As Grade 7 and 12 learners recently went back to school, their new normal began. Learners can’t hug their best friends, share pencils or even lunches and have to continually sanitise their hands as part of practising social distancing and good hygiene.
This has left many learners frustrated, especially having to keep their masks on for the whole school day. They also see the advantages of the changes, however.
The learners gave their points of view on going back to school amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Bongiwe Mhlambi (18), the head girl of Potchefstroom Girl’s High says she has had to be extra cautious since the outbreak and that going back to school has been an overwhelming experience, especially being a Covid-19 matric-ulant. “It’s quite difficult to balance school work and the fear of Covid-19,” she said.
According to her, it has also been frustrating having to adapt to the new systems. However, with the help of the teachers and the support of fellow learners, they have been able to do it. “As a matric learner, I wouldn’t have made it this far without my fellow matric learners. That goes without question,” said Bongiwe. She advises fellow peers to try and follow the rules strictly and pray.
Francois Wiid (17), a Gr. 12 learner and head boy of Gimmies, says he is happy to be back at school. There is now more direction, whereas there was a lot of uncertainty when they were at home.
He explains that, as time went on, it became challenging to motivate himself in subjects he didn’t like while working at home.
Francois also missed the school structure and the guidance of teachers. He sympathises with teachers for putting their lives at risk, and learners in rural areas who don’t have the same resources or facilities.
Francois says he now appreciates the small interactions between friends when changing classes, of conversations they may have taken for granted. “It is strange, but it’s good to be back at school and surrounded by people again,” he said. He added that, with the changes and being back at school, he is more aware of the importance of working hard every day, as we don’t know what tomorrow holds. “Take it one day at a time and do the most you can do on that day,” advised Francois. Loyiso Dollah Kilimane (17), a Gr. 12 learner from Gimmies, agrees and encourages learners to take things step by step, even if it takes a long time.
She says the re-opening of schools has been more effective for her as she prefers the traditional classroom over online learning. She’s happy to be back at school as she can now catch up. Loyiso reassures parents not to panic or worry, as going to school will help them build for their future beyond Covid-19.
Orapeleng Moorosi (16), the head boy of Boitshoko High School, says the new system implemented in schools is for the learners’ safety, as the virus is deadly. “Yes, we have missed each other, and we want hugs, but it starts with us,” he said.
He says this new “era” gives learners more time to study and focus on their books as there is a lot less time for socialising. However, the downside is that, at times, learners have difficulty hearing teachers talking with their masks on. Due to the social distancing protocol, they can’t get too close to the learners to explain things or show them the page or section they’re discussing in class. Orapeleng says this may be an even greater struggle for learners who are disabled, especially those with hearing challenges. According to him, there is a lot they still have to cover, but he encourages all learners to put in the work and meet the teachers halfway. Omphile Metsing (17), also a matriculant from Boitshoko High School, thanked the teachers for their efforts and encouraged her peers to be passionate and work hard.
Lea Verster (13), the head girl of Laerskool Moorivier, says she’s happy to be back at school as she can gain more clarity on the work they did at home. She is also delighted to see her friends again after weeks. However, she says the new system is a bit strange and it isn’t as pleasant when talking to her friends. Even though they have to keep a safe distance, they can, at least, WhatsApp every night, which makes a difference. Lea says she used to be uncertain about her schoolwork when she was at home. But, since they’re back at school, she’s relieved and more relaxed, as the teachers can explain the various subjects in-depth and in person. Lea laughs and says one of the things she misses is sharing lunch with her friends.
She advises her peers to stay calm as this is only temporary. She wants them to enjoy their last year in primary school and make the best of the situation.
Tshiamo Phutiyagae (12), a Gr. 7 learner from Boitirelo Primary School, says she is satisfied with the new system, like having only 20 learners per class. She says it is more controlled, even if it means always having masks on. But, not being able to spend time with her friends during break or after school, like before, isn’t as pleasant. They now have to go straight home. “It hurts not being able to meet up with your friends, but I believe the way things are being done is for the best, so we, too, can be successful,” she says.
Finally, she encourages her peers to try and accept the way things are done and the rules passed down. “That is how the government and teachers see fit for their safety,” she says.
