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Writer's pictureWerner Richards

Newsletter #16 - 5 August 2024

For many of you, the holidays have begun. You must be feeling relieved that the exams are over and now you can enjoy a break from schoolwork, even if only temporarily. I wish you all a wonderful break and encourage you to take the time to rest properly before the final push that awaits you in September.


Here are some important information I would like to share regarding the last week and the holiday:



1. OUTSTANDING INVOICES


Kindly ensure prompt settlement of any outstanding invoices. I will resend all pending invoices today. Failure to settle your invoice before your next lesson will result in my absence.


2. OFFICIAL TERM CLOSING DATE


The official closing date for Term 3 schools in Gauteng is Friday, 9 August 2024. Even though Friday is a public holiday, I haven't considered this in my yearly planning. Therefore, lessons will still take place on Friday if you are scheduled for them. It's important to note that I disagree with schools closing earlier, as this deprives us of valuable time for work. Despite the predefined dates at the beginning of the term, schools seem to close earlier each time for reasons unknown to me. Unfortunately, this situation is beyond my control, so if you choose to miss the last week, I won't be able to give you credit for the lessons.


3. AUGUST HOLIDAY BILLING


Kindly be informed that my contracts operate on a monthly average basis. This implies that you will be charged an average fee for your lessons on a monthly basis. You will not be charged for the holiday period when there are no lessons. However, you have been invoiced for August due to the averaged fee calculation. The average will adjust itself as the term commences and repeats. In essence, you are only responsible for the scheduled lessons up to 9 August during the term.


4. ADDITIONAL LESSONS FOR AUGUST


During this holiday, I will be working on my personal projects and conducting math clinics for students on the waiting list who couldn't secure a spot earlier in the year. If you need extra lessons during this period and you are a contracted student, please note that there will be an additional charge. Kindly refer to point 3 and the Terms and Conditions for more information. Feel free to reach out if you need further assistance, and I will try to accommodate you during the holidays.


5. FINAL WEEK SCHEDULING


I understand that some of you may not wish to have lessons this week, so please inform me if you will be absent. This will help me organize the schedules of other students more effectively. You are welcome to reschedule your lesson earlier this week to ensure you can enjoy your holiday. I suggest doing so. I will be sending a private message to everyone about this, as many of you may not read the weekly newsletter. As for the final lessons, you may be wondering what we can do during that time. We can review exam papers, identify areas of improvement, and work on them. Don't miss the chance to learn and enhance your skills if the opportunity arises. I must admit, I am feeling just as exhausted as you are. It has been a long term. However, I am committed to being available for you if you wish to continue.


6. STUDENT REPORTS


All student reports will be dispatched by Friday, 9 August. I will calculate a continuous assessment mark for each student, taking into account my observations and evaluations made during the term. Once more, there will be no formal tests conducted this term.


7. FINAL RANDBURG EISTEDDFOD ARRANGEMENTS


Students participating in the Randburg Eisteddfod in August will receive the final details and preparations this week. Make sure to practice diligently to make the most of your experience at the event. Keep in mind that this is not a competition, but rather an opportunity to showcase your musical talents on stage and share your music with others. Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend most of your events as I will be occupied with my own projects during the holidays. However, feel free to reach out if you need any assistance or have any questions.


8. CHANGES IN TERM 3 AND ONWARD. WHAT TO EXPECT!


Reflecting on this eventful term, I have discovered some crucial insights that I will be discussing with you all over the holidays. I understand that many of you are unhappy with the academic events that have taken place at your school. I share the same sentiment. Keeping up with school demands nowadays is extremely challenging. Nevertheless, there are strategies to address this issue, and I will soon reveal my perspective to you all. Stay tuned, there is still hope, and I am committed to making efforts to mitigate any changes and uncertainties you may encounter.


9. FINAL THOUGHTS


I commend all of you! Your performance this term was remarkable, especially considering the stress many of you experienced. From struggling to grasp the work, to facing tests and exams, to striving for personal growth, I am constantly learning from each of you in every lesson. Even if the grades weren't as high as you hoped, remember that this is just a part of the journey. Progress takes time, and I have witnessed improvement in all of you. Keep pushing forward! For those who achieved their progress goals or came close, congratulations! Let's aim for even greater success in Term 3. The fact that most of you enhanced your school grades is truly commendable. Well done!


Without delay, I want to wish you all a joyful break. Make the most of these three weeks. Embrace your inner child and indulge in your hobbies. If you choose to do extra tasks, remember not to overwhelm yourself, and feel free to reach out to me with any questions.


Best Wishes,

Werner



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