The PSP works in schools that serve the most disadvantaged communities in the Western Cape, a province that reflects the dramatic extremes of wealth and poverty in South Africa.

Many primary schools are situated in communities which face huge challenges of poverty, the devastating South African legacies of poor teacher training, and a debilitating lack of appropriate resources. Learner results appear to be on the decline and a large percentage of children drop out of primary schooling before they get to high school.

The rural and township areas that the PSP serves are plagued by social problems such as high rates of unemployment, crime, broken homes, gangsterism, alcoholism and drug abuse.

Primary schools in these areas need educators who understand the curriculum and are inspired to teach it effectively. This will assist them to provide comprehensive and effective primary schooling for their learners to achieve a solid educational, social and emotional foundation.

In addition, schools are in need of materials that are practical, relevant, accessible and stimulating as well as equipment that can support active teaching and learning.

The PSP offices are based at the Edith Stephens Wetland Park (ESWP), in the heart of the Cape Flats, situated close to many of the schools that we serve. The wetland is a unique conservation site that has been developed into a public park by the City of Cape Town in partnership with the South African Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).

WHAT TEACHERS SAY

"It’s always memorable to come to a PSP course. We really learn from you! It was also good to learn from other teachers on this topic – it’s so relevant."

- Grade 4 Teacher from J.S. Klopper Primary