High Expectations, strong outcomes: Nova Pioneer releases 2025 Cambridge International results

Across Nova Pioneer’s South Africa senior campuses – based in Ormonde, Midrand and Ruimsig – Novaneers sat Cambridge International examinations at IGCSE, AS Level and A Level in November 2025. The results reflected strong academic standards, a culture of High Expectations and measurable year-on-year improvement across key benchmarks.

Network highlights:

• IGCSE: A 5% increase in the percentage of students who met or exceeded CAT4 predicted grades and a 5% increase in the percentage of testers achieving C+
• AS Level: A 5% increase in the percentage of testers achieving D+
• A Level: 85% of testers achieved E+

The network’s 2025 Cambridge results demonstrate steady progress and a commitment to high academic standards across all campuses.

“These results reflect consistent effort, disciplined study habits and a culture of high expectations,” said Rahel Wondwossen, Chief Operating Officer. “We are proud of the resilience our students demonstrated as they completed rigorous, internationally benchmarked external assessments.”

Results highlights

Ormonde Senior (IGCSE, AS Level and A Level)

 

Ormonde Senior delivered strong Cambridge International outcomes across IGCSE, AS Level and A Level in 2025, reflecting the commitment of students and staff to rigorous academic standards. Since 2019, the campus has built a strong track record of Cambridge performance, underpinned by disciplined preparation and sustained learner growth over time. Learners progressed into their next phase with structured academic guidance and ongoing partnership with families.

“We are very proud of our Novaneers for their achievements and are excited to share their results. Our students have shown what it means to be a Novaneer. Their hard work, dedication and positive attitudes have not only helped them succeed but have also inspired others around them,” said Simone Bock, Ormonde Senior School Leader.

Top achievers included: 

• Mikayala Bayat: 2 A*, 1 B
• Molemo Kodisang: 1 A, 2 B
• Simphiwe William: 1 A, 3 Bs
• Ashton Wax: 2 As, 2 Bs
• Keziah Pillay: 3 Bs
• Mkethani Ndaba: 2 Bs
• Omphile Seate: 1 A*, 5As
• Zingisa Mtsutsa: 5 As, 1 B
• Aizah Amir: 1 A*, 3As, 2 Bs
• Kukhanya Tshabangu: 1 A*, 1 A, 5 Bs
• Wandile Magazi: 2 As, 5 Bs
• Wandile Ndhlela: 3 Bs
• Braydon Joseph: 2 A*, 2 As, 2 Bs
• Leeto Selekane: 4 As, 3 Bs
• Jashuri Pillay: 1 A*, 4 As, 1 B
• Rameez Noble: 1 A, 5 Bs
• Zinhle Nkonyane: 2 As, 2 Bs
• Ubuhlebenkosi Radebe: 2 As, 2 Bs
• Deshan Soobramoney: 2 As, 4 Bs
• Iminathi Nkoloti: 1 A, 5 Bs
• Potlaki Kganya Finger: 1 B

Midrand Senior (IGCSE)

 

Midrand Senior reported the IGCSE outcomes of its second cohort, recognising the determination shown by students and staff as the campus continued to strengthen Cambridge delivery. Learners rose to the demands of internationally benchmarked assessments in Grade 10, with most progressing into the next phase and supported through targeted academic focus areas as they transitioned into the increased depth and independence required at AS Level.

“We wish to emphasise that we are proud of every learner in this cohort. These students undertook high-stakes international examinations in Grade 10, at a stage when many of their peers across the country are not yet exposed to such assessment demands. Their courage, perseverance and growth deserve recognition,” said Sizo Chalufu, Midrand Senior School Leader.

Top achievers included:

• Dumolwenkosi Mhlongo: 1 A*, 5 As, 1 B
• Kuyanda Koen: 1 A, 5 Bs
• Zamahlubi Mjoli: 1 A, 5 Bs, 1 C
• Malaika Nkulu: 1 A, 3 Bs, 1 C, 1 D
• Dembe Molaudzi: 1 A, 2 Bs, 4 Cs
• Zamazwide Nxumalo: 1 A, 2 Bs, 4 Cs

Ruimsig Senior (IGCSE)

 

Ruimsig Senior celebrated its first exam sitting at this level, and results showcased the determination shown by students and staff in establishing strong Cambridge foundations. The campus celebrated learners’ progress to their next phase, with structured support available for those requiring additional time through progression pathways.

