WHOLE SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT: WHY and HOW TO INVEST
WHY AND HOW TO INVEST
Creating enabling environments for educational success
Whole school development strengthens schools as environments where learners can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. It focuses on leadership development, psychosocial support, and safe, inclusive learning spaces that support learners beyond academics – a critical need in South Africa, where historical and ongoing socioeconomic and psychological challenges continue to affect learning and wellbeing.
Research shows that whole-school development can improve learning outcomes, build resilience and life skills, strengthen leadership and teamwork, and deepen connections between schools, families and community.
Potential models of intervention
Whole school development usually focuses on four areas of development in concert (although not every area must be covered).
They are:
- Leadership and management
- Infrastructure
- Curriculum and co-curricular development
- Learner wellbeing and community involvementÂ
Companies may choose to focus on an area or areas that are in alignment with their core competencies and interests – for example, Telkom focuses on ICT and financial literacy, but also recognise that learners may require psychosocial support alongside digital skills.
Where to from here?
Read case studies and examples and explore research and insights
The whole school development topic is led by:
