Approximately 70 school principals attended the annual Principals’ Breakfast hosted by the False Bay TVET College in their conference centre at their central office in Muizenberg.
The theme of this year’s breakfas was “Bridging the divide between education, job creation and economic growth”.
The 70 guests in attendance consisted of school principals, Life Orientation teachers and district managers, and the event was geared towards strengthening college-school relationships and sharing education and training information and educational trends.
Acting principal of False Bay College, Karin Hendricks, presented a look into the future of the college and how it would meet the needs defined in the National Development Plan.
She outlined the huge significance of the establishment of a new campus at the Swartklip Road campus site to education and training in the region and reiterated the value of educators encouraging learners to choose career paths in the artisan fields.
“These artisan occupations are in high demand, have great employment possibilities, and respond to skills shortages in the labour market,” said Hendricks.
Centres of specialisation, entrepreneurship development and industry partnership development were all highlighted, as the economic value of these initiatives will make a huge difference in alleviating the unemployment rates of graduates.
“We are not educating our students for unemployment!” stated Hendricks.
Teachers were enthralled by the college’ e-learning manager, Carol Dwyer, who spoke about teaching the “TV Generation”.
“21st century learners were born watching TV. They prefer getting information through the use of visual imagery, graphics and videos which are used to explain, describe and discuss concepts and content. These learners consume and create information by using digital devices and tools that allow them to be creative and visual. What is important to remember is that digital technology, like TV, is a tool that can be used to leverage learning – it is not the actual learning,” said Dwyer.
Carder Tregonning, principal of Pelican Park High School, said: “I simply enjoyed Carol’s presentation, and would like her to come and present to my staff complement. It’s obvious the speakers are passionate about their areas of expertise. As educators we always looking at ways to connect with the youth for best academic results.”