South Africa: The Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal is hosting the Capacity Development session for Circuit Management. The aim of the session is to make sure that the teachers and stakeholders can effectively support the implementation of Early Grade Reading Instruction (EGRI) in Home Language.
The aim of this important workshop is to capacitate Circuit Management so that they can monitor progress. They are responsible for the implementation of reading and numeracy strategies in Home languages.
The implementation of this project will help in making sure of learner outcomes.
Sindi Zakuza-Njakazi Chief Director for Curriculum Management, Sphiwe Kheswa, District Director for Umzinyathi, Goodman Ndlovu, Director (A) for Teacher Development and Ms Vuyelwa Mbalekwa, Education Manager from VVOB participated in the workshop.
The objectives of the workshop are:
- A comprehensive understanding of the reading context in SA
- The EGRI programme including the professional development approach and core content.
- Reflection on Circuit Managers critical role and commitment to managing and driving the effective reading implementation with schools in general and EGRI in particular.
- Acquire the skills to utilize existing data to monitor and support school management teams (SMT) progress in EGRI including participation and engagement through check in sessions, focusing on Retention, Engagement and Motivation (REM).
Vuyelwa Mbalekwa, Education Manager from VVOB, said, “this is more than a training session. It is a space for shared reflection, mutual learning and renewed commitment to achieving improved learner outcomes.
The project is crucial to be implemented in foundation phase classrooms. “Together, we are building a system that works for teachers, schools and most importantly for the learners,” said Mbalekwa.
Funda Udlale Nathi (F U N), Early Grade Reading Instruction (EGRI), Keep It Cool (KIC) are some of the programmes that VVOB is supporting the department to effectively implement.
Zakuza-Njakazi shared an insightful presentation on the performance of foundation phase learners in reading and numeracy when taking external assessments. Findings of these external assessments must assist the department to strengthen interventions.
Teacher development must be informed buy these findings. The role of circuit managers is crucial in ensuring that principals understand the findings and interventions. “Circuit Managers are indeed the center that holds the Department,” said the Chief director.