Understanding Anxiety in Online School Students

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.

In South Africa, the ability to read for meaning is a critical skill that remains elusive for many children. According to the Reading Panel 2030 report, a staggering 78% of Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning in any language. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need to foster a love of reading among students to ensure their academic success and personal development. “Reading is foundational to learning and personal growth. It enhances vocabulary, improves comprehension, and stimulates imagination. Moreover, reading is linked to better academic performance across all subjects. For South Africa, where educational disparities are significant, promoting reading can be a powerful tool to bridge the gap and empower future generations,” says Kassandra Strydom, Academic Advisor: Foundation Phase at ADvTECH , Africa’s leading private education provider. Strydom emphasises that in a world dominated by social media and mobile devices, keeping a child's interest in reading can be challenging. However, she underscores that this is a vital responsibility for parents. “By integrating reading into daily life from a young age, and making it an enjoyable activity, parents can help their children develop a lifelong love for reading, thereby improving their prospects of personal and academic achievement,” she says. Strydom notes that the findings of the Reading Panel 2030 report highlight the critical need for efforts to ensure that all children in South Africa can read for meaning by 2030. And while the Department of Education committed to addressing challenges identified in the report at a recent session where Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube delivered the keynote address, the mammoth task could not be left to educators alone, she said. “Schools and teachers play an important role in teaching students how to read, but few are equipped to instil a genuine love for reading by the time children begin formal education. This essential passion must be nurtured at home to create a supportive environment where students can thrive once they master their ABCs.” Strydom says parents play a pivotal role in nurturing a child’s love for reading, and says it can be done by: CREATING A READING-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT & LEADING BY EXAMPLE Second-hand books are often very affordable, and libraries are free, making it easy for families to fill their homes with a diverse selection that caters to their child's interests and reading level. Choosing books together can be a fun and exciting activity, providing valuable parent-child bonding time. Once the books have been selected, engaging in paired or shared reading experiences can enhance this connection. Creating opportunities to read together in a relaxed and intimate setting—whether snuggled on the couch or curled up in bed—makes reading feel special. This not only fosters a love for reading but also connects the activity to positive emotions and quality time spent together. By modelling positive reading habits and setting aside dedicated reading time each day, parents can help cultivate a lifelong passion for books in their children. USING TECHNOLOGY WISELY Excessive screen time can negatively impact children’s development, prompting many schools to limit mobile phone usage to create more focused learning environments. To balance screen time at home, families can implement "reading timeouts" that benefit both child and parent. While there are numerous reading apps and platforms that can make reading engaging, it’s important to choose those that offer personal learning pathways, allowing children to explore content beyond just reading. These apps can foster deeper engagement with reading material by connecting it to real-world situations and encouraging critical thinking. However, it’s essential to also incorporate non-screen reading to ensure children develop a well-rounded love for literature alongside their digital experiences. MAKING READING AN INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE When fostering a love for reading, it's important to ensure that the experience is interactive. Encourage children to engage with books before diving into the text by taking time for ‘picture walks’, where they can flip through pages and explore the illustrations. This approach helps minimise distractions and prepares them for a more focused reading experience.  Consider using the "5 W" principle—asking who, what, when, where, and why questions about the book—to spark discussion and curiosity. Before reading, ask children what they think the story might be about, and always include the follow-up question, "How do you know that?" This encourages them to articulate their thoughts and develops metacognition—thinking about their thinking—making the reading experience richer and more meaningful.

