Foundation Phase
(Grade R – 3)
The Foundation Phase (Grade R – 3) spans the child’s first few years of formal schooling. Vital skills, knowledge, attitudes and values are established during these years. During this Phase, we lay the foundation for each child to achieve success in Literacy and Mathematics, and to develop a healthy self-esteem, good work ethic, social skills and love of learning (Life Skills). We make every effort to recognise, acknowledge and develop the strengths, talents and potential of our young learners.
The Foundation Phase curriculum is enriched and supported by weekly sessions in our well-equipped IT/Computer centre, Sport Skills, Class Music, Speech & Drama and Xhosa lessons, all taken by specialists in each field.
The Foundation Phase (Grade R – 3) spans the child’s first few years of formal schooling. Vital skills, knowledge, attitudes and values are established during these years. During this Phase, we lay the foundation for each child to achieve success in Literacy and Mathematics, and to develop a healthy self-esteem, good work ethic, social skills and love of learning (Life Skills). We make every effort to recognise, acknowledge and develop the strengths, talents and potential of our young learners.
Intermediate Phase
(Grade 4 – 6)
In this dynamic phase, we continue to add on the building blocks set in the Foundation Phase. Our Intermediate Phase, encompassing Grades 4 to 6, lays the foundation for a well-rounded education, while Grade 7 marks the beginning of the Senior Phase, preparing students for the challenges ahead.
Subjects Offered: In the Intermediate Phase (Grades 4-6), students engage with a comprehensive curriculum that includes:
Supportive Academic Initiatives:
We understand that every student is unique and may require additional support in specific areas. To address this, we offer a range of academic initiatives:
Cami in the Computer Suite: Our computer suite utilises Cami, an educational software platform, to enhance language and maths skills. This tool is instrumental in providing personalised learning experiences.
Mathematics Curriculum Online (MCO): a programme designed to reinforce learners’ math skills through interactive online exercises linked to the CAPS Mathematics Curriculum.
Music
All Grades
The Pinelands Primary School recognises the value of music in a child’s life and has embraced the subject as an integral part of the school curriculum. Music has always been a vital part of life at the Blue School, contributing not only to the cultural richness of the school community but also to the overall development of each learner. Through music, children are encouraged and stimulated to develop a lifelong love for the broader arts while enhancing their creativity, discipline, and academic performance.
Grade 1 – 5 receive music education once a week, ensuring that every learner is exposed to some form of musical experience. In a school of approximately 900 learners, nearly one third take instrumental lessons, with 95 Grade 3 learners learning the recorder as an introduction to individual and group music making.
Under the expert tuition of our qualified full-time and part-time music teachers, learners are guided by highly dedicated and experienced staff who strive for excellence while creating opportunities for every child to enjoy making music and achieve their full potential.
The school boasts both a junior and a senior choir, as well as an orchestra that performs during assemblies on special occasions. We are immensely proud of our young musicians, whose dedication and talent shine through in recitals and concerts. Their participation in the music programme not only enriches their school experience but also lays the foundation for a lifetime of musical appreciation and enjoyment.
Tuition is offered in the following instruments:
All the Grade 3 learners receive tuition in recorder as part of the school curriculum. During these lessons, they not only learn to play the recorder, but are also introduced to music theory, viz., learning the basic principles of music writing. Time is also allocated for general music appreciation, such as listening to various types of music, ranging from classical to jazz.
Visual Art
All Grades
Visual Art is an essential component of the curriculum for learners from grades 1 – 7. Our learners experience a vast array of media, including painting, drawing, three-dimensional design, craft and mixed media. Our art room is a rustic place of creative exploration and a haven for every child who passes through its doors. Our corridors regularly showcase each of our learners’ unique talents and creativity. Our Visual Art offering speaks volumes about our approach to teaching and learning, as we believe in giving every child the opportunity and the freedom to create.
Steam
All Grades
The STEAM Club, established in 2024 by Miss Senosi, is an exciting programme designed to foster curiosity and a love for learning among learners in Years 1 to 3. STEAM represents Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics — five essential areas that influence the world around us. The club is specifically created for young learners who show a keen interest in science and enjoy exploring how things work.
Through practical activities such as science experiments, coding (both hands-on and digital), and robotics, club members develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Mathematics and Art are thoughtfully woven into each task, enabling learners to apply their knowledge creatively and practically. The STEAM Club provides a fun, engaging environment where learners can explore new ideas, collaborate with peers of different ages, and establish a strong foundation for future STEAM learning.
