KNYSNA NEWS - The Knysna Initiative for Learning and Teaching (KILT) is proud to announce the expansion of its Early Childhood Development efforts with the launch of a ground-breaking Grade R Teacher Development Programme.
We are thrilled to partner with the Knysna Education Trust (KET) in this vital initiative, aimed at enhancing teacher skills for Grade R in Knysna's informal community preschools.
This collaboration promises to benefit more preschool children, equipping them with the necessary skills for school readiness.
Since 2022, KET and KILT have been working closely together at Melrose House, a historic building on Queen Street, united by a shared vision to transform the educational landscape for Knysna's children.
'Cradle to career'
Their joint efforts focus on creating a "cradle to career" support system, ensuring that every child in Knysna has access to quality education from preschool through high school and beyond.
In early 2024, this vision gained new momentum with the formal launch of the Grade R School Readiness Project. This initiative strengthens the collaboration between KILT and KET, building on the strong foundation established in 2023 when the two organisations began exploring ways to enhance educational continuity and success for Knysna's youth.
Essential resources
KILT and KET are joining forces and expertise to enhance professional development for teachers and to provide essential resources.
KILT is contributing funding to enhance professional development for teachers and to provide essential resources, while KET's Preschool Area Leads (PALS) implement the project.
Selected for their expertise in Early Childhood Development, the PALS conduct on-site visits to each preschool, offering tailored support, curriculum enhancement and monthly workshops.
This partnership enables a systemic approach to school readiness, benefiting not just learners from KILT-affiliated schools but all learners entering Grade 1.
KILT's commitment extends beyond Grade R, as we will continue to support learners through our Learning Support Programmes in the Foundation Phase, endeavouring to ensure no learner is left behind.
Why focus on Grade R?
Grade R, or the Reception Year, is a crucial preparatory phase before schooling begins in Grade 1. Mastery of key foundational skills during this year is essential for a smooth transition to primary education.
However, many children face challenges due to their socio-economic environment, crowded spaces and lack of resources, which can hinder their progress from the start.
To address these challenges, the Grade R School Readiness Project focuses on several key areas:
• Teacher Development: Training and mentoring educators to provide the best possible learning environments for Grade R children.
• Parental Involvement: Offering practical strategies for teachers to engage parents and reinforce learning at home.
• Educational Resources: Providing high-quality educational equipment to create an engaging and supportive learning atmosphere.
Making a Difference
The impact of this initiative is already evident. Of the 64 Early Childhood Development (ECD) facilities supported by KET, 34 are now better equipped to serve the 6-7-year-old children enrolled in their Grade R programmes. Over 335 children from Knysna's most disadvantaged communities have benefited from this enhanced support.
Our ambitious goal is to ensure that 90% of these children are school-ready by the end of the programme. We eagerly await the results of the ELOMR assessment, which will offer insights into our progress and guide improvements for the 2025 cohort.
Looking ahead
The Grade R School Readiness Project represents a significant step forward in KILT and KET's mission to empower every child in Knysna. With ongoing support and collaboration, we are committed to building a brighter future and setting our children on a path to success.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to work towards achieving our goals and making a lasting impact on the educational journey of Knysna's children.
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