The Afrikaans department at Fairways is headed by two young, vibrant educators, Ms. Rachel Mgiba (Grade 4 and 5) and Ms Melanie Grobbelaar (Grade 6 and 7). They are very passionate about Afrikaans and put emphasis on ensuring learners are well equipped with the four skills (Reading,Writing, Speaking and Language structures).
As Afrikaans is an additional language, their main focus is to ensure support is given to learners in the form of word lists, information tables, language rules so that lesson outcomes are achieved.
One of the first skills taught is reading. Reading helps the learners to build their vocabulary and to spell better. This skill later improves on the writing and speaking skill of the learners.
Learners are given opportunities to improve their speaking and pronunciation by singing songs, reciting poems and later on by preparing orals and speeches.
Learners are encouraged to read stories, magazines and watch Afrikaans programmes and any material that can assist in further exposing them to Afrikaans.
"Jy is brawer as wat jy glo, sterker as wat jy lyk, en slimmer as wat jy dink ." Christopher Robin