W&F Q3 2024

Jun24168 Best STEM-Focused Primary & Secondary School 2024 – South Africa & Holistic Education Excellence Award 2024 Our education sets the foundation on which we build the rest of our lives. It is crucial that children receive a high-quality education that will appropriately prepare them for adulthood, positively shaping their formative years. Below, we take a look at Alma Mater International School, a premier institution based in South Africa, with insights from Ann-louise Moir, Head of Admissions. Alma Mater International School is a top-class institution offering private education, from pre-primary through high school. With the goal of nurturing responsible, compassionate global citizens, the school opts to provide a holistic educational experience that balances academics, sports, and cultural activities. Located in Johannesburg, Alma Mater International School aims to prepare its students for success in their secondary and tertiary studies through focusing on STEM education, research projects, and fostering a passion for knowledge. Through the Cambridge International curriculum, which Alma Mater International School adopted in 1998, the school equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their academic pursuits and life beyond their studies. The education and development industry in South Africa currently faces several challenges, which include resource constraints and the demand for continuous adaptation to the latest technological advancements. Additional external factors, such as economic instability and policy changes also impact the sector’s landscape. Despite such obstacles, Alma Mater International School continues to flourish by adopting innovative teaching methods and forming strong community partnerships to stay ahead. By taking a proactive approach, the school maintains a frontrunning position as a leader in delivering quality education. “The ultimate vision of Alma Mater International School is to become a leading educational institution known for academic excellence and character development,” Ann-louise tells us. “To ensure everyone within the organisation upholds this vision, the school emphasises continuous professional development for staff, engagement with parents and the community, and a curriculum that promotes both intellectual and personal growth.” To maintain this vision, Alma Mater International School has developed a STEMfocused education system that promotes the future of what a dedicated focus on developing STEM skills in students can provide. This approach allows both the staff and students to excel as they strive for excellence with one goal in mind. With a specialised approach to education, the school offers its learners small class sizes, personalised learning and a variety of extracurricular activities. Its commitment to providing a well-rounded education, complete with a focus on STEM education and résumé- building activities, has earned Alma Mater International School the Holistic Education Excellence Award 2024. Such success is exactly what sets this school far apart from its competitors. Of course, a successful holistic education can only be provided by inspired staff who share the school’s vision for excellence. “Alma Mater International School inspires its staff through a culture of recognition and professional growth,” says Ann-louise. “Teachers are encouraged to participate in ongoing training programmes and are provided with opportunities to advance in their careers. This motivation is further bolstered by a supportive work environment that values collaboration and the well-being of each staff member. By fostering a positive and empowering atmosphere, teachers are motivated to deliver the best educational experience for each student.” Passionate teachers are a crucial aspect of delivering a high quality education that will successfully shape a student’s mind and appropriately equip them for the future . We are Teachers reports that 88% of people say that a teacher had a significant, positive impact on their life, attesting to the importance of an inspired, motivating teacher to a child’s life. Moving forward, Alma Mater International School has several exciting projects in the pipeline, all geared towards enhancing and expanding its offerings. The school will be expanding its STEM programmes , introducing new sports facilities, and increasing the integration of digital learning tools into its operations. Furthermore, the school is planning to strengthen its internship and community outreach to build stronger relationships with its community. Additionally, Alma Mater International School will be developing new partnerships with international educational institutions, a strategy that will enhance its global presence. With these innovative strategies in mind, it is evident that Alma Mater International School will continue to lead the education and development industry, paving the way for those to follow. Since its inception, the school has continually upheld its commitment to providing the highest quality education possible to its students, delivered in a masterful combination of STEM education, sports development, and cultural activities. It is for this excellent educational strategy that Alma Mater International School has been awarded the title of the Best STEM-Focused Primary and Secondary School 2024 – South Africa. Contact: Ann-louise Moir Company: Alma Mater International School Web Address: www.almamaterinternationalschool.co.za Alma Mater International School Left: James Moir (Director), Middle: Marinda Steyn (High School Principal), Right: Lynn Botes (Director)

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