In the ever-changing landscape of education, innovative teaching methods are continually being explored to enhance learner engagement and learning outcomes. One such approach that is gaining popularity is the flipped classroom model. As parents of learners at our online school, understanding this method and its benefits can help you support your child’s educational journey more effectively. What is a Flipped Classroom? A flipped classroom is an innovative teaching approach where traditional learning methods are reversed. Instead of introducing new content during class, learners first engage with the material before the lesson through videos, readings, discussions, or other resources, allowing them to learn at their own pace and come to class prepared. Class time is then dedicated to interactive activities such as discussions, group work, hands-on projects, and interactive games, which help deepen their understanding and application of the material. Experiences of Our Teachers Using a Flipped Classroom The flipped classroom approach has transformed our live lessons into dynamic and engaging learning experiences. For instance, when we studied a novel, we assigned specific chapters to groups of students, allowing them time to prepare and teach lessons on their assigned chapters. They focused on sharing language insights and planned interactive activities such as Kahoot quizzes, Minecraft sessions, debates, or group activities to engage their peers. Similarly, when introducing dystopian texts, we divide students into groups and tasked them with creating introductory presentations through PowerPoint, Q&A interviews, or videos, with clear guidelines on the essential information to include. Another experience is that we often assign Edpuzzles for students to complete before the lesson, helping them familiarize themselves with the content. During lessons, we enjoy organizing group activities where students “speed learn” a concept and then teach it back to the class. This approach increases student engagement and buy-in and reveals new sides of students who may be shy in traditional settings, empowering them to be confident and take on leadership roles. It fosters creativity and allows students to showcase their preferred learning methods. The flipped classroom approach promotes active thinking, as students build an initial understanding through pre-lesson activities and refine their knowledge during class discussions. This method has significantly improved students’ interaction, learning, and engagement with the material, leading to a deeper, more personal retention of information. Benefits for Learners The flipped classroom model offers several advantages for learners: Active Learning: By engaging with the material before class, learners come prepared to participate actively in discussions and activities. This promotes a deeper understanding of the content. Personalised Learning: Learners can learn at their own pace, pausing and rewinding the lesson recording or reviewing materials as needed. This personalised approach helps accommodate different learning styles. Enhanced Engagement: Interactive class sessions are more engaging than traditional lessons, making learning more enjoyable and effective. Improved Performance: Studies have shown that learners in flipped classrooms often perform better academically, as they have more opportunities to apply their knowledge and receive immediate feedback. Benefits to Learners with Barriers to Learning: The flipped classroom model supports diverse learning needs by allowing learners to review materials at their own pace, providing additional time for comprehension, and offering more opportunities for personalised support during interactive class sessions. Benefits at Home The flipped classroom model also brings several benefits to the home environment: Parental Involvement: Parents can see what their children are learning and even participate in discussions at home. This fosters a collaborative learning environment and allows parents to support their child’s education more effectively. Flexible Learning: Accessing pre-class materials anytime provides flexibility for families with busy schedules. Learners can fit their learning around other commitments. Reduced Homework Stress: Since much of the learning happens at home before class, traditional homework is often replaced with more meaningful, interactive activities. This can reduce stress and improve the overall learning experience. Collective Benefits for School Relationships The flipped classroom model not only benefits individual learners and their families but also enhances the overall school community: Stronger Teacher-Learner Relationships: With more interactive class sessions, teachers can build stronger relationships with their learners. This leads to a more supportive and motivating learning environment. Peer Collaboration: Learners have more opportunities to collaborate on projects and activities, fostering teamwork and communication skills. This collaborative approach helps build a sense of community among learners. Enhanced Communication: The model encourages open communication between teachers, learners, and parents. This helps ensure everyone is on the same page and working towards common educational goals. Conclusion The flipped classroom model is a powerful approach to modern education, offering numerous benefits for learners, parents, and the entire school community. By understanding and embracing this innovative method, we can create a more engaging, effective, and supportive learning environment for our children. As parents, your involvement and support are vital in making the most of this educational approach, helping your child thrive academically and personally.

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.”

Part 1

Discover 7 strategies to ease online school anxiety, fostering a calmer, more productive learning environment for children.