“We are proud of the high number of strong subject performances recorded by our students. These results reflect consistent effort, disciplined study habits and high academic standards upheld by both students and staff,” said Carla Hercules, Ruimsig Senior School Leader.

Top performers included:

• Molemo Mokgele: 1 A, 5 Bs, 1 C
• Esihle Sokupa-Sowah: 1 A, 4 Bs, 1 C
• Saina Sharma: 1 A, 4 Bs
• Ryan Matanda: 4 Bs, 2 Cs
• Riley Notrem: 3 Bs, 4 Cs
• Lyle Kloppers: 2 Bs, 2 Cs

Cultivating a foundation for student achievement

Cambridge is a flexible curriculum that offers students multiple pathways and internationally recognised exit options. At senior school level, students typically progress through IGCSE, followed by AS Level and then A Level. A Levels are often completed as an additional year of senior study and are widely regarded as a strong exit qualification that can broaden university options locally and internationally. Depending on a student’s performance at IGCSE and AS Level, A Levels can strengthen final exit results and support access to preferred courses.

Across the network, Nova Pioneer worked closely with students and their families – from as early as Grade 8 – to shape an individual pathway aligned to each learner’s strengths, goals and academic profile. Families were consulted throughout the senior school journey to ensure clarity and confidence in the recommended exit route.

Ready to excel beyond the classroom

Nova Pioneer students completing AS and A Levels left with a clearer sense of direction and confidence about what they wanted to pursue beyond school, supported by the network’s Post School Success (PSS) Team and Psycho-social Support Team.

Wondwossen said, “We established the PSS Team with the aim of equipping students with practical tools for preparation in life after school. The team supports students in understanding their options and what benefits and challenges each may come with.”

In collaboration with the Psycho-social Support Team, the PSS Team supported students through personalised assessments and career guidance aligned to each learner’s talents and strengths. This work complemented Nova Pioneer’s emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving and leadership development, rooted in the network’s vision to empower generations of innovators who will drive progress across the continent.

Wondwossen added that by focusing on students’ unique strengths and interests, Nova Pioneer nurtured forward-thinking leaders and remained committed to long-term impact, including continued engagement with alumni as part of a supportive community that cultivated sustained success beyond graduation.

Appreciation

Nova Pioneer extends sincere thanks to its teachers and staff for their commitment to excellence and learner development and to parents and guardians for their continued partnership and support throughout the academic journey.

 

For first-time private school parents, the schooling landscape can feel overwhelming. Brochures filled with educational jargon and promises of excellence all start to blur. The fundamental question isn’t just what your child will learn, but how they will learn it. 

At Nova Pioneer, we believe the method is the magic. While academic results are vital, we know that true preparation for the future comes from an educational philosophy that builds resilient, curious and collaborative individuals. This is why the Nova Pioneer teaching approach is built upon the powerful foundation of inquiry-based learning. This student-centered model is the central pillar of our promise across all Nova Pioneer schools, ensuring that from their first day, your child is an active participant in their own discovery, not a passive recipient of information.

 

Cambridge Curriculum, Supercharged: How We Teach for Understanding, Not Just Memorisation

One of the most common concerns for parents considering a modern educational model is whether it maintains academic rigour. The inquiry-based learning Nova Pioneer employs is not an alternative to the world-renowned Cambridge curriculum; it’s the high-performance engine that brings it to life. Instead of asking students to simply memorise scientific facts, our learners are challenged to design experiments to test those facts. Instead of reciting historical dates, they investigate the cause-and-effect relationships that shaped events. This student-centered approach transforms learning from a passive act of memorisation into an active process of investigation and construction. The result is deep, lasting comprehension and the development of critical thinking skills that far exceed what’s required to simply pass an exam. They learn to truly understand the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’.

 

Building Innovators Brick by Brick: Developing the ‘Three Cs’ Through Inquiry

Our ultimate goal is to develop young innovators who are ready to shape the future. Our inquiry-based methodology is the practical, daily process through which we build our core student outcomes: Character, Capabilities, and Connection. This isn’t an abstract goal; it’s a tangible result of our learning model. Character is forged when a student’s initial hypothesis in a project proves incorrect, and they must adapt, rethink, and persevere to find a solution. Capabilities, like critical thinking and problem-solving, are sharpened with every open-ended question our teachers pose. We teach students how to think, not just what to think. Connection is naturally fostered as students collaborate on projects, debate different perspectives, and learn to communicate their ideas effectively. This holistic development is embedded in everything we do, including our leadership development programmes, ensuring our students grow into well-rounded leaders, ready for a complex world.

 

Your Partnership in Their Education: The Parent’s Role in an Inquiry-Based Journey

Embracing a progressive education model across our campuses in Gauteng also means a slight shift in the parent’s role—from supervisor to co-discoverer. Your partnership is crucial, and we are here to guide you. Supporting inquiry-based learning at home doesn’t require a teaching degree; it simply requires fostering curiosity. Instead of asking, “What did you learn today?” try asking, “What great question did you ask today?” or “What did you get curious about?” Encourage tinkering, experimentation, and even failure as a learning opportunity. This shift celebrates the process of discovery over the simple recall of facts. You become a vital partner in nurturing a genuine, lifelong love of learning. Your encouragement of curiosity at home directly amplifies the hands-on learning your child experiences in our classrooms.

 

Invest in a Future-Proof Education: Take the Next Step in Your Learning Journey

Choosing a school is a significant investment in your child’s future. In a world that is constantly changing, the most valuable asset you can give them is not a head full of facts, but a mind that knows how to learn, adapt and innovate. An education built on inquiry-based learning provides precisely that. It equips students with the critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and collaborative skills that universities and future employers value. This is more than just preparation for the next exam; it’s preparation for life. It’s an investment in a future-proof skill set. We invite you to see this vibrant learning environment for yourself. We encourage you to book a campus tour at one of our schools to experience the Nova Pioneer difference firsthand and take the next step in your child’s educational journey.

As a parent, choosing the right academic journey for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. In South Africa and around the world, the Cambridge International curriculum is an education system known for its global relevance, academic rigour and development of 21st-century skills.

One of the key milestones in this pathway is the Grade 6 Cambridge Primary Checkpoint. But what exactly is this assessment, and why is it an important stepping stone in your child’s learning journey?

Let’s explore.

 

What Is the Grade 6 Cambridge Checkpoint?

 

The Cambridge Primary Checkpoint is an internationally-benchmarked diagnostic assessment offered by Cambridge International Education to learners aged 11–12, typically at the end of Grade 6. Students are assessed in three core subjects:

-English 

-Mathematics

-Science

Importantly, the Checkpoint is not a pass/fail exam. It’s a tool for understanding, not judging, our students’ progress. It gives us detailed feedback on strengths and areas that need support, helping parents, teachers and students plan for the next phase of learning in Grades 7 to 9.

 

Why the Checkpoint Matters

 

Here are a few reasons the Grade 6 Checkpoint is a key part of our students’ educational journey:

-Global Benchmarking

Our students’ performance is measured against international standards, giving us insights into how they’re progressing, not just locally, but globally.

-Smooth Transition to Secondary School

Checkpoint results help our schools and teachers tailor learning support as our students move into more advanced subjects in lower secondary.

-A Focus on Growth, Not Stress

Because the Checkpoint is diagnostic, it encourages a *growth mindset*. Students learn that assessments are tools to help them grow, not measures of failure or success.

-Future-Ready Skills

The assessment aligns with skills increasingly demanded in the real world – critical thinking, problem-solving and effective communication.

This means that by participating in Cambridge assessments like the Checkpoint, our students are already engaging with a curriculum that positions them for success across borders.

 

Why Choose Cambridge in Today’s World?

 

The Cambridge curriculum is globally recognised for its rigour and high academic standards. It is developed and maintained by the University of Cambridge, a renowned institution with a long history of academic excellence. This international benchmark is particularly valuable in South Africa, where education standards have faced historical challenges. Adopting the Cambridge curriculum ensures that South African students are held to the same rigorous standards as their peers worldwide, providing them with a competitive edge in the global job market and higher education.

The Cambridge curriculum, supported by assessments like the Grade 6 Checkpoint, helps build:

• Fosters Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: The Cambridge curriculum places a strong emphasis on nurturing critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. In a rapidly evolving world, these skills are paramount for success. South Africa, with its unique challenges, benefits immensely from a curriculum that encourages students to think critically and creatively. 
• A Comprehensive and Balanced Education: The Cambridge curriculum offers a well-rounded education encompassing a broad spectrum of subjects, from mathematics and science to humanities and the arts. This diversity is instrumental in preparing students for various career paths and instilling a holistic understanding of the world. South Africa’s need for skilled professionals across multiple sectors makes a comprehensive education highly valuable.
• A Foundation for Lifelong Learning: One of the lasting impacts of the Cambridge curriculum is its ability to instil a passion for lifelong learning. By promoting a curiosity-driven approach to education, it equips South African students with the mindset necessary to adapt to a continually evolving world. 
• Success in tertiary education: We, at Nova Pioneer, measure success by the number of our graduates that complete their tertiary education within the prescribed years for the courses they undertake. In a country where first-year university pass rates sit at around 30%, we believe that the Cambridge curriculum places our graduates at a distinct advantage when it comes to tertiary education. Feedback from our alumni in the first-year of university tells us that the AS and A Level courses they completed at Nova Pioneer put them at least a 6 months ahead, in terms of content knowledge and skills, than their peers from other curricula.z

The Cambridge Grade 6 Checkpoint is more than just an academic test, it’s a tool that empowers students, informs teachers and reassures parents. It reflects a broader vision of education: one that values curiosity, growth and global readiness.

 

At Nova Pioneer, we believe that education should go beyond memorisation and test preparation. We aim to develop curious, critical thinkers who are equipped not just with knowledge, but with the skills to explore, question, and solve real-world problems. That’s why inquiry-based learning (IBL) is a cornerstone of how we teach.

 

What is Inquiry-Based Learning?

 

Inquiry-based learning is a student-centered approach where learners are actively involved in constructing their own understanding. Rather than being told what to learn, students are encouraged to ask questions, investigate solutions, and build knowledge through exploration and discovery.

This method doesn’t eliminate structure, instead, it shifts the role of the teacher from the “giver of information” to a facilitator of learning, guiding students through the process of inquiry. Structure is still maintained through clearly defined learning goals, scaffolded tasks, guided feedback, modeling of quality responses, and rubrics that help students stay focused and measure progress while they explore.

 

Why It Matters at Nova Pioneer

 

1. It Encourages Curiosity and Independent Thinking

At the heart of inquiry-based learning is curiosity. Our classrooms are designed to nurture a child’s natural desire to ask “why” and “how.” Students learn to take initiative in their learning, helping them become independent thinkers who are not afraid to explore ideas or challenge assumptions. This confidence to question and think critically lays a foundation for life-long learning engagement, both inside and outside the classroom.

 

2. It Builds Critical Skills for the Future

In a world where the job market is rapidly changing, skills like problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and creativity are more important than ever. Inquiry-based learning creates real opportunities for students to practice and develop these skills — preparing them for future success in any field. Assessment in this model goes beyond traditional tests to include project-based tasks, peer feedback, and reflective practice, all of which mirror real-world application and thinking.

 

3. It Deepens Understanding, Not Just Surface Knowledge

When students explore concepts themselves, they retain and understand them more deeply. Inquiry-based learning transforms knowledge into meaning. Whether it’s through experiments, group discussions, or project-based tasks, students connect learning to their world in meaningful ways. By constructing their understanding, students become active participants in learning, a key factor in long-term retention and conceptual and critical skills mastery

 

4. It Aligns with the Cambridge Curriculum

Nova Pioneer follows the globally respected Cambridge curriculum, which is designed to foster critical thinking, reasoning, and analysis. Inquiry-based learning complements this curriculum by placing emphasis on how students learn, not just what they learn — making lessons more engaging, relevant, and effective. This alignment ensures that our students are not only prepared for assessments, but also equipped with the mindset and skills Cambridge values: independence, flexibility, and analytical thinking

 

5. It Cultivates a Lifelong Love of Learning

When students are actively involved in their learning, they feel empowered. That sense of ownership leads to deeper engagement and a genuine love for learning — something we aim to instil in every Novaneer. (“Novaneer” is what we proudly call our students. Young pioneers who are bold, curious, and ready to shape the future.)

