Everything Parents Need to Know About the Cambridge Curriculum

September 16, 2024

Over the past decade, as the Cambridge curriculum gained popularity in South Africa, the number of schools and institutions offering this internationally recognised education pathway mushroomed across the country. However, as many parents who wanted to ensure their child received the best possible education came to realise, not all schools are equally equipped to deliver the curriculum effectively.


“It is not unusual for students and parents to arrive late in their school journey only to find out that they are not ready whatsoever for their final exams, despite having performed adequately before,” says Marlene Van Der Wath, Brand Academic Head at ADvTECH Schools, Africa’s leading private education provider.


She says the Cambridge curriculum has unique requirements and logistics which, if not properly understood, supported and implemented, can leave students significantly in the lurch.


“We therefore encourage parents to ensure they have done their due diligence checks before enrolling their child at a school offering the Cambridge curriculum, to ensure the student is able to complete their schooling successfully and with as little additional pressure as possible,” she says.


THE CAMBRIDGE CURRICULUM


The Cambridge curriculum stands out as an exceptional educational path due to its comprehensive and challenging framework. It is meticulously designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills from an early age through to advanced levels.


By offering a structured progression from the Early Years through Primary, Lower Secondary, IGCSE, and AS/A Levels, it ensures that students build a solid academic foundation and are well-prepared for higher education. Additionally, its global recognition opens doors to universities and career opportunities worldwide, making it an ideal choice for students aiming for academic excellence and international prospects. Cambridge also continually revises their curricula to keep up with international trends and research regarding education.


KEY FACTORS WHEN EVALUATING A CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL


Accreditation and recognition


When selecting a school, it’s crucial to verify that it holds accreditation from Cambridge Assessment International Education. This accreditation ensures that the school undergoes regular inspections and adheres to specific quality standards. Additionally, it’s important to confirm that the school’s qualifications are recognised by South African universities and other international institutions, ensuring that students have access to a wide range of higher education opportunities both locally and globally.


Qualified and experienced staff


When evaluating a school, it’s important to assess the qualifications and experience of the teaching staff. Educators should have specialised training in the Cambridge curriculum and a proven history of effectively supporting students through it. Additionally, seek out schools that offer continuous professional development for their teachers, to ensure they remain current with the latest educational methodologies.

 

Curriculum delivery and support


To determine a school’s approach to delivering the curriculum, it’s important to look for a balanced method that combines both theoretical knowledge and practical application. This means that while students are learning the fundamental concepts and theories, they are also given opportunities to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios, through activities like experiments, projects, and hands-on learning experiences. This approach helps students to better understand and retain information, making their education more meaningful and engaging.


Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that the school provides ample support for students. This can include tutoring services for those who need extra help with their studies, mentoring programmes to guide students through their academic journey, and access to resources such as well-equipped libraries and modern laboratories. These resources can significantly enhance the learning experience, providing students with the tools they need to succeed academically and develop a deeper understanding of the subjects they are studying.


Also, ensure the school has access to Cambridge-approved textbooks and learning materials.


Student performance and outcomes


Examine the school’s historical performance, and speak to past and current students and parents. Consistently high pass rates and top grades are strong indicators that the school effectively delivers the curriculum and supports student achievement. This data can provide valuable insights into the quality of education and the effectiveness of teaching methods employed by the school. This applies not only to the top achievers, but also the students who are supported to perform to the best of their ability to improve their grades.


Additionally, take into account the achievements of the school’s alumni. Investigate how former students have fared in higher education and their subsequent career paths. Successful alumni who have gained admission to prestigious universities and excelled in their professional lives reflect positively on the school’s long-term impact. This information can help parents gauge the school’s ability to prepare students not just for exams, but for future academic and career success.

 

“Going the Cambridge route can solidly position your child for a successful academic journey and future success,” says Van Der Wath.

“But choosing the right school for your child’s Cambridge education is crucial for their successful academic and personal development.”


