Teneo’s Online Foundation Phase is designed to ensure no gaps form. We use a combination of live teaching and digital tracking to monitor every learner’s progress closely.

Mastering the 'three Rs' in online school Grade 1

1. Reading: We use digital platforms that listen to learners read and give feedback, alongside live reading circles with teachers. We approach these units as interactive and multimedia-based lessons — where we incorporate play to support cognitive and emotional development, while making making reading engaging and fun.

2. Writing: Don't worry, just because Teneo is online doesn't mean we don't teach handwriting! Handwriting matters, and that's why we get learners to write in physical exercise books. Parents then scan/photograph the page and upload it. Instructors mark the formation of letters just as strictly as they would in a classroom. We use a hands-on approach and theme-based learning to integrate writing with other subjects, encouraging active participation and deeper understanding.

3. Arithmetic: Math is taught using visual aids and interactive on-screen manipulatives that make abstract numbers feel real. We focus on the importance of development in the early years by using play-based activities to teach numeracy, supporting both physical and cognitive growth — and most importantly, keeping them engaged.

Our online school Grade 1 programme’s content is fully aligned with the South African CAPS curriculum, with teaching delivered through both live, teacher-led classes and self-paced modules. The content and teaching methods are designed to build foundational literacy and numeracy through live interaction, engaging, hands-on activities, and a strong focus on growth (and play!).

The routine

A Grade 1-3 learner needs routine.

• 07:45: Log in and registration.

• 08:00 - 12:00: Live lessons with breaks.

• 12:00 onwards: Homework, reading, and clubs. The day is structured but shorter than high school, preventing cognitive overload.

Assessment in foundation phase

There are no stressful “examinations” in Grade 1. We mark learners in a continuous fashion, with a strong focus on assessing progress through various methods that are both formal and informal. For example:

• SBA (School-Based Assessment): We assess them on their daily to-dos, oral presentations (via webcam), and quizzes. Certain documents are required for assessment and may need to be downloaded from our platform, completed, and then re-uploaded for evaluation (note: Be sure to keep a copy of all your child's assessment reports and submitted work for their records).

• Feedback: Detailed reports are given out mid-year and year-end, just like a traditional school. But something we are adamant about at Teneo is keeping you as involved and informed as possible. That's why we conduct regular assessments to monitor learner progress and proficiency levels, and maintain regular communication with guardians through our Canvas Parent App. What's more: Parents and learners can watch recorded feedback or instructional videos to support understanding. We also offer resources and training for parents to help them support their child's learning and assessment journey.

Is my child too young for online learning?

Many parents worry their Grade 1 child won’t sit still at a computer for a 6-hour school day. And we agree! Our teachers are specialists in this age group, meaning they know how to use “brain breaks”, songs, stretches, and games to reset the class’s attention throughout the day. Plus, learning from home means they can wiggle, stand, or use a sensory ball to sit on without disrupting others. However much your child needs to re-locate throughout the day is up to them.

Personalised learning is a key benefit of online schooling, allowing each child to receive a tailored educational experience that suits their unique needs and pace.

Our life coaches and teachers also help children navigate challenges and develop important emotional and social skills, even from afar. This way, we ensure a supportive learning environment for all. Parents can enrol their children at any time of the year, making it easy to start when your child is ready.

View Foundation Phase Subjects

How Teneo makes online school accessible for primary learning

At Teneo Online School, we believe that a child’s learning journey is only as strong as the resources and support behind it. That’s why we offer a complete range of learning resources designed to help every learner in the foundation phase—especially those in Grade 1—build essential life skills, numeracy skills, and language proficiency in both their home language and first additional language.

1. Making everything as hands-on as possible: Our programme is carefully crafted to make learning fun, interactive, and hands-on. Learners have access to engaging lessons, creative arts activities, and practical tasks that encourage them to think critically and express themselves. There is structure in the day, including breaks, off-screen time, along with a range of clubs, in-person meetups, and extramurals to help your child develop life skills, writing, mathematics. And whenever it's needed, our qualified teachers are available to provide guidance, feedback, and encouragement.

2. Flexible learning models: We understand that every child learns differently, which is why our resources are flexible and accessible—perfect for families who prefer home education or need a more adaptable approach. We offer three learning formats to suite whatever lifestyle fits your family's needs, and you are free to access class recordings, assignments, and assessments at any time so it's easy to make learning fit into your family’s routine. Our teachers are responsible for facilitating each child’s progress, ensuring that learners receive the assistance they need to thrive.

3. We don't slack on creativity: The arts are a vital part of our foundation phase curriculum, helping children build confidence, and even discover some of their hidden talents. Our online school also fosters a sense of community, where learners can make friends, join clubs, and participate in activities that go beyond academics. Whether this is through off-screen art time, scavenger hunts in your backyard or making music together – we try to fuel as much creativity into the calendar as we can.

Enrolling at Teneo Online School is simple—just follow the steps on our website to register, or contact us directly if you have questions or need assistance.

Find a new love for learning with 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 today with Teneo.