Teaching and Learning at Clarence Primary School
At Clarence Primary School, we are committed to providing a quality, inclusive and enriching educational experience that nurtures academic achievement, creativity, confidence and personal growth. Our curriculum combines structured classroom learning with practical experiences, sport, technology and cultural activities, preparing learners for success at every stage of their educational journey.
Grade R – Building a Strong Foundation
Our Grade R programme introduces young learners to the world of discovery through play-based, holistic learning experiences. Under the guidance of qualified and dedicated educators, learners develop essential gross and fine motor skills, language, numeracy, perceptual awareness and cognitive abilities.
Our fully air-conditioned classrooms provide a safe, stimulating environment where activities such as puzzles, construction, drawing, painting, threading, cutting and pasting encourage creativity, communication and problem-solving. Outdoor experiences, including jungle gym activities, sand and water play, ball games and hopscotch, further support physical development.
Our purpose-built Grade R swimming pool, sponsored by the Victor Daitz Foundation, introduces learners to water safety and beginner swimming skills. The weekly programme also includes Physical Education, visits to the Foundation Phase Reading Room, and an introduction to Coding and Robotics.
We aim to make Grade R a happy, engaging and memorable year that establishes a love for learning and prepares children for the transition to Grade 1.
Grades 1–3 – Developing Essential Skills
Our Foundation Phase programme provides learners with a structured, supportive environment in which they develop the essential skills required for future academic success. Qualified educators, supported by teacher assistants, guide learners through a balanced academic, physical, creative and social development programme.
The curriculum follows the CAPS framework and focuses on three key learning areas:
Language: Learners develop listening, speaking, reading, writing and comprehension skills, with an emphasis on phonics, literacy and communication. Our Foundation Phase Reading Room encourages a love of books, storytelling and reading.
Mathematics: Learners develop numeracy, number operations, patterns, shapes, measurement and data-handling skills. Practical resources, games and problem-solving activities help build mathematical understanding and confidence.
Life Skills: Learners develop self-awareness, decision-making, critical thinking, interpersonal communication and creativity through Personal and Social Well-being, Creative Arts and Physical Education.
Coding and Robotics are incorporated into the weekly programme to introduce learners to technology, logical thinking and problem-solving.
In Grades 2 and 3, our programme continues to strengthen foundational knowledge and skills, with Grade 3 serving as an important benchmark for academic progress and readiness for the Intermediate Phase. Educators provide individual support to address learners' strengths and developmental needs.
Learners also participate in sport, creative activities and extracurricular clubs. Swimming takes place during Terms 1 and 4, while organised sport is emphasised during Terms 2 and 3. Parents are kept informed of learners' progress through regular reports, communication and parent-teacher meetings.
Grades 4–5 – Expanding Knowledge and Skills
The Intermediate Phase builds on the foundations established in the early grades, encouraging learners to become increasingly independent, analytical and confident in their learning.
Our curriculum provides a broad educational experience that includes Mathematics, Language, Science, Social Studies, Creative Arts, Music, Performing Arts, Physical Education and First Additional Language. Through classroom discussions, group projects, practical activities and educational technology, learners develop critical thinking, collaboration and problem-solving skills.
Homework reinforces classroom learning and encourages responsibility, independent study and good learning habits. Parents are encouraged to support these routines and remain involved in their children's educational progress.
Sport is an important part of school life, with specialist coaching and a structured extracurricular programme that provides opportunities for participation and competition at school and inter-school level.
In Grade 5, learners begin developing computer literacy skills, including typing, presentation creation using PowerPoint and graphic design. Our Media Centre supports reading and research, while regular communication between educators and parents strengthens the partnership between home and school.
Our goal is to develop curious, capable and well-rounded learners who are prepared for the demands of the Senior Phase.
Grades 6–7 – Preparing for the Future
Our Senior Phase programme provides a focused academic environment in which specialist educators guide learners towards greater independence, responsibility and readiness for high school.
The curriculum includes:
English Home Language
Mathematics
IsiZulu or Afrikaans First Additional Language
Social Sciences, including History and Geography
Natural Sciences and Technology
Life Skills and Life Orientation
Creative Arts
Economic and Management Sciences
Computer Studies and Digital Literacy
Coding and Robotics
These subjects develop essential academic knowledge while encouraging creativity, scientific thinking, digital competence and practical problem-solving.
Learners also participate in activities that extend learning beyond the classroom. Grade 6 Market Day introduces entrepreneurial and business skills, while Grade 7 Entrepreneurship Day encourages learners to explore business ownership and financial responsibility.
Leadership development is an important part of Grade 7. Learners have the opportunity to prepare for prefect responsibilities, developing accountability, teamwork and service to the school community.
The programme also includes cultural excursions, outdoor experiences and opportunities to celebrate academic achievement at Speech and Awards Evenings. Grade 7 learners look forward to the annual farewell and the opportunity to participate in an overnight excursion to Bergventure in the Drakensberg, where teamwork, resilience and confidence are developed through shared challenges and outdoor activities.
Our aim is to ensure that learners leave Clarence Primary School academically prepared, emotionally resilient and equipped with the skills and values needed for the next stage of their education.
LSEN – Supporting Every Learner
Clarence Primary School recognises that every child learns differently. Our Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN) classes provide a supportive, structured environment for learners who experience significant barriers to learning in mainstream education.
Placement in an LSEN class follows an assessment process, including evaluation by an educational psychologist and a recommendation for specialised placement. These classes are distinct from short-term remedial interventions, which address specific learning difficulties with the aim of enabling learners to return to mainstream education where appropriate.
Our qualified educators and teacher assistants provide individualised support through an adapted curriculum designed to accommodate learners' different abilities, developmental levels and learning needs. Visual and auditory resources, educational games, technology and iPads are used to create engaging learning experiences. Activities that develop fine and gross motor skills also form part of the programme.
LSEN learners participate in a structured academic and sporting programme and are encouraged to take part in school extracurricular activities. Our objective is to help every learner progress towards their individual developmental goals and prepare, where appropriate, for transition to an LSEN high school.
At Clarence Primary School, we believe that every learner deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and reach their potential in an environment that promotes dignity, inclusion and belonging.
Beyond the Classroom
Education at Clarence Primary School extends beyond academic instruction. Our sporting, creative, cultural and extracurricular opportunities allow learners to explore their interests, discover their talents and develop confidence.
Depending on the grade and programme, opportunities include swimming, Mini-Netball, Mini-Cricket, soccer, hockey, chess, ball skills, arts and crafts, the Eco-Club and other enrichment activities.
Through Coding and Robotics, computer literacy, practical projects and collaborative activities, we also encourage learners to embrace innovation and develop skills relevant to an increasingly digital world.
A Partnership Between School and Home
We believe that meaningful communication and collaboration between parents and educators are essential to learner success. Regular reports, parent-teacher meetings and ongoing communication help families remain informed about academic progress, personal development and areas requiring additional support.
Together, we aim to create a positive learning environment in which every child feels supported, challenged and encouraged to achieve their best.
At Clarence Primary School, we are committed to nurturing potential, celebrating achievement and preparing every learner for a bright and successful future.