Biblionef and MySchool: Transforming Literacy in KZN

In the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, amidst the rolling hills and vibrant communities, a quiet revolution is taking place in the classrooms of 10 primary schools. This transformation is the result of a remarkable collaboration between Biblionef South Africa and the generous support of MySchool, MyVillage, MyPlanet (MySchool). MySchool’s funding has allowed us to embark on a journey that is not just about teaching reading but about empowering teachers and nurturing a lifelong love for learning among young children.

The end of 2023 marked the first year of this 3-year project. As we reflect on the past year, it’s clear that the journey has been as enriching for us as it has been for the teachers and students we’ve worked with. The project’s mission was straightforward: support 45 Foundation Phase teachers with the tools and resources needed to teach reading for meaning. However, the impact of this initiative has been anything but simple. It has been transformative, challenging, and incredibly rewarding.

The Seeds of Change: Laying the Groundwork

The beginning of any project is crucial, as it sets the tone for everything that follows. Our journey began with meticulous planning and communication, ensuring that all stakeholders, from the ELITS (Education, Library & Information Technology Services) Department to the Foundation Phase Curriculum Advisor, were on the same page. This foundational work was pivotal in ensuring the project’s success.

When our project managers travelled to the KwaXimba and Inchanga areas in May 2023, they were met with open arms and curious minds. The pre-visits were not just about logistics but about building relationships, understanding the unique challenges faced by each school, and, most importantly, gaining the trust of the teachers and principals.

The rural landscape of KwaZulu-Natal, with its connectivity challenges, did little to dampen the enthusiasm of our team or the schools. This initial engagement was a testament to the power of collaboration and communication. The teachers’ excitement and willingness to embrace the project laid a solid foundation for the work ahead.

A New Chapter: Empowering Through Books and Training

One of the project’s core components was the donation of a pack of books to each of the 45 Foundation Phase teachers. This collection of 20 books, carefully selected in both the children’s home language and English, was more than just a resource; it was a gateway to new worlds and possibilities.

But books alone are not enough. Our goal was to integrate these storybooks into the daily rhythm of classroom life, making reading a joyous and meaningful experience. The workshops and in-class mentoring sessions held between May 28 and June 6, 2023, were designed to do just that.

The feedback from these sessions was overwhelmingly positive. Teachers initially hesitant about conducting lessons discovered newfound confidence and creativity. They began to see the books as allies in their teaching journey, tools that could spark curiosity and conversation in their classrooms. The classroom dynamics shifted, with students eagerly participating, asking questions, and sharing their thoughts on stories.

Learning and Growth: Overcoming Challenges Together

Every journey comes with its set of challenges, and ours was no different. The large class sizes, limited resources, and varying levels of learner proficiency presented obstacles that required patience and innovation to overcome. But as we reflect, these very challenges became the fertile ground for growth and resilience.

During the workshops, the introduction of the “Tree of Life” concept became a powerful metaphor for our collective journey. Just as trees withstand storms and grow stronger, so too did our teachers and students. This reflection exercise provided a safe space for teachers to share their thoughts, fears, and triumphs. It was in these honest conversations that the true impact of the project became evident.

One Grade 1 teacher reflected on her initial nervousness, fearing that the new methodology might complicate her teaching. Yet, as she embraced the change, she found that it enriched her teaching practices, making lessons more engaging and effective. Her students, once hesitant readers, now eagerly participated in shared reading and writing activities, showcasing improved skills and growing confidence.

Building a Community of Learners and Leaders

As the year progressed, it became clear that this project was about more than just teaching reading. It was about building a community of learners and leaders. The “Reading Champions,” newly trained by Filo Majozini (School Library Specialist at the ELITS Pinetown District) emerged as vibrant examples of this transformation. Their enthusiasm and dedication inspired both students and fellow educators, demonstrating the ripple effect of empowered teaching.

In one memorable classroom visit, a Reading Champion stepped in to co-teach a lesson, seamlessly engaging students in a discussion about bravery. Her personal story of courage resonated with the children, encouraging them to share their experiences and reinforcing the power of storytelling as a teaching tool.

Reflection and the Road Ahead

As we look back on the first year of this project, we are filled with gratitude for the teachers’ dedication, the children’s enthusiasm, and the unwavering support from MySchool and all involved. This initiative’s success is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the shared belief in the transformative power of education.

The journey is far from over. As we move forward, we remain committed to further strengthening literacy education in KwaZulu-Natal. We will continue to support our teachers, refine our strategies, and celebrate the small victories that contribute to lasting change. An external evaluator will assess the project over the next three years, providing invaluable insights into its impact on both teachers and children. This thorough evaluation will help us understand how the project empowers educators and enhances students’ literacy skills and love for reading, ensuring that our efforts create a lasting positive effect on the communities we serve.

In conclusion, this project has been more than a series of workshops and book donations. It has been a journey of learning, growth, and empowerment. Together, we are planting the seeds of knowledge, nurturing a love for reading, and building a brighter future for the young learners of KwaZulu-Natal. With each turn of the page, we are reminded that the story of education is one of endless possibilities. We look forward to what the rest of 2024 and 2025 have in store for this project.