Volunteering is a powerful and transformative experience that benefits the community and plays a crucial role in shaping the character and future of high school students. Volunteering fosters personal growth, develops essential life skills, and cultivates a sense of responsibility towards the greater good. This is a crucial element in the Life Orientation curriculum. Volunteering for high school students has various advantages that can positively impact their lives. Benefits of Volunteering: Volunteering goes beyond fulfilling community service requirements; it provides students with unique advantages that contribute to their holistic development. Here are four key benefits of volunteerism: 1. Personal Growth and Development: Volunteering exposes students to diverse experiences, helping them develop a broader world perspective. They encounter people from different backgrounds and cultures, fostering empathy and understanding. This exposure contributes to personal growth by enhancing communication skills, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. 2. Skill Enhancement: Volunteering allows students to acquire and hone various valuable skills in academic and professional settings. From leadership and teamwork to time management and organization, the skills developed through volunteer work are transferable and enhance a student's overall competency. 3. Building a Strong Resume: College admissions and future employers often look for well-rounded individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to their community. Volunteering allows high school students to build a robust resume by showcasing their dedication to social causes, leadership roles, and the ability to take initiative. 4. Sense of Purpose and Fulfilment: Volunteering provides a sense of purpose beyond personal achievements. Contributing to the well-being of others creates a fulfilling experience and instils a lifelong commitment to making a positive impact. This sense of purpose can be a powerful motivator for high school students, influencing their goals and aspirations. Advantages of Volunteering: Beyond the individual benefits, volunteering has broader advantages that extend to the community and society. These include: Community Building: Volunteer work is crucial in building strong, connected communities. When high school students actively participate in volunteer activities, they contribute to the social fabric of their neighbourhoods, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. Addressing Social Issues: Volunteering exposes students to societal challenges and encourages them to proactively address these issues. By actively participating in community service, students become advocates for positive change, promoting social responsibility and civic engagement. Benefits of Volunteer Work for Students: Delving deeper into the specific benefits of volunteer work for high school students, we find: Improved Academic Performance: Studies show that students who engage in volunteer work often demonstrate improved academic performance. The skills acquired through volunteering, such as time management and effective communication, can positively impact a student's ability to excel in their studies. Career Exploration: Volunteering allows students to explore potential career paths. Whether working in healthcare, environmental conservation, or education, students gain firsthand experience that can help them make informed decisions about their future professions. Improved understanding of the Life Orientation curriculum: Volunteering and community service hours are required by the IEB as part of a high school student's practical experience in the subject area and contribute to their final Matric portfolio. Benefits of Community Service for Students: Community service, as a subset of volunteering, offers additional advantages tailored to the local environment and immediate community needs: Local Impact and Change: Participating in community service allows students to witness the direct impact of their efforts on local issues. This hands-on experience instils a sense of responsibility and encourages ongoing involvement in community development. Networking Opportunities: Community service often involves collaboration with local organizations and businesses. Students can expand their network by actively participating in such activities, creating valuable connections for future academic and professional endeavours. Thus, the benefits of volunteering for high school students are vast and multifaceted. From personal growth, curriculum understanding, and skill development to community building and career exploration, the positive impact of volunteerism extends far beyond the immediate act of service. Encouraging high school students to engage in volunteer work not only enriches their lives but also contributes to creating a compassionate and socially responsible generation ready to tackle future challenges. The Benefits of Volunteering for high school students within the South African context: Consequently, volunteering is essential for high school students within the South African context for several reasons, each contributing to student's holistic development and the community's betterment. Holistic development refers to an individual's all-encompassing growth and maturation in various aspects of their life. It goes beyond a narrow focus on academic achievements and encompasses the development of a person's physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and moral dimensions. Holistic development is emphasized as a critical benefit of volunteering for high school students in South Africa. This includes physical development, emotional development, social development, intellectual development, moral and ethical development, cultural and global awareness, personal growth and self-discovery, and ultimately, lifelong learning. Here are some key reasons why volunteering holds particular importance in the South African educational landscape: 1. Social Responsibility and Ubuntu Philosophy: South Africa, with its rich cultural diversity, places a strong emphasis on the concept of Ubuntu, emphasizing interconnectedness and mutual support within the community. Volunteering aligns with this philosophy, instilling in high school students a sense of social responsibility. It encourages them to actively contribute to the well-being of their communities and understand the impact of collective efforts. 2. Addressing Social Inequalities: South Africa faces various social challenges, including poverty, inequality, and limited access to education and healthcare. Volunteering allows high school students to directly engage with these issues, fostering awareness and a commitment to addressing social inequalities. By actively participating in community service, students become agents of positive change in their local context. 3. Promoting Diversity and Inclusivity: The country's history and diverse population make it crucial for high school students to engage in activities that promote unity and inclusivity. Volunteering provides a platform for students to interact with individuals from different backgrounds, fostering understanding, empathy, and tolerance. These experiences contribute to creating a more harmonious and united South Africa. 4. Enhancing Education: Volunteering complements formal education by providing practical, real-world experiences that cannot be replicated in a classroom setting. High school students involved in volunteer activities gain a deeper understanding of societal issues, practical problem-solving skills, and a more comprehensive perspective on their academic studies. 4. Building Leadership and Civic Engagement: South Africa is a democracy that values active citizenry. Volunteering offers high school students opportunities to develop leadership skills and engage in civic activities. Through their involvement in community service, students learn about democratic processes, civic duties, and the importance of participating in shaping the future of their communities and the country. 6. Contributing to Nation-Building: Volunteering plays a role in the larger nation-building narrative in post-apartheid South Africa. High school students actively participating in volunteer work contribute to creating a more inclusive, equitable, and socially just nation. By addressing community needs, they play a part in building a stronger and more resilient society. 7. Skill Development and Employability: Volunteering equips high school students with diverse skills that enhance their employability. From communication and teamwork to problem-solving and project management, these skills are transferable and valuable in academic and professional settings. Volunteering can set students apart when pursuing higher education or entering the job market. 8. Fostering a Sense of Hope and Empowerment: Volunteering can be a source of hope and empowerment for high school students, providing a tangible way to make a positive impact. This sense of agency contributes to developing confident, proactive individuals who believe in their ability to contribute to positive change. Therefore, volunteering is essential for high school students in the South African context as it aligns with cultural values, addresses pressing social issues, promotes inclusivity, enhances education, and contributes to the ongoing nation-building process. Encouraging and facilitating volunteerism among high school students is an investment in their personal development and the broader well-being of South African society.

