Exploring learning support among parents and teachers of Grade 1 learners in a low income school in South Africa

Learning support plays an integral part in children’s learning and cognitive development. In the study reported on here we explored the various types of learning support provided at home and school for Grade 1 learners in a low resource school in the Msunduzi municipality of the KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. A descriptive case study design and semi structured interviews with a purposefully selected sample of 12 participants, which included 2 teachers of Grade 1 learners and 10 parents of Grade 1 learners, was adopted. The results revealed that while parents described learning support as being physically present and available when needed, the teachers defined learning support as the provision of stimulating educational experiences aimed at promoting greater learning. It was further revealed that many of the parents assisted with homework, supported learning through singing and reciting poems, and engaging in fun play activities. The teachers adopted aural and visual support techniques. In the classroom, further support came from peers and teaching assistants. We recommend that the benefits of peer, sibling and teacher assistant support be recognised and promoted within the schooling environment.