From 27 to 30 January 2025, 21 Early Childhood Development (ECD) teachers in Sharpeville had the unique opportunity to participate in the Gr8Start Training Program. Sponsored by Prommac, this four-day hands-on and interactive course provided essential skills to enhance early childhood education through creativity, resourcefulness, and personal development.
A Practical Approach to Teaching
The Gr8Start Program is designed to equip educators with innovative techniques to create engaging learning environments using recyclable materials. Teachers learned how to prepare teaching aids and testing instruments, utilizing everyday items to enhance lessons. By doing so, they not only foster creativity in young learners but also cultivate a resourceful approach to education that is both cost-effective and sustainable. The focus on practical application ensured that the training was relevant and immediately usable in the classroom.
Teaching: A Calling, Not Just a Profession
The program emphasized that being an educator is more than just a job—it is a calling that requires passion, love, and patience. A key aspect of the training involved personal development, helping teachers build their self-esteem and confidence. By reinforcing values of honesty and trustworthiness, educators were encouraged to set a positive example for their learners, understanding that trust and respect start with them and are mirrored by the children.
A Lasting Impact on Early Childhood Education
Thanks to Prommac’s sponsorship, this initiative has left a lasting impact on the 21 educators who attended. By empowering teachers with innovative strategies and personal growth opportunities, the Gr8Start Training Program has strengthened the foundation of early childhood education in Sharpeville. The educators now return to their classrooms with renewed inspiration, ready to shape the future of young minds through creativity, compassion, and effective teaching methods.