Frequently Asked Questions


What is the Cambridge curriculum and how does it differ from the South African CAPS curriculum?
The Cambridge curriculum is an internationally recognised educational framework that sets global standards for education. Unlike the South African CAPS curriculum, Cambridge focuses on developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and independent learning. It's accepted by universities and employers worldwide, offering students greater international mobility and recognition.


How are Cambridge qualifications structured and what age groups do they cover?

Cambridge qualifications follow a clear pathway: Cambridge Primary (ages 5-11), Cambridge Lower Secondary (ages 11-14), Cambridge IGCSE (ages 14-16), and Cambridge International AS & A Levels (ages 16-19). Each stage builds systematically on the previous one, ensuring age-appropriate progression and comprehensive skill development throughout a student's educational journey.


Can students with Cambridge qualifications gain admission to South African universities?
Yes, Cambridge International AS & A Levels are widely recognised by South African universities for admission purposes. Many leading South African institutions accept Cambridge qualifications, and students often receive preference due to the rigorous academic standards. The international recognition also opens doors to universities globally, providing more tertiary education options.


What are the main advantages of choosing the Cambridge curriculum for my child?
Cambridge curriculum develops independent thinking, research skills, and global perspectives essential for modern careers. Students gain internationally recognised qualifications, enhanced university admission prospects, and preparation for global employment markets. The curriculum emphasises critical analysis, creativity, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers worldwide.


How much does Cambridge curriculum education typically cost compared to local curricula?
Cambridge curriculum education generally costs more than local South African curricula due to international registration fees, specialised resources, and qualified teacher requirements. However, many schools offer competitive pricing structures. The investment often pays off through enhanced university admission opportunities and better career prospects in the global job market.


What support do students need to succeed in Cambridge curriculum programs?

Students need proper preparation for Cambridge's independent learning approach, access to qualified teachers familiar with Cambridge assessment methods, and adequate resources including textbooks and online materials. Regular practice with past papers, understanding of assessment criteria, and development of research and analytical skills are crucial for success.


How does online Cambridge curriculum delivery work at schools like Evolve?
The online Cambridge curriculum combines synchronous live classes with asynchronous self-paced learning. Students attend scheduled online lessons while also completing independent study modules. This flexible approach allows personalised learning speeds while maintaining curriculum standards. Teachers provide individual support and track progress through digital platforms.


What should parents consider before enrolling their child in the Cambridge curriculum?
Parents should assess their child's learning style, academic readiness for independent study, and long-term educational goals. Consider the school's track record with Cambridge qualifications, teacher qualifications, support systems available, and total costs involved. Ensure the child is prepared for the transition to more self-directed learning and international assessment standards.

