Picture: DA spokesperson on Basic Education, Dr Delmaine Christians doing oversight at New Park Primary School in Kimberley/Supplied
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
16 January 2025- As part of the renewed focus on early childhood development (ECD), the Democratic Alliance (DA) conducted oversight visits to four schools in the Kimberley area – two public and two private institutions. According to the DA, they were encouraged to find that all the centres and schools demonstrated a commitment to nurturing early learning and development, with well-equipped, positive learning environments.
DA spokesperson on Basic Education, Dr Delmaine Christians, who is also a Member of Parliament (MP) said, there are some key challenges that need to be addressed, including the need for improved outdoor facilities, consistent meal provision and expanded infrastructure to accommodate demand.
Christians said the commitment of educators, support staff, and management teams was evident in every visit, but without increased government support, many schools may struggle to sustain these efforts.
“During the visits, the infrastructure, resource availability, learner support and overall functionality of the centres and classrooms were assessed. West End Primary School has three classrooms catering to 136 children, with approximately 45 learners per class.
“While sanitation facilities were adequate and well-maintained, there is an urgent need to upgrade the playground to ensure a safe and stimulating outdoor play environment. It is also concerning that learners are not provided with meals which may create a barrier to holistic learner development,” she said.
Christians further said Noddies Private Centre is a beautiful, well-equipped learning environment that is registered with the Department of Basic Education. She added that, it has six classrooms, each with two teachers, a dedicated chef, and a gardener.
“New Park Primary School has one Grade R classroom, with only six enrolments for the year so far. With most of its Grade R learners being former learners at a local private centre, it is clear that the school needs to develop a more robust enrolment strategy.
“Kimberley Junior School has four classrooms with an enrolment of 109 learners (approximately 27 learners per class). Learners are introduced in small groups to become familiar with the classroom environment, but due to demand, other learners attend to ensure smoother adaptation,” said Christians.
She said online applications are managed by the district office on a first-come, first-serve basis. Christians said the school requires government support for expansion due to high application volumes.
“While the department has provided a portable classroom, additional space remains a priority. The DA will continue to do oversight and advocate for enhanced support for ECD centres and Grade R classrooms to ensure that every child has access to quality early learning opportunities.
“We appreciate the dedication of each school, teacher and principal and reaffirm our commitment to strengthening this foundational phase of education,” she said.
The Guardian 