The Market Theatre Foundation’s Windybrow Arts Centre, in collaboration with Camp I Am and Nando’s, will be host its second annual Spelling Bee competition for schools in inner-city Johannesburg on Saturday.
The competition has become the cornerstone of the Windybrow Arts Centre’s Literacy and Homework Support Programme, designed to equip local youth with essential reading and writing skills.
The competition complements the work being done by the Department of Basic Education, which in 2021 called for learners in Grades 4 to 6 (the intermediate phase) to take part in many competitions aimed at improving learners’ performance in languages.
This was part of the department’s Read to Lead Campaign in a bid to promote the love of reading through the promotion of reading clubs in schools, annually.
According to the organisers of the inner-city programme, the much-loved competition among the kids within the Joburg CBD also serves as a platform to foster confidence and academic excellence among learners.
For more than two decades, the Windybrow Arts Centre has become a hub for connection and curiosity, dedicated to nurturing the talents and inquisitiveness of young people.
Through arts and literacy programmes grounded in best practices, the centre inspires and empowers children and youth in driving positive social change in the community.
Gerard Bester, head of the Windybrow Arts Centre, said the spelling bee’s role in building new partnerships with schools and community organisations in inner-city Johannesburg should not be taken for granted as it improves confidence levels among its participants.
“This year, we have introduced teacher and facilitator training workshops with Camp I Am, inspiring schools to host their own spelling bees. We also conducted a confidence-building workshop for finalists,” Bester said.
Collen Nxumalo, branch manager of Nando’s Benmore Gardens, said the franchise is happy to become part of the inspirational endeavour.
“Nando’s is thrilled to sponsor the spelling bee again. It’s a fantastic way to bring kids together, have fun, and build confidence. We hope this competition continues to grow,” he said.
Kai Crooks-Chissano, executive director of Camp I Am, mentored participating organisations and crafted a challenging word list based on the Department of Basic Education’s CAPS curriculum.
“A spelling bee ignites a passion for spelling and reading. Participating boosts learners’ confidence and competitive spirit,“ said Crooks-Chissano.
The Star