 

How We Bring It to Life

 

At Nova Pioneer, you’ll find inquiry-based learning integrated into everything from science experiments and writing workshops to leadership projects and even sports strategy. Our teachers are trained to create safe, stimulating environments where questions are welcomed, mistakes are seen as learning moments, and discovery is part of everyday school life. For example, Grade 8 students might investigate energy transfer by designing and testing their own insulated containers to keep liquids hot or cold, applying concepts from thermal physics to real-life problem-solving, while Grade 9 learners debate ethical decisions in simulated business scenarios.

We also partner this method with regular feedback and reflection so students can continuously improve and take pride in their growth.

Students are coached and encouraged to track their learning journeys through personal goal-setting, helping them reflect on their growth and build metacognitive awareness.

Nova Pioneer isn’t just a school — it’s a launchpad for young minds.

By placing inquiry-based learning at the core of our education model, we equip students not just to succeed in exams, but to lead, innovate, and shape the future.

Through meaningful learning experiences, we aim to spark curiosity, nurture resilience, and cultivate the confidence to ask better questions, skills that will define tomorrow’s leaders.

Choosing the right curriculum for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. The Cambridge curriculum is globally recognised for its emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning. But what if your child could start their Cambridge journey early? At Nova Pioneer, we believe that an early start in the Cambridge system provides students with a strong foundation for academic success and personal growth. Here’s why:

1. Building a Strong Academic Foundation

The Cambridge curriculum introduces core subjects such as English, Mathematics, and Science in a structured yet engaging way. Starting early allows students to grasp fundamental concepts gradually, reducing the pressure of having to learn everything at once. This foundation sets them up for success in more advanced studies.

2. Developing Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

One of the greatest strengths of the Cambridge curriculum is its emphasis on analytical thinking. Through inquiry-based learning and problem-solving activities, students develop the ability to think critically, ask questions, and apply knowledge in real-world situations from an early age.

3. Encouraging Independent Learning

Cambridge encourages students to take ownership of their learning. From a young age, students learn how to research, evaluate information, and work independently. This not only prepares them for higher education but also nurtures self-discipline and curiosity.

4. Enhancing Communication Skills

With a strong focus on language development and presentation skills, early exposure to the Cambridge curriculum helps students express themselves confidently. Whether it’s through class discussions, debates, or written assignments, learners develop effective communication skills that will benefit them throughout their education and beyond.

5. Smooth Transition to Higher Grades

Starting early means that students gradually adapt to the Cambridge way of learning, making the transition to IGCSE and A-Levels much smoother. They become familiar with the examination style, expectations, and workload, which significantly reduces stress and boosts confidence as they progress.

6. Global Recognition and Future Opportunities

The Cambridge curriculum is internationally recognised, opening doors to top universities and career opportunities worldwide. Beginning the Cambridge journey early ensures that students are well-prepared to meet global academic standards and compete on an international level.

7. Fostering a Love for Learning

At Nova Pioneer, we believe that learning should be engaging and inspiring. The Cambridge curriculum is designed to encourage curiosity and creativity, helping students develop a genuine love for learning that stays with them for life.

Starting Cambridge early is a strategic choice that provides students with a solid academic and personal development foundation. At Nova Pioneer, we nurture young minds to become confident, independent learners who are ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.

 

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier

For many students, the mention of “IGCSE exams” starts as just another phrase in Grade 9. But as the journey unfolds, it becomes clear that these international assessments demand discipline, resilience, and strategic preparation. From early revision tips to navigating pre-exam nerves, this reflection explores the highs and challenges of the IGCSE experience—and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Here is Thandolwethu’s reflection on her journey: 

“Grade 9 was the year our teachers started using the phrase “IGCSE exams”. I just knew the basics, like the fact that it was an international exam which was set and marked by individuals/teachers who I had not met before. I knew it would be more demanding than our usual (internal) exams, however I was not concerned by that.

At the beginning of grade 10, everyone was familiar with the term IGCSE. We were urged to start going through past papers and to start looking for tutors or advice from students who had written their IGCSE exams in earlier years. We were even told to start studying in January!

