It’s back to school for Brainline Grade 12’s

It is back to school for scores of Grade 12’s studying through Distance Education Provider, Brainline. The date for the re-opening of schools is still in the balance amid the countrywide lockdown due to the coronavirus outbreak. Distance Education Provider, Brainline, says its Grade 12 students started their second semester this week. Chief Executive Officer, Coleen Cronje, says they were fortunate enough not to be affected by the recent school closures and subsequent lockdown.

‘As a fully operational online and virtual school, we have not felt the brunt of the lockdown, as was the case with the majority of schools around the country. Our Grade 12 students started with Cycle 2 this week, and we are grateful that their academic studies are not disrupted. Students attend weekly online classes, presented by qualified teachers and it is “academics” as usual,’ she says.

Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga, said that reopening of schools would be determined by how South Africans conduct themselves during the 21-day lockdown, with a comprehensive catch-up plan to be put in place.

‘We have seen a rise in the number of Grade 12 enrolments for our second semester, especially from learners previously enrolled in traditional schools. The only requirement is that they fulfil the requirements for their portfolios in each subject. Our qualified teachers are also on standby to assist these students in a smooth transition,’ she explains.

Coordinator of Brainline Cloud School teachers, Adele Drenth, says participating Grade 12 students were eager to return to school.

‘We had a record number of students participating in our online classes on the first day of the second semester. The feedback we have received thus far from students and parents is overwhelming.The majority are grateful that they can continue with their studies. Likewise, parents are relieved that their children can stay on track with their preparations for the final exams later this year,’ she says.

Cronje says online classes for Gr 8 – 11 will kick-off on Tuesday, 14 April. She says they will also continue to provide online virtual classes for non-Brainline students.

‘Brainline offers an array of options for learners to ensure that they do not miss out on valuable academic time. Learners who are not Brainline students will be able to join our weekly online classes. We offer a monthly payment option with a flexible cancellation option for those learners who would like to make use of our services, while unable to attend their schools.’

In addition to this, Brainline has also made available a free resource platform for learners around the country.

‘Our online resource library is open to the public and only requires a quick registration process. Gr R – 12 students can access valuable information to assist them with various subjects including Math, Science, Economics, Life Orientation and much more,’

Brainline is IEB recognised. This means that learners who follow the South African National Curriculum (similar to the curriculum offered in South African schools) resulting in the National Senior Certificate (NSC).