The Western Cape Education department is introducing new measures from the 2026 school year to strengthen getting early learning.
The Foundation Phase pupils will continue getting extra weekly time for reading and mathematics.
“Given the positive feedback from our schools, the national Department of Basic Education recommended the implementation of the additional time in all provinces as an interim measure in 2023 and 2024, which the Western Cape extended until the end of 2025.” MEC David Maynier said.
New baseline tests for literacy and numeracy will also be introduced, along with reading fluency benchmarks.
“Benchmarking per term, per grade is crucial in education because they serve as clear, measurable goals that guide teaching, learning, and assessment throughout the school year.” Maynier said.
The programme is being conducted to at least 70 schools and will be rolled out over three years to help improve basic learning skills.
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