In the weeks before our August holiday, our teachers made sure to emphasise that our exams were in only 2 months. Our lessons started to become less busy, because it was focused on revision and sometimes they would be hectic to ensure that the syllabus was covered completely. The students started becoming more important to each other’s learning. The peer tutors were more available in periods like Mathematics where there’s not much time to turn and help your partner and sometimes in Afrikaans we would teach our own lessons. The 2 months seemed like a lot of time, so I was going to make use of the holidays by studying. The workload was a lot and I was demotivated for most of the holiday, but I always made sure to get at least 1 hour of practice and revision everyday (just so that I was not under too much pressure during exam time.)

It was hard to enjoy my holidays, because I could only think about the looming examinations. My parents and friends made sure to ease my stress with their kind words and affirmations. My parents supported me by finding me a tutor for Chemistry as I was really concerned about that subject and my performance. My tutor gave me useful tips and tricks, which helped me in my studying even after my lessons with him stopped.

After our holidays, the exams were incredibly close. We were allowed to come to school in the few weeks before exams, for a controlled and quiet environment to study. But most of us stayed home to study. When exam time started, it was incredibly nerve racking. Sometimes there would be chatter after an exam and sometimes we did not want to think back on our answers, but the IGCSE exams shaped how I am entering the new year.

I think that IGCSE exams are meant to give you a taste of large and important exams. Even though they are not on the same level as AS or A level exams, they introduce you to your mistakes, bad habits, study methods that work and goal setting before it is too late to change them. I am grateful for my teachers, family and friends as they are who made me confident in my performance even when I was not. To all the upcoming grade 10 (IGCSE) students: Take your teacher’s advice, don’t let the anxiety of waiting for your results consume you and enjoy your break, because you’ll need it.”

We are excited to announce that Nova Pioneer North Riding has appointed a new school leader, Prathna Ramchunder, as Head of School. With a deep passion for education and an impressive journey of leadership, Prathna brings a wealth of experience and dedication to fostering student success. We take a moment to get to know her inspiring journey.

A Passion for Teaching from the Start

Prathna’s story begins in Durban, KwaZulu Natal, where she grew up in a family of four, including her younger brother. From a young age, her dream was clear—to become a teacher. This passion never wavered throughout her schooling years, and after matriculating, she pursued her BA in Psychology, followed by a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education.

Her teaching career began in Durban, where she had the opportunity to develop and refine her skills at a school that provided a rich learning environment. After gaining experience, she applied for teaching positions in both Durban and Johannesburg, eventually landing a role at a Johannesburg-based organisation. During her four years there, Prathna’s talent for leadership became evident, and in 2019, she was promoted to Assistant Principal.

Joining the Nova Pioneer Family

In 2020, Prathna’s leadership journey took a new turn when she joined Nova Pioneer North Riding as the Associate Dean of Instruction. Reflecting on her time at Nova Pioneer, she shares how the school’s focus on coaching, development, and creating meaningful challenges helped her grow at an accelerated pace.

“In my time at Nova Pioneer, I was learning and growing at an accelerated rate due to the coaching, development, and challenging situations I faced,” says Prathna.

Her dedication and commitment to fostering a positive and dynamic learning environment quickly led to her promotion in 2023 to Dean of Instruction.

A New Chapter as Head of School

This year, Prathna’s journey reached an exciting milestone. After an extensive interview process among many strong candidates, she was selected to become the Head of School at Nova Pioneer North Riding in September 2024. Prathna’s vision for the school is one rooted in creating opportunities for growth, nurturing a culture of excellence, and empowering students to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.

We are incredibly proud to have Prathna Ramchunder at the helm of Nova Pioneer North Riding and are confident that under her leadership, our students and community will continue to thrive.

Let’s all welcome Prathna as she leads us into this exciting new chapter!

Nova Pioneer Boksburg is thrilled to announce the appointment of our new school leader, whose dedication to education spans over three decades. With a remarkable career marked by academic excellence, a love for teaching, and a strong commitment to student success, our new leader Dr Robyn Thompson is set to guide Nova Pioneer Boksburg into an exciting new chapter.

She has dedicated her life to fostering a love for learning and ensuring academic excellence. Her journey in education began at the Johannesburg College of Education, now the University of Witwatersrand School of Education, where she graduated in 1993. Since then, she has continually sought to deepen her understanding of education, completing a Bachelor of Education with Honours, followed by a Master’s in Education.

