SAS UPLIFTS C.M. VELLEM PRIMARY SCHOOL
1 LEARNER AT A TIME
Grahamstown, Eastern Cape, South Africa
We are pleased to take you through a more detailed look at our first intervention at C.M. Vellem Primary School. Proudly supported by SAS, this intervention occurred February 4th to the 6th and it marks a strong step forward in our ongoing partnership with the school. During this intervention, we worked with 10 Maths teachers and reached 73 Grade 6 learners as part of the first of two planned interventions for the year.
Learners were given an opportunity to reflect on what they had learned during the workshop and their responses clearly showed both engagement and growing confidence in Mathematics.
A strong theme across the feedback was enjoyment and emotional engagement with learning. Learners repeatedly described the session as “fun,” with many stating that they enjoyed being part of My Maths Buddy and learning in a different way. One learner highlighted how the My Maths Buddy team made them feel welcomed and supported during the learning process, which contributed to a more positive attitude towards Mathematics.
Overall, the feedback reflects a clear shift from confusion and frustration to curiosity, enjoyment and developing understanding. Learners are not only beginning to grasp Mathematical concepts, but are also building confidence in their ability to learn Maths a key step in transforming their long-term relationship with the subject.
Teachers emphasised the importance of breaking down Mathematical terminology in simple, understandable ways using examples, visuals and step-by-step explanations. They found that learners grasp concepts better when definitions are supported with practical context rather than memorisation alone.
Many also highlighted the value of teaching the structure behind Maths language, including word meanings, origins and how terms are used. This deeper understanding helps learners apply concepts more effectively and overcome key learning barriers.
Overall, the feedback reflects a shift toward more structured, intentional and learner-centred teaching approaches that focus on building strong foundational understanding through clear Mathematical language.
“I learned about division, and repeated subtraction. I had so much fun during the workshop. Please don’t stop what you are doing, it is so much fun. I know it takes us too long to answer the questions but if you keep teaching us, we will learn. The division was interesting and we will get used to answering the questions.”
-C.M. Vellem Primary School, Grade 6 learner
We are truly grateful for our continued partnership with SAS and inspired by the impact we are building together. As we keep strengthening Maths understanding and confidence, we are encouraged by the positive progress already visible in classrooms. Even more exciting is the journey ahead and we look forward to sharing the continued growth and results as this partnership deepens and expands.
To learn more about the My Maths Buddy project download our infographic below.
