With Grade R now compulsory for five-year-olds under the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act, the focus on Early Childhood Development (ECD) has sharpened, placing greater emphasis on the quality of learning before children enter formal schooling. In response to this growing need, a group of ECD practitioners from Kimberley and surrounding communities have completed an accredited NQF Level 4 qualification and are now being prepared to continue their studies towards a Level 5 Higher Certificate, helping to strengthen early learning and better prepare children for school.

Funded by Matla A Bokone Solar, the Early Childhood Development Practitioner Capacity Building Programme is addressing both immediate classroom needs and long-term sector transformation. The 18-month programme combines classroom learning and practical experience to help practitioners improve how they teach and care for children aged 0–6 years. This directly supports better school readiness for children moving into Grade R.

“All children deserve access to quality basic education, regardless of their background. This programme reflects a long-term commitment to strengthening ECD centres, building practitioner capacity, and ensuring that children enter Grade R with the skills they need to succeed. Early childhood development is where education outcomes are shaped, and investment at this level is critical,” said Lesego Mosiane, Social Performance Practitioner for Matla A Bokone Solar.

A key part of the programme is that it does not stop at Level 4. Practitioners are now being prepared to continue their studies towards a Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Development (NQF Level 5). This next step will further improve their skills and knowledge, and support their pathway into Grade R teaching roles. It also improves their chances of registering with the South African Council for Educators (SACE), helping to professionalise the ECD sector.

The latest graduates form part of the second intake of the programme, accredited by the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA). To date, 25 practitioners have been supported through the broader initiative, building a growing pool of qualified ECD professionals in local communities.

“With deep gratitude for the opportunity to complete this training, I feel more confident and motivated to grow as a successful practitioner. I am eager to begin the training component of the Level 5 Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Development and to use the knowledge and skills gained to make a meaningful and positive contribution to children, families, and society at large,” said Jillian Cronje from Kutlwano ECD Centre.

A graduation ceremony marking this milestone was held earlier this year at ULCO, near Delportshoop. Amongst the practitioners are Jillian Cronje from Kutlwano ECD Centre, Keamogetse Diphapha from Rethabile ECD Centre, Moipone Irene Marumo from Rethabile ECD Centre, Caeryn Casey Fortuin from Floors North Primary, Ulyn Lindhorst from New Horizon ECD Centre, Gomolemo Motlhwai from Tlhabologo ECD Centre, and Kearabetswe Segami from Galeshewe ECD Centre.