Independent Education magazine

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Last year, as part of its Centenary Strategic Plan, ISASA began moving towards a more data-informed operating model. The growth and continued success of ISASA are informed by its deep knowledge of its member schools. But, until now, that knowledge has tended to be anecdotal rather than empirical. Until last year, for example, we had no quantitative insight into how our member schools were fostering inclusive communities.

Teaching is a challenging field and always has been. Deané Loubser, reflecting on her career, points out that some challenges have been around for a long time but others seem unique to this moment. The pace of change has been singled out by several contributors to this issue of Independent Education as a current challenge. Nicole van der Ruit refers to “the ever-evolving 21st-century world”, closely tied to rapid technological change.

Reflections on the Cambridge Teachers’ Seminars and thoughts on education, identity and representation. In August, I had the privilege of attending the Cambridge Teachers’ Seminars as a recipient of the ISASA Staff Development Fund Award. All 37 seminar participants were accommodated at Jesus College, which was established in 1496 on the site of the 12th-century Benedictine nunnery of St Mary and St Radegund. It is a blend of the original buildings and the new conference venue of West Court.

By connecting South African learners and educators with Japanese perspectives and practices through exchange programmes that combine sport, culture and education, the Ikigai Foundation is nurturing globally aware future leaders. Preparing South African learners for a fast-changing world In today’s interconnected world, young people require more than a strong academic foundation to thrive.

Review: Give Quality Kids Quality School Days Author: Richard Hayward Publisher: Atria Books, 2025 ISBN: 978-1-77636-860-0 Reviewed by: Dr Glynnis Moore Every parent wishes for a happy childhood for their child. Because children spend a significant portion of their lives at school, it stands to reason that happiness at school contributes profoundly to overall wellbeing. Much of this, it would seem, depends on the nature and ethos of the school.

A speech on Catholic Education given at St Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Craighall on Catholic Schools Sunday, 9 February 2025. Good morning, everyone. My name is Micaela and I stand here before you as a very proud Rosie and former St Teresa’s pupil. It’s quite surreal to be back on this beautiful altar for probably the first time since I was nine years old.

As technology continues to reshape every aspect of life, schools are challenged to adapt thoughtfully and inclusively, preparing learners and teachers alike for a digital future defined by innovation, responsibility and human connection. In an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and digitalisation, transformative technologies are becoming deeply embedded in every aspect of our society.

An atelierista reflects on how the Reggio Emilia approach, grounded in curiosity, research and creative expression, transforms children’s learning and teachers’ practice. I have long been fascinated by the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, and it has had a profound impact on my life and educational practice. I am fortunate to work as an atelierista at Reddam House Waterfall Early Learning School and am one of the Africa Reggio Emilia Alliance’s presenting team.

The pandemic’s youngest survivors – the post-pandemic generation – are entering schools with unique challenges in behaviour, development and learning. It’s up to educators to meet them where they are. Teachers worldwide are navigating an unprecedented challenge: an increasing number of children are experiencing concerns ranging from behavioural, emotional, social and sensory difficulties to academic challenges. Often, they present as a worrying combination of all these concerns.