Run the Award
“Most of our TPA learners at Merensky High School are over-achievers, they are consistently recognised for academic and sports achievements. The President’s Award, however also gives recognition to those learners who would not necessarily make the 1st team not be in the top 10 in terms of academics. Most of our learners do the Award purely to be accepted at university and I believe that it works. Tracking back on those that have achieved their Gold and since left the school, we can definitely attest that TPA was a worthwhile experience for them. The Award is indeed a token of pride for them, which further exposes them to ample opportunities in life”.
Yolande Rautenbach, Merensky High School Award Leader
Seven Implementing Steps
Buy In
- Approval from management and support network to ensure success.
- Appointment of Award Leader(s) to run the Award in organisation.
- Agree to roles, responsibilities and requirements. MOU signed.
Guide
- Assist participants with selection of appropriate activities for each Section and recording & verification of activities undertaken.
- Ensure participants fully understand and meet requirements by reviewing and/or gaining approval for planned activities; especially in Adventurous Journey and Residential Project.
- Assist where necessary in briefing of activity coaches.
Recruit
- Market the Award to youths through, e.g. presentations, pamphlets, etc. It is advisable to also inform parents and all staff.
- Submit completed enrolments and payments to TPA; unless participant enrols online.
- Recruit assistance of other adult leaders as Award assistants, volunteers, activity coaches, assessors, etc.
Plan
- Plan implementation strategy; with year plan and budget if required.
- Familiarise yourself with Award. Attend orientation/training. Use Handbook and access other resources on TPA and Award Programme.
- Start basic admin system to keep info/records on Award, participants, volunteers, etc.
Motivate
- Meet participants to monitor progress. Invite TPA staff to meet them to address queries/challenges and motivate completion.
- Network with other Award Leaders through attending Group Meetings for Award Leaders where best practice and Award matters are discussed. These events are informative and inspiring.
- Invite Award Holders to speak at events and motivate participants.
Publicise
- Publicise Award activities and share participants’ stories through local media, Facebook, newsletter, etc.
- Share success stories internally with Management and staff. Having a TPA notice board is very useful.
- Arrange TPA presentation in assembly, staff meetings, etc.
Assess
- Pre-assess record book or portfolio before sending completed record book / portfolio to TPA Programme Manager for assessment.
- Arrange appropriate presentation of Award to participant, e.g. hand out at assembly/prize giving.
- Encourage Award recipient to sign up for next level or join Alumni Association, called SAGAHA.
Become an Award Leader
Enter your details to apply to become an award leader. A member of the team will contact you regarding your application.
