26th July 2022
Own Correspondent
The Ministry of Education and Skills Development says it is aware Standard two (2) and Standard three (3) learners in Mhalapitsa Primary School were without teachers for six (6) months or more in 2021.
“I am aware that at Mhalapitsa Primary School the Standard two class and Standard three classes went without a full time teacher for some time in 2021. The Standard two class was taught by the School Head supported by a Tirelo Sechaba Participant (TSP) during term I and term II and a full time teacher only joined the class on the 28th June 2021,” acknowledged officials.
The Standard three (3) class were allegedly taught by schools Reception class teacher during term I, as reception classes were suspended at the time due to COVID-19.
A full time teacher joined the class for term II. The school has also put in place remediation work through booklets and school activities to motivate learners.
Team teaching is planned for during the coming holiday, for the Standard two (2) class who are now in Standard three (3). The team will remediate last year’s material and ensure all learners are assisted. The Standard Three (3) class, who are now in Standard Four (4), are doing relatively well as the teacher has managed to pick up the class.
Officials maintained that given the initiatives it has put in place including the holiday teaching, home remediation and team teaching it is expected that the learners will catch up.
“My Ministry will continue monitoring these classes and a further determination as to whether some individuals may need to repeat Standards will be made at the end of 2022,” said officials.
