Using our Smart School system, we don’t just transfer a classroom experience online; we tailor the digital learning environment to the age of the learner.

This guide explains how our model evolves from the play-based learning of primary grades to the high-stakes academic rigour of the FET Phase (Matric).

The four phases of schooling

Just like traditional schools, we follow the CAPS structure that divides learners into four distinct phases:

1. Foundation Phase: Grade R to Grade 3

2. Intermediate Phase: Grade 4 to Grade 6

3. Senior Phase: Grade 7 to Grade 9

4. FET Phase: Grade 10 to Grade 12

1. Foundation Phase (Grade R – 3)

We call this the “learning to read” phase. Because in these early years of online school, the focus is largely on literacy, numeracy, and building foundational life skills. But how do you teach these through a screen?

• The approach: We use a high-touch, highly visual approach. Lessons are short, colourful, and interactive to keep young minds engaged.

• The parents’ role: This is the learning phase with the highest parental involvement. You (or a dedicated caregiver) act as the "Learning Coach." Meaning you are the hands that help them hold the pencil, cut with scissors, and navigate the mouse.

• The goal: To build a love for learning, and setting the stage for future years with the basics of digital literacy and confidence.

2. Intermediate Phase (Grade 4 – 6) 

From Grade 4, the shift happens to the “reading to learn” phase. Learners stop learning how to read and start reading to learn new subjects like Natural Science and History.

• The approach: We start to introduce more independence. Learners begin moving between different "classes" (links) for different subjects.

• The parents’ role: The hands-on role that you play in the first phase steps back slightly here. You are no longer sitting next to them for every lesson, but you act more as a supervisor than a learning coach – this means checking that assignments are uploaded and deadlines are met.

• The goal: Developing more independence, organisational skills and productive study habits.

3. Senior Phase (Grade 7 – 9) 

Now, we enter the “discovery” phase. This is the bridge that takes your child to high school. It’s a time of immense physical and emotional change for teenagers. 

• The approach: The workload increases to prepare for high school. We introduce Economic Management Sciences (EMS) and Creative Arts. At this stage, learners begin to explore their interests beyond the standard curriculum to help them make critical subject choices.

• The "gap" year: Grade 9 is often a "leak" year in traditional schools where learners disengage from their studies. Our engaging digital format and virtual clubs keep them connected to their peers during this socially volatile time.

• The goal: Critical thinking and subject exploration.

4. FET Phase (Grade 10 – 12) 

Grades 10, 11, and 12 are focused on one thing: The National Senior Certificate (NSC). This “certificate” phase bridges them to post-secondary school or the job market. 

• The approach: It is rigorous and structured. We treat learners like young adults. They have access to top-tier teachers for specialised subjects like IT, Engineering Graphics & Design (EGD), and Business Studies to help them specialise in subjects they want to explore in post-secondary or the job market. 

• The examinations: All assessments are formal. Grade 12 learners write the official SACAI Matric examinations at in-person venues.

• The goal: Full independence, high digital literacy, and qualifications for university acceptance or career readiness.

A school that grows with you

One of the biggest advantages of Teneo is stability. No matter what might happen in a child’s life in terms of accessibility needs or family travels, their schooling can always remain constant. 

Smart Schools like Teneo let learners stay in the same school environment starting from age 6 all the way to age 18 – allowing them to keep their friends and school records all in one place. 

But above all, it opens up a whole new skillset of digital literacy and etiquette that will be vital skills to have for the future of work.

View Fees by Grade

Apply Now

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.