With dismal international education scores and low graduation rates, South Africa’s public school system is in trouble. So to give their children a better hope for the future, South African parents are increasingly turning to private schools- especially ones that can achieve a balance of affordability, innovation, and quality education.
The World Economic Forum recently ranked South Africa’s education system 146th out of 148 countries, and dead last in the world in math and science. Despite the large percentage of the government budget spent on education, standards are low and only 30% of students pass the graduation exam.
Schools like Spark Primary School in Johannesburg provide an alternative to public education. Privately owned, Spark charges a 13,000 rand ($1,300) yearly tuition and already has a waiting list for the upcoming year.
Spark’s model is one of blended learning: a mixture of teacher-led classes and computer-based lessons. Answers must always be given in complete sentences and students constantly rehearse their English vocabulary.
Spark’s popularity reflects a growing trend in South Africa. Private school enrollment has increased dramatically over the past decade, and the country already has an estimated 3,500 private schools.
Schools like Spark have found that their key to success lies in balance. Fees must be low enough for poor parents to afford them, but not too low that the school cannot attract good teachers. Some private schools accept donations or state subsidies to keep tuition down. Some attract poorer students by offering scholarships, and teachers by offering a support system rather than a high salary.
The result is a type of school that is accessible to almost all students, and has the freedom of curriculum to embrace technology and innovation.
Melanie Sharland is the executive head of Vuleka, a chain of private primary and nursery schools in Johannesburg. She says that their model achieves results. Math and reading scores are well above the national average, and thanks to scholarships and donations even economically disadvantaged students like orphans can attend.
Creative Commons Love: JP-Flanigan on Flickr.com
Written by Carla Drumhiller Smith