During the second term of the school calendar, we assessed learning progress across our network of 8 ECD centres, reaching a total of 242 children (119 boys and 123 girls). The results offer both insight and inspiration into how play, care, and community involvement are transforming early learning outcomes. The findings reveal both the challenges and the incredible potential within our communities when children are given the right environment to learn and grow.

Our assessments show that:

• 20.5% of children demonstrated proficiency in recognising and producing sounds,
• 42% could count from 1 to 5,
• 18% were able to identify numbers 0–5,
• and 7% displayed early reading ability.

Beyond literacy and numeracy, the data highlights remarkable growth in the areas that matter most for lifelong learning. Children showed a 38% improvement in self-regulation (their ability to manage emotions and focus on tasks) and a 46% improvement in social-emotional skills, such as cooperation, empathy, and communication.

These numbers show that when communities invest in the early years, transformation follows. The gains in self-regulation and social-emotional development are especially encouraging, because these skills form the foundation upon which all other learning is built. A child who can manage their emotions, pay attention, and work well with others is better prepared not only to read and count but to flourish.

While literacy and numeracy proficiency remain areas for growth, the progress we’re seeing reinforces the importance of our play-based learning approach. By centering learning around play, curiosity, and parental involvement, we are nurturing children’s holistic development mind, body, and heart

This data is both a mirror and a compass. It reflects the impact of our work on the ground, and it guides us toward what more must be done. As we continue to strengthen teacher capacity, engage parents, and enhance our curriculum, we remain steadfast in our mission: to ensure that every child, no matter where they are born, has the opportunity to learn, play, and thrive.