Out of the Blocks
The Out of the Blocks (OOTB) programme for Grades R–3 is designed to introduce young learners to a variety of physical activities that play a crucial role in supporting their overall learning journey. Through carefully structured experiences, the programme encourages the exploration of fundamental movement principles.
Learners participating in OOTB are guided to develop a foundational understanding of perceptual, spatial, and both locomotor and non-locomotor motor skills. Additionally, the programme places emphasis on the development of rhythm and balance, ensuring that children acquire a well-rounded set of movement abilities.
These skills serve as building blocks not only for physical education and sport but also for broader academic and personal development.
What sets OOTB Apart from Other Movement Programmes
The Out of the Blocks (OOTB) programme distinguishes itself from other movement programmes through its innovative use of short, animated video clips that clearly demonstrate each activity. These clips feature cartoon-style characters designed without specific race or gender, making them universally relatable and inclusive for all learners. Each video clip is structured to align with the units outlined in the accompanying training guide. The guide provides stationary images along with clear instructions, supporting teachers as they facilitate each lesson. The videos are easily accessible on a teacher’s phone, tablet or other digital device, simplifying lesson preparation and delivery. The activities align with CAPS Life Skills for the Foundation Phase.
Benefits of the OOTB Programme
Benefits for the Teacher
Within the Out of the Blocks (OOTB) programme, the classroom teacher assumes the important role of physical educator. This allows the teacher to directly observe each learner’s abilities during coordination, balance, and spatial orientation activities. Through these observations, teachers can identify which learners excel in these areas and which may be experiencing difficulties. By gaining insights into learners’ performance in these fundamental movement activities, the teacher can better understand potential reasons behind academic challenges some learners may face. With this understanding, the teacher is empowered to implement appropriate supportive measures, tailored to address the specific needs of each learner. This approach ensures that all learners receive the necessary support to enhance both their physical and academic development.
Benefits for the Learners
The Out of the Blocks (OOTB) programme ensures that each learner is supported in a safe and secure environment, both indoors and outdoors. Through engaging and enjoyable movement activities, learners are provided with opportunities that actively enhance their overall learning experience in a fun way. Within this supportive setting, the classroom teacher takes on the role of the physical educator, which fosters a unique and meaningful bond between the teacher and the learner. As teachers demonstrate movement activities—sometimes not performing them perfectly themselves—learners gain a new perspective on their teachers, seeing them participate and learn alongside the class. This dynamic helps create a different and positive ambiance in the classroom, strengthening the relationship and sense of trust between teachers and learners.
Benefits for the School
The Out of the Blocks (OOTB) programme offers significant advantages for schools by directly supporting academic content and contributing to improved academic outcomes. Because OOTB is facilitated by the classroom teacher, there is no additional pressure on the school to require parents to pay extra fees for external movement or physical education providers. This makes the programme both accessible and cost-effective, ensuring that all learners can benefit regardless of financial circumstances. Furthermore, teachers and learners remain connected through WhatsApp groups, allowing teachers to share short video clips of learners participating in various movement activities. These videos can be viewed at home, enabling parents to reinforce the activities with their children and extend the learning experience beyond the classroom. Finally, OOTB integrates the teaching of appropriate behaviour into engaging movement activities, ensuring that learners develop important social skills in a fun and supportive environment. .
