UWC Science Laboratories Opening At Schools In October 2024
Opening Nine Newly Constructed Science Learning Centres In October 2024
Many South African schools just aren’t equipped to help learners develop skills in – and a love for – science. That’s why UWC-SLCA, in conjunction with Garden Cities Archway Foundation and the Western Cape Education Department, has built dozens of state-of-the-art science labs.
The University’s Science Learning Centres for Africa (SLCA) programme, in partnership with the Garden Cities Archway Foundation, will open 9 new UWC Science Learning Centres on 18, 19 and 20 October 2024 to support the teaching and learning of school science in the Western Cape.
The schools are as follows:
18 October 2024
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Gordon Secondary, Strand
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Strand Secondary, Strand
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Rusthof Secondary, Strand
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Rosendaal Secondary, Delft
19 October 2024
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Weston Secondary, Vredenburg
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Factreton Primary, Factreton
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Vuyani Primary, Gugulethu
20 October 2024
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Oker Primary, Albertinia
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Erika Primary, Mossel Bay
These nine schools will bring the total science learning centres (SLCs) constructed at schools since 2011 to 57.
The SLCs – equipped with smartboards, microscopes, and more – are constructed to give support and training to practicing science educators, to get learners involved in science activities, and to allow both learners and teachers to work and experiment in a safe environment.
The construction of the SLCs is an extension of the curriculum support provided by UWC-SLCA and serves as reward for committed science teachers, school management and learners. The achievement of learners and teachers in national and international benchmark tests paints a very bleak picture and one that highlights a national crisis.
“We have to start with the basics in terms of supporting teachers to have the confidence to teach science with an advanced level of understanding, knowledge and skills,” Prof Shaheed Hartley, Director of UWC-SLCA explains. “Similarly we have to be creative in providing learners with opportunities that will draw their interest and willingness to learn.”
“Developing a culture of science teaching and learning will be a good start to improve NSC and other assessments,” Prof Hartley notes. “Having a confident and knowledgeable science teacher in a conducive environment provided by the UWC Science Learning Centres is a step in the right direction.”
Want to know more? Visit the Science Learning Centre For Africa Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/slca.ac.za/) or email slca@uwc.ac.za …
Please download the programmes for the October 2024 SLCA openings below.
SLCA Programme 18 October 2024