Theo Anaxagoras

Literacy for the 21st Century

Pick up a newspaper today and the pages are filled with tales of economic woes; the visible decline of once-powerful nations, the rise of new nations; the clash of ethnic nationalities; the emergence of religious militancy; and the selfish actions of individual states, some seeking revenge while others aggressively aspiring to wealth and power.

Fascinatingly, newspapers 100 years ago would have had issues to discuss and debate which would have not been too far removed from our own. We also know that in 1914, the Great War broke out - discussion and debate was booted out by unanimously-supported calls for war. Peaceful Europe, with its sophisticated technologies and educated citizens, chose war over debate. Past lessons were thrown to the wind.

Today, though, with the help of History, our students are given the opportunity to explore the past and begin to think about events in a more critical manner. Young Historians are encouraged to ask the significant questions, to explore causes and effects, debate the issues, and to apply the lessons from the past to current circumstances. Through our structured syllabus, focusing on both International themes and African / South African topics, we strive to provide, not only the facts, but a forum for enquiring minds.

Through constantly refreshed subject material; electronic media: tablets and ipads; appropriate apps; You Tube videos and historical movies, our students are constantly challenged by both historical events and their relationship with current affairs. History comes alive and provides our young minds with an opportunity to learn from the past, set aside the unimportant, focus on the relevant, and be familiar with a changing world. In the words of the American futurist, Alvin Toffler, “The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.” To achieve this, even in small measure, is the success of the subject.

Theo Anaxagoras