Page 9 - Education Supplement February 2026

Importantly, teaching critical and creative thinking does not
detract from academic achievement. It strengthens it. Learners
who understand how to analyse a question are better equipped
to respond meaningfully in assessments. Those who can connect
ideas across subjects tend to retain knowledge more deeply.
Children who are encouraged to reflect on how they think develop
stronger learning habits that support long-term progress.

The real value of thinking skills, however, lies beyond the classroom.
These are the tools children draw on when navigating online
information, managing peer pressure, making ethical choices,
and coping with uncertainty. In a world where young people are
constantly exposed to information, opinion, and persuasion, the
ability to think carefully and flexibly has become essential.

Education that focuses only on content prepares children for tests.
Education that develops thinking prepares them for life. Teaching
children how to think is not an academic extra. It is one of the most
practical and empowering foundations education can offer.
Creative thinking is often misunderstood in a
similar way. It is not limited to art or performance,
Partner with us to make your Socio-Economic
nor is it about having unusual ideas for their
Development funding count
own sake. At its heart, creative thinking is about
We invite companies to channel their Socio-Economic
adaptability. Children who are encouraged to
Development (SED) funding into meaningful, child-centred
think creatively are less likely to shut down when
education initiatives.
faced with difficulty. They are more willing to try
We work in partnership with the Believe Foundation, and all
another route, adjust a plan, or ask a different
qualifying contributions are eligible for an 18A certificate.
question when something feels stuck.
Get involved: loryn@cubclub.co.za
These skills are particularly important for
neurodivergent learners, including gifted children, Contact Cub Club
learners with ADHD, and autistic learners. If you’d like to find out more about Cub Club, or explore how it could
When classrooms focus primarily on speed, work in your school or learning environment, contact the team:
memorisation, and single-answer thinking, many
of these children struggle unnecessarily. When Cub Club
thinking skills are taught explicitly and modelled Cnr Hawken and President Fouché
clearly, their strengths are more likely to surface. Randburg, South Africa
They gain tools to organise their ideas, manage Phone: 010 110 0081
impulsive responses, and communicate complex Email: info@cubclub.co.za
thinking with greater clarity. Website: cubclub.co.za

Education | February 2026 | 7