations surrounding class attendance ahead of time.

These boundaries must be seen as compromises rather than forced stipulations. Your child is an adult now – treat them as such.

Keep the lines of communication open and have regular open and honest conversations.  Learners need to know that they can count on their parents if something goes wrong, whether academically or in their personal lives. Making mistakes is a part of growing up, and if your child is staying at home for the duration of their studies, you are on this journey with them. 

Read more about managing failures.

General tips

Irrespective of whether a learner will be living at home or not, there are some general guidelines to prepare learners:

  • Take a tour of the campus and make notes of where different buildings are – this will make navigating them easier when lectures begin.
  • Have a look at the orientation week programme as soon as you receive it. Choose which events you would like to attend, or which you think will be helpful. Participating in ‘O-week’ is a fantastic way to get to know the campus and new people.
  • Purchase your learning material as soon as you get your book list and get stuck into the recommended reading before lectures even start. University involves a lot of self-studying, and often, having done the reading ahead of time is a prerequisite for attending the class, so get into the habit now.

Read more about how Impaq learners have achieved success at university.

Varsity is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience for students. With the parents’ help, support, and guidance, these can be some of the best years of a learner’s life! 

Read more on how to help prepare your child for life after matric.

by Jacqui Smit

Parenting Hub
Latest posts by Parenting Hub (see all)
Post Views: 31,482
Music all year round: Why School of Rock Parktown North Is the Gift That Keeps Giving

At School of Rock Parktown North, we don’t just teach kids how to play instruments, we help them build confidence, creativity, community, and lifelong skills. As the year winds down and festive energy sets in, many of you are probably looking for enriching activities that give you and the kids more than just a hobby. Here’s why the School of Rock experience is a perfect fit for the season!

Beyond Notes: The Many Benefits of Music Education

Music isn’t just fun; it’s transformative. Learning an instrument or singing can improve language development, memory, concentration, and even academic performance.

  • Improves cognitive and academic skills: Understanding rhythm, structure and patterns in music helps develop spatial and mathematical thinking; which can translate into better performance in school subjects like maths.
  • Develops discipline, patience and focus: Learning music requires regular practice, persistence, and the ability to work through challenges, which are all skills that carry over into homework, school projects, and everyday life.
  • Boosts self‑esteem, emotional expression and confidence: Performing music, whether in a band or on stage, gives children the chance to express themselves, overcome nerves, and feel proud of their progress.
  • Strengthens social skills and teamwork: Playing in a band or group helps children learn to listen, collaborate, and support each other while building friendships and a sense of belonging.
Photo Credit: mediaproductions_
Photo Credit: mediaproductions_
Photo Credit: mediaproductions_
Photo Credit: mediaproductions_

Why School of Rock Parktown North Does It Differently

At School of Rock Parktown North, we believe that learning music should be fun, social, and purposeful. Our model combines individual lessons with band rehearsals and live-performance opportunities, giving kids a real chance to experience what it’s like to be in a rock band.

  • Performance-based learning: Students stay motivated, focused, and excited to practice because they’re working toward real shows.
  • Real-world experience: Our instructors are working musicians who teach both the mechanics of music and what it means to perform, collaborate, and connect.
  • Songs kids love: Rather than starting with strict theory, students learn using the music they enjoy, making the experience personal and meaningful.
  • Inclusive and supportive community: Beginners and experienced players alike are welcomed. We value progress, effort, and self-expression over perfection.
Photo Credit: mediaproductions_

Holiday Workshops for Kids: December & January

This festive season, our Holiday Workshops give children a fun, structured way to explore music while school is out. Open to both new and current students during December and January, these workshops offer:

  • Hands-on experience with instruments, vocals, and group jams
  • Confidence-boosting exercises and creative challenges
  • Social connection and teamwork with new friends
  • Mini performances to end the holidays on a high note

Whether a child is picking up an instrument for the first time or expanding existing skills, our workshops provide inspiration, fun, and confidence through music. Please pop us an email at [email protected] or Whatsapp us on 074 322 2000 for more info and to book a slot! 

Photo Credit: mediaproductions_


Corporate Year-End Workshops & Team- building events

School of Rock Parktown North also offers corporate and adult-focused workshops that are perfect for companies looking for a creative way to celebrate the end of the year. These sessions are designed to be fun, team-oriented, and stress-relieving:

  • Try instruments, vocals, and rhythm exercises in a relaxed, fun setting
  • Strengthen teamwork, communication, and collaboration
  • Take a creative break from work and enjoy a stress-free musical experience

These workshops offer a unique, memorable way to close out the year; combining music, collaboration, and a little bit of festive cheer. Reach out at [email protected] or Whatsapp us on 074 322 2000 for more details. 

A Great Time to Start (or Re-Start)

With the new year around the corner, there’s no better time to explore what music can offer. Whether you or your child has never touched an instrument, are looking to deepen skills, or want a creative team-building experience, School of Rock Parktown North is ready to welcome you all with open arms.

Let music be more than a gift this holiday!

Parenting Hub
Latest posts by Parenting Hub (see all)
Post Views: 31,482
Scroll to Top