Toolkit Case Study: E=MC2, South Africa

Challenges faced

• Wanted to change the landscape of early education in South Africa by providing high-quality education based on research 
• Created a new school's space designs based on the principle of biophilia - the innate human instinct to connect with nature - and needed a curriculum
• Sought a solution that took a child-centered approach and would ensure standardization within their school

Solution

After designing the space for a brand-new school, Christina and Werner began looking for a progressive curriculum that aligned with their approach. HEI Schools stood out due to its connection to the University of Helsinki. They then hired Ms. Nici Daly, an experienced educator, teacher trainer and principal, to lead the school’s teachers and manage implementation of the program.

Even with decades of experience in play-based pedagogy, Nici finds the Toolkit materials fresh, original and organized. She too believes that the digital curriculum will standardize her school’s program and save her teachers’ time in planning. In addition, she and another teacher have enrolled in the HEI Schools Teacher Certificate, an online training program that aligns with the Toolkit: “I have found the Teacher's Certificate to have excellent information and the flow in which the modules are set out ties in well with information on the HEI Schools Toolkit.”