CAPS online school curriculum: What parents should know
One of your main goals as a parent when choosing a school is picking one that works functionally for your child, but that will also provide them with the academic curriculums and certifications that will let them thrive. This is why at Teneo school we choose a curriculum aligned to CAPS.
CAPS curriculum meaning
CAPS stands for “Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement”, which is the single most important document in South African education. It dictates what every child in the country should learn, grade by grade.
At Teneo, we follow the CAPS curriculum strictly. But why does this matter for an online school?
Why we stick to CAPS
Some online providers offer international curriculums (like Cambridge or American High School Diploma). While these have merit, Teneo chooses CAPS for three strategic reasons:
Seamless transitions: Most learners come to us from government or private physical schools. Because we use the same curriculum, a Grade 9 learner can switch to Teneo in January and continue exactly where they left off in Mathematics or Science. There is no "gap year" needed to bridge a curriculum change.
University alignment: South African universities are designed to intake CAPS learners. The point system (APS) is built around it.
Language options: CAPS supports South African languages. At Teneo, we can offer Afrikaans, IsiZulu, and others which are critical for local learners.
How we adapt CAPS for online
CAPS is often criticised for being rigid. However, in an online environment, we can deliver it more creatively.
Multimedia: Instead of just a textbook, we use videos, simulations, and interactive graphics to explain CAPS concepts.
Pacing: While we follow the CAPS term structure, learners have access to recordings, allowing them to review complex topics (like Physics or Accounting) as many times as they need.
Is it "easier" online?
No. The content is identical whether you are in-person or online. A Grade 10 Physical Science paper at Teneo covers the same vectors and stoichiometry as a top private school.
The difference is the support you get to master it.
Choosing a CAPS online school ensures that your child’s education remains relevant, portable, and recognised within South Africa.
View our subject lists by grade.
Your child belongs at Teneo
Teneo is rated the no. 1 online school in South Africa by HelloPeter. With 170+ SACE-registered teachers, we have helped more than 3 500 learners matriculate with a National Senior Certificate (NSC), opening the doors to tertiary education and future career opportunities. Our award-winning Smart School System™combines the best parts of in-person schooling, with the convenience and benefits of online learning for learners across South Africa. If you’re ready to take the next step towards education of the future, start your learning journey with Teneo today.