AIMING TO ELEVATE PRIMARY SCHOOLING

April 2021.

An integrated education programme is being implemented at two primary schools on the West Coast, with the aim of accommodating all learners and building towards an inclusive learning environment. This programme helps in preparation for Departmental Assessments in foundation phase teaching and kicked off at Holvlei and Hopefield Primary last year.

“2021 is the second year that we have funded this Inclusive Education Intervention Programme. With the first year focusing on upskilling teachers, we are now expanding the programme to include parents, the School Governing Body and learners. Once operational and academic efficiency has been reached, Umoya Energy will look at additional programmes, all of which form part of our overarching Socio- Economic Development Programme,” said Celiwe Mabaso, Community Operations Manager for Umoya Energy Wind Farm.

The programme incorporates on-site support visits and mentoring to assist Grade R to Grade 3 teachers with concepts and implementing strategies on Mathematics, Language and Reading Skills, Numeracy concepts amongst other key areas.

The programme also provides support for at risk learners who require additional assistance and more targeted interventions. This includes specific Grade R Support; learning support materials for literacy; Language skills and preparation for grade 1; Gross motor activities and kinaesthetic exercises to consolidate written work; in addition to specialised auditory exercises and processing.

Following an assessment, the need for further assistance at Holvlei Primary, Grade R was identified, specifically the need for additional development stimulation. Following this, Umoya Energy Wind Farm has dedicated funding for an additional teaching post at the school.

“Having to adapt implementation plans and becoming more flexible during a challenging 2020, Inclusive Education Intervention Programme has already made meaningful progress in improving the standard of work that took place during last year,” concluded Charlene Petersen (Voss), National Programmes Manager at Inclusive Education South Africa.