Castlebridge is an independent school in Bloemfontein, with approximately 550 learners from Grade R to Grade 12. The school’s new owner has focussed on improving performance in STEM subjects and despite numerous challenges, the school has maintained a 100% matric pass rate for the past three years.

The Language Unit of the University of Pretoria was approached to assist the school with a short, targeted intervention for the English literature paper for Grade 10 learners, as the preparation of short and long answer questions for the exam can greatly improve learners’ chance of success.

Mrs Joanne Lombard, Head of the Language Unit, prepared study notes and model answers for old exam papers. During the first week of August 2018 she delivered these in a workshop, focussing on the plot and main themes of the novel Life of Pi by Yann Martell and the drama The Crucible by Arthur Miller, as well as brief summaries of the themes and poetic devices from the prescribed poems.

Learners responded with earnest fervour and enthusiasm, posing questions and participating in lively discussions. School principal, Mr Tau Seheri, social worker Annalien Liebenberg and English teacher Gloria Nolizwi Ludidi welcomed the University of Pretoria’s interest and support and will build on this workshop with continued revision.