Open Day provides insight at Mitchell House

The open day at Mitchell House last Wednesday took an interesting turn when prospective parents were invited to join in a tour of the college facilities, including a visit to the school theatre where Grade 8 learners hosted exhibits of their first quarter integrated studies programme.
The day commenced with an address by Headmaster Andrew Cook and presentations by Director of Studies, Claude Goeminne and Director of Sport, Fred Romijn.
Cook said that one of the most important decisions that parents have to make, is in which school to place their children. “At Mitchell House we aim for the stars. We can make high flyers fly high,” Cook said.
Cook emphasised that each learner has strengths and weaknesses. “We value developing character, personal integrity, respect for ourselves and others, discipline, kindness, empathy and the pursuit of excellence. We offer a holistic education that focuses on spiritual, academic, physical, social and cultural elements,” Cook added.
In the theatre, learners were divided into groups of five and showcased their projects under the theme ‘Mission Mars – South Africa. The driving question to be answered with the projects, was ‘How can South Africa establish and maintain a sustainable colony on Mars’.
Academic Coordinator, Celri Olley explained that the subjects integrated in the project were English, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Geography, Economic and Management Sciences, Afrikaans and Sepedi First Additional Languages, Life Orientation and Arts and Culture. “The learners also had to choose a catastrophe to happen on Mars and to reflect on how they will address the situation. This was contained in a voice recording,” Olley added.

Story and photos: BARRY VILJOEN
>>barryv.observer@gmail.com