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BCP Focus Schools: Reports from four focus schools in Metro South | Update 2 (2024)

Part of the Project

BCP FOCUS SCHOOLS IN SOUTH AFRICA

 Report from four focus schools in Metro South

 (A report by Michele Lothian, lead field worker for Focus Schools in Metro South)

Fish Hoek Primary School
Seven Grade 1 learners at Fish Hoek Primary have been participating in the Basic Concepts Programme (BCP) to address learning barriers. Initially, a Grade 1 teacher was trained and supported, though this teacher later left the school and discontinued training. As a result, BCP support continued directly with the students, leading to substantial progress, with five learners advancing to Grade 2. The school’s principal has requested BCP training for two teachers in 2025 and proposed a meeting with Dr. Benjamin and the new team.

Paul Greyling Primary School
Two teachers from Paul Greyling Primary participated in BCP training, focusing on three Grade 1 and seven Grade 2 learners who presented with learning barriers. However, implementation challenges arose due to limited support from other staff and school management, and the teachers were unable to complete their training. Despite this, the BCP intervention has continued with the identified students, yielding encouraging progress. Discussions with the Head of Department are planned to evaluate the program's future at this school.

Marine Primary School
Marine Primary currently has two trained teachers who will fully implement BCP with new students in 2025. In 2024, ten Grade 1 learners receiving BCP support demonstrated notable improvement. Due to positive outcomes, additional Grade 1 teachers have shown interest in BCP training and are scheduled to attend an introductory session on 20 November at Kleinberg Primary School.

Kleinberg Primary School (newest focus school)
At Kleinberg Primary, BCP support is being provided to a large cohort of 34 Grade 3 learners. The intervention has been well-received, and students are showing improvements in reading, vocabulary, and math skills. All Foundation Phase teachers at Kleinberg will attend the BCP introductory program on 20 November to explore expanding the program to more learners in 2025.

Summary
The Basic Concepts Programme (BCP) has shown positive impacts on learners’ vocabulary, word-building, and math skills across four schools, with teachers noting improvement despite implementation challenges. Schools are committed to providing BCP kits but require funding assistance for training. Located in a disadvantaged community, these schools see BCP as a potential pathway to improving learner outcomes and reducing dropout rates, ultimately contributing to a safer South Africa.