In 2016 we launched a new programme aimed at school-aged children from both primary and high school called Home Work Club.
Home Work Club takes place every week in the Branch Family Church building in Bloemendal. Currently, we have 250 children registered for the programme. These children attend Home Work Club at the church building three times a week where they complete their homework in a safe and friendly environment with trained tutors who are always eager to help. Home Work Club also offers a reading programme to assist children who have reading problems.
During the first half hour of the programme we focus on reading, and reading exercises’ and games – we want them to know that reading is fun!
Our library offers reading books as well as resource books to help children with research for projects. We have acquired a laptop and printer for this purpose as well.
During the time that Home Work Club has been running, we have seen a general improvement in the children’s ability to focus and concentrate. As a result of supervision they are able to sit down for the time it takes to complete their homework.
Some of the testimonies we have seen:
A grade 6 learner who struggled with Mathematics, passed her exams and came back to thank the tutors of the Home Work Club for helping her.
In 2017 a very desperate grandfather brought his 8-year-old granddaughter, in Grade 2, who couldn’t read to attend Home Work Club. The school she attended was getting ready to send her to a special needs school after their tests showed she had a negative IQ. We welcomed her to the Home Work Club, and although it was tough initially, Nicole Petersen, our Homework Club supervisor’s time and attention along with the little girl’s commitment, resulted in her being able to read after just 2 months. Her grandfather and the teachers at her school were amazed at her progress. There’s no longer a need to send her to a special needs school and she still attends Home Work Club where she continues to improve. |