Exams at Evolve Online School: Balancing Innovation and Integrity

By Lora Stevens • October 27, 2025
How do you do exams when your students are scattered all around the world? It’s a question I’m asked often — and it’s an important one. Exams are not only about measuring knowledge; they’re about *trust*. Trust from parents, from universities, and even from our students themselves. Everyone needs to know that the results are fair, consistent, and credible. At Evolve Online School, we’ve built an exam process that combines the very best of technology, human connection, and traditional assessment principles. Here’s how it works. A Modern Approach to Internal Exams For our internal assessments, we use two powerful tools — the Invigilator App and our Exam Portal — to maintain integrity and support. The Invigilator App The Invigilator App runs on each student’s computer during their exam. Initially, it prompts them to take a selfie to verify their identity. Then, at random times, it captures screenshots, short video clips, and audio snippets while monitoring activity to ensure they remain in the exam window. It’s the digital equivalent of having a teacher quietly walking past your desk in a traditional exam hall — reassuring and fair. Once the exam ends, students use the Invigilator Mobile App on their phones to upload their completed scripts. This means no downloaded papers are lying around — everything stays secure from start to finish. The Exam Portal The Exam Portal is the second layer of security. Students never download the exam paper; it exists only within the portal. The system controls timing automatically — even accommodating extra time for students who need it — so there’s no confusion or stress. Once the exam begins, the portal locks the student into the page. If they attempt to open another tab or navigate away, the activity is flagged. The portal also includes accessibility tools, such as the ability to read the paper aloud or allow students to type their answers directly into the system. These features are activated according to the student’s approved concessions. Together, these two systems — the Invigilator App and the Exam Portal — create a secure, fair, and balanced environment. Support When It’s Needed Most At Evolve Online, technology never replaces human care. During exams, each student has a dedicated Microsoft Teams channel where they can start a live meeting. This allows teachers to check in, provide help, or troubleshoot technical issues in real-time. If something goes wrong during the exam, the student can call the invigilator into their meeting for immediate support. This system ensures that students always know they’re not alone — we’re right there with them. Our focus isn’t on catching students out, but on helping them feel confident, calm, and supported. Traditional Exam Halls for Final Exams Everything described so far applies to our internal assessments — progress checks and practice exams that happen throughout the year. When it comes to final national exams, every Evolve Online student writes at a traditional exam centre, supervised by qualified invigilators. This ensures that our students’ results align with national standards and are recognised across the country and beyond. Why Our System Works Our hybrid model gives students the best of both worlds: Flexibility – Students can complete internal exams from anywhere in the world. Integrity – Results are secure, authentic, and credible. Preparation – Students gain valuable experience managing time and maintaining focus under exam conditions. It’s preparation not just for exams, but for life. Privacy and Fairness First We’re committed to protecting student privacy. While AI tools sometimes flag innocent behaviour like looking away while thinking, each case is carefully reviewed by staff before any action is taken. The data collected is used only to maintain exam integrity and is handled responsibly. Before their first real exam, students complete a demo test to understand the process and feel at ease. The Evolve Online Exam Experience At Evolve Online School, we’ve designed an exam system that combines innovation, fairness, and care. For internal exams, we utilise advanced tools such as the invigilator App and Exam Portal to create a secure and supportive environment. For finals, we maintain the **traditional structure** of supervised exam halls.  The result? Exams that are credible, consistent, and trusted — both nationally and internationally — while remaining student-focused and stress-free. Because at Evolve Online , we believe that exams should prepare students not just for their results, but for the **adventure of learning** itself.
A young girl with braids attends an online class on a laptop. The teacher smiles and gives a thumbs-up.

Overcoming Online Learning Challenges: Tips for Student Success

October 13, 2025
Discover how to overcome common online learning challenges with practical tips to stay focused, motivated, and achieve success as a student.

MatX, The Smart Way to Boost Exam Marks — Even at the Last Minute

September 22, 2025
Final examinations are coming up, and many students (and parents) are asking: “Is there still time to improve?” The answer: yes! But only if revision time is used wisely. Forget cramming and endless rereading — research shows that active practice with feedback is what really moves marks. That’s exactly what MatEx is built for! It’s a 5-step cycle that helps students focus on what matters, gain confidence, and climb performance bands in the final stretch. Step 1: Kick Off with a Mock Exam Start with a realistic, AI-generated mock paper. Students get instant results that show exactly what they know (and don’t). No guesswork, no wasted hours. Step 2: Get a Personal Study Roadmap The system then builds a tailored plan. It highlights the “quick wins” — the topics where students can pick up marks fast — while still strengthening the harder areas over time. Step 3: Practise Smarter with AI Tutors Instead of slogging through the whole textbook, students practise only what matters most. AI tutors guide them with explanations and questions that stretch their thinking — not just hand them the answer. Step 4: See Clear Next Steps Progress is translated into easy-to-read performance targets. Students know what band they’re in, where they’re improving, and what they need to do to move up again. Step 5: Repeat, Refine, Improve Each week, the cycle repeats: diagnose → plan → practise → re-test . Small wins add up, confidence grows, and results climb. Why MatX Works! ✅ Fast feedback → mistakes get fixed immediately ✅ Focused effort → every study hour counts ✅ Confidence boost → progress is visible, not hidden ✅ Compounding results → each cycle makes the next easier ✅ Manageable time → around 3 hours a day, structured for success  The Payoff … Students on the edge of a grade boundary can jump up a band . Stronger students fine-tune exam technique and save time. Everyone studies smarter, not harder. MatEx turns proven learning strategies into a simple, repeatable system that works — especially when the clock is ticking.

