A proven intervention to the mathematics and youth unemployment
crisis in South Africa.
“ JumpStart is one of a few
examples of South African early-grade
mathematics interventions that have
shown remarkable gains in learning
outcomes”
Spaull & Taylor, (2022)
Chapter 15 Early Grade Reading and
Mathematics Interventions in South Africa
26 000
learners
487
classrooms
138
schools
5
provinces
200 000+
learners benefitted since 2011
3 Programmes. One goal: to enable better opportunities for young people in South Africa.
Learner intervention: Our mathematics programme is implemented from Grades R to 3, because we know that strong numeracy foundations mean better uptake of mathematics through to high school and beyond. Our Number Sense workbooks promote problem solving over memorization and are taught in the learner’s mother tongue for better comprehension
Teacher training: Our mathematics programme is in partnership with Brombacher & Associates and Kelello Consultants. This support includes teaching strategies and resources, which helps teachers to better understand their own mathematics so they can pass on that understanding to their learners.
Youth employment programme: We employ over 220 young adults every year as Educator Assistants (EAs) to assist in overcrowded classrooms. This is a win-win-win: these young adults gain meaningful work experience to prepare them for future career pathways. Learners and teachers have an extra person in class to help with one-on-one tutoring. marking and admin.
We don’t go into underserved schools with good intentions and blind optimism alone. Our results must be measurable, so we know our programme is working and our donors and funders know their contributions are making a real impact. The JumpStart Foundation’s Monitoring and Evaluation platform, JumpTrak, tracks every learner on our programme in real time, helping teachers and Educator Assistants identify who is progressing and who may need support before they fall behind. This continuous, real-time feedback loop allows us to optimise and improve continuously, and the data shows that JumpStart learners consistently outperform their peers.
Trusted by partners who believe in measurable, real-world impact.
“The JumpStart Foundation fosters a culture of continuous learning, constantly refining their strategies based on implementation feedback and outcomes, demonstrating both responsiveness and innovation.”
Tshamani Mathebula Head of Sasol Foundation
“JumpStart’s commitment to improving mathematice education is evident in the positive outcomes observed in the schools they support. Their innovative methods and dedication to fostering a love for mathematics have significantly enhanced learners mathematical skills
and confidence.”
Lungi Gungubele Education Manager, Old Mutual Foundation
“The JumpStart Foundation is leading important work to bring greater urgency, investment, and attention to early mathematics learning in South Africa.”