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It is undeniable that AI in education, even though still in relative infancy, has a multiplier effect on student outcomes. An overview of the substantial impact of individualised learning on student performance over the past few years, combined with an insight into daily advances in real life, has the potential to raise concern about the role of human educators in classrooms. Are teachers becoming obsolete? Not quite. While it is true that AI’s role is growing by the day, it is in fact not replacing teachers, but rather changing the role of teachers, an education expert says. “We have, over the past 3 years, seen a 20% improvement in student performance, with AI and individualised learning having become the order of the day,” says Desiree Hugo, Academic Head at ADvTECH Schools. AI in education isn’t a case of students having access to ChatGPT – it is a vastly more considered strategy leveraging proprietary tools and platforms. ADvTECH’s ADvLEARN Intelligent Tutoring System is a prime example, utilising AI to craft individualised learning paths that allow students to advance at their own speed. This system empowers data-guided instruction while fostering independent learning across various subjects. “Adaptive learning technologies leverage data-driven analysis to personalise educational content, pacing, and assessments based on each student's unique needs. These solutions, which include intelligent tutoring systems and learning management platforms, enable educators to tailor instruction efficiently without increasing their workload, when integrated effectively,” says Hugo. “For students, this creates a customised, engaging, and encouraging experience, whether they’re building core skills or exploring complex topics. For educators, it delivers real-time insights to refine teaching approaches, ensuring all students achieve progress.” AI systems are fast moving in the direction of students being able to learn completely independently, which then raises the question – what about the teachers? Will in-person schools still be a thing? Or will future learning consist of young people working alone, in front of their screens? “Adopting best international practices in AI implementation is critical to staying at the forefront of educational excellence. However, the narrative around AI in education must be clear: AI is a powerful tool to support, not replace, teachers,” says Hugo. “The human element in teaching, in particular empathy, creativity, and mentorship, remains irreplaceable, and AI’s role is to enhance these supportive opportunities, ensuring teachers remain central to the learning experience, while time-consuming repetitive tasks become the domain of AI.” The integration of AI into education really is a best-case scenario, allowing overworked teachers to get back to their unique strengths, Hugo says. WHY TEACHERS WILL REMAIN AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE While AI excels at processing data and delivering personalised content, it lacks the human qualities that ensures an exceptional, holistic education. In the age of AI, the role of teachers will remain important in the following areas: Emotional connection and empathy - Learning is deeply human, driven by relationships. Teachers understand students’ emotional needs, motivate them through challenges, and celebrate their successes. No algorithm can replicate the encouragement of a teacher who notices a student’s potential or the trust built through years of mentorship.  Fostering creativity and critical thinking - AI can provide information, but teachers guide students to question, innovate, and think critically. In a world increasingly shaped by AI, skills like ethical reasoning, collaboration, and creative problem-solving, nurtured by teachers, are essential. Curricula, like the IEB, IB and Cambridge systems, emphasize these skills, and ADvTECH’s commitment to global standards positions its teachers as key drivers of this development. Cultural and contextual nuance - South Africa’s diverse educational landscape requires teachers who understand local contexts, languages, and cultural dynamics. Teachers bridge the gap between AI and real-life context, ensuring learning is relevant and inclusive. “The fear that AI will replace teachers stems from a misunderstanding of its purpose, combined with the stunning realisation of its ability to improve student outcomes. But AI is not a substitute for human connection. Rather, it is a catalyst for unlocking teacher potential. It empowers teachers to do what they do best: inspire, guide, and transform lives. “Imagine a classroom where AI handles repetitive tasks, provides real-time student insights, and suggests tailored resources, while the teacher focuses on sparking debates, nurturing talents, and building confidence. This is the future that educational institutions must champion - a future where technology supports human excellence, not replaces it.”

