It’s only been a year in South Africa for Yan ‘Charlie’ Yijie, and already his command of the English language is improving.
The 12-year-old moved to South Africa from China last year and settled down at Jubilee Christian School in September as a Grade 5 pupil.
“He had already completed his Grade 5 year in China, but had hardly any knowledge of the English language,” school spokesperson Bernice Radford told the Record.
“He quickly mastered mathematics but had a hard time understanding other subjects as they were taught in English.”
Bernice said that the dedication of his teacher, Mrs Labuschagne, has started paying off. She’s given him fundamental English lessons, slowly building his vocabulary. He’s also been introduced to South African culture, history and geography. The other teachers at the school are supportive, working to explain subjects in such a manner that he understands what is expected of him.
This year, in Grade 6, he’s challenged with the difficult task of learning the prescribed subjects (excluding Afrikaans) in English.
“He is very motivated and determined to pass this year, taking extra English lessons and asking for assistance with his homework,” Bernice said.
“Charlie has a lovely sense of humour and has made many friends, who he enjoys playing soccer and chess with,” Bernice said, adding, “They don’t talk much, but seem to understand each other.
“We, the teaching staff at Jubilee Christian School, are so proud of his progress and what he has already achieved. We congratulate him [gongxi] and pray that he goes from strength to strength.”
For more information contact the office on 011 763 7012.
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