Homeground Initiative : fulfilling the remit of the South African government for quality physical education in rural KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

Sportstec’s Homeground is an integrated community development initiative that focuses on an integrated child, school and community approach in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. At its heart is a childhood to youth educational programme with a strong focus on links with five local schools. The scheme utilises physical education and school sport to build the capacity of teachers to deliver physical education, offer school sport and develop life skills. The aim of this study was to describe and critically reflect on the model of outsourcing physical education and school sport to Homeground. Interviews with key individuals including the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sportstec, Homeground Head Coach (n=1) and principals or Heads of Department (n=5) ensured that statements of key decision-makers could be compared to narratives from five focus groups. Primary (n=9) and secondary school teachers (n=3) as well as learners (n = 16) participated in focus group discussions. Findings indicate that although the model adopted has produced positive results and could yield far reaching benefits, it has stalled due to existing barriers, which include funding, access to facilities, transport, the level of training, motivation and workload of teachers, as well as the level of professional preparation of Homeground staff to train others.