ACADEMICS

Academic innovation is a matter of great significance at St Alban’s. It is evident to us that the attainment of success in life requires young men to possess skills beyond a mere matric certificate. In a world that is constantly evolving, it is imperative for individuals to possess an array of competencies to make significant progress.

Whilst academic rigor holds paramount importance to us, we firmly believe that this rigour can coexist with the development of a growth mindset, enabling boys to discover their true calling, instilling in them a love for lifelong learning, fostering an appreciation for curiosity, and equipping them to address the intricate challenges confronting the world today.

We maintain that amalgamating all these components can facilitate the fulfillment of our students’ aspirations.

IEB Curriculum

The College is registered with the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) www.ieb.co.za. The IEB is an independent assessment body that is accredited by UMALUSI.

Why IEB?
The IEB is cognisant that assessment is essential in developing learners who are responsible South African citizens, able to negotiate the challenges of a global world. Through our assessments, we are motivated to develop learners who are:

  • critical users of information
  • ethical reasoners
  • problem solvers
  • creative and reflective
  • lifelong learners
  • respectful of diversity, particularly in the South African context
  • active citizens who are committed to upholding the principles of the South African Constitution and the well-being of all peoples.

 

Subject Choices: Curriculum Overview

The following subjects are offered at the College:

FORM 1 (GRADE 8)

  • Home Language (English)
  • First Additional Language (Afrikaans, isiZulu OR Sepedi – unless granted Immigrant Status)
  • Mathematics
  • Life Orientation
  • Physical Education
  • Accounting
  • Business Studies
  • Geography
  • History
  • Information Technology
  • Natural Sciences
  • Electives (Dramatic Arts, French, Music OR Visual Arts)

 

FORM 2 (GRADE 9)

  • Home Language (English)
  • First Additional Language (Afrikaans, isiZulu OR Sepedi – unless granted Immigrant Status)
  • Mathematics
  • Life Orientation
  • Physical Education
  • Accounting
  • Business Studies
  • Geography
  • History
  • Information Technology
  • Physical Sciences
  • Electives (Dramatic Arts, French, Music OR Visual Arts)

 

FORM 3, 4 & 5 (GRADE 10, 11 & 12)

Core/Compulsory Subjects:

  • Home Language – English
  • First Additional Language – Afrikaans, isiZulu or Sepedi (unless granted Immigrant Status)
  • Mathematics OR Mathematical Literacy
  • Life Orientation

In addition to the above compulsory subjects, learners may choose THREE subjects from the elective stream:
Any 3 of the following can be chosen

  • Accounting Business Studies
  • Computer Applications Technology
  • Dramatic Arts
  • French (Second Additional Language) Geography History Information Technology Life Science (Biology)
  • Music Physical Sciences (Physics & Chemistry) Visual Arts
  • Available as additional Subjects:
  • Advanced Programme (AP) Maths
  • Advanced Programme (AP) English

* NOTE: Immigrant Status
An application for a language exemption may be submitted
If an application for a language exemption is granted the learner may choose ANY 4 Electives

Learning Support

The Learning Support department facilitates the process of applying for exam accommodations.

Should a boy start to show signs of battling with the rigours of his high school studies such as:

  • not completing tests or assignments on time;
  • failing to track and stay abreast with the pace and content covered in class or
  • battling to retain and recall information when studying and completing assignments 

It is suggested that his parents make an appointment with the College’s Academic Support. The Academic Support through a number of protocols assess the learners individual needs based on the findings, apply to the IEB for Examination Accommodations. Boys with examination accommodations are allowed to write their standardised tests with additional time or in a dedicated separate venue.

We too assist young students in adapting to High School and assist underachieving students to grow in reaching their potential.

St Alban’s College is a mainstream academic institution and therefore we are limited as to what assistance can be given to students with disabilities or learning barriers.

Academic Innovation

BEING VULNERABLE, SHOWING UP AND DARING GREATLY

St Alban’s College teachers need to be encouraged to embrace thinking and, as a result, become deep thinkers. Our team needs permission to pursue and implement new ideas.

STRETCHING THE TEAM & CHALLENGING CONVENTION

Teachers at St Alban’s are being challenged to rethink their educational philosophies; to research; to critically analyse;to reimagine; to engage with the future; to ask why?

STAFF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT. FOSTERING BELONGING

One of the most important areas of growth for our team has been in terms of fostering being and belonging in our spaces. With guidance from the Centre for Being and Belonging,

IT TAKES A SCHOOL WITH VISION TO PREPARE A YOUNG MAN FOR LIFE