Several parents of Berzelia Primary School recently graduated from the Home–School Partnership Programme (HSSP) — an initiative that helps parents support their children’s learning at home.
The Wordworks Programme, in partnership with the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) through the Back-on-Track initiative, is active in selected schools across the district. Learners attend Saturday classes with experienced teachers acting as tutors. The programme focuses on Languages and Mathematics for Grade 4 and 7 learners, helping bridge learning gaps and strengthen foundational reading and writing skills.
The school is one of only 25 schools chosen to participate and proudly achieved over 70% parent attendance — the highest in the district. The HSSP promotes collaboration between schools and families, empowering parents as their children’s first and most important teachers. During her speech, Joan Louw, a dedicated teacher-facilitator and retired educator from Atlantis, thanked the parents for their commitment. “Education is a shared journey between homes and schools that connects minds and futures,” said Louw.
Russel Andrews (Circuit Manager) and Ivy Orange (Subject Advisor for the Foundation Phase) highlighted the pivotal role parents play in providing a supportive home environment. They agreed that learners thrive when parents work hand in hand with teachers. The parents expressed gratitude for the HSSP, saying they now feel better equipped to guide their children, especially in literacy and numeracy. Maryna Sliers, acting Departmental Head, said learners whose parents joined the programme showed notable progress: “Their reading improved, homework is done, discipline issues have decreased, and confidence has grown — especially during group work and class discussions. This proves that parents shape their children’s learning habits and success.”
Phildene Mitchell, Deputy Principal and Programme Coordinator, said the school always embraces programmes that uplift learners, parents, and the Protea Park community. “It’s inspiring to see parents show up and engage. We hope even more will partner with us to create a nurturing learning environment both at home and at school.” Under the leadership of Principal Gershwin Kroukamp, recent Provincial Winner of the National Teacher’s Award for Excellence in Leadership, the school continues to grow, striving for academic excellence and excelling in sports, arts, and culture, living up to its proud motto “Crowned with Pride.”
