Spirit of Hellenism
 
 

SAHETI boasts a unique offering in that it promotes the timeless, universal ideals of Hellenism through a “live education” approach. The study of Greek language, civilisation and culture enables pupils to understand the origins of democratic thinking, independent thought and a love for academic achievement. Such concepts are everyday features of school life at SAHETI. This values-driven approach is instrumental in producing worthy citizens who will enrich South African society at large.

Greek is taught on different levels to cater for the needs and abilities of every child. In the Playschool and Pre-Primary school, the aim is to introduce young children to the language and culture through games, poetry, dance and song. In the Primary and High schools, the following levels of teaching are offered:

  
::Greek as a foreign language: mainly aimed at pupils who are not of Greek descent, this syllabus enables pupils to acquire and develop the basic language skills necessary for everyday oral and written communication. Special emphasis – during lessons which are conducted in English - is placed on exploring and fostering an appreciation for the Greek culture, history and tradition.
  
::Greek as a second language: mainly aimed at pupils of Greek descent, the syllabus provides an advanced level of knowledge of the Greek language. Lessons on Greek culture, history and tradition (and literature from Grade 8 to 12) serve to enrich the pupils’ cultural identity.
  
:: Greek as a second additional language (a recognised matric subject from 2007) is offered in the High School – Grade 10 to 12. The methodology, approach and assessment are in accordance with FET requirements for the teaching of Modern Greek as a second additional language.
 
The English language incorporates more than 6 000 Greek words, whilst the dictionaries of other European languages contain 17%-20% words of Greek origin. Up to 50% of scientific terminology comprises Greek words, and in the fast-moving field of technology, Greek words are still used to describe the latest discoveries, because of the richness and clarity of the language. Sahetians who go on to study science or medicine at university, are at an advantage as they are able to immediately recognize and understand new terminology encountered in their field of study.