Department Report 2006

What is History?
History is the study of change and development in society over time. Through the investigation of the past, history enables us to understand and evaluate how past human action impacts on the present and influences the future. It is for this reason that the number of boys opting for history, are growing. The knowledge of the past creates an awareness of the importance of choices and the consequences thereof. A critical understanding of the socio-economic systems and their impact on people is imperative for young people to change the world for the better.

Why choose History as a subject?
The subject matter is relevant and challenging. The History Faculty consists of teachers who are passionate about the subject and this is reflected in their lessons. This was the first department to use interactive white boards in the classroom and this was well received by the boys who are mostly visual learners. The attitudes and values that underpin the content prepares boys to apply this to their lives and contribute to the transformation of society. If we teach History well, it should promote non-discrimination, raise debates, confront issues and address current social and environmental concerns. History is an excellent preparation for the world of work. Society needs people who are independent, open-minded thinkers who are good at problem solving. In short: History is fun!

The grade 10 tour to the Battlefields of the South African war provided boys the opportunity to explore the physical environment where blood was shed and acts of heroism carried out. Hansie Strydom ensured that the boys had a fun-filled four days and we thank him for his contribution.

Our matriculants did exceptionally well: 32 obtained distinctions and no failures. This was the result of three years of hard work by Shaun Mcabe, Don de Fondaumiere and Andri Barnes. Byron Louw, our Teacher-in-Training, made sure that everyone mastered those essay writing skills. Glenwood lost Mr McCabe at the end of 2005 and Don left us in October for Canada. Jerry Hall also left at the end of the year. One of the strenghts of our Faculty was always the close cameraderie and friendship that excisted amongs us. I thank these men for their enthusiasm and commitment.
Well done, class of 2006!

Mrs A. Barnes
Subject Head