A handwriting policy is essential and not only in the Foundation Phase but also for the Intermediate Phase.  Learners are formally exposed to handwriting tools for the first time in the formal school situation (sometimes Gr. R).  Educators are formally trained to teach handwriting. These learners at the age of 6 do not have the skills to write legible and this is a process that can only develop via teaching handwriting.  3/4 years of formal handwriting teaching is not sufficient to develop legible handwriting.  Learners must be exposed to both print as well as cursive writing and can only develop a unique style of writing after the foundations of handwriting skills are taught and mastered.  To develop these skills take approximately 6/7 years.

What if we make the Foundation Phase handwriting computer fond available at all schools for our teachers, to assist in preparation of work sheets, etc.