Kukhanyile PS growing a culture of reading
The Cape Flats in the Western Cape in SA faces persistent challenges in early literacy. More than half of the Grade 4 learners in the province still cannot read for meaning, underscoring significant gaps in foundational reading skills. These challenges hinder children’s long-term academic success, making targeted literacy support in these communities vital.
A literacy campaign was run by Scout youth leaders in Kukhanyile Primary School with activities that encouraged learners to read and discuss books. They practiced using a dictionary to explain new words, and showed understanding of basic parts of speech. They also read, wrote and shared short stories, visited a library, and got their own library cards. In doing so they strengthened reading habits, vocabulary, and library confidence.
Understanding verbs and adverbs helped learners improve sentence-building. We were also able to identify learners who need assistance. A highlight was when learners who are always quiet during Scout programmes were able to shine and show their capabilities by reading out loud. Getting library cards for learners was a challenge due to parents not brining the required documentation.