The Pre-University Academy 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
Level 2 intervention (Pilot Studies)
This allows for information gathering that can inform future scalability of similar programs.
The homework programme currently targets three schools with the vision of accommodating at least 1000 grade 8 and 9 learners (10th of all 8 & 9 learners of Mamelodi and surrounding) in the future. The homework sessions run on campus, three times a week from 3 – 5 pm, this with the aim of instilling the discipline of an extended school day in 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 developed 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.
The pupose of the courses is to compliment what learners learn in school and to further develop their skills in order to assist them to increase their chances of success and prepare effectively for their examination and admission for tertiaty studies. The Pre-University Academy presents 7 courses on a Saturday morning for Grade 8 - 12 learners. These couses include:
Learner also have to option to join the science club and art club.
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 online testing an annual event.
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 have already navigated the difficulties that they might be experiencing at that moment. The exposure that learners receive through the program allows 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)
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 counselling services for both parties. Mae Jemison science reading library expose learners in the community to career fields and individuals in the sciences. Committed 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.
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