Thanda outperforms national literacy averages
Thanda’s Early Learning Outcomes Measure success proves positive outcomes in rural communities are vital for breaking the cycle of disadvantage.
Thanda, a non-profit based in Mtwalume, continues to make a significant impact on Early Childhood Development (ECD).
In the latest Early Learning Outcomes Measure (ELOM), 95% of Grade 00 children were rated ‘On Track’ in key learning areas – exceeding the 2021 Thrive by Five averages of 31% provincially and 46% nationally. These results underscore the effectiveness of Thanda’s storybook-based and minute-by-minute curriculum, which equips children with foundational skills for Grade R and beyond.
The ELOM, a standardised tool administered by trained moderators, measures children’s progress across five developmental domains. Thanda’s results outperformed national and provincial Thrive by Five comparisons in four of these areas, particularly in emergent language and literacy – an urgent national concern given that only 49% of children in KZN’s Thrive by Five sample are on track for language development.
The assessment also confirmed strong results across Thanda’s Fun Foundations and Satellite ECD programmes, which now align with its flagship Imbewu model. Notably, children in informal learning environments – like outdoor spaces or huts – performed exceptionally well, even surpassing some results from Thanda’s Community Centre-based Imbewu learners.
A DataDrive2030 spokesperson commended Thanda’s commitment to using data for continuous improvement. While the results were overwhelmingly positive, lower-than-expected gross motor scores prompted Thanda to review its curriculum to strengthen physical development activities – a testament to its responsive learning culture.
“These findings show that when children have access to quality early learning, they thrive. We remain committed to refining our curriculum to ensure every child is prepared for school – and for life,” said Angela Larkan, Thanda’s executive director.
Thanda’s ELOM success proves positive outcomes in rural communities are vital for breaking the cycle of disadvantage, underscoring the need for greater investment in early education and community-driven solutions.
For more information, visit www.thanda.org.
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