Homeschooling is a journey, and like any journey, having the right map essentially makes all the difference. When it comes to choosing a Christ-centred curriculum, the sheer number of options available may feel overwhelming. For example, within the free or low-cost Christian curriculum space, the decision might be between Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool (aka EP) and the newly introduced South African Christ-Centric Education (SACCE). While both claim to offer Christian-based education, they have distinct differences that may affect how well they cater to various needs and values.
Easy Peasy, created by homeschooling Lee Giles, has gained popularity for its comprehensive and free curriculum. However, some of its approaches might not align with the values of conservative Christian families. For example, Giles admits to using secular science resources due to limited creation-based science options. This can be concerning for families who want their children’s education to be firmly grounded in a biblical worldview.
SACCE, on the other hand, takes a different approach. It prioritises a conservative Christian perspective, seeking to align its curriculum with the views held by historical Christian figures and theologians. This means that when it comes to topics like science and history, SACCE digs deeper to present interpretations that are consistent with a biblical worldview.
Another key difference lies in the use of video lessons. Easy Peasy incorporates video lessons from various sources, which, while often high-quality, may not always be Christ-centred in their presentation. SACCE, on the other hand, aims to develop its own video lessons that are specifically designed to integrate sound Christian faith and learning.
Furthermore, Easy Peasy is American-based, which means its content and examples might not always resonate with South African learners. SACCE addresses this by offering a curriculum that is specifically tailored to the South African context, incorporating local history, culture, and examples (so far as ethically possible).
While Easy Peasy is entirely free, SACCE operates on a different model. It aims to be accessible to all families, but it prioritises providing free access to those who demonstrate financial need. This allows SACCE to invest in high-quality resources and provide support to families who might not otherwise be able to afford homeschooling.
SACCE also differs from Easy Peasy in its approach to assessment. It provides grading for learners and generates formal reports, allowing parents to track their child’s progress and meet any legal requirements for homeschooling in South Africa. Easy Peasy, on the other hand, does not offer formal grading or reporting I found.
Recognising the linguistic diversity of South Africa, SACCE is committed to offering curriculum coverage in other official South African languages in addition to English and Afrikaans. This makes homeschooling more accessible to Christian families who prefer to educate their children in or include their mother tongue. Easy Peasy, being American-based, does not currently offer this option.
One of the crucial aspects of homeschooling in South Africa is ensuring compliance with the legal requirements. SACCE assists families in navigating these requirements while upholding their sound Christian identity. It provides guidance on registration, curriculum alignment, and assessment procedures, ensuring that families can confidently homeschool within the legal framework.
Finally, SACCE goes beyond the curriculum by offering mock exams and online formal examinations based on the covered topics. This helps learners prepare for further education and ensures that they are meeting the required standards.
In conclusion, while Easy Peasy offers a valuable resource for homeschooling families, SACCE provides a distinct alternative for those seeking a more conservative, Christ-centred, and South African-oriented approach. By considering your family’s values, needs, and educational goals, you can choose the curriculum that best fits your homeschooling journey.
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