hollandsb@avusa.co.za

THE recipe for outstanding matric results is keen time management, studying consistently throughout the year, and spending less time on social networks Facebook and Mxit.

So say the Eastern Cape’s top matric boffins of 2009 who shared their success secrets so that the Class of 2010, their parents and anyone else who needs some study help, could take note.

The advice from the province’s whiz-kids is varied but solid and sensible.

Apart from the obvious of seriously knuckling down into study books, things like eating well, exercising regularly and also making time for friends, family and social activities, were high on their lists.

For the top Eastern Cape matriculant Brent Harrison, who also won the South African National Science Olympiad last year and who now aims to earn a doctorate in physics, learning is “a thrill”.

Harrison, who was deputy headboy at King Edward High School in Matatiele where his father Gordon is principal, has always come first in class and scored an outstanding nine distinctions for matric.

His tips included having a good understanding of the work – “if you are struggling with anything you should ask your teacher straight away”.

“Be passionate about learning – it’s really exciting. There is a thrill in discovering new things.”

Harrison also believes in eating healthily and getting in lots of solid study time before exams because it was not wise to cram or learn parrot fashion.

Sanele Tyalibongo of Holy Cross High School in Mthatha came first in the province in the historically disadvantaged institution category with seven distinctions including 95% for maths and 84% for physical science. Tyalibongo, who is heading to Wits University to study chemical engineering after being inspired by professors he spoke to, credited his mother – a widow – for the academic success he achieved.

He said she had helped him by motivating him and giving him a break from household chores during exams.

His tips for success included some serious study hours.

“I studied for 12 hours a day the whole matric year.”

Tyalibongo said he also abstained from Mxit and Facebook during school time.