Classrooms in several Gauteng primary schools are taking on a new life after the final bell rings, as an arts programme aims to nurture creativity, confidence and self-expression among young learners.
The initiative is being piloted by the Adopt-a-School Foundation, shaping the after-school experience for many learners.
Through its Whole School Development model, the foundation supports efforts to create stronger teaching and learning environments in schools.
The new extra-curricular arts programme is currently being implemented in five Gauteng primary schools: Nageng Primary School, Diepsloot Primary School, Bathabile Primary School, Qhobosheane Primary School and Tsakane Primary School.
The pilot programme runs for 11 months, from January to November, and targets learners in Grades 4 to 7. It began with an intensive Art Boot Camp held from 23 to 27 February, where youth facilitators were trained to guide learners through the programme’s activities.
Aligned with South Africa’s Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement and designed to complement the work of the Department of Basic Education, the programme aims to extend learning beyond the traditional classroom. Through structured creative activities, learners are encouraged to build discipline, confidence and the ability to express themselves.
Five young facilitators from the participating communities are at the centre of the programme. They lead the art sessions while receiving monthly stipends and gaining leadership experience and mentorship skills as they work with the learners.
According to Zibusiso Ntini, the initiative provides an important platform for learners to explore creativity and develop self-belief.
“There is something powerful about watching a child who was once quiet step forward to perform and seeing a simple sketch grow into a powerful story. The Foundation believes that creative expression helps learners build confidence, resilience and a sense of possibility,” said Ntini, leadership and curriculum delivery programme manager at the foundation.
Educators at participating schools say the programme has already begun to show its value in helping learners find new ways to express themselves.
Nthabiseng Tshivula, an educator at Nageng Primary School, said the initiative highlights the different ways in which learners can discover and express their talents.
“This programme reminded us that not every learner expresses their talent in the same way. For some learners, art becomes the space where their confidence begins to grow. When a learner discovers their voice through creativity, it often carries into the classroom as well. We start to see learners participate more, believe in themselves and engage with their schoolwork differently. We are grateful to the Adopt-a-School Foundation for creating opportunities like this for our learners,” Tshivula said.
For the youth facilitators involved, the programme is also an opportunity to develop leadership and mentoring skills while supporting younger learners.
Livhuwani Rambidi said the Art Boot Camp demonstrated the potential of creative expression in helping learners gain confidence.
“The Art Boot Camp showed us that art can open doors for learners who may not always feel confident in the classroom. As youth facilitators, we are excited to guide learners as they explore their creativity, support one another and discover new ways to express their ideas. Being part of this programme also allows us to grow as mentors and role models in our own communities,” Rambidi said.
Saturday Star Reporter
iol.co.za
