ACADEMICS: FOUNDATION PHASE
Simonsberg has a very specific Vision and Mission towards which we strive in our approach to teaching. The academic approach embodies these values.
Every learner who steps into The Foundation Phase of Simonsberg Primary School is unique and special. Each is seen as an individual. It is every learner’s right to be educated in a safe and intellectually stimulating environment. Their physical, social and emotional needs are nurtured, thus enabling personal growth.
The National Curriculum is followed and the content is structured around the learner’s interests and experience of the world. In the classroom, the teacher is the instrument through which the learner’s natural inquisitiveness is nurtured.
The teacher is the source of knowledge and supplies the tools to acquire new knowledge, in order to progress. This learner-centered approach leads to motivated learners, whose natural curiosity stimulates a passion for learning, resulting in active, relaxed education.
The school’s value program is an integral part of the curriculum. Attitudes, skills, and values are golden threads that run through all the subjects that are taught. We put the great emphasis on installing respect as a key value in the foundation phase.
Critical thinking, problem solving and respect, are part of the daily school activities. This, in turn, enables our children to become fully integrated into society and meet the challenges set before them.
ASSESSMENTS
Assessment is done in week 4 and week 8 of every term. Parents will receive assessment programs. Please prepare your child for formal assessments.
Xhosa
We are proud to say that we have successfully introduced the instruction of Xhosa as a second additional language in the Foundation Phase. From 2020 all grades 1 to 3 learners will have Xhosa as an additional subject. However, learners are not being assessed on this, but it is an informal introduction of an African Language in schools.
Scale of Achievement
| Achievement Level | Description | Percentage |
| 7 | Outstanding achievement | 80-100% |
| 6 | Meritorious achievement | 70-79% |
| 5 | Substantial achievement | 60-69% |
| 4 | Adequate achievement | 50-59% |
| 3 | Moderate achievement | 40-49% |
| 2 | Elementary achievement | 30-39% |
| 1 | Not achieved | 0-29% |
School-based Assessment
School-based Assessment (SBA) is a compulsary component and should be implemented as follows:
| Phase | SBA Component % | End of year examination % |
| Foundation Phase | 100 | 0 |
| Intermediate Phase | 75 | 25 |
Pass requirements – Grade 1-3
| Home Language | 4 | |
| First Additional Language | 3 | |
| Mathematics | 3 | |