The Focus on iThemba Academy is a Foundation Phase School (Grade R to Grade 3) in the heart of Hillcrest, which offers 100% bursaries to deserving children from the adjacent Embo Community. Studies have shown that if a child cannot achieve the required level by Grade 4, the chance that they will reach University is incredibly slim; through the assistance of donors through an Education Fund, the iThemba Academy hopes to eradicate this issue within the community, by offering these young learners quality foundation phase education from Grade R, following the national CAPS curriculum.
Last week the iThemba Academy performed their annual play, Aldred’s Autumn, for supporters and friends. Their play showcased the talent and skills the learners have developed throughout the year and gave the children an opportunity to grow in confidence as they performed in front of a crowd.
Aldred’s Autumn was written and directed by Sarah Sherwood, a teacher at the iThemba Academy and tells the story of a selfish tree named Aldred, who learns an important lesson\’s about the cost of being nasty to others. The moral of the play is to value those around you, and to remember your friends always – a great lesson for the young learners at such a crucial foundation learning phase. The dancing in the play was co-ordinated by Michelle Clark, the owner of Michelle Clarke Dance Academy, who volunteers her time and expertise to the iThemba Academy every Friday.
The learners were involved throughout the production, and assisted with prop development, as well as the design of the backdrop for the play, while the costumes were design by the Academy’s very own Emsie Horsley.
You can help support Focus on iThemba through your MySchool card or consider partnering with the organization through its Education Fund: contact Tayla Blades at info@focusonithemba.org.