Lakewood International Academy Curriculum Overview
Lakewood International Academy proudly offers the CAPS (Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement) curriculum, ensuring a high standard of education that meets the requirements set by the South African Department of Education. This, combined with a vast array of extra-mural activities, sets our school apart from competitors, offering a balanced and enriching experience for every student.
Pre-Foundation Phase (Grades RR-R)
The Pre-Foundation Phase focuses on the early development of cognitive, social, and motor skills in a nurturing and interactive environment. Through play-based learning and structured activities, children are introduced to the building blocks of literacy and numeracy, fostering a love for learning from an early age.
- Core Focus Areas: Language development, basic numeracy, fine and gross motor skills, and creative expression through art and music
- STEM Introduction: Even at this early stage, children engage with basic concepts of STEM through interactive play, puzzles, building blocks, and exploratory activities that develop their curiosity and problem-solving skills.
Foundation Phase (Grades 1-3)
Our Foundation Phase continues to develop core literacy and numeracy skills, building on the early foundations. Interactive problem-solving activities and science experiments are introduced, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking.
- Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, Life Skills, Afrikaans, and Social Studies.ough art and music.
- STEM Introduction: Simple coding activities, hands-on science experiments, and STEM projects to develop analytical thinking and interest in technology and innovation.
Intermediate Phase (Grades 4 - 6)
The Intermediate Phase builds on academic abilities while deepening the focus on STEM learning. Hands-on activities and practical applications encourage learners to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world situations.
- Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, Natural Science, Social Science, Afrikaans, and Life Skills.
- STEM Introduction: Learners engage in coding, robotics, and project-based STEM learning, linking mathematics and technology with everyday problem-solving.
Senior Phase (Grades 7 - 9)
In the Senior Phase, students delve deeper into specialized STEM subjects and continue their academic journey, exploring their individual interests and aptitudes.
- Core Subjects: English, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Economic Management Sciences (EMS), Creative Arts, and Life Orientation.
- STEM Development: Coding clubs, robotics competitions, and science fairs provide learners with opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills creatively in real-world challenges.
FET Phase (Grades 10 - 12)
The FET Phase is designed to prepare students for tertiary education and career opportunities in various fields, especially in STEM. Our learners engage in more advanced studies with access to state-of-the-art technology and resources.
- Core Subjects: English, Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Information Technology, Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD), and Accounting.
- STEM Focus: Advanced STEM subjects, including coding, data science, artificial intelligence, and engineering principles, equip learners for future success in science and technology sectors.
Extra-Mural Activities
At Lakewood International Academy, we offer a wide range of extra-mural activities, encouraging students to explore various interests outside the classroom. This extensive offering, combined with our strong academic program, sets us apart from competitors.
Our extra-mural offerings include:
- Sports: Soccer, netball, tennis, pedal tennis, teqball, swimming, and chess.
- Cultural Activities: Debating, drama, music, and dance.
- STEM Clubs: Coding, robotics, and science clubs to foster innovation and creativity.
- Competitions: Science fairs, robotics competitions, and inter-school sports tournaments to showcase learners' talents.
STEM Learning at Lakewood International Academy
STEM education is a key focus at Lakewood International Academy, integrated across all phases to ensure our students are equipped for the challenges of a rapidly evolving technological world. From hands-on projects to innovative competitions, our STEM programs inspire students to think critically, solve problems, and explore new ideas.
- Hands-On Projects
Students engage in practical, hands-on activities like building robots, conducting science experiments, and designing engineering models, fostering creativity and real-world problem-solving skills.
- Technology Integration
Technology is woven into everyday learning through the use of coding, robotics, and interactive digital tools, helping students develop technological fluency from an early age.
- Coding and Robotics
Learners are introduced to coding and robotics through structured lessons and after-school clubs, developing logical thinking and programming skills essential for the future.
- Science Experiments
Science labs provide opportunities for students to perform experiments, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking as they explore real-world scientific concepts.
- Engineering Principles
Students learn the basics of engineering through projects that involve design, building, and testing, promoting innovation and practical understanding of mechanics and physics.
- Competitions and Fairs
Learners participate in national and international science fairs, coding hackathons, and robotics competitions, where they showcase their skills and creativity in STEM fields.
- STEM Clubs and Workshops
After-school clubs and workshops offer additional opportunities to deepen STEM knowledge and explore interests in fields like coding, engineering, and scientific research.
With our CAPS curriculum and comprehensive extra-mural activities, Lakewood International Academy is committed to developing well-rounded learners who are prepared for success both academically and personally.