Foundations
A great education starts with a firm foundation.
The Grammar Stage
Lead Your Child to a World of Possibilities
Foundations is a grammar-stage program for children ages five to twelve and their parents. The curriculum delivers a comprehensive core: history, science, English grammar, Latin, geography, a timeline, and math.
Communities meet weekly. Memory work is introduced together; hands-on science experiments are conducted; fine art is created. Parents leave equipped to continue the work at home - children leave delighted.
Find a Community
A Three-Year Journey Through History
Foundations material is divided into three annual cycles. Students typically complete each cycle twice, deepening their understanding the second time around.
Cycle 1 - Ancients
The ancient world: from creation through the great civilisations of antiquity. Memory work in history, science, geography, English, Latin, and math.
Cycle 2 - Medieval to New World
From the medieval period through the discovery of the new world. Continued mastery of all subjects in age-appropriate, memorable form.
Cycle 3 - British & Modern
British history, modern history, and the foundations of South African identity. Connections drawn across time, place, and discipline.
Weekly Community Schedule
Community days run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and include:
- Opening assembly with prayer and song
- New grammar memory work introduced
- Subject-specific classes and review
- Hands-on fine arts and science projects
- Family lunch together
- Afternoon Essentials programming for eligible students
A Day in a Foundations Community
Memory work, hands-on science, fine arts, and parents learning alongside their children.
Frequently Asked
What ages are best for Foundations?
Foundations is designed for children ages 5 to 12. Younger siblings (3–4) often join in informally; many families start the program when their oldest child turns 5 or 6.
How long is a community day?
Community days run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, including opening assembly, subject-specific classes, hands-on science and fine arts, family lunch, and afternoon Essentials for eligible students.
Do I need to be a teacher to lead memory work at home?
No. The whole point of Classical Conversations is to equip parents - even those who do not consider themselves "teachers." Tutors model the lessons on community day; you continue them at home with the resources provided.
What is a Cycle?
Foundations material is divided into three annual cycles: Cycle 1 (Ancients), Cycle 2 (Medieval to New World), and Cycle 3 (British and Modern). Students typically complete each cycle twice, deepening their understanding the second time around.
How does memory work actually help my child?
Memorising the basic vocabulary and facts of every subject - what classical educators call the grammar stage - gives children the building blocks for everything that follows. They become the "pegs" on which deeper understanding is hung in later years.
What You'll Need for Foundations
The core resources most families start with. Add them all in one click, or untick what you already have.
Books for Foundations
Everything a Foundations family needs - guides, timeline cards, memory work and more. Add to cart straight from here.
Find a Foundations Community
Communities meet across South Africa. Reach out and we'll help you find one near you - or help you start one.
Contact Us