One of the innovative aspects of the Fast-track Transformational Teacher Training (FTTT) programme is the integrated thematic approach used for all classroom activities by the teachers. Every four weeks the classrooms introduce a new theme around which all activities are based.

On #ThemeThursday we will share some of the innovative theme related teaching and learning materials that the teachers have created which support all aspects of learning, whether it be literacy skills, physical development or mathematical skills.

This month the KG1 children have been enjoying the ‘Animals’ theme in their classrooms. We are always amazed by the fun and creative activities that the teachers make themselves with limited resources.

Some of the teachers have made these fun animal bottles with pictures of animals on the side of the bottle and the lids. All of the lids are taken off and the children must match the lids to the correct bottle. Not only do the children enjoy this activity but it also helps to develop their hand-eye coordination and small muscle development.

The themes also allow the children to get creative and in one school these fabulous animal sponge printing pictures were made. The children and the teachers cut out sponge templates of their favourite animals and used clay to form paint for the printing.

This small selection of resources shows how learning of many different skills can be integrated into the themes and makes it easy for the teacher to implement child-centred and activity-based learning.