School development programme focuses on literacy for future opportunities. To help improve long-term educational outcomes for primary school learners within the Kouga area, a development programme has been piloted with a focus on strengthening reading and literacy skills. The programme is being rolled out in phases, beginning with Graslaagte Primary School, which has already received a comprehensive library upgrade. In response to the urgent need to improve literacy outcomes, Graslaagte Primary School’s library will initially be made available to the other four participating schools as well, providing shared access to reading resources for an estimated 1500 learners while their own library facilities are being upgraded.

Designed to support all reading levels from Grade R through to Grade 4, the library upgrade has helped create a safe, welcoming and functional learning environment. In addition to new books and reading resources, the upgrade includes new shelving, security improvements, digital learning tools, and library management support to ensure sustainable, long-term use.

“By transforming outdated primary school library spaces into vibrant, accessible and well-resourced facilities, we hope to nurture curiosity and imagination in children, ultimately resulting in renewed learner confidence and a lifelong love of reading across all areas of their lives,” said Nonini Makhothe, Economic Development Specialist at Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm, the funders of the programme.

Training support is being provided to strengthen teachers’ skills in reading instruction. Many learners encounter books for the first time at school, often without access to reading support or role models at home. Reading aloud is used as a key strategy to build vocabulary, comprehension, imagination and confidence, while creating shared language experiences in classrooms and homes.

“I believe that the new school library will have a positive impact on our learners, teachers and parents by providing a wide range of books, resources and reading strategies that encourage curiosity and foster a love of reading, ultimately leading to improved literacy and better life choices,” shared Mr Elton Juba, Principal at Graslaagte Primary School.

School development programme focuses on literacy for future opportunities

The impact of the programme, closely measured through the first year of implementation, will determine whether other schools will be phased in over the next two years. Demonstrating a constructive reading culture among teachers, parents and learners will be key, with advocacy playing an important role in strengthening reading habits both at school and at home.

Commenting on the strategic thinking behind the launch of this programme, Makhothe concluded, “Adopting a whole school, needs-based approach has enabled us, together with key stakeholders, to interrogate challenges specific to local schools. This, in turn, has allowed us to tailor programmes that support schools in creating and sustaining environments conducive to teaching and learning—environments that empower learners and promote self-development and growth.”

This project forms part of Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm’s ongoing commitment to education and community upliftment, ensuring learners have the resources and opportunities needed to thrive academically and personally.