The Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal has noted with concern that there are schools in the province that offer subjects combination that are inappropriate for learners’ career paths. The department has therefore decided to develop a sample of subject packages that are considered relevant for learners in Grades 10 - 12.
All school in KwaZulu-Natal are required to look into these subjects combination and package their subjects accordingly where this is not the case. For example, schools need to ensure that learners studying Accounting and Physical Science do not take Mathematical Literacy. Instead, both accounting and Physical Science subjects must be offered in combination with Mathematics respectively.
In cases where schools have allowed learners to offer either Accounting or Physical Science with Mathematical Literacy in 2013, principals of affected schools must reverse these combinations and get learners to take Mathematics, especially in Grade 10.
The department has also directed all schools with Grade 9 classes to organise information sessions for parents and learners in Grade 9 to inform them about subject choices and subjects combination in Grade 10.
“We have decided to declare August, the month during which all learners in Grade 9 and their parents will be informed about subject choices that are offered in Grades 10-12. This is intended to provide adequate opportunities for learners to consider their career options and therefore take appropriate subject combinations in Grade 10 - 12,” said MEC Senzo Mchunu.
The main purpose of this information session will be to share information that would prepare learners for curriculum changes and related matters that they will get from Grade 10 - 12. It is expected that by 25 August 2013, all schools with Grade 9 shall have conducted these sessions.
During these information sessions, principals and school management teams (SMT) of schools with Grade 9 must inform learners and parents about the following:
- Subject choices that are offered in Grades 10-12 in terms of the National Curriculum Statement (Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement).
- Options of subject packages that learners can choose in Grades 10-12 that will inform their career paths.
- Assist learners to know schools within the district and in the vicinity and elsewhere that offer subject packages that they may wish to pursue.
- Inform learners about curriculum policy requirements for promotion in Grades 10-12 towards the attainment of the National Senior Certificate (NSC).
- Any other relevant information that will guide learners in making informed decisions on choices of subjects that they will take in Grade 10 - 12.
The department has developed a booklet on further education and training (FET) subject choices and packages which should serve as a base for these information sessions. This booklet is available in print form and can be obtained from respective district offices.
"Parents need to ensure that they are part of these very important sessions because education is every ones responsibility," said MEC Senzo Mchunu.
For more information:
Muzi Mahlambi
Cell: 082 519 1420
Sihle Mlotshwa
Cell: 072 207 2018
Muntu Lukhozi
Cell: 082 562 5965
