BCP Focus Schools: Progress from Term 2 and Expanding the Reach in Term 3 (2025)

The Basic Concepts Programme continues to grow in reach and impact across the Western Cape and Gauteng. Through the dedication of committed educators and faciitators, the programme is steadily building stronger foundations for young learners in under-resourced schools and beyond.

Metro Central: Growing Partnerships and Momentum

In Metro Central, Gill Brand is doing outstanding work implementing the BCP across several schools. At Red River Primary, where she is a learning support teacher, teachers from Grades R, 1 and 2 have already received training, with follow-up sessions planned to strengthen their understanding and implementation of the programme.

Gill has also begun work at Edendale Primary, where the Foundation Phase HOD requested BCP training for their staff. A key meeting with the school’s management team and LSAs to establish training commitments, set up a 6-session training plan, and embed the programme into the school timetable. We’re encouraged to see the school’s proactive approach—kits have already been purchased, and they’ve agreed to provide refreshments for all training sessions. To support sustainability, a formal contract will be developed to clarify expectations between the BCP and Edendale Primary.

In addition, Mitchells Plain Primary in Metro South has joined the programme under Gill's guidance. These partnerships reflect a growing demand and recognition of the value of the BCP in building foundational concepts.

Metro South: Sustaining Momentum Through Support and Training

Michele Lothian continues her work in Metro South, particularly at Marine Primary in Ocean View—a deeply under-resourced school. Although resources are limited, the school remains committed to building capacity with BCP. Two teachers have completed the training and are keen to remain involved. Another teacher, who has not yet been trained, is receiving classroom support from Michele— the teacher is observing BCP lessons and then reteaching them. This model is helping build her confidence and skill.

At Jupiter Primary, the principal and social worker have already been trained. Michele has spoken to the three Grade 3 teachers and will soon begin demonstrating BCP lessons, allowing them to observe and determine their interest in future training.

Michele is also working to re-establish the programme at Fish Hoek Primary, where she hopes to encourage Learning Support to reengage with the training, and at Paul Greyling Primary, where a previously trained teacher is based. A Term 3 goal is to establish a teacher group in the area focused on sharing best practices and what works well in their BCP lessons—a valuable platform for support, reflection, and growth.

Gauteng: Strengthening Certification Pathways

In Gauteng, Aimée Chiat will be reaching out to schools who have done the online training course, to touch base and ensure they can complete the practical component of their BCP certification. This connection will help close the loop on their training and bring more certified facilitators into the network.

Looking Ahead

The energy and commitment of our field workers are laying the groundwork for deeper, long-lasting impact in every classroom the Basic Concepts Programme reaches. As we enter Term 3, we look forward to seeing continued growth, more empowered educators, and—most importantly—stronger learning outcomes for the children we serve.

Stay connected for more updates as we continue building strong learning foundations, one concept at a time.