FLOAT’s goal is to create a measurable and sustainable improvement In Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) outcomes for learners in Grades R–3 across South Africa by 2030.

FLOAT focuses on literacy (Home Language and English First Additional Language) and numeracy.

Foundation Phase (Grades R–3) is eligible for FLOAT funding.

Interventions will focus on the classroom level, targeting the interaction between learners, teachers, materials, and support systems.

In the first phase of FLOAT resources will be allocated over three years and pooled to focus on a common goal. Total funding of R300m will be allocated over three years. FLOAT plans to be a long term collaboration and will continue for future funding beyond this first phase.

In the spirit of promoting equal opportunity for the participation in the FLOAT initiative, the provincial education departments were invited to submit an expression of interest (EOI) during September 2024. The EOI was to enable the initiative to review provincial literacy and numeracy plans that could be supported with the available funding.

FLOAT does not accept any unsolicited proposals.

• FLOAT was established in 2024 with provinces and implementing partners selected.
• Design, preparation and testing of selected provincial programmes will commence in 2025 – including development, finalisation and testing of teaching materials, training of trainers, field testing, appointment of implementation partners, evaluation design and baseline assessment.
• Full-scale implementation of provincial plans, national-level support and evaluation, across classrooms and schools is expected for 2026-2028.

Projects will be owned and led by provincial education departments, with support from implementing partners. These partners, such as technical assistance (TA) providers, must have a proven track record in delivering results in literacy and numeracy improvement. They will be appointed after the detailed design phase is complete and through a fair and judicious process.