HOW TO ENGAGE FORM FOUR LEAVERS BEFORE THEY JOIN CAMPUS
Engaging Form Four leavers (high school graduates) before they join campus can be an enriching experience, providing them with valuable skills, knowledge, and experiences that can help them transition smoothly into university life. Here are some ideas on how to keep them engaged:
1. Skill Development Programs
- Short Courses: Enroll them in short courses or workshops on topics like computer skills, coding, graphic design, foreign languages, or other areas of interest.
- Certifications: Encourage them to pursue certifications in areas like IT, first aid, or project management.
2. Volunteering and Community Service
- Local Organizations: Encourage them to volunteer with local NGOs, community centers, or charities to gain experience and give back to the community.
- Service Projects: Organize or participate in community service projects, such as environmental clean-ups, tutoring programs, or health awareness campaigns.
3. Internships and Job Shadowing
- Internships: Find internship opportunities in fields they are interested in to gain practical work experience.
- Job Shadowing: Arrange for them to shadow professionals in careers they are considering to understand the day-to-day responsibilities and skills required.
4. Work Experience
- Part-Time Jobs: Encourage them to take on part-time jobs to develop work ethics, time management, and financial independence.
- Entrepreneurship: Support them in starting small businesses or projects to learn about entrepreneurship and business management.
5. Workshops and Seminars
- Career Guidance: Attend workshops and seminars on career guidance, resume writing, interview skills, and professional development.
- Personal Development: Participate in workshops on topics like leadership, public speaking, time management, and financial literacy.
6. Physical Activities and Sports
- Sports Teams: Join local sports teams or clubs to stay active and meet new people.
- Fitness Programs: Engage in fitness programs, yoga classes, or martial arts to maintain physical health.
HOW TO ENGAGE FORM FOUR LEAVERS BEFORE THEY JOIN CAMPUS
7. Creative and Artistic Pursuits
- Art and Music: Explore creative hobbies like painting, drawing, music, or dance.
- Writing and Blogging: Start a blog, write stories, or contribute to online publications to develop writing skills and express creativity.
8. Travel and Exploration
- Travel: Plan trips or excursions to explore new places, cultures, and experiences.
- Exchange Programs: Participate in exchange programs or cultural immersion experiences if available.
9. Reading and Research
- Books: Encourage them to read books on a wide range of topics, including fiction, non-fiction, and self-help.
- Online Courses: Take online courses from platforms like Coursera, edX, or Khan Academy to expand their knowledge in various subjects.
10. Social and Networking Events
- Youth Groups: Join youth groups or clubs to build social networks and engage in group activities.
- Networking Events: Attend events, meet-ups, and conferences to network with peers and professionals.
11. Mentorship and Coaching
- Find a Mentor: Connect with mentors who can provide guidance, support, and advice on academic and career goals.
- Peer Support Groups: Join or form peer support groups to share experiences, challenges, and solutions.
12. Preparation for Campus Life
- Campus Visits: Visit university campuses to familiarize themselves with the environment and facilities.
- Orientation Programs: Participate in pre-university orientation programs to learn about campus life, academic expectations, and available resources.
13. Financial Planning
- Budgeting Skills: Learn budgeting and financial planning skills to manage expenses effectively while in university.
- Scholarships and Grants: Research and apply for scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities.
By engaging in these activities, Form Four leavers can develop a wide range of skills, gain valuable experiences, and prepare themselves for the challenges and opportunities of university life.