ACADEMICs
We work hard to prepare every student for their professional life. Our courses offer a good compromise between the continuous assessment favoured by some universities and the emphasis placed on final exams by others.
The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character -that is the goal of true education. “(Martin Luther Kind Jr)” Academically, Greytown High School is the leading school in our district and one the leading schools in both the province and the country and continuously strives for excellence by nurturing the highest academic standards. We also hold our own internationally, having produced two Rhodes Scholars in Antoinette Handley. A wide range of subjects is offered at Greytown High School, including Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Life Orientation, English Home Language, Afrikaans and IsiZulu First Aditional Languages, History, Geography, Physical Science, LifeSciences, Economics, Accounting, Business Studies, Hospitality, and Graphic Engineering and Design. Scholars who average over 75% are encouraged to do the 8th subject. Each year our grade 12 learners achieve results that enable them to study a variety of courses and our Old Scholars have taken a myriad of career paths over the years. We are extremely proud of our Old Scholars who get good results at a variety of Universities and in a variety of courses. The success of our old Scholars brings pride to Greytown High School. We acknowledge that the self-discipline taught to them at this prestigious school was key in enabling them to cultivate their respective career paths successfully. All twenty-five of our classrooms are fully equipped, and our teachers make regular use of computers, projectors and interactive whiteboards during lessons. The ICT initiative that the school undertakes has allowed teaching to continue during these very uncertain times. It allows our learners and staff to work with the latest trends in technology instead of being intimidated by it.
Technology
Technology education was introduced into the South African curriculum in recognition of the need to produce engineers, technicians and artisans needed in modern society and the need to develop a technologically literate population for the modern world. The subject stimulates learners to be innovative and develops their creative and critical thinking skills.
It teaches them to manage time and material resources effectively, provides opportunities for collaborative learning and nurtures teamwork.
These skills provide a solid foundation for several FET subjects as well as for the world of work.
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences at the Senior Phase level lays the basis of further studies in more specific Science disciplines, such as Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Earth Sciences or Agricultural Sciences.
Mathematical Literacy
This subject is a good alternative for those who try hard at Maths and yet find it difficult to pass comfortably. The approach is more practical, less abstract and centres around life issues. A good mark in this subject is preferable to a very weak one in Maths for many tertiary courses so some career guidance is necessary if there is uncertainty. The school’s Guidance Counsellor may assist in this regard if boys require help from the College campus, particularly as Maths Literacy is not acceptable for admission to a number of tertiary courses, those that require a sound mathematical ability of course.
Mathematics
Life is a math equation. In order to gain the most, you have to know how to convert negatives into positives. –Anonymous #mathschallenges
The aim of this subject is to provide learners with mathematical skills to extend their thinking by encouraging them to solve problems, think critically, persevere and to delve into abstract logic. Maths requires determination, commitment and self-discipline. The more motivated a learner is, the greater his success, as a steely work ethic is crucial.
Core Maths opens many doors at a tertiary level, however if a learner really tries hard at Maths and continues to fail, one should examine their options, as taking Maths when one does not have the necessary ability can make for a very stressful high school career and adversely affect their other subjects.
isiZulu First Additional Language
This subject aims to engender an appreciation of the language and of the Nguni culture. It covers some background to the language, literature study and grammar. The emphasis of the syllabus is on effective communication and efforts are made to have the boys conversant with the language while developing an enjoyment of the language. The subject consists of a few learning areas, namely: reading, writing, listening and speaking.
The acquisition of vocabulary is key and learners will be expected to extend their vocabulary through reading on their own, as well as by applying themselves to the study of prescribed texts.
English
The English syllabus is structured with the intention of developing fundamental language and communication skills by engaging the boys in literature, creative writing, grammar and oral work. In literature, the scholars’ creative and critical thinking skills are stimulated through the close reading of classic and modern texts and poetry. The learners’ perception and empathy are challenged, with the aim of developing their intellectual, moral and philosophical character. Creative writing and oral work promote effective communication which is vital in our everyday lives. Real attempts are made to keep the learning meaningful, relevant, effective and stimulating. Good English skills transfer to all other learning areas and so it is vital that the learners have a solid grounding.
Economics
Economics is the study of how people and societies allocate resources to satisfy their numerous needs and wants in a manner that is efficient, equitable and sustainable. Everything from money to clean water, oil, iPads and even Barbie Dolls, is finite. It is impossible for everybody to have everything. Thus choices have to be made; choices that we study and interpret in Economics.
Afrikaans First Additional Language
The aim is to teach English speaking learners how to communicate through the medium of Afrikaans – verbally and in written work. We engage the learners in a meaningful way so that they develop an appreciation for the language and so that their proficiency improves. While learning Afrikaans, they also develop vital life skills as they hone their communication skills
and exercise critical thinking.