In the bustling world of education, school principals often stand as the unsung heroes, who are mostly out of sight while quietly steering the ship of learning toward the shores of success. These dedicated leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the future of students and schools, yet their contributions often go unnoticed. On International Teachers Day, it is therefore worth considering the important role of principals, to shine a spotlight on their invaluable contribution. First and foremost, school principals are the leaders whose vision sets the tone for the entire school community. They create an atmosphere of discipline, respect, and academic excellence. A strong principal inspires not only their staff but also the students to strive for greatness, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Principals are instrumental in the recruitment and development of educators. They seek out and hire passionate teachers who are dedicated to nurturing young minds. Furthermore, they provide ongoing support and professional development opportunities to help teachers refine their skills and stay updated with the latest educational trends. The result is a highly motivated and skilled teaching staff, directly benefiting students. These educational heroes also manage the intricate web of daily school operations. From budgeting and resource allocation to discipline and safety, principals are the glue that holds the school together. Their attention to detail ensures that the school runs efficiently and safely, allowing teachers to focus on what they do best: educating students. School principals furthermore serve as the bridge between the school and the community. They engage parents, local organisations, and stakeholders to build strong partnerships that support student success. Principals are advocates for their schools, securing the necessary resources and support to meet the unique needs of their students. In addition to their administrative duties, principals are often involved in curriculum development. They collaborate with teachers to design engaging and relevant learning experiences that cater to diverse learning styles to empower students to reach their full potential. Furthermore, school principals are champions of innovation in education. They stay abreast of emerging technologies and pedagogical approaches to enhance teaching and learning. By embracing innovation, principals inspire creativity among both students and staff members. In conclusion, school principals are the unsung heroes of education, quietly working behind the scenes to ensure that every student has access to quality education. Their visionary leadership, dedication to student success, management skills, community engagement efforts, commitment to inclusivity, involvement in curriculum development, and promotion of innovation make them indispensable figures in shaping the future of education.

Learn to identify your child's learning style with this guide, enhancing their educational experience and personal growth.