Primary School

The Primary School of Transvalia School for Learners with Special Educational Needs provides a caring, structured and supportive learning environment where every learner is given the opportunity to develop academically, emotionally and socially. The Foundation Phase (Gr. 1-3) and Intersen Phase (Gr. 4 – 6 and Gr.7) are staffed by well-trained educators with many years of experience in special needs education.

Small class groups allow teachers to give focused attention to individual learners, while classroom assistants provide additional support and guidance throughout the school day. Many learners who are transferred to Transvalia have previously experienced disappointment, frustration and repeated failure in mainstream schools due to the fast pace of learning, large class numbers of 30–40 learners, and limited individual support. At Transvalia, learners are given the time, patience and encouragement needed to rebuild confidence and experience success.

Teaching and learning are carefully adapted to make the curriculum accessible to learners with diverse learning needs. A variety of teaching strategies, practical methods and multi-sensory approaches are used, especially in the acquisition and development of language skills. Learners in both the Foundation Phase and Intersen Phase follow the CAPS curriculum and are expected to meet the same curriculum requirements as learners in mainstream schools, while receiving the additional support necessary to achieve their full potential.

The Foundation Phase offers Home Languages (Afrikaans and English), First Additional Languages (Afrikaans and English), Mathematics and Life Skills. In the Intersen Phase (Grades 4–6 and Grade 7), learners are offered Home Languages (Afrikaans and English), First Additional Languages (Afrikaans and English), Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology, Social Sciences (History and Geography), and Life Skills, which includes Creative Arts, Physical Education and Personal and Social Well-being (PSW).

A strong multi-disciplinary team forms an essential part of the holistic support offeredat the school. Speech therapists, occupational therapists, a social worker and a discipline head work closely with teachers and parents to support each learner’s individual needs. Through mentoring, therapeutic intervention and emotional support, the team helps learners overcome barriers to learning and develop important life skills. This holistic approach ensures that every child is supported not only academically, but also emotionally, socially and behaviourally, creating a nurturing environment where learners can thrive.