Back to School
Photo Credit: Supplied by Angel Fish PR on behalf of Afrika Tikkun

It’s Back to School time in South Africa! However, before children can learn to read and write, they need a strong foundation during their early childhood development in order to succeed.

 

South Africa (13 January 2025) – With schools opening this week, parents breathe a sigh of relief (or nostalgia), teachers gear up for the challenges ahead, and children prepare to embark on another year of learning and discovery.

But beneath the joy of colourful lunchboxes and classroom reunions lies a critical issue that Afrika Tikkun Bambanani cannot help but highlight: the foundational skills of numeracy and literacy.

According to recent assessments, many young learners in South Africa are entering Grade 1 with worryingly low scores in these essential areas. This is not just a concern for educators – it’s a call to action for us all.

The Foundation of Success Starts Early

Just like a house needs a strong foundation, children need a strong start to their learning. The early years of a child’s education are vital in shaping their future academic success.

Yet, many children in South Africa begin Grade 1 without the necessary skills to thrive. The problem doesn’t start in the classroom; it begins far earlier, in the foundational years of Early Childhood Development (ECD).

ECD centres play a crucial role in ensuring children develop the cognitive, social, and emotional skills they need for formal schooling. It’s not just about ABCs and 123s; it’s about fostering curiosity, problem-solving abilities, and confidence.

According to the organisation, which strives to create the best ECD curriculum in the country, when these early milestones are missed, the gap only widens as children progress through school.

Theresa Michael, a champion of early childhood education, emphasises the importance of ECD:

“We cannot underestimate the value of these formative years. ECD lays the foundation for everything that follows. When children are given the right tools and opportunities early on, they are far more likely to succeed in Grade 1 and beyond.”

Numeracy and Literacy: The Building Blocks

Low performance in numeracy and literacy has far-reaching implications. These skills are the foundation of all learning, affecting not only academic outcomes but also future opportunities.

Research shows that children who fall behind in these areas are more likely to struggle throughout their schooling, leading to higher dropout rates and fewer career prospects.

“Strong foundational skills in numeracy and literacy are non-negotiable for future success. But achieving this requires well-trained, passionate educators who are equipped to meet each child where they are and help them grow,” adds Tessa Forman, an advocate for teacher empowerment.

Programmes that focus on play-based learning and teacher support in ECD centres are essential as they ensure children enter Grade 1 ready to excel.

Through its BambaLearn app, assessment centre and various other services, the organisation does this by facilitating teaching and providing access to quality education throughout the country to facilitate teaching and provide access to quality ECD education.

Looking Ahead

As we embark on the 2025 academic year, Afrika Tikkun encourages us all -teachers, parents and communities- to support the mission of closing the gap in numeracy and literacy performance and helping children reach for the stars.

“By focusing on the early years, empowering teachers, and rallying communities, we can give every child the chance to succeed.

“As the bell rings on 15 January, let it not just signal the start of a new school year but the beginning of a renewed commitment to the future of South Africa’s children,” the NPO appeals.

For more information about Afrika Tikkun Bambanani and its programme, visit their website.


Sources: Supplied
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