Footprints helps South African homeschoolers turn everyday learning into unforgettable adventures—through story-rich, multi-subject curriculum packages that spark a love of learning, ignite family connection and bring South African heritage to life—all while confidently covering what truly matters for a well-rounded education.
Our Story
Established in 2002 from a place of need and deep conviction, Footprints was created by two homeschooling moms—Wendy Young and Shirley Erwee—who wanted more than imported homeschool curricula or textbooks could offer. Between them, they’ve homeschooled 10 children for more than 20 years. They launched Footprints when they realised that while their kids were learning, they weren’t learning who they are—as South Africans or as people with a purpose. So Wendy and Shirley joined forces to craft a literature-rich, Charlotte Mason‑style, multi-grade curriculum that would bring South Africa’s landscapes, history, and deeper truths into their homes.
Here is Our Story in more detail. We think it’s close to miraculous!
Our Why
We believe education should shape the soul, not just fill the mind. In an age of checklists and outcomes, Footprints exists to reclaim a gentler, richer, story‑centred education—rooted in faith, family, heritage, and purpose. We’re here to help families raise curious, bold learners who carry confidence, a strong identity and a lifelong love of learning into adulthood.
Mission
Footprints equips and inspires parents to homeschool with confidence, joy, and depth. Our programmes integrate living books, hands‑on exploration and diverse South African cultures through literature-based unit studies that develop curiosity, character, and connection—backed by academic rigour and support every step of the way.
What Sets Us Apart
- Literature-rich and multi‑grade unit studies, so your entire family learns together
- Faith and heritage at the heart, making every lesson a reflection of identity and legacy
- Curated, mom-tested resources that simplify your life, foster joy, and build lasting confidence
- Academic readiness for the future – Footprints prepares children with the thinking skills, general knowledge and language development needed for popular alternative homeschool exit routes like Cambridge, GED and the American High School Diploma (AHSD)
- Community and support through webinars, consultations, private groups, and expos—because no one should homeschool alone
Generations of Success
Our graduates are active in university, careers and community leadership. Footprints is used by thousands of families—across South Africa and in more than 15 countries worldwide—and even adopted by schools who seek creative, meaningful engagement with our nation’s story.
Join Us
If you’re a parent who wants more than test results…who longs for lessons that connect heart, mind, and faith…who wants to raise children with purpose, curiosity, and a love for their country…welcome. Footprints is your roadmap to an education that stands the test of time—and builds legacy, not just knowledge.
“I also just wanted to really thank both you and Shirley for the Footprints series, what an awesome way to learn. It is a very high standard against which I compare all our other learning material.”
~ Pam, Sedgefield
Our Footprints homeschooling products have been used in over 15 countries, which means that families and from all around the world have recognised the value of teaching their children about South Africa using our materials. Read our customer reviews – they love Footprints!
Wendy and Shirley are also regular speakers at homeschool expos and were speakers at the 2020 Global Home Education Conference.
Leaders in homeschooling in South Africa
Wendy and Shirley are also regular speakers at homeschool expos and were speakers at the 2020 Global Home Education Conference. As home education experts, we’ve served or been consulted by these organisations and media publishers on matters relating to home education in South Africa and globally. We support freedom in education.
For more specific information about Shirley and Wendy, use these links.