Maths shouldn't be scary
Teaching shouldn't focus only on maths concepts — it should also reduce maths anxiety and build study orientation and metacognitive strategies. In South Africa, 70% of learners take maths literacy, which limits STEM career pathways and leaves enormous potential untapped.
We develop more than just maths skills
An innovative programme that uses play and storytelling. The evidence-based WHARTELS™ content — developed by educational psychologist Dr Petro Erasmus in collaboration with North-West University — combines play-therapy techniques like puppets, board games and technology to grow maths concepts, emotional intelligence and metacognition.
What the programme develops
Research shows emotional intelligence, study orientation and maths resilience all predict maths achievement — so the Whartels cards build them alongside the sums.
Everything a child needs to learn maths by touching
A unique range of products built around the Whartels cards — all the manipulatives (educational toys) a child needs to learn maths hands-on, plus a detailed guide on perceptual development and how to use the specially designed apparatus.
Children must touch maths
Children learn through play. The manipulatives let them feel and explore maths concepts, while the programme supports perceptual development every step of the way.
Differentiation
The board game and detailed manual help facilitators make maths accessible to every child — supporting those who need extra help and accelerating learning for gifted children.
A comprehensive play strategy
Facilitators get a full set of instructions and equipment with clear guidelines, following a step-by-step approach to introduce maths concepts through play.
Curriculum-aligned
The content isn't tied to a single curriculum — specific outcomes (such as CAPS) are mapped throughout the programme.
Parents empowered
Monthly webinars give parents clear guidelines and strategies to support their child's maths at home.
Built for the way children really learn
Everyone has a maths story
The Whartels content was developed through comprehensive research into predictors of maths achievement, neuropsychology, remedial education, early childhood development, developmental psychology, neurodevelopmental disorders and therapeutic interventions — and research is ongoing.
“We've seen visible improvements in number awareness, calculations and shape recognition — and the children are genuinely excited about maths.”
Rico Ludick, Principal