West End Primary launches new literacy room
West End Primary School's new literacy room, launched in partnership with Living Through Learning, promises to transform reading skills for all Grade 1 pupils, ensuring they are equipped for future success.
On Monday June 2, Living Through Learning non-profit organisation launched with West End Primary School’s grand opening of their new literacy room. From left back are Zara Thomas, Seth Buckton and Meah Solomons and from left front are Jacheal Andrews, Kungentanda Ntiyane, C-J Jacobs and Nuha Jenkins.
Image: Marsha Bothma
When Plainsman stepped into the new literacy room at West End Primary School today, Monday June 2, it was a burst of colour - lined with books, learning materials, and filled with wide-eyed, eager smiles.
Non-profit organisation Living Through Learning officially opened the school’s new literacy room, a space made possible through funding from Minrath Trust. The room is now home to resources that support pupils in developing their reading, writing, and fine-motor skills.
The founder of Living Through Learning, Sonja Botha, ran an NGO called Education Alive for over 25 years, which was part of an international group. In 2010, she became independent and changed the name to Living Through Learning.
West End Primary School principal Clive Arries cutting the ribbon. They launched the new literacy room at their school on Monday June 2.
Image: Marsha Bothma
West End Primary School principal Clive Arries said that in partnership with the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) and other education authorities, Living Through Learning has developed a comprehensive foundation phase literacy curriculum that has produced remarkable results—increasing literacy rates by up to 80% and helping over 500 pupils transition into tertiary education and meaningful employment.
“This means that all pupils at this school will be able to read by the end of Grade 1. The skills developed here will open doors to endless possibilities throughout their lives,” said Mr Arries.
Clarice Joubert, a long-standing facilitator with Living Through Learning, read Mucky Duck to the pupils while the team brought the story to life through a live reenactment, keeping the pupils engaged and entertained.
Clarice Joubert, a long-standing facilitator with Living Through Learning, read Mucky Duck to the pupils while the team brought the story to life through a live reenactment, keeping the pupils engaged and entertained.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Living Through Learning operates in Cape Town schools and focuses on helping pupils read and write with purpose and comprehension.
The organisation places strong emphasis on English literacy and teacher support.
Ms Joubert said that the programme also equips teachers with tools for classroom management, training them in key themes and encouraging them to eventually lead the programme themselves.
The room is filled with carefully chosen resources—threading beads, puzzles, playdough, storybooks, workbooks, and more. The space is a multi-sensory learning environment.
Mymoena Moses, departmental head for the foundation phase at West End Primary School, said the new room brings immense value, not just to pupils, but to teachers as well.
“This space will benefit pupils who are struggling with reading, a known broader national issue. It’s a step forward for our school community, and we’re also involving parents in the programme,” she said.
Clarice Joubert, a long-standing facilitator with Living Through Learning, said Living Through Learning operates in Cape Town schools with a focus on helping pupils read and write with purpose and comprehension.
Image: Marsha Bothma
She said she was excited about the facilitators who will be running workshops for teachers and supporting interns in developing their skills. “By the end of the year, we are confident that all our Grade 1s will be able to read.”
Grade 1 pupil Hezekiah Adams said he was excited to start reading in the new room.
Nuha Jenkins, also in Grade 1, lit up when talking about the cuddly toys, which pupils are free to use while reading.
Seth Buckton enjoyed exploring the tactile materials, especially the playdough and threading beads, already making full use of what the new room has to offer.