Change a Life Story

Vision

To empower a new generation of change-makers who rise above their circumstances to make a positive difference in their communities, the country and the world.

History

TLI was established in 2014, with the aim of making professional services available to children from disadvantaged communities to ensure that they can reach their potential in school and beyond.

Read More

Research has repeatedly shown that early identification and intervention is crucial for optimal functioning and self-actualisation.  In 2016 TLI partnered with the Western Cape Department of Social Development to develop, test and implement a ground-breaking, therapeutic intervention that promotes holistic child development in 4-5 year old children.

We believe by focusing on professionalism and following best practice and our ethical guidelines, we can provide quality services that serve the needs of our beneficiaries and contribute positively to the quality of education. We strive to equip all our young children with tools, techniques, enthusiasm and resilience to thrive in school.

Governance

The Learning Initiative’s organisational structure consists of a board of trustees, project managers, therapists, programme implementers and facilitators. Our managers and therapists are registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

Read More

Our programs are aligned with the South African Curriculum Framework for Children from Birth to Four, National Early Learning and Development Standards (NELDS) and the Children’s Act. We are also guided by The Independent Code of Governance for Non-Profit- Organization in South Africa.

Vision

To support children with barriers to learning in disadvantaged communities throughout South Africa.

History

TLI was established in 2014, with the aim of making professional services available to children from disadvantaged communities to ensure that they can reach their potential in school and beyond.

Read More

Research has repeatedly shown that early identification and intervention is crucial for optimal functioning and self-actualisation.  In 2016 TLI partnered with the Western Cape Department of Social Development to develop, test and implement a ground-breaking, therapeutic intervention that promotes holistic child development in 4-5 year old children.

We believe by focusing on professionalism and following best practice and our ethical guidelines, we can provide quality services that serve the needs of our beneficiaries and contribute positively to the quality of education. We strive to equip all our young children with tools, techniques, enthusiasm and resilience to thrive in school.

Vision

TLI’s organisational structure consists of a Board of Trustees, Project Managers, Therapists, Programme Implementers and Facilitators.

Read More

The managers and therapists are all registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) which guides our standards of ethical and professional practice.

Programme Implementers and Facilitators work under the guidance of therapists and have a minimum NQF Level 4 qualification. Management is responsible for project, operational and financial management and therapists assist with continuous programme development.

We maintain sound financial management practices and our accounts are audited by independent auditors. We are guided by The Independent Code of Governance for Non-Profit- Organization in South Africa. Our current structure is also aligned with the South African Curriculum Framework for Children from Birth to Four, National Early Learning and Development Standards (NELDS) and the Children’s Act.

Our Programmes

A Case for ECD

Most learning and shaping takes place between birth and going to school. Children learn foundational cognitive abilities, attitudes and skills that will shape their school career and the rest of their life.

The stark reality in South Africa is that many young children are not given the opportunity to launch their school career with the skills and support they need.

The later we attempt to address early learning barriers, the costlier the remediation becomes. In addition, it has been recognized globally that the most powerful investment in human capital lies in the early years, where the foundations are laid for educational success, economic productivity and national growth.

Age 4-5 Years

Blocks 4 Growth is a quality ECD programme developed to promote holistic growth within 4-5 year old children to better prepare them for formal schooling. The programme has three target areas, namely the children, practitioners (teachers) and caregivers.

Age 5-6 Years

Step Up is a holistic early childhood development programme that builds on Blocks 4 Growth, by promoting a smooth transition in children aged 5 to 6 years from Grade R to Grade 1. The programme targets children, practitioners (teachers) and caregivers.

Success Stories

I sometimes look back and think about how B4G has been a great success for our son Lwazi. When Lwazi was enrolled in B4G we thought it was just teaching ABCs and their 123s, however, the love kindness, and compassion they show the kids every day is going a long way too! It helps/helped our little ones see the kind of people they can grow up to be!

He is in a much better space now at a bigger school. The B4G gave him the best foundation to start with. He is making huge progress in grade 2. I’m amazed, teachers are too with him. I thank the team of The Learning Initiative for the great work they are doing in our society.

When my child joined this program, I witnessed remarkable growth and development in him. Not only has he become more focused, but he also genuinely enjoys his schoolwork now. The approach of learning through play has made it fun and exciting for him. Every Wednesday and Friday, my child eagerly looked forward to these sessions, and it warms my heart as a mom to see his progress. I must acknowledge the pivotal role the therapist has played in his growth. Her enthusiasm, energy, and extensive knowledge in her field have been instrumental in fostering my child’s development. She is truly an asset to the program, and I am grateful for her dedication.

I wholeheartedly recommend this occupational group program to other parents seeking a nurturing and stimulating environment for their children. It has made a significant positive impact on my child’s life, and I am confident it will do the same for many others.

Goeie middag is leatitia se mammie ek wil net vir jou dank wat jy vir leatitia beteken het by kleuterskool elke uitslag wat leatitia kry se ek vir my ouers en haar pa is deur jou. (Leatitia was in B4G groups in the year 2021 and is now in the top 10 of her class in Grade 1).

Impact

We are extremely proud of the number of children, parents and practitioners that have received direct intervention through our programmes.

We believe that through the transference of skills, many more lives of individual children and families have also indirectly been touched.

No. of children TLI has reached

No. of Children Screened

No. of Children in Therapy

Parent meetings & observation sessions

No. of Parent Attendees

Practitioner coaching and mentoring

No. of Practitioners Reached

Stimulation packs distributed

No. of Packs Distributed

Our Partners

Contact Us

Suite 11, First Floor Kenridge Centre, Tygerberg Valley Rd, Kenridge, Cape Town, 7550

021 300 1464 | 067 085 8190

info@thelearninginitiative.org

Get In Touch

8 + 7 =