Parental Involvement Supporters of Self-Directed Learning

September 1, 2025
At Evolve Online, we believe that empowering students to take charge of their own education is one of the most valuable skills they can develop. Self-directed learning not only helps students become more independent, but it also nurtures their ability to pursue their passions and interests. Independence is a habit that needs to be nurtured as recent studies show that repetition in a stable environment helps habits form faster because the brain starts to "automate" the action (Wood & Rünger, 2022). For a student to foster this habit one will require a plan, guided by their influential agents, parents and educators. This plan needs to include strategies such as, setting their own goals, selecting resources, and evaluating their learning outcomes, more specifically asking questions such as: Did I learn what I was supposed to learn? How well can I apply what I learned? What am I still struggling with? When a student can ask themselves these questions, it makes learning feel more meaningful and more personal, because they can see the real benefits beyond just schoolwork. The following are suggestions on how you, as a parent, can assist your child with their process of self-directed learning. 1. Pick one thing your child recently learned at school, such as fractions, writing a story, or learning about ecosystems. 2. Ask your child any of the following three simple questions: Where do you think you might use this in real life? Can you think of a time someone would need to know this? How could this help you in something you want to do when you are older? 3. Challenge them to spot it in action during the week — at home, whilst shopping, on TV, or during an activity. Additionally, when your child has learnt about the topic of writing persuasive paragraphs ask them the question, when would someone need to be persuasive in real life?" It turns into a short, fun conversation that makes learning feel useful and important. While parents play a crucial role in fostering self-directed learning, we understand that teachers also have a significant impact. Teachers provide the necessary guidance, structure, and resources that help students develop the skills they need to take ownership of their learning. When involved with an online school, the teacher assists the process of self-directed learning through incorporating technology and using digital portfolios. These tools assist the students in becoming self-reliant but also equips the student with practical skills as they move along in their educational journey. An example of this is when a teacher “sets the stage.” The teacher introduces the science project on ecosystems by explaining the overarching goal: to research, understand, and present a specific ecosystem (e.g., a desert, a rainforest, or the ocean). The teacher provides resources such as articles, videos and images through a learning management system such as, Arc or a communication platform such as, Teams ensuring students have access to foundational materials. The teacher’s role in this self-directed learning process is to provide a clear framework for the project and outlines the learning objectives: understanding ecosystems, researching real-life examples, and presenting findings effectively. Each student organises their findings and the teacher checks in and provides comments and suggestions to provide clarity. Additionally, the teacher might help students troubleshoot technical issues they encounter while using the tools, which is part of the self-directed learning process. In 2024, an exciting program in South Australia worked with over 4,000 school students to teach them powerful self-regulated learning skills such as, managing emotions and tackling challenges head-on. What made it even more impactful was that parents were right there in the mix, supporting the journey at home. We as a body of teachers and leaders are not able to do this alone but when involving parents in the process, we are able to build strong, self-directed learners who are ready to thrive far beyond the classroom.

