For students to excel in their educational journey, a solid foundation in early childcare development (ECD) and the foundational phase of their schooling is crucial. The Principal of St Martin’s Preparatory school, Michelle Myburgh in the south of Johannesburg indicated that ECD is a student’s first step on their educational journey.
“In the ECD phase, emphasis should be on much more than academic excellence. Each child’s emotional, mental and physical well-being should be monitored closely so that they are ready to learn,”
“Once this is in place, the focus should shift to concentrating on developing children who are responsible risk takers that can reason and reflect while building resilience. ECD is more than playing with friends and colouring-in.”
Research showed that the first eight years are the most important in terms of human development. Learning at this stage is influenced by a friendly and safe environment, and it’s the time where students’ social, emotional and cognitive skills develop.
What may appear as playing and colouring, is a student’s ability to develop their communication and motor skills. At this stage creativity is fostered, and students learn critical thinking and problem solving.
Teachers’ influence on their students at this early learning stage is immense, as they continue to expand their skills as they progress through each grade. This development and growth impacts how they will view education throughout their life.
Without these foundational skills, students will face challenges later in life. The Executive Headmaster of the school, Thomas Hagspihl said that investing in quality education can lead to greater success for students and benefit community and society.
“It is a misconception that you should invest more in high school education rather than on early childhood development and prep school education. Without the basic principles firmly in place, children struggle with some of the basic concepts later on, especially in math’s.”
