This year marks a significant milestone for the Primary Science Programme (PSP) as it celebrates 40 years of working with teachers! From English festivals to mathematics projects, PSP has supported teachers in implementing new teaching methods and fostering a love of learning in their students.
Cape Town, South Africa (09 December 2024) – The Primary Science Programme (PSP) is celebrating a remarkable 40-year journey of empowering teachers and inspiring young minds.
PSP supports teachers in disadvantaged communities of the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Northern Cape with classroom implementation as new policies and innovative approaches are introduced by the Department of Basic Education.
English Language Fest
The organisation successfully hosted its first-ever Language Festival, hosted at Walter Teka Primary School in Nyanga which showcased the incredible progress made by participating schools.
Learners from the five project schools performed English reading, poetry recitals, drama pieces, and both written and oral Spelling Bees, supported by their teachers and parents. Walter Teka’s famous marimba band added to the festivities
“Everyone had so much fun, and it was heartwarming to witness the positive outcomes of the two-year project reflected in these learner performances — a true testament to the progress achieved in their spoken English through this project. We have had wonderful feedback from the teachers involved,” shares Vangiwe Makhubalo, PSP Language facilitator.
Maths Conference Celebrates Progress
The two-year Counting with Coronation Foundation Phase Maths Project, which included 26 schools, wrapped up with an engaging and joyful conference at Aberdare Primary School in Delft. Teachers from the participating schools in the Overberg participated online from a venue in Barrydale.
Vibrant and passionate teacher presentations as well as hands-on display tables from various schools showcased the best classroom strategies developed during the project.
Teacher feedback confirmed that the conference was a fitting end to a project that built confidence, enriched teaching methods, and fostered a love for Maths in the Foundation Phase.
Mentorship Project
PSP’s commitment to teacher development is evident in its mentorship programme, which provides newly qualified teachers with the tools and support they need to excel in the classroom.
According to PSP, Prof Rouaan Maarman from UWC congratulated PSP on its important work in mentoring newly qualified teachers to develop their teaching skills ‘on the job’.
He was inspirational with his down-to-earth insights and messages for teachers and schools his down-to-earth insights and messages for teachers and schools.
Building a Legacy of Educational Excellence
As PSP looks to the future, it aims to embrace the challenges and opportunities presented by the Mother Tongue-Based Bilingual Education (MTBBE) policy.
By continuing to provide transformative experiences for teachers and learners, PSP will remain a beacon of educational excellence in South Africa.
“As we reflect on our 40-year journey, it’s important to acknowledge the dedication of countless teachers who embrace lifelong learning. Their resilience during challenging times emphasises their passionate commitment to learner success.
“We look to the future as we continue to provide transformative experiences for teachers,” concludes PSP Director, Dr Zorina Dharsey.
Sources: Primary Science Programme
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