Strengthening Grade R Teaching through Professional Learning Communities

June 2025

Hosted by the Education Management and Development Centre (EMDC) East, a district of the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), the PLC sessions brought together approximately 150 Grade R teachers from three circuits.

Wordworks was honoured to be invited to present at a series of Professional Learning Community (PLC) sessions, where we shared practical guidance on the effective implementation of the Stellar Home Language Programme. These sessions focused on supporting Grade R teachers with tools, strategies, and confidence to strengthen early literacy and language development in their classrooms.

Hosted by the Education Management and Development Centre (EMDC) East, a district of the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), the PLC sessions brought together approximately 150 Grade R teachers from three circuits. The atmosphere was filled with collaboration, enthusiasm, and a shared commitment to improving teaching and learning outcomes for young children.

Supporting Grade R Teachers with Practical Guidance

During the sessions, Wordworks highlighted how the Stellar Home Language lessons can be brought to life in classrooms through story-based, interactive teaching methods. The training provided Grade R teachers with practical examples, activity-rich resources, and strategies that align with the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS), while also supporting children’s language and emergent literacy skills.

Positive Feedback from Teachers and Coordinators

We were encouraged by the heartfelt feedback shared by teachers and Foundation Phase coordinators, who expressed their appreciation for the guidance and support:

“The Stellar programme gives us the tools to make learning more interactive and joyful for children.”

“We feel more confident to deliver lessons that strengthen literacy in Grade R.”

These responses were a powerful reminder of how professional learning and community-driven growth can strengthen classroom practice and positively impact young learners.

Walking the Journey of Literacy Together

The Stellar Home Language Programme is designed for Grade R educators working with 5–6-year-old children. It is interactive, activity-rich, and CAPS-aligned, built around a story-based framework that helps teachers create joyful learning experiences while building strong foundations for literacy.

At Wordworks, we are proud to walk alongside educators in their journey of professional growth, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and succeed.