Question 486
Mr D Smiles to ask the Minister of Basic Education:
(1) Whether her department has conducted a diagnostic study of the Grade R sector across the provinces; if not, why not; if so, (a) what methodology was applied, (b) when will the findings and recommendations be released, (c) who conducted the study and (d) what was the cost;
(2) Whether all provinces participated in the study; if not, (a) which provinces did not participate and (b) what corrective measures were taken to make up for their non participation;
Reply:
(1) Yes
1 (a) A team of researchers and technical assistants (TAs) used the following methodology:
* literature review – national legislation, policy, plans, enabling documentation etc, as well as provincial plans and reports
* national interviews: Department of Education and stakeholders
* provincial interviews and site visits: Provincial, district and school management and staff engaged in Grade R as well as teachers/practitioners and other stakeholders
* focus groups or workshops in some provinces, and several national engagements, one involving provincial Early Childhood Development (ECD) managers
1(b)
The findings and recommendations of the reports were discussed with senior officials from the provinces at a meeting convened by the department on 28 and 29 July 2009. These have now been forwarded to the Minister for her consideration and advice.
1(c)
The Department of Education requested the Technical Assistance Unit of the National Treasury to contract the services of the Centre for Education Policy Development (CEPD) to conduct the diagnostic study.
1(d)
i. Professional fees: R1 322 304.00
ii. Disbursement costs R186 928.00
iii. VAT @ 14%: R185 122.56
Total costs: R1 694 354.56
(2) All provinces participated in the study
Issued by: Department of Basic Education
10 July 2009
