Learners who meet the set requirements are provided with laptops that remain school property. The laptop is there to take notes in class, do homework and complete assignments.

The ECC is an international curriculum designed specifically for the unique needs of learners with visual impairment. Teacher training in the ECC has taken place over the past three years, and gradually we are building up a body of knowledge and skills surrounding the specific teaching strategies and areas of the curriculum.

Since the beginning of 2022, the Intermediary Phase has started with ECC sessions with the learners every second Monday. In these sessions, learners are given the opportunity to learn practical life skills in a fun way. Some of the activities include getting acquainted with, and using, kitchen utensils and equipment, scales and spices. In another session the leaners made delicious “Mugnuts” (doughnuts in a cup). Such a treat!

In the High School Phase, the Interact Club offers a good opportunity to implement the ECC. Over the past year, club members have made scrubs from essential oils, baking soda, water and alcohol. In another session they used beads to make jewellery. All these activities are not only fun, but also teach learners skills that may come in handy one day: perhaps as hobbies, and earning some pocket money, but possibly even ideas for a business!

Therapeutic and/or extra-mural drumming is incredibly relevant and valuable for our visually impaired learners. It is a medium through which a broad range of sensory-motor skills can be stimulated, as well as a wonderful tool for self-regulation and emotional well-being. It is also a sought after skill that our learners can use in a career after school, and a positive way to be involved in the community.

Cooking classes take place every second week for grade 9 learners to familiarise them with the layout of the Consumer studies kitchen and to work with the equipment. Basic cooking skills are taught.

RCL stands for the Representative Council of Learners. In Pioneer High School, the RCL consists of five learners – one member / learner from each grade. The RCL serves as a link between learners and teachers, and they must ensure that there is a good and positive spirit among the learners. In addition, the RCL (together with the Learner Council) is responsible for spirit / team building activities and fundraising. This creates a platform for the learners to practise leadership and show initiative, and to make the school year enjoyable for all.

Vier van ons leerders is betrokke om ‘n verskil in ons gemeenskap te maak deur by te dra tot die aktiwiteite van die Junior Dorpsraad. Hulle vorm deel van die Junior Dorpsraad nie net om deur voorbeeld te lei nie, maar om ‘n beter toekoms vir die gemeenskap se jeug, asook hulself te bou.

Hands-on learning is very important in the education of learners with visual impairments. Although EMS (Economic Management Science) covers the content of buying and selling for profit, the Entrepreneurs Days teach them first-hand how to run their own business(es). Our learners thoroughly enjoy becoming entrepreneurs for a day in the comfort of the school setting.