How to Encourage Independent Learning in Children

By Liezel Blom • July 7, 2025
Raising a child to become an independent student involves more than just enrolling them in a good school. It requires a concerted effort from both parents and teachers to foster an environment that encourages self-directed learning. Having successfully implemented these strategies in schools across South Africa, I am thrilled to share five essential steps that can guide you in this journey. 1. Cultivate a Love for Learning The foundation of independent learning is a genuine love for acquiring knowledge. As a parent or teacher, you inspire curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. Here are some ways to nurture this love: Create a stimulating learning environment : Fill your home or classroom with books, educational games, and interactive tools that cater to your child's interests. Model a love for learning : Share your learning experiences and discoveries with your child. Encourage exploration : Allow your child to pursue topics that fascinate them, even if they fall outside the standard curriculum. 2. Remove Fear and Anxiety from Learning Fear can be a significant barrier to learning. Creating a supportive environment where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for growth rather than failures is essential. Consider these strategies: Avoid negative language : Refrain from making statements that link academic performance to family traits or limitations. Set realistic expectations : Encourage your child to strive for their personal best rather than imposing unrealistic standards. Use technology positively : Tools like Mindjoy Bots can help children learn to ask the right questions, reducing fear and encouraging exploration. Embrace error analysis : Sit down with your child to review their mistakes and brainstorm solutions. 3. Provide Adequate Resources While resources are crucial to learning, striking a balance is essential. Too few can leave your child unprepared, while too many can overwhelm them and stifle creativity. Here's how to provide the right amount: Select quality educational apps : Apps can offer interactive and engaging ways to learn new concepts, reinforcing classroom teaching. Encourage resourcefulness : Challenge your child to create study aids, such as flashcards or summary notes, which fosters problem-solving skills. Limit but don't restrict resources : Give access to enough materials to inspire learning without causing information overload. 4. Encourage Responsibility for Learning Children need to take ownership of their education to develop self-directed learning strategies. Here's how you can help them become responsible learners: Set goals together : Work with your child to establish clear, achievable learning objectives. Promote time management : Teach your child to create a study schedule and prioritize tasks. Utilize online platforms : Websites like Khan Academy or Coursera can empower students to learn at their own pace and explore subjects of interest. 5. Support the Transition to Independence  Once the groundwork is laid, children are more likely to become independent students. Here are some tips to support them in this transition: Encourage : Celebrate your child's successes and provide constructive feedback when needed. Gradually increase responsibility : Allow your child to make more decisions about their learning as they become more confident. Stay involved : Maintain an open dialogue about their progress and challenges without micromanaging. By following these steps, you can help your child develop the skills necessary for independent study and lifelong learning. Remember, the journey towards independence is a gradual process, but with patience and support, your child will thrive as a self-directed learner.

Can You Write the IEB Matric Through an Online School in South Africa?

By Lora Foot • June 2, 2025
Over the past few years, online education has grown exponentially in South Africa. With flexible learning models, access to digital tools, and a greater focus on individual progress, more families are exploring online schools as a full-time alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. But when it comes to high-stakes qualifications like the IEB Matric (NSC Qualification), many parents and students ask the same important question: Can you write your IEB Matric through an online school? The Short Answer: Yes – if the school is accredited. Not all online schools are created equal. Suppose you aim to complete your National Senior Certificate (NSC) through the Independent Examinations Board (IEB). In that case, you must ensure that the online school you choose is fully accredited to offer the IEB curriculum and enter candidates for the final Matric exams. What is the IEB? The Independent Examinations Board (IEB) is a South African independent assessment agency responsible for conducting Matric exams for many private schools nationwide. IEB qualifications are recognized nationally and internationally and are often praised for their academic rigor, critical thinking focus, and excellent preparation for tertiary education. Students who complete the IEB NSC in Grade 12 receive the National Senior Certificate, just like students who follow the state curriculum. The key difference lies in the quality of assessment, support, and learning focus. Are Online IEB Schools Legit? Yes – provided they are registered with the relevant authorities and have arrangements with accredited IEB exam centres. Here's what to look for in an IEB online school: ✅ Accreditation with the IEB or partnership with an IEB-accredited exam centre ✅ A registered examination centre or access to one where students can write their final Matric ✅ A structured, CAPS-aligned curriculum designed to prepare students for the IEB Matric ✅ Qualified teachers who understand the IEB assessment model ✅ Academic support systems to monitor progress, provide feedback, and prepare students for their final exams Evolve Online: A Proud IEB Matric Provider At Evolve Online, we're proud to be one of the few online schools in South Africa that offers the IEB Matric (NSC Qualification). Our students follow a rigorous and engaging academic programme from Grade 0 to Grade 12, culminating in the final IEB examinations. What Makes Evolve Online Different? 📚 Mastery-Based Learning: Students work through their courses at their own pace, ensuring they understand each concept before moving on. 🧑‍🏫 Expert Teachers: Our team is made up of experienced subject specialists trained in the IEB curriculum. 🖥️ High-Quality Learner Management System Platform: Our ARC learning platform ensures seamless access to resources, lessons, and assessments. 💬 Ongoing Support: From academic coaches to subject experts and pastoral care, we support each learner on their journey. 📝 IEB Exam Access : Our students write their final Matric exams at registered IEB examination venues across South Africa. So, How Do You Write Your Matric Through an Online School? Enrol with an accredited IEB online school (like Evolve Online). Follow the CAPS-aligned IEB curriculum from Grade 10 to Grade 12. Prepare for assessments and complete internal SBA (School-Based Assessment) tasks. Register for your final IEB exams through the school, which will secure a spot at a registered IEB exam venue. Write the NSC exams in October/November of your Grade 12 year. Upon successful completion, you will receive the National Senior Certificate, accredited by Umalusi and recognised by universities and employers locally and internationally. Final Thoughts  Online schooling is no longer a fringe option – it's a modern, flexible, and highly effective learning method. With a provider like Evolve Online, students can benefit from the best of both worlds: the freedom of online learning and the credibility of an IEB Matric. If you're considering online education for your child and want the assurance of a recognised qualification, ensure the school is IEB-accredited and offers a clear path to the National Senior Certificate.