“What do you want to be when you grow up?” It’s a question filled with imagination, ”Doctor!” “Astronaut!” “Pilot!” But as learners grow, the question demands more than dreams. At GIS, we believe choosing a career should be guided by reflection, purpose, and our values of Generosity, Integrity, Self-Discipline as well as Innovation, Diversity and Excellence! COGNITIVE ABILITY – EXCELLENCE Is your child ready, academically and mentally, for the career they’re considering? Professions such as medicine, engineering or aviation require strong abilities in subjects like Mathematics and Science. Encouraging careers where they can thrive, not just survive, helps them avoid overwhelm and anxiety. INTEREST – INNOVATION Do they enjoy what they want to do, even on a cold morning? Passion fuels perseverance. A budding lawyer should love reading. A future psychologist should be curious about how people think and feel. Interest keeps motivation alive when challenges arise. PERSONALITY – DIVERSITY Not every career suits every personality. Are they introverted or outgoing? If they are not instinctively confrontational and argumentative, is the legal profession the way to go? Shy students might struggle in performance arts, while reserved personalities may not enjoy sales or law. Their personality helps find the right fit, not the hardest fight. VALUES – INTEGRITY & GENEROSITY What truly matters to them—family, status, impact, balance? If its family they value, then they should choose a career that will not keep them away from their family A values-aligned career brings long-term fulfilment, not just success.  OUR GIS MESSAGE At GIS, we walk beside each student as they explore their future. A career choice is a journey of discovery, not a rush to the finish line.

In today’s rapidly advancing digital world, Gaborone International School (GIS) stands at the forefront of innovative education in Botswana. By embracing cutting-edge educational technology, GIS is redefining the traditional classroom and transforming it into a vibrant, collaborative, and interactive learning environment. The integration of digital tools not only enhances academic engagement but also equips students with critical 21st-century skills—collaboration, creativity, communication, and critical thinking. A Vision for Future-Ready Learning At GIS, technology is more than just a teaching aid—it’s an essential part of our educational philosophy. We believe that collaborative learning prepares students for the real world by encouraging them to work in teams, share ideas, and solve problems together. Our school has invested in advanced learning technologies including: Guided Readers ADvLEARN Robotics kits Drones Virtual Reality (VR) headsets These tools create immersive and collaborative experiences that drive both academic success and personal growth. Guided Readers: Enhancing Literacy Through Shared Learning Reading is a foundational skill, and GIS promotes it through the use of Guided Readers, a digital platform offering leveled reading resources tailored to individual learners. This interactive tool transforms reading into a collaborative experience, allowing students to: Participate in paired reading sessions Engage in group discussions Conduct peer assessments This social approach to literacy encourages students to listen attentively, express their ideas clearly, and understand different perspectives. Teachers can monitor progress in real-time, offer personalized feedback, and adapt instruction to meet each student’s needs. The result is a classroom where reading is not only accessible and inclusive, but also dynamic and engaging. ADvLEARN and Personalized Collaboration GIS integrates ADvLEARN, an intelligent learning platform that adapts to each student’s academic progress. While the platform is tailored to individual learners, it also supports group learning through shared tasks, feedback loops, and performance tracking. Students collaborate on assignments, explain concepts to peers, and build their understanding through guided interactions—making learning both personalized and participatory. STEM Innovation: Robotics, Drones, and VR Technology-fueled group projects in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) at GIS provide powerful platforms for collaboration: Robotics kits inspire teamwork and innovation, as students design, build, and program robots in small teams. Drone programming encourages students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world applications while working together on navigation challenges. VR headsets immerse learners in virtual environments, where exploration and group problem-solving make subjects like history, biology, and geography come alive. These hands-on experiences foster creativity, logical reasoning, and digital literacy—skills essential for future careers in a tech-driven world. Why Collaborative Learning Matters at GIS GIS is committed to holistic education that balances academic achievement with character development. Collaborative learning: Builds self-confidence and leadership Encourages empathy and respect for diverse viewpoints Prepares students for team-oriented workplaces Strengthens communication and interpersonal skills By working together on tech-integrated tasks, students at GIS become not only better learners but also global citizens who are ready to thrive in a connected world. Conclusion: Technology Meets Teamwork at GIS At Gaborone International School, our approach to learning is rooted in innovation, inclusivity, and student empowerment. By combining state-of-the-art technology with a strong emphasis on collaboration, GIS offers a dynamic educational experience that develops both minds and character. Through platforms like Guided Readers and ADvLEARN, and interactive tools such as robotics and VR, students at GIS are gaining the skills they need to excel academically and lead confidently in the future. Explore how GIS is shaping future leaders—where technology meets collaboration, and excellence begins.

