As its name suggests, Alpha Step, is one of the top pre-schools in Walmer and Port Elizabeth. The pre-school recently re-branded and changed its name from Alpha Step Educare to Alpha Step ECD Centre.
“Alpha Step has formally changed to being identified as an Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre,” explains Principal, Lynn Futter.
“With increased focus on Early Childhood Development, we felt it appropriate to change the name from Alpha Step Educare to Alpha Step ECD Centre because we are essentially all about the development of young children.”
Futter says the change in their name is a result of the Department of Basic Education introducing new policies, which are in line with the proposal by the National Development Plan. The new policy is that by 2024, children should have two years of compulsory early childhood development before they enter Grade 1.
“Research has proven that investing in early childhood development is crucial, because it is early in life when the brain has the maximum capacity to develop,” she adds.
Asked about what the Alpha Step’s new brand reflects; Futter says; “To us, rebranding to an ECD Centre is indicative of our commitment to making a difference in the lives of young children.
“Our shift in line with the new policy which is being put forward will see our programme focus on the holistic (physical, emotional, cognitive and social) development of children from 12 months to school going age.
“We are introducing exciting new ‘learning’ strategies, through creative play and various fun and interactive activities.”
Alpha Step ECD Centre remains one of the top preschools in Port Elizabeth
“Alpha Step is a child-centred ECD Centre situated in Walmer where diversity is embraced and every child enjoys learning and playing in a safe, loving and nurturing environment,” describes Futter.
“Each child is treated as the unique individual that they are and each group is cared for by a suitably qualified teacher/child caregiver.”
She explains that the school adheres to the best curriculum guidelines that focus on Social, Emotional, Cognitive, Perceptual and Physical development in children.
The pre-school also focuses on developing Language, Literacy, Numeracy, Knowledge and Skills in kids. There is also an emphasis on developing children’s talents through the Creative Arts – including a musical activity held once per week.
Alpha Step ECD is particularly geared towards working moms.
“Our daily programme starts from 07h45 to 17h30, including on school holidays,” says Futter, adding; “We also offer after school care or supervised homework for children up to Grade 3.”
She adds that wholesome, nutritious meals and snacks are provided for the kids during the day.
“Our staff are very friendly and helpful,” Futter describes.
“We have an environment in which children from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to embrace different cultures and heritage. It’s a home away from home environment where there is always much joy, laughter, fun and learning.”
Alpha Step also offers a variety of private extra mural activities. Computer training is included in the Grade RR and R classes as part of their curriculum.
Searching for one of the top pre-schools in Port Elizabeth to get your child the right start? Visit Alpha Step ECD Centre at 253 Main Road, in Walmer, Port Elizabeth. Alternatively, call 041 581 2395; email alphastep@mweb.co.za;visit them online at alphastep.org.za or apply with their convenient online application form. Here is the pre-school’s location on Google Maps.
