This is a benchmark examination held across regional schools, mostly in South Africa and Namibia. This examination helps us to gauge the quality, competitiveness and standard of our academic education against a regional benchmark.
In addition, a variety of afternoon activities are offered to all pupils. Activities include swimming, athletics, tennis, cricket, soccer, netball, cross-country, music and chess. All students are expected to have some involvement in this programme. Research shows that such pursuits improve self-esteem, create a greater sense of belonging, improve academic results and predispose a healthier and more active lifestyle after they leave school. Music plays a very important role at the schools, and emphasis is placed on learning to play various instruments, including melodicas, recorders, marimbas and steel drums.
EDUCATIONAL APPROACH
The Orapa Schools’ motto is ‘Deeds, not Words/Ditiro eseng Mafoko’. The motto emphasises the schools’ commitment to not just talking about issues that matter, but ‘walking the talk’. We acknowledge that we are part of the global village and as such, while recognising the central role of our national heritage, we also appreciate the importance of internationally accepted cultural norms.
The schools’ logos incorporate a diamond shape with a wild animal at its center (in the case of the primary schools), and children playing (in the case of the pre-primary school). The diamond is a symbol of the importance of mineral resources in Botswana. It also symbolises the provision of the highest possible standard of education to all our children in a multicultural environment. The wild animals represent our fragile environment and its importance to our nation’s health and wellbeing. The children playing symbolise learning through play.
Orapa schools’ philosophy, key values and principles: