The vital role of preschool teachers
Confident and competent teachers remain the primary contributing aspect behind children mastering the fundamental lessons they need in order to cope with the rigours of formal schooling, and putting them on a positive trajectory to thrive in adult life. Therefore, investment into these early years is vital.
Time at preschool offers children the chance to develop in a number of key areas: emotional, physical, social and cognitive. Problem-solving skills, and gross and fine motor skills are all developed in a quality preschool environment. This incidental learning carries many more benefits for young children than was originally thought. “At preschool, they become exposed to numbers, letters, and shapes. and, more important, they learn how to socialise – get along with other children, share, and contribute during morning ring/circle time,” says Kathleen McCartney, dean of Harvard Graduate School of Education
But this doesn’t just happen – it happens at the hands of passionate preschool teachers, who provide structure that ensures children grow essential reading, writing and numeracy skills, learn about science, the world around them, help children understand themselves, and how they fit into this complex world we live in.
Knysna Education Trust (KET) has a highly qualified and experienced team of professionals who work tirelessly to manifest a positive impact on the lives of the youngest members of our communities. Preschool teachers are trained to implement essential programmes that support the protection, care, and development of young children. These include a registered preschool curriculum, numeracy and emergent reading programmes.
Capacity building and skills development workshops are offered weekly, followed up with on-site coaching and mentoring, helping teachers to deliver quality preschool teaching in safe, stimulating environments. KET is appointed by the Department of Social Development as a preferred service provider, for registration of early childhood development (ECD) facilities in the Garden Route, and works closely with Knysna’s municipal health and safety officers to ensure ECD sites are registered and comply with basic norms and standards.
In 2016, KET added the Formal Preschool Teacher Qualifications, NQF levels 4 and
5 to the arsenal of training offered. Since its establishment, over 50 students have successfully graduated as preschool teachers.
More info: www.knysnaedutrust.co.za