Discovering Transferable Skills at Evolve Online

By Liezel Blom • May 13, 2025
We're excited to share some fantastic news about how we're helping our students develop essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. At Evolve Online, we're all about making learning engaging, relevant, and fun. Today, we're diving into the world of transferable skills and how we're implementing them through CREW chats on MS Teams and our Intervention Programmes. What Are Transferable Skills? You can take transferable skills wherever you go, no matter what you're doing. Think of them as your toolkit that helps you navigate different situations, whether in school, at home, or out in the world. These skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration. They're the building blocks that make you adaptable and ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way. Why Are Transferable Skills Important? Imagine you're a superhero with a set of powers that you can use in any scenario. That's what transferable skills are like! They help you: Think critically and make informed decisions. Solve problems creatively and effectively. Communicate clearly and confidently. Collaborate with others to achieve common goals. These skills are not just for school; they're for life. Whether you aim for a career in science, the arts, business, or any other field, transferable skills will be your secret weapon. How We're Implementing Transferable Skills at Evolve Online At Evolve Online, we believe in learning by doing. That's why we've integrated transferable skills into our curriculum through various interactive and engaging methods. Here's how we're doing it: CREW Chats on MS Teams Our CREW chats are like virtual hangouts where students can discuss, share, and learn. During these chats, we focus on developing productive dialogue and critical thinking skills. Students get to practice giving and receiving feedback, collaborating on projects, and engaging in meaningful conversations. It's a great way to build communication skills and learn to work effectively in a team. Intervention Programmes Our Intervention Programmes are designed to provide targeted support and enrichment activities that help students develop their transferable skills. These programmes include workshops, group activities, and individual coaching sessions. Students learn to set goals, manage their time, and reflect on their progress. It's all about empowering them to take control of their learning journey and become confident, independent thinkers. Fun Activities to Boost Transferable Skills Learning is more effective when it's fun, so we've incorporated plenty of exciting activities into our programmes. Here are a few examples: Role-playing games allow students to practice problem-solving and decision-making in different scenarios. Creative projects that encourage innovative thinking and collaboration. Debates and discussions help students develop their critical thinking and communication skills. Join the Adventure! We're thrilled to see our students grow and develop their transferable skills. It's an adventure that prepares them for the future and helps them become well-rounded individuals. So, parents, teachers, and students, let's embrace this journey together and make the most of these fantastic opportunities.

