About us
We are an early learning social franchise, with a network of trained and licensed practitioners (SmartStarters) who implement the same evidence-based programme.
Recognising the importance of the first six years in a child’s life and the huge gaps in provision, we provide a pragmatic, affordable solution to rapidly expand access to quality early learning. Our franchised programme is delivered through playgroups, day mothers and Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres to improve children’s readiness for learning, school performance and overall life success.
SmartStart was established in May 2015 to create universal access to early learning for three and four-year old’s. Since then, we’ve been providing an effective and affordable solution that enables unemployed women and men to run their own SmartStart programmes, and that empowers parents and communities to seek out and support this quality programme.
Our purpose
SmartStart’s vision is to give every child the power to succeed. This means ensuring that all South Africa’s children can benefit from early learning opportunities. To help this vision become reality, by 2025 we aim to reach one million three and four year-olds each year through the SmartStart programme.
Our model
SmartStart was established in 2015 with the aim of rapidly expanding access to quality, affordable early learning opportunities for young children in South Africa.
We help SmartStarters to set up twice-weekly playgroups for up to 12 children. We also support new and existing childminders and work with ECD centres. Whatever the setting, SmartStarters implement the same carefully structured programme that is designed to boost learning through play, talk and stories. Our social franchise model increases the likelihood of quality and impact by using standardised systems, materials and monitoring. It also enables scale, reaching many more children than would otherwise be possible and creating thousands of new jobs.
Our progress
In our first three years , we successfully developed and established our model and brand, reaching thousands of three and four-year-olds across South Africa. We have tested our programme on the ground, built strong partnerships and refined the systems that support delivery at each level of the franchise. We have also put in place a skilled and dedicated team to lead and manage the organisation.
Our growth to date has been rapid, but the next phase will see a step change. By the end of 2022 our goal is to be reaching 350,000 children each year.
Our network
We are building a network of strategic partners and organisations who share our vision. Our early learning social movement includes parents and caregivers, community leaders, ECD service providers and government. We believe that when we work together, the possibilities are endless.
Our franchisors
We collaborate with leading organisations, who not only share our dream of creating universal access to quality early learning, but also promote our unique model and make our dream a reality.
Meet the team
The SmartStart Hub is a made up of a close-knit team of people who keep the SmartStart machine well-oiled and running optimally. Have a look at our hive members and what they do at the hub. Click on our smiles to get to know us better.
