Eland School History
Since the ‡Khomani San’s successful land claim in 1999 the community desired a school which would cater to their cultural as well as educational needs.
In 2015 the school was granted a section of the ‡Khomani San communal land to establish a school on. A comprehensive survey was completed with every household in the community to make sure that everyone was on-board with the new school and also to ascertain how the community would like the school to operate. The Community felt that school registration, with the Department of Education, would also help with recognition for the ‡Khomani San as a people with their own language and culture. The school was eventually registered in 2023.
Overview of curriculum and approach to education
The provision of a mainstream education within a more supportive, San-sensitive Frame-work which includes a strong Linguistic and cultural component.
At present Eland School comprises of Grades R,1 and 2 with a total of 48 learners. We aim to include Grade 3 in 2026 and continue on to a full Junior school.
Grades: R, 1 and 2
Learners in Grades R, 1, and 2 follow the Government curriculum, which lays the groundwork for all future learning. The primary focus during these years is on developing strong literacy and numeracy skills in a supportive and engaging environment.
Subjects covered include:
Home Language (Afrikaans): Emphasis is placed on listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills to build strong language foundations and is the home language of most of the learners.
Indigenous Language Classes: In addition to the national curriculum, learners also attend Indigenous Language Classes, where N/u is taught, during school hours. This initiative helps preserve and promote the ‡Khomani San’s linguistic heritage and culture, ensuring that children grow up with pride and understanding of their roots.
Mathematics: Focused on basic number concepts, patterns, measurement, shapes, and data handling.
Life Skills: This subject integrates personal and social well-being, physical education, creative arts, and beginning knowledge of the world around them.
Heritage and Culture: Learners are taken on excursions into the Veld where the Ancient Traditional skills of tracking and dancing are taught.
Athletics: Educational games and athletics which culminates in a vibrant community event which includes “Die Braai,” and doubles as a celebration and a fundraiser.
The Foundation Phase prioritises play-based, experiential learning that encourages curiosity, confidence, and creativity—setting a strong academic and cultural base for young learners as they grow and thrive in a uniquely South African context.
Homework support
Eland School offers afternoon classes twice a week to provide academic support and home-work facilitation to learners who attend the junior School in Askham.
Grades 3 and 4 - Ms C Rooi
Tuition and home-work support
Grades 5-9 - Ms D Witbooi
Homework support
Grades 3-9 – Mr M Jacobs
Educational Games - encourages and teaches valuable Maths and strategic planning skills.