At Curro Somerset West provision is made for children and learners from preschool, through the foundation and intermediate phase and right up to high school.
High school
With dedicated teachers, small classes and an enhanced curriculum approach at Curro Somerset West, great emphasis is placed on problem solving and individual thinking. According to high school principal Magriet van der Merwe, 21st-century skills are implemented in senior phase subjects, such as coding and robotics, natural sciences, and a curriculum-integrated hydroponics project.
Learners also receive guidance when choosing subjects at the end of Grade 9 and learners in the FET phase are prepared for the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) examinations written at the end of Grade 12.
“Our enhanced curriculum in the FET phase emphasises a greater world-readiness rather than a purely examination-driven approach,” said Van der Merwe.
Grade 10 to 12 learners follow the IEB curriculum and are taught to apply their knowledge, not just repeat it. IEB prepares learners for the bulk of work they will receive in university or college, and the curriculum encourages learners to think critically and solve problems in a creative manner.
Specialised subjects to promote the development of modern-day skills include engineering graphics and design, dramatic arts, visual arts and computer applications technology. Grade 10 to 12 learners can also extend subject choices beyond what is offered at the school as an extension of the already enhanced curriculum.
Facilities at the school include robotics and IT labs, a gaming room, indoor cycling centre, multiple sports fields and courts, and an eight-lane swimming pool. Extra-mural activities include culture, sport, clubs and societies.
Foundation phase (Grade R to Grade 3)
The foundation phase also boasts dedicated teachers and small class sizes, providing the emotional and intellectual foundation required to handle the formal learning from Grade 1. Through the enhanced curriculum, learners gradually develop 21st-century skills and knowledge in basic areas such as language, mathematics and creative problem-solving in an enjoyable environment.
“As a Curro school, robotics and chess form part of the curriculum, and we create opportunities for personal growth so that learners can become personally responsible and accountable for their actions in the intermediate phase,” said primary school head Cobus van der Westhuizen. “Teaching takes place in English, with Afrikaans as the first additional language, but isiXhosa is offered as conversational language.”
Intermediate phase: Grade 4 to Grade 7
In these grades, learners are taught to work with the learned material in an abstract manner. The nature of the content gradually builds from being tangible and real, to more intellectual and abstract. “Our small class sizes and enhanced curriculum provide learners with an inherent dedication to hard work and excellence as well as 21st-century skills,” said Van der Westhuizen.
Teachers in the foundation and intermediate phase know what learners need to accomplish in each grade, so they are ready for the next grade and the curriculum is focused on this. In the intermediate phase, teaching takes place in English although learners can engage with teachers in Afrikaans.
Preschool
According to Tanya Heyns, principal of Curro Somerset West Preschool, the school is a safe, fun-filled place where young children can play, laugh and learn through the joys of childhood. “We provide high-quality early childhood development for children from three months to five years with a focus on the ELDAs,” she added.
“Our small class sizes of 15 to 25 children, allow our dedicated and loving teachers and assistants to engage each child in our internally developed play-based curriculum.”
Curro’s developed programme with engaging, creative daily activities encourage playing with loose parts and multi-purpose playthings. Specialised programmes are offered for children in Group 5, including Kinetix, music appreciation, Learn2Swim and Out of the Blocks.
Also offered is potty training in Group 3 when the child is ready, a dirt bike track with balance bikes, sensory corners, a central play area and an outdoor play area for each class. Breakfast and a morning snack is served, while full-day learners enjoy a well-balanced lunch too. Furthermore, there is also a registered nurse and a dedicated breastfeeding room for moms. “We are also open during school holidays and follow a fun holiday programme at no extra cost,” said Heyns.
V To sense the heartbeat of Curro Somerset West, follow the school’s Facebook page and like for access.
V For an appointment to view the school, call 087 287 9270 or email info.somersetwest@curro.co.za.
