Blairgowrie primary
Foundation PhaseBlairgowrie primary
Foundation PhaseGrades 1 – 3
The Foundation classes have busy, happy days that are filled with fun whilst the learner works and experiences the important and necessary skills for life and further learning. Class numbers are kept to manageable sizes enabling the teachers to give individual attention to pupils.
Four SUBJECTS are taught in the Foundation Phase, namely:
English (Home Language)
Afrikaans (First Additional Language)
Mathematics
Life Skills which includes:
Beginning Knowledge
Creative Arts (Visual and Performance Arts)
Physical Education
*Coding and Media Skills are covered throughout the year as an additional subject.
Scholastic and Personal Growth Evaluation is done through Continuous Assessment on an Outcomes Based Programme. In 2012 The Foundation Phase introduced CAPS (Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement) where the learners are taught knowledge, skills and values.
Homework
Homework goes beyond just the task itself; it helps children take control on their workload and increase their time management skills. Homework is set with a deadline and taking ownership of this deadline helps them think independently and develop problem-solving skills. As a school, we also recognize the need for our children to be able to ‘recharge’ over weekends.
Homework will not be assigned over weekends unless it is necessary. No tests will be written on a Monday.
Homework Routine
Homework is of value to pupils of all ages as it helps them build on what they have already learned in the classroom and prepares them for their next stage of learning. It is also valuable for teachers as it helps them assess the progress of their pupils. We ask that your child has a regular place and time for doing homework – written or revision. Pupils in Grades 1 – 3 have homework books in which homework for the day is recorded.
Parents are asked to sign the book daily after homework has been completed and to use this as a means of communication with the class teacher.
Learning Support and Intervention
A Learning Support teacher is available to assist the kids who need extra tuition in Literacy or Numeracy. Small groups are assisted at a time which affords the learner more individual attention. In addition, we offer an Institution Learning Support Programme (ILSP) (extra lessons) before and/or after school, by the class teacher. Learners who may require consolidation in either numeracy or literacy are encouraged to attend these sessions.
Assessments
Assessment is a process of collecting, synthesizing, and interpreting information to assist the teacher(s) in making decisions about the progress of the learner. While both formal and informal assessment is used throughout the year, only the formal tasks are recorded for progression to the next grade.
The Grades 1, 2, and 3 kids receive reports at the end of each term. The report will provide a clear holistic picture of the learner’s achievement in the different Subjects. Personal interviews between parents and teachers are encouraged, at convenient times, throughout the year over and above the first term and the third term set interviews.
