GRADE R

🗣️ Vernacular Subjects in South Africa

In the South African education system, vernacular subjects refer to the official indigenous African languages taught either as Home Language (HL) or First Additional Language (FAL) options, depending on the learner’s background and school policy.

The CAPS curriculum recognizes 11 official languages, and schools are encouraged to promote mother-tongue instruction especially in the Foundation Phase (Grades R–3), while maintaining English and Afrikaans as key mediums for national academic communication.


🇿🇦 List of Vernacular (African) Languages Offered in South African Schools

  1. IsiZulu

  2. IsiXhosa

  3. IsiNdebele

  4. IsiSwati (SiSwati)

  5. Sepedi (Northern Sotho)

  6. Sesotho (Southern Sotho)

  7. Setswana

  8. Xitsonga

  9. Tshivenda

(Together with English and Afrikaans, these make up the 11 official languages of South Africa.)

Afrikaans First Additional Language (Grades 1–3)

Our Afrikaans FAL program teaches learners to communicate effectively in Afrikaans, developing reading, writing, and conversational skills. NationRise tutors use engaging methods to make language learning fun and meaningful, ensuring learners are bilingual and confident in multiple languages.

English Home Language (Grades 1–3)

NationRise emphasizes English Home Language to ensure learners develop strong reading, writing, and comprehension skills. Our interactive lessons focus on phonics, vocabulary, grammar, and creative writing, helping learners express themselves confidently.
By mastering English early, learners gain a critical skill that supports all areas of learning and future academic success.

Life Skills (Grades 1–3)

Our Life Skills program develops emotional intelligence, social skills, and decision-making abilities. NationRise helps learners understand themselves, interact positively with others, and navigate challenges — equipping them with essential life tools alongside academic learning.

Mathematics (Grades 1–3)

NationRise builds strong numeracy skills in the early years. Learners explore addition, subtraction, shapes, measurements, and problem-solving through interactive lessons and practical exercises.
Focusing on mathematics early helps learners think critically, reason logically, and build confidence in solving real-world problems.