Literacy And Numeracy

Unlocking Potential – One Word, One Number at a Time

The Challenge

In South Africa, more than six out of 10 children cannot read for meaning by age 10.

At Enlighten, we believe that early intervention is key to reversing this trend. Our Literacy and Numeracy projects support young learners with the basic tools they need to thrive – academically and beyond. 

Our Approach:

We focus on three integrated streams:

  • Literacy Boosters
  • Numeracy Builders
  • Occupational Therapy


Together, these create a supportive ecosystem for developing strong reading, writing and reasoning skills.

Literacy And Numeracy Programmes

Literacy Boosters

  • Shine A Light reading clubs reaching 60 learners a week
  • Bilingual support for Afrikaans and isiXhosa speakers
  • Library facilities: 7,700 books issued and 2,840 Book Dash distributed to foundation learners in the Overstrand.

Numeracy Builders

  • Fun, hands-on maths activities that build number sense and confidence
  • Perceptual skills development to support logic and spatial awareness

Occupational Therapy Support

  • Gross motor skill workshops attended by 100+ parents in 2024
  • Handwriting and cognitive support tailored for Foundation Phase learners
  • 255 Grade R to Grade 1 learners showed measurable improvement in targeted areas during 2024

Cynthia’s Hidden Talents

A reserved young girl from Zwelihle, Cynthia joined our literacy programme quietly – but soon stood out – not just for her academic progress, but also for her creativity.

“Enlighten helped Cynthia flourish academically while uncovering her creative gifts,” her grandmother shared. 

Cynthia is now a confident reader – and an enthusiastic knitter!