Listening and learning programme in full swing
24 June 2022
During May, the new provincial Minister of Education, David Maynier, announced that he would be undertaking a listening and learning programme during his first 100 days in office. The purpose of this programme is to develop a set of priorities and to set a new direction to better prepare students for the world of work in the Western Cape.
Minister Maynier’s first visit was to Emkhondweni Educare Centre to learn more about the Early Childhood Development sector and to engage with practitioners about their ideas and challenges.
The Minister has visited several schools so far. At Heideveld Primary School, he was impressed by the school’s vision of excellence in all areas, and the willingness of the principal and staff to share their thoughts on ensuring success in the crucial Foundation Phase. At Manenberg High School, which faces serious safety challenges, he commended the dedication of teachers and WCED officials as it is academically one of the most improved in its district. At the Curro DigiEd School in Delft, the Minister saw how the school is implementing affordable digital learning, illustrating the important role the private sector plays in delivering quality education in the Western Cape.
Given the WCED’s focus on STEAMAC, Minister Maynier engaged with the staff of Spine Road High School and Boland Landbouskool about the specialised skills and subjects that learners need to succeed in the provincial economy.
He has also visited Noluthando School for the Deaf and Autism, and Siviwe School of Skills – two of the schools catering to learners with special needs or who don’t necessarily thrive off a purely academic curriculum.
Minister Maynier will continue visiting schools and meeting with stakeholders inside and outside the Education Department in the Western Cape over the next two months.
