The loss of teaching time due to the taxi strike that started on Thursday 3 August and ended on 11 August is a major concern for many schools in Goodwood.
Despite schools remaining open, the strike wiped out a full week of teaching and learning with 852 000 learners and 17 700 staff members absent at the peak, with schools in poor communities being hardest hit, Western Cape Minister of Education, David Maynier, says.
High absenteeism
Pat Ellis, the secretary of the principal at Fairbairn College, says absenteeism was high.
Many learners were not able to attend school due to transport issues, though all staff were present.
They did not have to close the school due to the violent taxi strike.
The loss of teaching time is a concern as they have a set programme in place, including assessments. “We are now behind and will have to catch up on teaching time and test time, thus placing more pressure on all,” Ellis says.
At Goodwood Park Primary, countless parents were concerned for the safety of their children.
According to Jody-ann Dicks, the receptionist at Goodwood Park Primary, the strike caused anxiety, which disturbs academic tuition as safety is paramount.
A total of 611 learners of 964 enrolled learners were absent at Koos Sadie Primary School on Tuesday, 8 August.
“No new concepts could be taught,” Estelle Rossouw, principal at Koos Sadie Primary School, says.
“The biggest effect of the taxi strike is that teachers now need to catch up on the learning losses experienced.”
According to Rossouw, extra safety precautions were put in place to ensure the safety of students and teachers at all times.
“The safety of our learners and staff is a big priority to the school, at all times, she reitiriated.
“We have many learners who live in the areas, heavily affected by the strike, but some of these learners have not returned to school.”
Many parents shared information, video clips and news posted on social media which caused some anxiety.
Maynier says now that the taxi strike has been called off, he appeals to parents to please ensure that their children go back to school.
“We simply cannot afford to lose one more day of teaching and learning at our schools in the Western Cape,” Maynier says.