In today's educational environment, family involvement is essential for helping preschoolers succeed and develop a positive attitude toward learning. When families actively participate in their children's education, students perform better and feel more motivated. This partnership between home and school creates a supportive atmosphere, encouraging children to embrace challenges and strive for excellence. The Importance of Family Involvement Family support plays a vital role in shaping learning outcomes and building young children’s confidence. Engaging in home learning promotes collaboration and strengthens understanding. When parents show interest and offer support, children feel more capable and are motivated to tackle new tasks. This fosters a growth mindset, where effort and persistence are valued. Active family involvement also builds strong learning habits. Children with engaged parents are more likely to develop organizational skills and a love for learning, setting the stage for long-term academic success. Creating a Conducive Learning Environment A calm, organized space supports preschoolers’ focus and consistency. Families can help by: Designating a learning area that signals it's time to focus. Ensuring good lighting and minimizing distractions like noise or electronics. Organizing supplies (e.g., crayons, books) to reduce clutter. Establishing a routine that matches children’s natural focus times. Personalizing the space to give children a sense of ownership. These strategies help children associate home learning with structure and enjoyment Routine and Structure at Home Consistent routines are key to effective learning. They: Improve focus and time management. Reduce stress through clear expectations. Support balance between learning, rest, and play. Create regular moments for family interaction, such as joint learning tasks or sharing progress. Help children internalize responsibility and manage their schedules independently. Encouraging Independence Helping children develop independence builds self-confidence and resilience. Parents can: Set clear goals and expectations. Prompt problem-solving through open-ended questions. Offer age-appropriate tools (e.g., books or visual aids). Adjust support based on each child’s learning style and pace. Celebrate small achievements to boost motivation. A balance of guidance and autonomy prepares children for self-directed learning. Communication with Teachers Regular parent-teacher communication strengthens learning at home. It enables: Clarity about academic goals and expectations. Timely feedback to monitor progress and address challenges. Sharing of helpful resources. A unified support system between home and school. These efforts create a stronger learning network around each child. Positive Reinforcement Motivation grows when children are encouraged in healthy ways. Strategies include: Praising effort and persistence. Using simple reward systems, like sticker charts, to make learning engaging. Showing excitement and interest in their progress. Such reinforcement builds confidence without creating pressure. Home-Based Learning at GIS Preschool At GIS Preschool, in line with our brand ladder promise to deliver strong academic outcomes, we fully understand that learning is not confined to the classroom. We provide age-appropriate homework to all our learners and, fortnightly, send home hands-on activities with step-by-step guides aligned to weekly themes. These not only reinforce classroom learning but also give parents a chance to actively participate in their child’s educational journey. Each week, we receive joyful videos of children collaborating with their parents on these activities an inspiring reflection of the home-school partnership we value deeply. Managing Challenges at Home When learning becomes stressful, consider these tips: Identify triggers that cause resistance or frustration. Create a calm space to promote focus. Introduce short breaks during learning to maintain attention. These small adjustments can reduce stress and support positive learning experiences. Final Thoughts Building a supportive home learning environment helps children grow into confident, independent learners. Through clear routines, regular communication, active participation, and encouragement, families lay the foundation for lifelong learning habits that extend well beyond preschool. GIS Preschool Department

