Dalpark resident Angie Phillips, project director of Siyathuthuka Nursery School Project, has for the past 31 years played an integral role in training ECD educators in rural areas.
Angie told members of the Garlands Ladies Luncheon Club on June 27 that her journey has been filled with challenges and endless joy.
“Seeing rural children have access to structured ECD learning is the most rewarding experience,” she said.
“Watching those little faces glow with excitement as they grow in ability is awe-inspiring. The project is not only about the upliftment of young learners but has a wider impact on the community through job creation.”
The mother of three became an integral facilitator of Siyathuthuka in 1993, after enrolling in a two-year course in child care at the St Anthony’s Educational Centre, in Reiger Park, Boksburg in 1990. Upon completion, she enrolled to further her studies in ECD administration in Springs.
“I responded to an advertisement seeking an ECD trainer in Devon. Despite not having a license nor a car I was appointed to the position,” she said.
“The position required me to travel long distances to Mpumalanga, which proved difficult if you are solely reliant on public transport. I needed a car and a licence. Through painstaking determination and hours of practice, I was behind the wheel within two months.”
Angie explained that developing ECD centres and playgroups within rural communities is not only essential in providing children with quality education.
“It is about offering structure and safety to learners while ensuring that they are fully prepared for formal foundation phase schooling.
“As an NPO, we have spent years establishing accredited learning modules which is presented by trained and knowledgeable facilitators and carers,” she said.
“Although our programmes are focused on early childhood development we know that upon completion of formal schooling, our project has contributed to the future success of each learner under the Siyathuthuka banner.”
She said that through continuous growth and support from the Department of Education and donations, the project is cultivating a culture that understands the importance of learning.
“Facilitators are constantly trained and developed. This ensures our rural children are receiving the same quality of education as their city-dwelling peers,” she said.
“With our ever expanding toy library, carers have access to educational toys which relate to themes and our nutritional department assists in ensuring that the children receive nutritious meals and snacks.
“It is our vision to ensure that every child within our areas of service are loved, educated and cared for while facilitators are equipped with the tools to identify their strengths and weaknesses.”
The Garlands will meet again on July 25 at the Katse Room, Ebotse. Guests are welcome to attend the monthly luncheons which feature a variety of guest speakers, a delicious meal and the company of dynamic women. For more information email Margie Kostlac on margie.h@mweb.co.za
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