The Metro South Education District in South Africa has launched a program to enhance the performance of Grade 10 learners in Mathematics. The initiative, known as #BackOnTrack, aims to provide students with the necessary mathematical skills to succeed in their final three years of schooling. This article delves into the key components of the program and highlights the cooperative efforts that have made it possible.
Addressing Declining Mathematics Test Results
The Metro South Education District has faced significant challenges in Mathematics in recent years, with Grade 9 learners experiencing a decline in pass rates. In 2020, the pass rate fell to 18.8%, a 3.9 percentage point drop from 2019’s 22.7%. In response, the #BackOnTrack Mathematics program was created to address this issue. The program targets 440 Grade 10 learners from the previous year’s Grade 9 cohort to help improve their Mathematics scores.
Collaborative Efforts for Success
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) came on board and provided its venues for the Mathematics classes, offering an ideal learning environment for students. The collaboration between the two institutions also presents future academic opportunities for the learners. As part of the program, UWC engages with the students, inspiring them to pursue higher education after their matriculation.
The #BackOnTrack initiative also offers Language and Mathematics classes for almost 400 Grade 8 learners in the district. These students attend classes at UWC, reflecting the university’s commitment to enhancing the learning outcomes of young minds.
Community Stakeholders’ Dedication
The success of the #BackOnTrack initiative is attributed to the dedication of various stakeholders. Education districts have devoted resources to plan and organize camps and classes for Grade 7, 8, 10, and 12 learners during the holidays. Participating schools have played a significant role in hosting classes, and tutors have been instrumental in teaching the students.
Above all, the learners themselves deserve recognition for their unwavering dedication to improving their academic performance. Despite having to sacrifice their holidays and endure harsh weather conditions, the Grade 10 students have consistently attended the Mathematics classes, demonstrating their enthusiasm and commitment to overcoming their challenges.
The #BackOnTrack program highlights the Metro South Education District’s innovative approach to addressing declining Mathematics test results among Grade 10 learners. By collaborating with UWC and other stakeholders, this initiative offers students a unique opportunity to improve their performance and access higher education. The combined efforts of learners, educators, and institutions involved in the program will undoubtedly contribute to a brighter future for these young individuals.
