Request a Tutor

Introduction to the CAPS Curriculum

The Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) is South Africa’s national curriculum framework, implemented in all public schools and many private institutions. It is administered by the Department of Basic Education and sets out the minimum standards for teaching, learning, and assessment across all grades. CAPS provides a standardised and uniform curriculum designed to ensure consistency in educational content and assessment throughout the country.

Educational Philosophy & Approach

The CAPS curriculum is content-driven and outcomes-based, with a strong emphasis on coverage, structure, and clarity of expectations.

Curriculum Structure & Levels

Foundation Phase (Grades R–3)
Focuses on literacy, numeracy, and life skills.
Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6)
Expands subject knowledge and introduces more formal academic disciplines.
Senior Phase (Grades 7–9)
Develops subject depth and prepares learners for subject specialisation.
Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grades 10–12)
Represents the final school phase, culminating in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.

Subjects & Learning Areas

  • Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy
  • Physical Sciences and Life Sciences
  • Languages
  • Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Economic and Management Sciences
  • Creative and practical subjects

Assessment & Evaluation

  • School-Based Assessment (SBA)
  • Practical tasks and projects (subject-dependent)
  • Final externally set and moderated examinations
  • Assessment weighting
  • Cognitive levels
  • Examination formats

International Recognition

CAPS qualifications are recognised by South African universities, colleges, and training institutions, subject to admission requirements.

  • Universal recognition within the country
  • Standardisation across provinces and schools
  • Clear alignment with national education and assessment policies
  • Learners transferring between CAPS schools generally experience continuity

Key Strengths

  • Clear and detailed subject guidelines
  • National consistency and standardisation
  • Broad subject exposure
  • Structured progression through schooling phases

Academic Progression & Outcomes

  • Foundational academic knowledge across subjects
  • Familiarity with structured assessment formats
  • Skills necessary for tertiary study, vocational training, or employment

Academic Support at LevelUp

At LevelUp, academic support aligned to the CAPS curriculum focuses on:

  • Reinforcing core concepts
  • Structured revision and practice
  • Support with assessment preparation
  • Strengthening subject foundations across phases
Get Started