Some South African schools are embracing the aspects of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to equip pupils with learning skills in the digital world. The Holy Cross Primary School in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape has introduced technology subjects in that regard.
The aim for teaching Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects is to prepare the learners for university at an early age, mostly catering for kids coming from the surrounding farming areas in Makhanda.
The multiracial independent school currently has hundred learners including those in foundation and senior phase. To prepare for the 2024 academic year, the school held its STEM camp for the senior primary learners. The STEM subjects are taught at senior phase from grade four to seven.
“STEM subjects are teaching these kids a lot of skills. Robotics and coding teach them problem solving skills,” says Bernadette Hubbart, maths and science teacher.
The teaching of STEM subjects was introduced last year with Robotics and Programming as their first subjects.
The school is gradually introducing Coding this year.
“I love STEM subjects because I get to learn something new all the time,” a learner says.
“I enjoy doing robotics because I love using my hands,” another learner explains.
“I want to become an engineer when I grow up, I am inspired by STEM subjects,” another learner elaborates.
The aim of introducing these subjects at primary level is to prepare the learners for university.
“I think it’s a brilliant idea to have these subjects introduced while they are still very young. This trains their minds and helps them choose subjects they will need for their career paths,” Hubbart explains.
The school is planning to introduce the STEM subjects to the foundation phase next year.
Video: STEM camp for Makhanda kids
