Our Academic Offering
Our academic offering has been carefully designed with current best practice in mind. Learn more about the academics in each grade below.
Academics and Curriculum FAQs
Video: How do you do tests and exams online?
Which curriculum does Koa follow?
Is there a timetable?
We love this… Koa provides every single learner with an individualised timetable that leans into their strengths and suits the family’s rhythms. Some parts of the day are scheduled – such as Pod Connect and live Masterclasses, while the bulk of content is covered independently at the learner’s own pace. Check out our curriculum pages for more details.
How do assessments work?
We are big believers that assessments should be age-appropriate. In grades 4-9 we work on the principles of ‘mastery based learning’. Assessments are ongoing with automatic feedback, and the learner progresses as they master each part of a subject. In grades 10-12 we follow the IEB assessment patterns in preparation for final Grade 12 exams.
Are assessments written online?
All assessments up to the final Grade 12 exams are written online. We use online proctoring so you do not need an in-person invigilator. The final Grade 12 exams are written at a physical IEB school closest to you.
Are there reports and parent meetings?
Yes. We publish DBE aligned reports twice a year in the younger grades and every term in the older grades. Parents are also able to communicate and meet with their Pod Teachers throughout the year at bi-termly parent meetings or when needed.
Can I go back to a traditional physical school?
Absolutely. Reach out to us if you need an updated report or confirmation of enrolment letter. But we hope that you love Koa so much you want to stick around for good!
Do IEB online school students follow the same curriculum as physical IEB schools?
Yes. IEB online school students, like those at Koa Academy, follow the same curriculum as physical IEB schools. Koa is moderated and students are assessed by the Independent Examinations Board, which is known for its high academic standards and strong focus on critical thinking.
Do IEB online students write the same exams as traditional IEB schools?
Yes. IEB online students, like those at Koa Academy, write the same National Senior Certificate exams as learners in traditional IEB schools. These exams are set and assessed by the Independent Examinations Board, ensuring identical standards and recognition.
Can online school students achieve the same academic outcomes as in-person students?
Yes – if the online school is registered with an accredited examinations board, and delivers a high-quality programme. Students at online schools registered with an accredited body, like Koa Academy, follow the same curriculum and are assessed to the same standards as in-person learners, enabling them to achieve high academic outcomes.
How does invigilation of assessments take place online?
We have a range of different types of assessments for the different grades. In younger years, most assessment is built into the coursework, and focuses on demonstrating understanding rather than just memorisation. In the older grades, we use formal traditional assessments more often, which are conducted using a specialist online proctoring platform. We are also with the students live, invigilating in a video meeting.
Which exams have to be written in person, and where?
Only the final Grade 12 exams are written in person at a convenient IEB school or centre arranged by Koa. This will be within South Africa. Until then, all other assessments are conducted online from home, managed by Koa staff.
