Frequently Asked Questions
Here are our most frequently asked questions. Do you have a question that's not listed here? Ask us.
Why is AN INTERNATIONAL QUALIFICATION A better option?
We are using an established system that produces excellent results. This international syllabus is known for helping students become independent and creative thinkers. The syllabus creates learners who are able to think not just able to memorise.
It is also exceptionally well known globally and may provide better tertiary options than local qualifications.
For a full overview of the international exams, please visit their website.
It is also exceptionally well known globally and may provide better tertiary options than local qualifications.
For a full overview of the international exams, please visit their website.
When can a student join Penhurst Academy?
We will take students at any time of the year. The 2 exam sessions annually mean that students can enter the international system at any stage and prepare for exams at their own pace.
How many terms do you have?
What subjects does Penhurst Academy offer?
Please see our subjects list. We only offer subjects that are recognised by the GDE and universities.
View subject list
View subject list
Will my child get into universities in South Africa?
With the right mix of subjects according to USAF (the old matriculation board) and the right marks every child can achieve a matric exemption and enter the faculty of their choice in any South African university with either AS levels or A levels.
With just O Levels a student may enter any number of diploma courses, certificate courses, technical course and some universities foundation years!
With just O Levels a student may enter any number of diploma courses, certificate courses, technical course and some universities foundation years!
Will my child be able to go to university overseas?
The international syllabus we've chosen is well known and accepted in almost every country in the world. Student will be able to apply to any university worldwide.
How do the kids learn when they have so much independence? And what is self-directed learning?
You’d be surprised by how much students can achieve when given the time, space and facilities to study. We provide students with a guidebook that will direct them to certain task, texts and resources so that they can access the content at any time of the day and night. Quality guidance session also ensure that there is contact with a person passionate about the subject they tutor who can guide the students through the content and provide them with the skills required for success in the exams.
“In its broadest meaning, self-directed learning describes a process in which individuals take the initiative, with or without the help of others, in diagnosing their learning needs, formulating learning goals, identifying human and material resources for learning, choosing and implementing appropriate learning strategies, and evaluating learning outcomes. (Knowles, 1975, p. 18)”
SDL is a huge initiative, read more about it.
“In its broadest meaning, self-directed learning describes a process in which individuals take the initiative, with or without the help of others, in diagnosing their learning needs, formulating learning goals, identifying human and material resources for learning, choosing and implementing appropriate learning strategies, and evaluating learning outcomes. (Knowles, 1975, p. 18)”
SDL is a huge initiative, read more about it.
So will my child have classes all day every day?
No, at Penhurst Academy we want to give students the chance to lead their own education. This means that they can choose their own timetable (guidance sessions aside) and work at their own pace. Guides and staff are there to assist at every stage. This is essentially home schooling support.
We’ll say it again – self-directed learning!
We’ll say it again – self-directed learning!
What is this open plan concept?
Students are able to learn wherever they want (as long as we can see them) on campus. They can work in the main room on their own, in peer groups, at the PC stands or in the tutor rooms. They can even work outside in the sunshine. As long as they are doing all their work we don’t mind how they are doing it.
Herman Miller did a study, which in 2008 revealed that “giving people some control over their surroundings adds to their sense of well-being.” Educators report that children take more ownership of the classroom (their classroom) when they can choose their seats, and are given freedom to move around when needed – for example, to see the board, to get away from a noisy neighbour, and perhaps sit near the window where there’s natural light.
Studies consistently showed that classroom design matters to how children engage, participate and ultimately stay involved in their learning experience (read the full article)
Herman Miller did a study, which in 2008 revealed that “giving people some control over their surroundings adds to their sense of well-being.” Educators report that children take more ownership of the classroom (their classroom) when they can choose their seats, and are given freedom to move around when needed – for example, to see the board, to get away from a noisy neighbour, and perhaps sit near the window where there’s natural light.
Studies consistently showed that classroom design matters to how children engage, participate and ultimately stay involved in their learning experience (read the full article)
What’s the uniform code?
No uniform is required to make good grades. Penhurst has no uniform. Branded apparel may be available from time to time and we encourage the purchase of these for fundraising purposes. Also, it’s awesome to feel like you belong somewhere.
Does my child need a laptop or tablet?
Penhurst Academy has a number of electronic devices that the students are free use on the premises to access and of the pre-loaded materials and internet resources recommended in the guidebooks so there is no need to bring your own. However, exams are written by hand so we do encourage the practise of handwriting to avoid exam finger cramps!
How can STUDENTS learn from online materials?
- We have a large resource bank of textbooks and coursework books that the students can use
- Note taking whilst using online resources is essential. This encourages active listening and will also make remembering the material easier if coherent notes are taken during the course of the podcast/video/blog etc.
do we need to buy textbooks?
Nope, we’ll supply all the books needed to complete the courses. You just need to provide adequate stationery.
WHEN DO STUDENTS WRITE EXAMS?
At Penhurst we offer exams in May/June and October/November. View our exams page for more details.
Ready to enroll?
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