From 2 to 10 January 2025, Stellenbosch High School became a hub of professional growth as approximately 80 Senior and FET phase mathematics teachers from rural areas in Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape gathered to strengthen their teaching strategies. These dedicated teachers participated in an intensive professional development course designed to expand differentiation practices and promote the inclusion of all learners in mathematics classrooms.

The course focused on differentiation and inclusion, ensuring that teachers could meet the needs of learners with varying levels of mathematical understanding and different learning challenges. Some key activities to demonstrate differentiation and inclusion in practice included:

• Conceptual development – helping teachers design lessons that progressively build mathematical understanding, ensuring all learners can access key concepts.
• Mathematical modelling – exploring how visual, concrete, and abstract representations can support different learning styles and help learners connect mathematics to real-world contexts.
• (En)coding – solving a mystery using clues, symbolism, and codes to deepen mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Language – exploring different ways to understand mathematics and mathematical thinking, including verbal reasoning, multiple representations, and classroom discourse.
• Subject, pedagogical, and technological content knowledge – equipping teachers with the latest updates in the mathematics curriculum, teaching methodologies, and digital tools to enrich engagement and learning outcomes.

This professional development opportunity offered actionable, classroom-ready strategies for teachers in large, mixed-ability classes. These strategies ensured success and meaningful growth for every student. By promoting inclusive and differentiated instruction, these teachers are better equipped to address diverse learning needs and establish fairer mathematics classrooms in their communities.

A big thank you to all the teachers who participated with enthusiasm and commitment! Your dedication to continuous learning is inspiring and will undoubtedly make a difference in your learners’ lives.