Physical Science
Physical Science introduces the learner to investigative thought processes, mathematical problems, abstract thought and advanced problem-solving. It has theoretical and practical components. This subject is comprised of both Chemistry and Physics. It covers a very broad range of topics within these two learning areas.
Physical Education
Physical Education (PE) aims to develop learners’ physical well-being and knowledge of movement and safety. During an engagement in this study area, learners will develop motor skills and participate in a variety of physical activities. Participation in PE will nurture positive attitudes and values that will assist learners to be physically fit, mentally alert, emotionally balanced and socially well adjusted. Learners will directly experience the benefits of such participation and be better able to understand the importance of a physically active lifestyle. During movement activities, teachers will also address the development of other skills such as relationship skills, problem-solving skills and the enhancement of self-esteem.
Life Sciences
Life Sciences is the scientific study of living things from a molecular level to their interactions with one another and their environments. In this subject, learners will study life and living organisms, including their physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, physiological mechanisms, development and evolution. A favourite aspect of Life Science is the practical work, involving food tests, microscope work, dissection of various organs, and the study of the skeleton.
History
History is a study of the interpretation of the past. It is an analysis of past events, people and norms in order to gain some understanding of the world in which we live today, which has evolved as a consequence. The studying of History aims to imbue learners with a sound knowledge of core historical concepts, the skills and desire to enquire and question, and the ability to create their own interpretation of historical theories and events. The skills History teaches, of comprehension, interpretation, organization of ideas, and formulation of persuasive arguments, are invaluable life skills as these promote independent and creative thought and a high level of critical thinking.
Geography
This subject is multi-faceted and includes the scientific study of the physical world; the study and understanding of humans and their use of the environment; and their interactions with people globally. The aim of the subject department is for each boy to gain insight and to query the relationship between humans and their dynamic environment through a progressive exposure to the complex physical, social and political environments in which he lives. The purpose is to inspire critical thinking and further develop it as a life skill.
Engineering Graphics & Design
In this subject area, the focus is on mechanical assemblies, basic home design and drafting. The electrical facet of home design is also incorporated. The aim of Engineering Graphics and Design is to equip boys who wish to enter the tertiary fields of mechanical, civil or electrical engineering and associated fields.
Economics Management Sciences
Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) is a practical subject that equips learners with real-life skills for personal development and the development of the community. The tasks set promote the idea of sustainable economic growth and the development of our community. EMS provides the learners with an opportunity to get to know the world we transact in every
day. It is a three dimensional subject that taps into the economy, insight into how businesses function and basic bookkeeping skills, thus equipping them with knowledge they will use throughout their lives. Economic and Management Sciences is offered to Grade 8 and 9 students.
Business Studies
Business Studies is structured to develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values which
are necessary to enable pupils to participate responsibly, productively and effectively in
business activities. As a holistic subject, it gives learners a 360º perspective of the world
around them, as well as the ability to analyse, interpret and interact with different aspects of
it in a professional and dynamic way.
Accounting
Accounting focuses on measuring performance, and processing and communicating financial information about economic sectors. The discipline ensures that principles such as ethical behaviour, transparency and accountability are adhered to. It deals with the logical, systematic and accurate selection and recording of financial information and transactions, as well as the compilation, analysis, interpretation and communication of financial statements and managerial reports for use by interested parties.
FOR GRADES 10 – 12 WE OFFER 15 SUBJECTS THAT ARE SET OUT IN THE FOLLOWING SUBJECT PACKAGES
Curriculum grade 8 and 9
Compulsory subjects are Engish, Afrikaans or Zulu
Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Geography, Life Sciences
Technology, Business Studies, Accounting, History,
Life Orientation & Creative Arts
General Package
Eng HL – Compulsory
Life Orientation – Compulsory
Choose 1 of the following subjects:
Maths / Math Literacy
Choose 1 of the following subjects:
Afrikaans / Isizulu
Combination 8:
History, Geography, Life Science
Combination 9:
History, Geography, Business Studies
Combination 10:
History, Geography, Hospitality Studies
Commerce Package
Eng – HL Compulsory
Life Orientation – Compulsory
Choose 1 of the following subjects:
Maths / Math Literacy
Choose 1 of the following subjects:
Afrikaans / Isizulu
Combination 7:
Accounting
Business Studies
Economics
Science Package
Eng HL – Compulsory
Life Orientation – Compulsory
Mathematics – Compulsory
Choose 1 of the following combinations:
1. Physics, Life Science, Accounting
2. Geography, Life Sciences, Accounting
3. Physics, Life Sciences, Eng Graphics & Design
4. Geography, Life Sciences, Eng Graphics & Design
5. Physics, Life Sciences, History
6. Geography, Life Sciences, History
Get In Touch
Location: 239 Durban Street
Telephone: (033) 4132146/7
Email: office@greytownhigh.co.za
School Hours: Monday -Thursday: 7am – 3pm
Friday: 7am – 2pm