As educational approaches continue to evolve, peer collaboration remains a powerful and proven strategy for preparing students for success in the 21st century. At Gaborone International School (GIS), we are committed to fostering innovative learning environments that promote academic excellence, and peer collaboration has become a cornerstone of this mission. This article explores what peer collaboration is, outlines its many benefits, showcases practical examples at GIS, and offers effective strategies for implementation. What is Peer Collaboration? Peer collaboration involves students working together—often in pairs or small groups—to complete academic tasks, solve problems, give and receive feedback, and support each other’s learning journeys. This learner-centered approach encourages students to share ideas, teach one another, and work toward shared goals, often with greater enjoyment and effectiveness than traditional teacher-led methods. 10 Benefits of Peer Collaboration At GIS, we believe in empowering our students to take an active role in their learning. Here are ten key benefits of implementing peer collaboration in the classroom: 1. Greater Ownership of Learning Students become responsible for their own learning. They take initiative, set goals, and monitor both their own and their peers’ progress—becoming active agents of their academic journey. 2. Reduced Unhealthy Competition Instead of pitting students against each other, peer collaboration encourages teamwork. At GIS, group projects are assessed as part of our formative assessments, showing students that collaboration is just as important as individual performance. 3. Improved Knowledge Sharing Through discussions and brainstorming, even struggling learners can enhance their understanding, supported by the collective intelligence of the group. 4. Development of Key Skills Students develop essential 21st-century skills such as communication, creativity, cooperation, teamwork, and critical thinking. 5. Enhanced Thought Processes Working with diverse and high-achieving peers positively influences students’ attitudes, motivation, and work ethic. 6. Boosted Confidence Regular opportunities to speak and present in small groups build students’ self-esteem, reduce shyness, and improve public speaking skills. 7. Broader Perspectives Collaborating with peers fosters empathy, inclusion, and appreciation of different viewpoints—key to nurturing culturally aware and globally minded citizens. 8. Real-Life Readiness Peer collaboration mirrors workplace dynamics, helping students prepare for future roles in professional, family, and community settings. 9. Deeper Understanding Explaining concepts to peers reinforces the speaker’s own understanding, leading to improved academic performance. 10. Social Competence Through collaboration, students develop stronger interpersonal skills, build friendships, and cultivate a sense of belonging. Peer Collaboration in Action at GIS At GIS, we integrate peer collaboration into many academic and co-curricular activities. Some examples include: LINKZ: An annual interschool event held at a local university, where student teams prepare for competitions in: Quiz Debate Database Design Accounting Hospitality Robotics GIS has proudly earned medals in many of these categories. Clubs and Group Activities: Study Groups Debate Club Public Speaking Writers’ Group Robotics Role-Playing (especially in IGCSE English) Project-Based Learning Environmental Awareness Campaigns Moot Court Student-Led Conferences Portfolio Development Interschool Exam Prep Seminars These activities develop students’ cognitive, social, emotional, and personal growth—equipping them for academic excellence and global citizenship. Implementation Strategies for Peer Collaboration To successfully embed peer collaboration in a school setting, the following strategies are essential: 1. Positive Interdependence Design tasks that are challenging and engaging enough to require collaboration. Each student must contribute meaningfully for the group to succeed. 2. Team Preparation Assign group members thoughtfully. Teach students how to work together, build mutual trust, and value diverse contributions. 3. Minimize Group Loafing Avoid situations where one student does all the work. Keep groups small and assign individual roles to ensure accountability. 4. Teachers as Facilitators Teachers must monitor group dynamics, ensure discipline, and guide interactions to maintain structure and effectiveness. 5. Socratic Seminars In these student-led discussions, learners ask questions, share ideas, elaborate on concepts, and engage in critical thinking—promoting deeper understanding and dialogue. 6. The Listening Triangle In groups of three, students rotate as: Speaker – explains a topic, Questioner – probes for deeper insight, Note-taker – records key points. Each student cycles through all roles to build a range of communication skills. 