Learning lab brightens futures at Shirinda
Grade R-4 learners get a boost with English and Math digital learning.
Learners at Shirinda Primary School in Mamelodi West have shown a marked improvement in their academic work since the introduction of BrightLights learning lab.
BrightLights provides fully “powered-on” digital learning labs to schools, introducing learners to early literacy in English and mathematics.
The labs are run by trained facilitators and fully equipped with 35 computers, headphones and access to world-class learning software in a bright and engaging environment.
Powered on in April, the lab at Shirinda started cautiously introducing English literacy to grades 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Encouraged by the speed with which the learners embraced the new learning method and with the full support of the principal, the school governing board, and the Gauteng department of education, BrightLights quickly introduced Reading Eggs to Grade R and Math Seeds to grades 1 to 4.
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BrightLights’ intention is to continue supporting learners through their entire primary education up to Grade 7. Since April, leaners at Shirinda have progressed in leaps and bounds, completing a total of 7 783 modules in just 5 months.
Principal Lawrence Mukhari said: “BrightLights has the children excited to come to school. Not only are the learners getting a solid maths foundation they are also learning English in their foundation phase something we are not geared for with English not being the home language at our school.”
He said the bonus was that learners were getting digitally savvy which added to their confidence level and put them on par with a modern learning environment.
Facilitator at the lab, Agness Mongwe said parents should start enrolling their children at Shirinda Primary School for next year. She also said from the next year, the maths and English classes would be on Saturdays and learners from other schools were welcome.
“The beauty of digital learning is that it’s instant and adaptable,” said Daniyal Manekia, founder of BrightLights.
“Children at this age are fearless and have a natural desire to explore. Using digital interface makes learning more intuitive and allows us to pace the learning to each child’s capability.
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“Since its introduction, some grade 3s and 4s have quickly progressed to the more advanced mathematics programme which is used commonly in the US, Australia, UK and many private schools in South Africa.”
BrightLights has a tightly woven model hiring from the community and works closely with the principal and teachers to ensure there is accountability, continuity and consistency in learning all around.
BrightLights aims to grow in clusters so it benefits the entire community. Its first cluster will be five schools in the Mamelodi region, including Shirinda.
BrightLights is an independent, non-affiliated NPO currently run under the EnvisionIT foundation umbrella.
Mukhari thanked the Shirinda primary School alumni who recommended the school to BrightLights.
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