Choosing the right school can make all the difference in a student’s future success. Riverside College Independent school has a track record of preparing students for university and beyond. In this article, we will explore the ways in which the school’s curriculum and extracurricular programs help students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in university and preparing students for the future of work.
Curriculum
Riverside College’s curriculum is designed to challenge students and prepare them for the rigours of university-level coursework. The school offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects such as calculus, biology, chemistry, physics, English literature, and history. AP courses are college-level classes that provide students with the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school. This can help students save money on tuition and also give them a head start on their university studies.
Riverside College offers a rigorous core curriculum that includes classes in English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language. The school also emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are essential for success in university and in the workplace.
Extracurricular Programs
Riverside College offers a variety of extracurricular programs that allow students to explore their interests and develop new skills. The school’s robotics team, for example, competes in regional and national competitions and gives students hands-on experience with engineering, programming, and teamwork.
The school’s music and arts programs are also top-notch. The choir and orchestra regularly perform in concerts and festivals, and the drama club puts on several productions each year. These programs not only provide students with opportunities to express their creativity but also help them develop discipline, teamwork, and confidence.
University Counseling
Riverside College has a dedicated college counselling department that helps students navigate the university application process. Counsellors work closely with students to identify their strengths and interests, and potential research universities, and prepare application materials. The school also hosts college fairs and visits from university representatives, giving students the opportunity to learn more about different schools and their programs.
The university counselling department also offers workshops and seminars on topics such as essay writing, standardized test preparation, and financial aid. This support can be invaluable for students who may not have access to such resources outside of school.
Alumni Success
Riverside College’s commitment to preparing students for university and beyond is evident in the success of its alumni. Graduates of the school have gone on to attend top universities such as Stellenbosch University, UWC, and UCT and have pursued careers in fields such as medicine, law, engineering, and business.
Many alumni credit Riverside College with providing them with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they needed to succeed in university and in their careers. The school’s emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills has proven to be particularly valuable, as these are skills that are highly valued by employers and are essential for success in university.
Riverside College is an Independent school that is committed to preparing students for university and beyond. Its rigorous curriculum, top-notch extracurricular programs, dedicated college counselling department, and track record of alumni success all contribute to its reputation as a school that produces well-prepared and successful graduates. If you are a student looking for a school that will prepare you for success in university and in your future career, Riverside College may be the perfect choice for you.
Small Class Sizes and Personalized Attention
Riverside College maintains small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and individualized instruction. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, students have more opportunities to engage in discussions, ask questions, and receive feedback. Teachers are able to get to know their students on a more personal level, which can be especially beneficial when it comes to college counseling and recommendation letters. Small class sizes also create a sense of community among students, which can foster a positive and supportive learning environment.
Emphasis on Community Service and Leadership
Riverside College encourages students to get involved in community service and leadership opportunities. The school has a mandatory community service requirement for graduation, and students are encouraged to take on leadership roles in extracurricular activities and clubs. Through community service, students learn about social responsibility and civic engagement, while also developing important skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. Leadership positions provide students with opportunities to develop their organizational and management skills, which can be valuable in university and in future careers.
Technology Integration in the Classroom
Riverside College integrates technology into its curriculum to prepare students for a technology-driven world. The school provides students with access to laptops and other devices, and teachers incorporate technology into lessons and assignments. This not only prepares students for university, where technology is often an essential part of the coursework, but also for future careers where technology skills are highly valued. In addition, technology integration can enhance the learning experience, making it more engaging and interactive.
Support for Multilingual Students
Riverside College supports multilingual students through its English Language Development program. The program is designed to help students who are learning English as a second language improve their language skills and succeed academically. English Language Development classes focus on reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, and also provide cultural and social support. In addition, the school offers support for multilingual students who need accommodations in other classes, such as extended time on tests or the use of a translator.
Equipping Students for Achievement
Develop time management skills
One crucial skill that will set students apart in their college and career environment is taking responsibility for their education. Moving from giving students a few tasks at a time to training them to organize their own day is essential. Students should be helped to discover the organizational method that works best for them, whether it is checking off a list of tasks or working through a week’s worth of a subject at a time.
By giving students ownership of some of their schedules, they will have the opportunity to learn, make mistakes, feel the consequences of mismanaging time and make adjustments, all in the safe environment of their home. Self-management will have some challenges along the way, but the goal is for parents to oversee while students become managers of their time. As a homeschool parent, the aim is to work yourself out of a “job.”
Foster study skills
Summarizing the main points of a textbook while reading it and summarizing each chapter’s content while reading literature can improve students’ study skills. Encourage students to find the memorization technique that works best for them, whether they are visual, auditory, or tactile learners.
Teach test-taking strategies
Tests are not the only way to measure a student’s progress, but they will be significant for college-bound students. Even those who start their careers after high school will likely face certifications or skill assessment tests. Providing students with opportunities to experience different test formats, such as fill-in-the-blank, multiple choice, and essay tests, is essential.
Plenty of test preparation courses can help parents teach their children how to prepare for and approach tests. Reading good books can help students build vocabulary and grammar, which is beneficial in standardized exams and essays. Combining individual reading with family read-aloud can help students absorb excellent English through their eyes and ears, improving their writing skills.
Develop computer and technological skills
E-skills are critical for students to be better prepared for college and more competitive in the job market. Starting with typing, students can learn PowerPoint and use it to present some of their lessons to parents or a class. Online tutorials can help students learn essential computer skills like PowerPoint, Excel, and Mac versions. Encouraging students to start a blog about something they are passionate about can be beneficial. By writing about something they love, students can develop their writing abilities and improve their computer skills.
Allow for free time
Students today are often overbooked, which can limit their creativity and deep thinking time. It is crucial to avoid over-scheduling children and to monitor their time spent on electronic devices. Allowing students to explore, ask questions, hypothesize, test ideas, fail, adjust, and try again is essential. When necessary, it’s okay to reduce their curricula to give them more time. This time can be used to volunteer, start a film or book club, or create a summer art fair.
Build character
Character is the most crucial “skill” of all, and it is built through years of training and modelling. Demonstrating the desire to have a character in oneself and one’s children is crucial. Showing students the benefits of qualities like diligence and patience will encourage them to persevere and strive for their best.
In conclusion, Riverside College is dedicated to preparing students for success in university and beyond. Through its rigorous academic program, extracurricular programs, and partnerships with local universities and businesses, Riverside College provides students with a well-rounded education that develops their critical thinking skills, leadership abilities, and real-world experience. The school’s emphasis on community service, technology integration, and support for multilingual students further enhances students’ overall learning experience. By providing students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to succeed in university and in their future careers, Riverside College is truly preparing its students for a lifetime of success. As we all know schools preparing students for the future.