Abstract
No school can function independently or in isolation from the community it serves. There exists an inter-dependence between the community and the internal structures of the school.
The rapid urbanization of the West Rand of Johannesburg has changed the demographics of the smaller communities. Subsequently, the schools in these areas experience a massive influx of learners which changes the educational needs of the communities. These needs are educationally focused and these needs bring pressure to bear upon the schools servicing these communities. The challenge each school faces is to be sensitive towards the changing in the expectations of its community in order to fulfil the role it is expected to play. A school plays an integral role in serving the community on a variety of levels. Other than being an educational facility, it is a hub of social and sporting events. It can also provide facilities for on-site medical and para-medical care. In order for a school to be the central sphere of activity of the community, there needs to be effective communication between the management of the school and its community.
This study aims to evaluate the needs different communities have of their local schools and how these needs are being met. The community, as well as the demography of the school, are identified as the external determinants of the school’s internal structures. As new private schools are opening their doors, they have to consider these external forces with the planning of the internal structures.
The parental body is a powerful ally of the school management in staying abreast of these ever changing requirements. To the parents, it is essential that their children receive excellent education. Managerially speaking, the contribution of the parents is not only an eminent part of the improvement of the internal structures of the school, but it also provides a platform to the parents to voice their opinions and create an...
M.Ed. (Educational Management)