How we teach

Introduction:
The Sycamore Tree is committed to providing quality education to its students and ensuring their academic success. To achieve this, the school employs the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) method of education, as outlined by the Department of Education. This report highlights how The Sycamore Tree utilizes the CAPS approach, monitors individual student progress, and communicates with parents to enable timely intervention and corrective measures.

CAPS Methodology:
The CAPS method is a comprehensive curriculum framework designed by the Department of Education to guide teaching and learning in South African schools. It aims to develop learners’ skills, knowledge, and understanding in various subjects. The Sycamore Tree aligns its curriculum with CAPS, ensuring that subject content, skills, and assessment criteria are integrated into its teaching methodologies.

Individual Student Observation and Record Keeping:
At The Sycamore Tree, a robust system of individual student observation and record-keeping is in place. Teachers regularly assess and monitor the academic progress of each student using a variety of formative and summative assessment methods. These assessments help identify areas where a student may be struggling or excelling. Detailed records are maintained to track each student’s performance, enabling educators to gain insights into their strengths and areas needing improvement.

Speedy Intervention and Corrective Measures:
The key objective of this observation and record-keeping process is to facilitate speedy intervention and implement corrective measures when academic challenges are identified. As soon as a student’s performance indicates difficulties, teachers collaborate with specialized staff, such as learning support educators and counselors, to design targeted interventions. These interventions may include additional tutoring, differentiated instruction, or tailored learning resources to address the specific needs of the student.

Parent Communication:
Communication with parents is a crucial component of the intervention process. The Sycamore Tree values transparency and collaboration with parents to ensure the academic success of each student. When a student is identified as needing intervention, parents are promptly informed through regular progress reports, meetings, or digital communication channels. These communications outline the specific challenges faced by the student and the proposed intervention strategies, encouraging parents to play an active role in their child’s educational journey.

Conclusion:
The Sycamore Tree’s adoption of the CAPS method, coupled with its diligent observation, record-keeping, intervention, and parental communication strategies, underscores its commitment to student success. By promptly identifying academic challenges and implementing targeted interventions, the school aims to provide a supportive and effective learning environment that enables every student to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.