Exploring the Power of Growth Mindset in Education: A Journey with Evolve Online School

May 7, 2025
Welcome to the Evolve Online School blog! In this post, we dive into a revolutionary concept reshaping education’s future— a growth mindset . Inspired by the insights of Stanford University’s Professor Carol Dweck and deeply embedded into our educational model, a growth mindset lies at the heart of everything we do at Evolve Online School. Understanding the Core of Growth Mindset  Traditionally, many believed intelligence was fixed from early childhood—a view likening the brain to a hard drive that becomes set over time. This static mindset paved the way for labels like IQ, implying that a person’s cognitive ability had a genetic ceiling. However, scientific research has dramatically changed our understanding of the brain. Neuroscience has shown that the brain continues to evolve, primarily through adolescence and beyond. This phenomenon, known as neuroplasticity , highlights the brain’s incredible capacity to form new neural connections and restructure itself with experience and learning.

Presence: The Secret Ingredient For Successful Online Homeschooling

March 24, 2025
Online homeschooling offers a wealth of opportunities for learning, but it also comes with unique requirements. With the constant barrage of digital distractions, maintaining focus can be a daunting task. However, there is a secret ingredient that can transform the online homeschooling experience: presence . Being fully engaged, attentive, and intentional in learning is the key to unlocking true success, an education expert says. “Presence matters for several reasons. When students are fully present, they absorb and retain information more effectively. Active participation in discussions elevates understanding from superficial to profound, fostering a deeper connection with the material and leading to better academic outcomes,” says Jo-Anne Buchner, Cambridge International Principal of Evolve Online School, a brand of Africa’s leading private education provider, ADvTECH. “Moreover, presence acts as a shield against stress, enhancing motivation and creating a structured yet engaging approach to learning. This environment encourages creativity and innovation, which are crucial for long-term success.” Cultivating presence also teaches students discipline and accountability—essential skills for academic and personal growth. “It improves time management and study habits, equipping students with the tools they need to navigate complex learning environments. To achieve this, setting up a distraction-free space is vital. Creating a dedicated learning area with a stable internet connection, free from distractions like phones and TVs, becomes a fortress of focus where students can concentrate without interruptions,” Buchner says. She says parents should encourage their children to actively engage in virtual classes. Practical tips for maintaining engagement and presence include the following: Look at the camera: When you're speaking or listening, try to look directly at the camera. It helps the teacher know you're paying attention. Show interest: Use facial expressions as appropriate and make eye contact. Sit up straight: Keep your back straight and sit comfortably in your chair. It helps you stay focused. Keep your environment tidy: Make sure the background is clean and neat. It is less distracting for yourself, the teacher, and peers in the class. Dress neatly: Prepare for your day as you would if you had gone to a physical school. Don’t be tempted to stay in your pyjamas all day. Use headphones: If you have headphones, wear them to help you hear better and block out other noises. Stay away from distractions: Try not to play with toys or look at other screens during class. Stay focused on what the teacher is saying. Be ready to share: If you have something to say, be ready to share it. Raise your hand or use the chat to let the teacher know you want to speak. “Staying mentally present during lessons maximises learning, and designating specific study hours makes study time a focused and meaningful experience. Regularly assessing what strategies help maintain focus and adjusting study routines accordingly is also important. Flexibility is key to finding the right balance and maintaining engagement,” Buchner says. She says the long-term benefits of cultivating presence in online homeschooling are profound.  “It leads to higher academic achievement, improved social and emotional skills, increased confidence and motivation, and a lifelong love for learning. By minimising distractions and staying focused, students can transform their learning experience from mundane to magical.”