7. Project-Based Learning (PBL) Students tackle real-world problems through collaborative projects in subjects like Science, English, Geography, and Technology—making learning more meaningful and engaging. Conclusion: Building a Culture of Collaboration at GIS At GIS, we believe that collaboration is more than just a teaching strategy—it is a culture. By promoting open communication, teamwork, and accountability, we empower students to take ownership of their learning and contribute meaningfully to group success. This peer-driven model not only leads to academic excellence but also supports holistic development, preparing our learners to be confident, empathetic, and globally competitive individuals. Through peer collaboration, GIS continues to rise as a leader in innovative education in Southern Africa. Compiled by: Mavis Sithole Gaborone International School (GIS)

At GIS, learning goes beyond textbooks—it shapes the whole child. Clubs and co-curricular activities play a vital role in developing confident, curious, and capable students. Few are as transformative as the Debate Club, which equips learners with essential life skills while offering a space for personal growth and discovery. Debate Club gives students powerful exposure to diverse perspectives. Whether working with peers across year groups or engaging with students from other schools, these moments build empathy, adaptability, and communication skills—qualities that serve them long after school. But debate is about more than arguing opposing views. It’s a rigorous yet supportive environment where students learn to think on their feet, research thoroughly, and communicate with clarity. For many, it begins with hesitation. That’s why our club introduces new members through informal discussions and mock debates. These non-competitive sessions provide a safe space to learn structure, build confidence, and grow at their own pace. The first real test came at Maru-a-Pula School. Though they didn’t win, the experience was formative. Students learned how to source information properly, evaluate claims critically, and present arguments grounded in logic and evidence. They also strengthened their media literacy—developing the discernment to separate fact from misinformation in today’s digital world. These habits extend beyond debating. In the classroom and beyond, students become more intentional, articulate, and resilient. They learn to present clearly, listen actively, and stay composed under pressure. This confidence isn’t built overnight—but the Debate Club lays the foundation. Importantly, they also learned to lose well. Just a week after their initial loss, the team competed again—this time at Westwood International School. The challenge: present a business proposal to a panel of judges. Drawing on everything they had learned, the team walked away with a well-deserved win: Best Speaker in the Business Pitch category, and 1st Place overall . But more valuable than the trophy was what the moment represented—growth, teamwork, and resilience in action. What Our Debaters Say “Debate at GIS is about more than just public speaking,” says Nicole Cole, a Form 3 learner. “It helps you become more confident, informed, and ready to lead. Whether you're debating in class or on stage, you learn to think critically, express ideas clearly, and listen respectfully. It’s an experience that stays with you.” Club captain and Best Speaker winner Neelo Tshimologo, also in Form 3, shares: “I didn’t start debate with confidence. It built over time—through mistakes, learning, and just showing up. Now, I speak in class without overthinking. I contribute in group work. I work better with people, even adults. Debate taught me to listen properly, not just wait to speak. That’s helped in real life too. Even my writing improved. I now build strong arguments, use evidence correctly, and my teachers have noticed the difference—especially in English and History. Honestly, debate didn’t just teach me how to argue—it helped me communicate, stay calm, and show up with confidence, even when I felt unsure.”  Thanks to the support of highly qualified staff and the commitment of students, Debate Club continues to grow in numbers and impact. It’s one of many ways GIS enriches learning beyond the classroom—bridging academic content from the Cambridge curriculum with real-world application. As part of the ADvTECH group, GIS students benefit from world-class opportunities in a multicultural, well-resourced environment. Clubs like Debate reflect our commitment to developing confident, articulate leaders—ready to succeed anywhere. Students who step into Debate Club may start unsure—but they leave empowered.

