When classrooms become dormitories

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - While thousands of learners across South Africa have retreated to the studies and taken their spots behind their desks with their books to prepare for this year’s matric exams, there are some who don’t have the luxury of doing just that.

For most learners at Murray High School in Kwanokuthula, Plettenberg Bay it is near impossible to buckle down and study due to a wide range of challenging circumstances.

The school and its teachers have, however, recognised this and jumped in to help with a unique “matric prep camp”.

One of the developers of this programme, teacher Anathi Tyontwana, explained that many of the students live in poverty-stricken areas and often end up living next to shebeens or taverns.

“Therefore they very rarely have a moment of peace and quiet to study,” Tyontwana said.

Another challenge for many is their living spaces.

“Some of the learners live in RDP homes and often share a single room with all their family members. So again, finding a moment to concentrate on studying is near impossible.”

Having a nutritious meal to fuel not only their bodies but also their minds, is also often lacking.

“If you are faced with these challenges, how can you expect a child to excel under exam conditions? How can you expect to achieve a good pass rate?”

It is therefore that staff at the school decided to introduce the matric camp programme.

Tyontwana explained that in the run-up and during the exams, all 85 matrics and teachers live at school.

“We have transformed classrooms into dorms and have created a safe study environment for them. We have teachers on hand to assist them with anything they may need.”

She said the learners are also fed there and guided through the preparation process.

The programme started on 25 October and will run until the exams are concluded.

“We truly believe that this is the best chance of bringing the best out of each student and ultimately raising the matric pass rate.”

Tyontwana said it was not easy to host the camp as funds were not readily available, but that there is a drive by the Plett community to support the school.