Towards the end of this week, I was aware of an enormous sigh of relief in the Senior School, as we reached the half-term break. Mid-year examinations are over; we are all looking forward to a break during the deep cold that has settled over Johannesburg.

Examinations raise anxiety and cause a general sense of trepidation in students and parents alike but this, I would like to argue, is a misinformed response to the purpose of examinations in our academic lives. Examinations present a map to guide us in a deeper exploration of our learning. They indicate the aspects of study which require closer attention, areas for focus, and affirmation of what has been mastered.

There is uncertainty and risk involved in examinations and this is why most students would choose to avoid them, and why some even fear examinations. Learning means to immerse oneself in vulnerability and to accept how much is unknown, while developing the desire to know more. It is the same sense of uncertainty and risk attached to examinations which helps us prepare for the unknown of what life holds. It is in the act of testing ourselves that we develop resilience and a sense of confidence that we can confront the challenges that life presents. Self-development is enhanced through our ability to deal with uncertainty and risks that permeate life.

I have fielded questions from parents in the past weeks about running a co-curricular programme during the examinations. This approach at St Mary’s has always proven to offer an antidote to the routine of studying and writing examinations. It provides a healthy balance of exercise and creative pursuits that contributes to self-development. The majority of our students thrive in their activities outside the classroom and this inspires enjoyment and happiness which, at St Mary’s, we believe brings a healthy balance to children’s school experience.

As May Sarton puts it, “The most valuable thing we can do for the psyche, occasionally, is to let it rest, wander, live in the changing light of room, not try to be or do anything...”

I wish our community a restful and restorative break, which includes the Bishop’s holiday on 4 July.

DEANNE KING
HEAD OF SCHOOL