Pre-University Academy (PUA)

The MMSP has a multi-level, data led, and collaborative approach, being well aware that the education crisis cannot be solved by one institution. Our collaboration with our internal and external partners has allowed us to service a number of cohorts.

Level 1 intervention

• Learners – 450 per week, Grades 10-12, STEM from all 20 schools in Mamelodi and surroundings. E-learning is supplemented with traditional chalkboard teaching provided by our partner Kutlwanong.
• Teacher Development – A structured memorandum of understanding with the Department of Education provides developmental opportunity to Mathematics and Science teachers across grades 4 - 12.

Level 2 intervention (Pilot Studies)

This allows for information gathering that can inform future scalability of similar programs. 

• Homework Programme

The homework programme currently targets three schools with the vision of accommodating at least 1000 grade 8 and 9 learners (10^th of all 8&9 learners of Mamelodi and surrounding) in the future. The homework sessions run on campus, three times a week from 3 – 5pm, this with the aim of instilling the discipline of an extended school day in the grade 8 and 9 learners. Postgraduate students conduct the sessions where they adopt the role of a facilitator of learning rather than a formal teacher. Lead teachers from schools play overseeing roles in terms of the content that needs to be covered during those sessions.

The primary focus of skills development during the homework sessions is on literacy and numeracy skills but tutors are available to assist in other subjects as the need arises. Collaboration with the lecturers of the ECPs on the Mamelodi campus is established to source material that can be used to develop the learners’ academic language and basic mathematical understanding.

• Parental guidance

In order to better assist parents in guiding their children to secure futures, the Mamelodi Campus has embarked on a career interest awareness for 1000 grade 9 learners through online testing. Test results were shared with parents through a dedicated parents meeting. Through this forum parents were made aware of the career opportunities that their child could pursue and how best to position their children through correct subject choices. The positive response from parents has warranted a decision to make the online testing an annual event.

• Individual Mentoring

In partnership with the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME), we have extended this mentoring opportunity to 3 high schools in Mamelodi. Learners get opportunities to receive guidance from knowledgeable others who has already navigated the difficulties that they might be experiencing at that moment. The exposure that learners receive through the program allow them to know themselves better and discover their own strengths, making themselves more prone to demonstrate leadership abilities.

• International Comparative Studies RU-Newark (Sunshine Programme)

• Robotics training for grade 8-10 learners from Tsako Thabo has seen the most unexpected children shining and discovering their talents. This e-twinning initiative with a USA school Barringer High exposes learners to the thinking skills like problem solving and critical thinking embedded in coding. The e-twinning assist the learners in developing a global perspective which will assist them to understand local issues within its global context.
• The STEAM project combine arts and science through architectural influences to create conducive environments for learning and the performing arts. Learners sharing images of Mamelodi with their USA counterparts. Biodiversity project links the arts and science through a global citizen lens in partnership with learners from Newark.
• Sports and recreation through partnering with a local cycling club expose learners so inclined to pursue opportunities in the sporting field.

Level 3 intervention

Opportunities for all learners in collaboration with multiple providers through structured Memoranda of Understanding with the different partners in engendering a college (post-secondary school) going culture including tertiary institutions, schools, Education departments, business, non-government organisations. Itsotseng Psychology clinic as such an example assists parents with children that are at risk of failing or dropping out, by providing counseling services for both parties.  Mae Jemison science reading library expose learners in the community to career fields and individuals in the sciences. Commited Artists for Cultural Advancement (CAFCA)  allows children to explore their musical talent and personal creativity in a safe and supportive environment. CAFCA through its commitment has created many post- secondary school opportunities for its participants.