Media Release
Minister of Education Donald Grant
Western Cape

2 May, 2013

WCED reaction to the NEEDU report.

Statement by Minister Donald Grant, Minister of Education, Western Cape

The Western Cape Education Department welcomes the release of the "National Report 2012" by the National Education Evaluation and Development Unit (NEEDU) which assesses the "State of literacy teaching and learning in the Foundation Phase."

The findings of the report are both informative and pleasing. While there is still much to be done in this province to improve education outcomes in the Foundation Phase, the report has highlighted some very positive outcomes for the Western Cape, all of which are directly linked to the main objectives in our Strategic Plan.

In order to achieve the outcome of improving the literacy and numeracy skills of our learners, the WCED has placed a great deal of emphasis and resources in the improvement of reading, writing and calculating. We have invested heavily in the provision of additional readers and textbooks in schools and have developed specific training programmes to assist educators in improving their teaching skills, including in literacy. The report recognizes this.

The NEEDU report also recognizes the importance of systemic testing of learners. The Western Cape has conducted such testing since 2002 which informs our Language and Mathematics (Litnum strategy).

The WCED will study the recommendations made in the report. While some already form part of the education landscape in this Province we will have to consider carefully other recommendations in the report with a view to implementing those that are appropriate.

For enquiries, contact Bronagh Casey:  072 724 1422 or bronagh.casey@westerncape.gov.za.


return to: Home page | Media Releases Index page
© 2013 Western Cape Education Department