With some schools having returned during level three of the lockdown, the Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga has opened the option for parents to choose to homeschool their children.
Parents can register their children to be recognised by the department's database, but there a few things that parents need to know before making the move to homeschooling or e-Learning.
Are you equipped to homeschool your child?
Not all children are the same. Furthermore, what may work for one parent may not work for another. Therefore, it is crucial to assess not only if you are technologically equipped to assist your child’s learning but if your child will be well suited in an environment such as being taught at home.
How to apply?
For some parents, the concern of returning to public schools during the Coronavirus pandemic has raised concerns. At the moment, the Department of Basic Education has opened this option for learners in:
intermediate phase (grades 4-6)
Parents can apply at their respective Provincial Department of Educations.
What documents will you need?
There is the option for parents to apply electronically within each province, but make sure to have the following documents:
parent/s certified ID copy.
In case of foreign nationals certified copies of passport /study permit/work permit/Asylum document is required.
last copy of school report (if the child was in school before, but if the child is only starting school now you must attach an immunisation card).
weekly timetable which includes contact time per day.
breakdown of terms per year (196 days per year).
learning programme.
certified copy of child’s birth certificate.
You will need to keep records of your child’s progress
Once you have completed the process of successfully registering your child for homeschooling it is important to keep track of your child’s progress:
record of attendance.
portfolio of the child’s work.
up- to- date records of the child’s progress.
portfolio of the educational support given to the child.
evidence of the continuous assessment of the child’s work.
evidence of the assessment and or examination at the end of each year.
evidence at the end of grade 3,6 and 9, that shows whether your child has achieved the outcomes for these grades.
You don’t have to know it all
Homeschooling for first-time parents can seem daunting. With the changes in the school curriculum over the past few years, you may come across a syllabus that you do not know. It is important to remember that you are not alone and there are resources to help support you and your child. The Department of Basic Education has dedicated a website to help parents adapt and support their child while at home to make the transition easier which can be found here.
