The junior primary learners of Newton House School got to experience voting first-hand when they took part in their very own elections on 7 May.
According to one of the school’s vice principals Carol Drake, an in depth discussion took place on what a privilege it is to vote, the meaning of democracy, the different parties involved and the repercussions of a majority vote.
To make it more realistic and fun, the Grade 0s and 1s voted between three movies and three kiddies meals, the Grade 2s voted for their favourite Big 5 animal and the Grade 3s voted between three fairy-tale movies (to fit in with their current theme) and three treats.
Drake added that the children lined up in their grades, presented their identity cards, were ticked off on the voters roll (a class list) and had their thumbs marked with a black marker. They then collected their ballot papers, went to make their ‘x’ on their choices and posted their vote in the correct box.
The votes were tallied on graphs, to tie in with their maths lessons, and much excitement could be heard as some of the tallies were neck and neck.
Drake said that the outcome was that the children got to enjoy their treats on the Friday after taking part in their first democratic election. “We have loved teaching our children about the voting procedures of Election Day.
“May your experience tomorrow be as fun as ours, with queues as short and ballot papers as exciting, make a difference, South Africa.”
Details: Newton House School www.newtonhouse.co.za; Facebook page @NewtonHouseSchool
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