Future Sparks
What?
We work with Grade 7 learners at Westlake Primary School, as well as high school learners up to Grade 12. The after school programme runs Monday to Thursday offering academic and psycho-social support to Grade 8-12s. The programme includes academic support in the key areas of numeracy, English and Afrikaans. Homework support for other subjects is also included, as well as Netball and Soccer coaching. Outings to places of interest in Cape town provided fresh opportunities for learning and fun.
Why?
In South Africa, school drop out rate for leaners at no or low fee-paying high schools is very high (40 -50%). By assisting learners, through tutoring and mentoring, trust is built with young adult volunteers, as they journey together with the learners through their high school years to Matric. By remaining connected to after school support in their high school years, the chances of failure and inevitable premature school leaving are reduced.
How?
Research has shown that when after school programmes provide safe, supervised spaces, offering extra-curricular and academic support, learners can develop a love of learning and a sense of belonging, when positive young adult role models assist with tutoring and mentoring.