The Western Cape Education Department (WCED), in partnership with Funda Wande, has launched Bala Wande — a focused numeracy intervention aimed at improving Mathematics teaching and learning in the Foundation Phase.
Building on the success of early-grade reading programmes, the initiative represents a strategic shift toward strengthening both literacy and numeracy outcomes from the earliest years of schooling.
The pilot phase has already reached 225 Grade 1 teachers across 70 schools, with plans to expand the programme to approximately 10,000 teachers over the next three years across multiple languages. The programme provides structured training alongside high-quality teaching resources, including teacher guides, learner books and Mathematics resource kits, all designed to support stronger classroom practice.
A key part of the rollout is the Bala Wande Roadshows, which are bringing together principals, Heads of Departments and district officials to deepen understanding of the programme and its practical application. These engagements aim to align school leadership around a shared vision for quality numeracy instruction and ensure consistent support for teachers.
The roadshows are not only about introducing the programme, but also about reinforcing the importance of strong mathematical foundations in the early grades. They provide space for reflection, shared learning and engagement between schools and system leaders, helping to strengthen implementation at classroom level.
Through these sessions, principals and education leaders are being equipped with a clearer understanding of the Bala Wande approach, the role of structured materials in improving outcomes, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and support within schools.
As the programme expands, the focus remains on building confidence among educators, strengthening alignment across the system and driving sustainable improvements in numeracy teaching.
By investing in early Mathematics education, the Western Cape is laying the groundwork for improved learning outcomes and long-term academic success for learners across the province.
