The English Hub is one of our community upliftment projects that works closely with Ukhanyo Primary School learners and teachers to assist in bridging the gap between mother tongue and English learning at an appropriate age level. The shift to learning in English in Grade 4 is often very difficult and hinders many students – Masicorp is working hard to help learners reach their full potential through innovative learning solutions.

The English Hub works with many learners from Ukhanyo Primary School and is just one part of our community upliftment project for the school. Our Maths and Science Lab are also playing a crucial role in uplifting children from Masiphumelele, helping them reach their full potential. Katherine – the English Hub’s programme leader has been actively involved in all the learner’s educational journeys and she shared Tshilidzi’s story about how he has taken on reading as his favourite pastime, now that he understands English much better.

Meet Tshilidzi – Fondly known as Livingstone

“I like English a lot because sometimes when the teachers make mistakes, I correct them.”– Tshilidzi Makungo.

Tshilidzi Makungo is a perfect example of a learner who has benefitted from the attention given to him at the English Hub. He began attending classes at the Hub with his Grade 3 class and teacher in 2017. From then on, he joined an afternoon English club each year and is now in Grade 7 and doing very well at school. Amongst his favourite reading series are “Geronimo Stilton” and “Horrid Henry” with Harry Potter recently joining the ranks.

“He’s been visiting us for the past four years and is now reading the Harry Potter series. I never thought that any of our kids would be able to do that. He devours our books.” – Katherine Smith (Programme Leader at the English Hub).

In 2019 Tshilidzi came second in the school’s first English Spelling Bee, which the school asked the English Hub to manage and host. He has also been invited to inter-schools spelling competitions in which he has done very well. Tshilidzi knows that reading has played a huge role in developing his English language skills and spelling.

“The Harry Potter books teaches you how to be disciplined and how to behave. I also like the magic in the books.” – Tshilidzi Makungo.

Looking for Charities Supporting Education?

Masicorp is one of many South African charities supporting education. We believe that this is the surest route out of poverty. Our unique approach to our education programmes and life skills development initiatives are specifically designed to work for the people of Masiphumelele. That’s exactly what makes us so different, we focus on a small area with massive potential. The various community upliftment projects that we are actively involved in work as one – all the way from ECD education to active skills generation for people so they may secure a sustainable livelihood.

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