MICROCHANGE AT SCALE: USING DATA TO IMPROVE EARLY LEARNING

Big change starts small.

The publication identifies nine key conditions required to drive microchange at scale – offering practical insights for funders, implementers, policymakers and practitioners working to strengthen early learning systems. It shows how organisations are using ELOM data to test and scale targeted improvements – proving that small shifts can lead to big impact. It includes real-world case studies from five South African organisations and insights including:

• Microchange works: Small shifts can dramatically improve early learning outcomes
• Reliable data matters: Standardised data is essential for informed decisions
• Practitioners are central: With the right tools, information and support, they become powerful agents of change
• Collaboration enables scale: Networks, partnerships and peer-learning forums amplify impact
• Feedback drives improvement: Timely, usable data supports rapid learning and adaptation
• Sustainable funding counts: Long-term investment across the full data value chain is essential

Download the full report here

Microchange at Scale: How Small Data-Driven Shifts Can Transform Early Learning in South Africa
Written by: Cathy Williams
With contributions from: Sonja Giese and Dr Jessica Horler

With thanks to the following organisations for sharing their insights and experiences:

• Bulungula Incubator (Eastern Cape)
• Lulamaphiko (KwaZulu-Natal)
• Kamvalethu Foundation
• Knysna Education Trust – Blocks4Growth (Western Cape)
• Singakwenza Early Childhood Education (KwaZulu-Natal & Gauteng)
• True North (Western Cape)

Published: July 2025

About The Insights Lab

DD2030’s Insights Lab is a space for turning complex data into actionable insights – to inform better decisions, influence policy, and help shift systems. Rooted in our mission to make data accessible and drive real-world change, the Insights Lab publications are designed to support practitioners, funders, researchers and policymakers working to improve child outcomes. Got a big idea or pressing question you’d like answered? Email insightslab@datadrive2030.co.za