Starting Standard 1 is a big leap for young learners. At Gaborone International School, we understand just how significant this transition is, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Over the years, we’ve walked this journey with hundreds of young learners, and while each child is wonderfully unique, there are a few signs we look for that suggest a child is ready to step confidently into Standard 1. While each child develops at their own pace, there are several common signs that suggest your child is ready to take on this exciting new chapter. Here are 10 helpful indicators: 1. Follows Simple Instructions Your child can listen to and follow 2–3 step directions, such as “Put your shoes away, wash your hands, and come to the table.” 2. Works Independently for Short Periods They can focus on a task like colouring, building, or simple writing for at least 10–15 minutes without constant help. 3. Expresses Needs Clearly Your child can use words to express when they are hungry, need the bathroom, feel upset, or have a question. 4. Plays and Cooperates with Others They can take turns, share, and interact respectfully with other children in a group setting. 5. Manages Basic Self-Care They can handle simple personal tasks like washing hands, packing a bag, or tidying up after an activity. 6. Shows Curiosity and Interest in Learning Your child asks questions about the world, enjoys listening to stories, and shows interest in letters, numbers, or new experiences. 7. Recognizes Some Letters and Numbers While full literacy isn’t expected yet, your child should be familiar with the alphabet and numbers 1–10. 8. Identifies and Regulates Basic Emotions They are learning to name feelings like “sad” or “frustrated” and are beginning to calm themselves with adult guidance. 9. Follows a Routine Your child is used to structured parts of the day like waking up, eating meals, and going to bed at regular times. 10. Feels Comfortable in Group Settings Whether it’s a family gathering, Sunday school, or pre-school class, they can function in environments with multiple children and adults. At GIS, we know that no child needs to “tick every box” to be ready. What matters most is their growing confidence, curiosity, and willingness to learn. Are you unsure or have some questions about your child’s transition into Standard 1? I’d love to meet with you in person, hear more about your child, and help guide you through this important stage. Book a coffee chat with me at GIS — together, we’ll ensure your child’s next step is the right one. I look forward to connecting with you! — Lisedi Phuti, Primary School Principal

Understanding the System, Its Structure, and Global Value When parents consider their child’s future, they naturally want an education that unlocks opportunity and builds confidence. The Cambridge International curriculum does exactly that—offering more than a qualification. It offers aspiration, access, and academic excellence. A Global Standard for Ambitious Learners Cambridge is one of the most recognised and respected international education systems in the world. Offered in over 160 countries, it’s a curriculum trusted by top universities and employers across the globe. Whether your child wants to study in South Africa, Canada, the UK, or beyond, Cambridge provides a qualification that travels well. At its heart, it’s not just about where learners can go, but who they become along the way—resilient, culturally aware, and confident young adults. A Structured Pathway, A Flexible Future The Cambridge curriculum supports students from early secondary through to school-leaving level: Cambridge Lower Secondary prepares students with strong foundations. IGCSE develops subject mastery, critical thinking, and choice. AS and A Levels deepen academic strength and university readiness. What sets Cambridge apart is that it provides structure without being rigid. Schools can personalise delivery to reflect local relevance and learner needs, while still maintaining international benchmarks. More Than a Syllabus—A Skillset Cambridge places an emphasis on what students can do with what they know. Learners are encouraged to: Analyse and evaluate Think independently Communicate effectively Solve real-world problems This goes far beyond exam preparation. It cultivates learners who are emotionally and intellectually ready for the demands of university, the workplace, and society. Assessments That Develop, Not Diminish Rather than rewarding rote memorisation, Cambridge assessments are designed to reflect understanding, application, and insight. This aligns with GIS’s values of empowering learners and nurturing excellence at every stage. Students are given the chance to shine through varied question types and rigorous, fair marking. Real-World Application: Exposure to Global Pathways To bring this international value to life, we complement the academic journey with real-time exposure to global opportunities. Recently, GIS welcomed representatives from the University of Pretoria , as well as Canadian university campuses , who engaged learners on everything from study visas and scholarships to adapting to student life abroad. These experiences help students envision the next step and equip families with practical tools for planning their academic futures. The Functional Edge of a Cambridge School The Cambridge system is most powerful when paired with strong pastoral care and a culture of excellence. GIS aligns this with: AI-driven academic support Dedicated pastoral care , including a full-time psychologist Multicultural, inclusive environments Highly qualified teachers World-class sporting and co-curricular opportunities Together, these create not only superior academic outcomes but also well-rounded, adaptable students who are ready to thrive. In Summary: Confidence in the Journey Ahead A Cambridge education doesn’t just aim high—it helps students get there. It blends global standards with local care, academic rigour with emotional support, and structure with opportunity. That’s why parents feel proud of their children’s qualifications, and students feel confident in their future success. Written by: Thomas Ramakgoakgoa Head of High School Gaborone International School

Explore effective strategies for encouraging reading habits in the digital age. Learn how parents and educators can use digital tools to foster a love of reading and balance screen time with critical literacy skills.