How We Cater for Grade R and Pre-Grade R

Young children get ready for formal learning and life through play. At Valley we cater for a two year programme, i.e. Grade R (5 and 6 years old) and Pre-Grade R (3 and 4 year old). The difference between the two programmes is as follows:

Grade R is the first year of the foundation phase (Grade R to Grade 3) and follows the Outcomes Based Curriculum (OBE). This is a child centred curriculum and focuses on Literacy, Numeracy and Life Skills.

In dealing with 3 and 4 year old and 5 and 6 year old children, the teacher has a different approach. Our expectations of children vary according to their ages and it is extremely important to provide a programme which is suited to both their needs and abilities. These are the building blocks upon which their futures depend.

In dealing with the Pre-Grade R child, the teacher tries to:

• create an atmosphere where the child feels emotionally secure and a programme that .facilitates healthy physical growth and development.


• stimulate intellectual and creative abilities through art, music, books, games, puzzles, interest and nature tables.


• guide the child in coping with social relationships and promote the development of social confidence, leadership skills and independence.


• help children to master the art of sharing, taking turns and interacting cooperatively with each other.


• assess the child's strengths and weaknesses and formulate individual programmes to address each child's needs.


• develop language skills (English, Afrikaans & Xhosa), number and science concepts, and encourage the development of literacy, numeracy and life skills.

In dealing with the Grade R child, the teacher tries to:

• develop the child’s confidence. The emotionally secure child has an adventurous and confident approach to life.


• teach specific skills in the Grade R year that are helpful in learning to read and write, and develop number skills.


• assess the child’s strengths and weaknesses and formulate individual programmes to address each child’s needs.


• develop language skills (English, Afrikaans & Xhosa), number and science concepts, music and art. These are taught through an integrated programme.


• encourage the development of literacy, numeracy and life skills.


• develop leadership qualities.