The Spelltacular Spelling Spree, an educational initiative organised by The Focus Academy, has captured the imagination of young learners and schools across Windhoek. 

Launched in March 2025, the spelling bee competition is designed for learners in grades 2 to 7.

It has quickly become a highlight on the academic calendar.

Event organiser Rutendo Chikande said the inaugural edition kicked off with five schools competing.

The Kleine Professor School emerged as the winner. 

Since then, the competition has grown in scale and enthusiasm, with more schools joining the friendly yet competitive spelling battles.

“The growth and energy around the Spelling Spree has been phenomenal,” said Chikande.

On 26 April, the grade 6 edition of the spree was hosted in collaboration with the Eros Primary School. 

This not only opened their school hall for the event, but also committed to hosting all future rounds. 

The latest edition welcomed new participants, including King’s College, Windhoek Gymnasium, Building Blocks Academy, Steamfinity and Eros Primary School.The competition continued to draw strong community and corporate support. Waltons donated notepads and pens to all contestants, ensuring each learner was well-equipped. 

Media Solutions elevated the event by sponsoring cash prizes to reward the top-performing spellers.

“This spelling bee is more than a competition. It’s a celebration of language, confidence-building and educational excellence,” she said.

Looking ahead, the grade 5 edition of the competition is scheduled for 17 May.

It promises another exciting day of spelling prowess, student achievement and spirited community involvement.

“The Spelltacular Spelling Spree continues to prove that academic competitions can be both impactful and inspiring, reinforcing a love for learning among Namibia’s youngest minds,” she said.

The spelling bee offers an opportunity for young learners to develop their spelling and public speaking skills. 

It was initiated to create a platform for students to improve their language use, and expose students to ‘difficult’ words while at the same time improving the use of the English language among students.

Focus Academy offers educational services and facilities for students between the ages of 4 and 12, providing individualised attention within small group settings of no more than 10 students.

The teaching methods have been crafted to cater for the individual student’s needs. 

Focus Academy strives to create a suitable learning environment for children to learn and play with access to free Wi-Fi.

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na