In March 2020, she achieved a significant milestone by earning a PhD from the University of Cape Town’s School of Education. Her doctoral research, titled “Teaching Intra-Active Comprehension with Picturebooks in a Grade Three South African Classroom”, explores the dynamic relationships between the classroom environment, time practices, and students’ bodily actions in shaping literacy teaching and learning. This research underscores her innovative approach to education, rooted in understanding the holistic ways children interact with their learning environment.

Throughout her extensive career, she has worked in both private and public schools, gaining invaluable experience across a wide range of educational settings. From teaching in the Foundation Phase to working with higher grade levels, she has developed a deep understanding of the diverse developmental stages and needs of students. This wide-ranging experience enriches her approach to supporting student growth at every level.

In 2020, she joined Nova Pioneer as the Associate Dean of Instruction at the Boksburg campus. In this role, she has made a profound impact on the lives of students and worked closely with educators to uphold the highest standards of teaching and learning. Her primary goal has always been to create a nurturing environment where every student feels a sense of belonging and experiences the joy of learning.

“I believe that when students feel valued and supported, they are more likely to engage deeply with their studies and to achieve their full potential,” shared Thompson. “This commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment is at the heart of her leadership philosophy.”

Her dedication extends beyond the classroom, as she is deeply committed to partnering with parents, teachers, and the broader community. She believes in setting high expectations not only for students’ academic achievements but also for their personal growth and development. By cultivating a culture of excellence and mutual respect, her aim is to empower students to become confident, capable, and compassionate individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.

One quote that resonates deeply with her is by Albert Einstein: “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” This philosophy reflects her belief that education should not only impart knowledge but also inspire creativity and a lifelong love for learning. 

She is driven by a deep care for our students and a strong commitment to their success. She is eager to continue fostering an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By working together with parents, teachers, and the community, we are confident that Nova Pioneer Boksburg will continue to provide students with the tools they need to achieve their dreams and become future leaders.

We are incredibly excited to welcome such an accomplished and passionate leader. With her extensive experience, deep love for education, and unwavering commitment to student success, Nova Pioneer Boksburg is set to flourish under her leadership.

Let’s all give a warm welcome to Dr Robyn Thompson as we look forward to a bright future filled with growth, learning, and success!

Nova Pioneer Ormonde Senior is celebrating a remarkable achievement by its students, Bokamoso Hlapane and Unathi Jiyane, who have excelled at the prestigious World Robotic Competition hosted by Hands on Tech in North Riding. The duo, who have become the pride of their school, placed fourth in the competition, showcasing their exceptional skills in robotics.

Their outstanding performance has not only brought honour to Nova Pioneer Ormonde Senior but has also earned them a coveted spot in the national robotics competition, which will be held in September. This upcoming event will see Bokamoso and Unathi compete against the top teams from across the country, a challenge they are ready to embrace with enthusiasm and determination.

Bokamoso expressed her excitement about the opportunity to participate in the WRO National Competition, highlighting the importance of dedication and hard work in achieving success. “This great achievement has shown us that being dedicated to your work does pay off, and sometimes you have to dream extremely big and put in the work to achieve great results,” added Hlapane. 

Their robotics teacher, Zamantima Thela, couldn’t hide her pride and excitement for her students’ success. She praised Bokamoso and Unathi, describing them as her “dream team,” strong in both programming and building. “I’m so thrilled that we will be competing in the nationals. I think I’m so privileged to have the dream team; strong in programming and strong in building. I’m so proud of my little roboticists, and I can’t wait to see what they do next,” said Thela.

This achievement is a testament to Nova Pioneer’s commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and excellence among its learners. The school has always encouraged its students to pursue their passions and reach for the stars, and Bokamoso and Unathi’s success is a shining example of what can be accomplished with the right support and determination.

As they prepare for the national competition, the entire Nova Pioneer community stands behind them, confident that they will continue to make their school proud. Bokamoso, Unathi, and their team have already proven that they have what it takes to excel on the world stage, and there is no doubt that they will give their best at the nationals.

Stay tuned for more updates as we follow Bokamoso and Unathi’s journey to the WRO National Competition. We are excited to see what these talented young minds will achieve next!

Today’s entry is mostly aimed at parents in South Africa who might be concerned after reading some doom and gloom reports about very disappointing Cambridge AS results at some schools:

 

Source: https://theunsjan.blogspot.com/2024/01/should-you-opt-for-cambridge-curriculum.html