Maru A Pula SchoolTHE SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY Maru a Pula is an independent, co-educational, secondary school offering a programme of academic excellence to Batswana and to expatriate students. It is a non-profit making institution. The boarding component of the School plays a significant part in the overall ethos of Maru a Pula and both boys and girls can choose to enroll as full boarders. The academic setting of the School is rigorous and is based on established international standards. Examinations offered are the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the G. C. E. Advanced Level University Entrance exams (A Level). Relaxed interaction between students and teachers is encouraged. Emphasis is placed on the development of study and independent learning skills in order that students may achieve their full, individual potential. Academic courses are balanced by non-examinable courses in performing arts and computer usage. In addition to academic skills, Maru a Pula aims to promote in its students standards that will enable them to become responsible citizens, aware of their own individuality at the same time as showing tolerance and respect for the individuality of others. Self-discipline, self-confidence, integrity and a sense of community responsibility are stressed at Maru a Pula. The afternoon SPE programme, which includes student participation in a wide range of service and physical and enrichment activities, forms an important art of the overall curriculum. HISTORY AND ORGANISATION Maru a Pula opened its doors for the first time in 1972. Four years of planning resulted in the founding Headmaster, Mr Deane Yates, welcoming the first group of 25 students to the one classroom that had been built. The site of approximately 20 hectares of Kalahari bushveld on the outskirts of Gaborone, which had been generously given to the School by the Government of Botswana, seemed a distant satellite of the capital. Although the surrounding areas are now built up, the campus retains a rural, unspoilt feeling. From 25 students in its first year, the School has grown to approximately 600. The 140 boarders and most of the 53 teachers live on the property. Students and staff are drawn from approximately 40 countries and the multinational flavour of the School is undoubtedly one of its most valuable assets. Unlike many International Schools, Maru a Pula deliberately enrols a high percentage of local citizens: over half the students are Batswana. Maru a Pula has a School Council which is ultimately responsible for the general policy and financial management of the School. The Principal, who is a member of the Council, directs the School on a day to day basis. There are two Deputy Principals (one for Staff and another for Student Affairs) and three Directors of Study (Forms 1 and 2, IGCSE, and A-level). Maru A Pula School School Profile: UK curriculum 750 students, 12-20 yrs. Address Private Bag 0045, Gaborone, Botswana Tel: (+267) 391 2953 ; Fax: (+267) 397 3338 principal. map@info. bw ; http: //www.map.ac. bw/ | ||||||||||||||||||