Online Learning & Mental Wellbeing: Making The Right Choice For Your Child

November 8, 2024
Anxiety is a pervasive issue that can affect students of all ages and from all backgrounds, regardless of whether they are enrolled in traditional brick-and-mortar schools or online educational programs. However, studying online can present unique challenges that need to be considered when choosing a school. That is why it is important for online schools to actively mitigate potential concerns right from the start, mental health and academic experts say. “While anxiety is most definitely not unique to the online environment, the online learning environment does present distinct challenges that can give rise to anxiety, and it is imperative that online schools both acknowledge and address these challenges to ensure a complete educational journey that is not only about getting to grips with academics but also the ongoing development of students,” says Nasrin Kirsten, Group Psychologist at The Independent Institute of Education , who oversees Student Wellbeing at ADvTECH Schools , SA’s leading private education provider. “Online students often face a blend of technological, social, and academic pressures that can differ significantly from those experienced in a traditional classroom setting. Suppose there is a lack of face-to-face interaction, over-reliance on digital communication, and a lack of positive motivation to stay on track. In that case, online students are likely to experience heightened anxiety levels,” she says. “Therefore, it is essential for parents to carefully evaluate online schools to ensure they have implemented strategies and support systems tailored to mitigate these unique online challenges.” Kirsten notes that social isolation is a significant contributor to anxiety in online learners. "Online schools must offer opportunities for meaningful interaction with teachers and peers, as structured, regular engagement can prevent feelings of loneliness," she says. Lack of boundaries between school and home also leads to stress, as students may feel they’re constantly in 'school mode' without time to unwind. "Online schools need to guide students in setting routines and healthy study habits to help manage this,” Kirsten explains. Technology-related frustrations, such as slow internet or unfamiliar tools, can further intensify anxiety. Schools that provide robust technical support and foster digital literacy can help alleviate these issues. Performance anxiety is another challenge, especially when feedback is insufficient. Kirsten emphasises that regular, personalised feedback is vital for students to feel supported in their progress. Finally, while online learning offers flexibility, some students may find it overwhelming without a structured schedule. Kirsten advises parents to choose schools prioritising mental health, offering resources like counsellors and workshops to support students' emotional well-being. This approach ensures that online learning is both practical and supportive. Colin Northmore, Principal at Evolve Online School , says online schools must ensure the comprehensive development of their students, addressing cognitive, emotional, social, physical and spiritual growth. “An important aspect is the curriculum, which needs to be designed to foster holistic development by integrating various aspects of a child's growth. This includes a focus on foundational, social, and emotional learning skills. There also needs to be real people with whom students can connect through life coaches to help students learn how to manage stress and anxiety and develop coping mechanisms, resilience, and a growth mindset. The secret to getting the balance right lies in the word balance. The question is, what should be balanced? Children need Screen, Green, Team and Dream time, he says. “A great online school must find opportunities for students to put away their screens and interact with the physical world (Green Time). The school can do this, for instance, by introducing scientific experiments using everyday household items. Schools can further augment this by providing physical resources, such as the Adventure Boxes supplied by Evolve.” Northmore says the question of screen time is also one that needs careful and well-planned implementation. “There is an essential difference between sedentary and cognitive screen time. Children are more likely to experience anxiety when they are using their screen time on social media and can find some relief from just watching a fun series. Cognitive screen time (when using their devices to solve problems or learn new skills and concepts) may not be relaxing, but it builds a sense of control and achievement that can ease their fear of failure.” The time spent in live classes needs to be as interactive as possible so that the students can develop their social skills and engage with the learning in a way that makes the screen disappear into the background (Team Time). “Opportunities need to be created for pair work and teamwork to learn how to give and receive feedback and a host of critical transferable skills like assertiveness, resilience, problem-solving and effective communication,” says Northmore. Perhaps the most important, is Dream Time.  “The human imagination is the most powerful tool for overcoming obstacles and creating creative solutions to seemingly unsolvable problems. Mindfulness exercises and imaginative play are crucial to the development of the imagination. Online students must be allowed to play when they are younger, and explore as they grow while being encouraged to feel wonder and awe, to develop holistically,” Northmore says.