malvernmugadzikwa
Sharon Masocha
IN Harare’s teeming high-density suburb of Kuwadzana, a beacon of hope shines bright in the form of Corpus Christ High School.
Despite being nestled in the densely populated urban area, the school’s learners continue to prove that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
This is clearly demonstrated by the learning institution’s latest Ordinary and Advanced Level examination results.
For O-Level, learners achieved a 98,5 percent pass rate. Their seniors at A-Level attained a perfect 100 percent pass rate, with 19 of the learners obtaining 15 points each.
The principal, Mr Samson Ngwandingwa, reckons several factors have contributed to the institution’s success over the years.
“We have implemented a number of strategies that have contributed to our high pass rate.
“These include strict supervision of teachers and students’ books, setting pass rate targets for each subject, awarding prizes to achieving staff and students, maintaining discipline and adherence to school rules and creating a resourceful learning environment,” divulged Ngwandingwa.
He added that weekdays at the learning institution are always filled with a range of activities designed to stimulate the minds of learners.
The school operates on a six-day cycle, with full-time classroom instruction, sporting and club activities.
However, what sets them apart from other schools are their teaching and learning approaches.
“We interviewed our teachers both theoretically and practically, and analysed their original certificates. Appointment is based on merit, years of teaching experience . . .
“We also remunerate our teachers through a collective bargaining agreement system and award high-performing teachers based on agreed pass benchmarks,” said the school head.
The school’s curriculum is designed to cater for the individual needs of the learners.
“We screen our students according to their internal exam performance at entry into Form Three and place them in Arts, Commercials or Sciences classes.”
Ngwandingwa notes that this ensures learners attend to subjects they are capable of, based on assessments.
The six-day timetable cycle also ensures that all subjects receive sufficient teaching and learning time.
Similarly, learners are encouraged to undergo self-motivated weekend studies. The school is equally committed to responding to the needs of its learners’ career wishes.
“We have introduced Computer Sciences, an E-Library and interactive boards to enhance learning,” he said.
“Our goal is to provide our students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.”
Corpus Christ High School has been consistently ranked as one of the best result-oriented high schools in Harare West, with the institution’s results further improving each year.
And for the teachers, the rewards are tangible.
“We award our best teachers with a Honda Hybrid at prize-giving ceremonies for attaining 100 percent and 30-plus As at Ordinary Level and 20-plus As and only A, B, C grades for A Levels.
“We believe in recognising and rewarding excellence and our teachers are no exception,” he added.
As the learners of Corpus Christ High School bask in the glory of their academic achievements, they are a shining example of what can be achieved with determination, hard work and commitment to excellence.
Learners can send their short poems or stories to: prince.mushawevato@ zimpapers.co.zw
Online Reporter