FARM SCHOOLS
You will recall in February 2007 we held a meeting with the Department of Education in order to address incorrect allegations and raise issues that landowners/farmers experience with farm schools.
In the 2007 input from farmers with farm schools a few common points emerged:
- The lack of financial support by the Department;
- The inability of the Department to monitor and manage staff (i.e. Attendance of staff, arriving late, closing early etc.);
- Dismal work ethic amongst some teachers;
- Unfulfilled commitments and lack of response by the Department to provide basic services;
- Section 14 agreement problems and the non-signature thereof;
- Slow delivery of books – delayed opening of schools;
- Many farm schools closed by the Department – not by the farmer – due to low intakes and high costs associated with the school remaining open;
- Pupil Teacher Ratios for e.g. 1 teacher handling numerous grades for e.g. Grade 1-7;
- Teachers/staff employed by the IEC;
Further discussions have taken place however the current situation has not improved and the issues listed above continue to be a concern. Ongoing interaction with the Department is taking place in order to try and address these issues.
It is important for all farm schools to have a section 14 agreement in place with the Department of Education. We would encourage you to get these signed.