Academic life

Crossroads School provides remedial and compensatory programs for children with specific learning difficulties, within a framework of the requirements as laid down by the Gauteng Department of Education; this takes place in an un graded, non-competitive setting. No specific single remedial technique is followed exclusively at Crossroads School. Rather, each child’s educational program draws from as many different approaches as needs demand.

The focus of the Educational program is:

• The acquisition of literacy and numeracy skills,
• The use of learning experiences which develop a positive self-concept; and
• The provision of educational activities and experiences which allow each student to achieve academic excellence as his/her own ability will allow.

Because learning disabled children do not all learn through the same teaching method, several means of instruction are used; however, emphasis on explicit, direct instruction is the cornerstone of all of Crossroads School’s instruction.

Diagnostic teaching is a crucial component of the Crossroads School program. Student skills and needs are assessed daily, and instruction is tailored to accommodate each child’s learning profile. Often learning disabled youngsters also experience difficulty in social skills development. Remediation of these skills is also provided. Close communication between teachers and therapists allows each child’s program to be consistent and well-structured.

Pupils also have the opportunity to participate weekly in Physical Education, Art and Drama (Grades 3-7) along with Computers and a Library lesson. Afrikaans is taught as a second language from Grade 3.

Crossroads School is divided into 3 Organisational Units

Junior Unit: Grades R – 2
Middle Unit: Grades 3 & 4
Senior Unit: Grades 5 - 7