Vergelegen Wine Estate reinforced its commitment to education by opening a second centre for its workers’ children, the Cub Hub, on Saturday 6 June.

“Education can change lives and is one of the most powerful investments we can make in the future of our community,” said Vergelegen’s managing director Wayne Coetzer at the launch.

The Cub Hub builds on the success of Vergelegen’s first education centre, the Nexus Hub, established for high-school learners in September 2022 and managed by Kathryn Couzens.

The new centre comprises a light-filled classroom stocked with books, toys and educational equipment, plus a kitchen and toilet facilities. It was established by Vergelegen’s own maintenance team – Solomzi Luphuwana, Sivuyile Mpahla and Mosuli Mangxola – who refurbished a vacant cottage in the Harmony workers’ village.

The centre will serve primary-school learners, led by teachers Tracey Billingham and Gabby Thompson, who have been friends since meeting in KuGompo City (previously East London) as nine-year-olds. Billingham will focus on teaching and enrichment, particularly reading, writing and mathematics, while Thompson will focus on creativity, skills development and teaching support.

“I’m so excited by this opportunity,” Thompson said. “I was a member of Round Table for many years, so service and giving back are strong values in my life. When you learn through fun and creativity, you are growing a skill you can use later.”

Coetzer said the hubs form part of Vergelegen’s commitment to education and creating opportunities for families on the estate.

“Young learners benefit from a supportive environment where they can strengthen their academic foundations and gain confidence,” he explained. “By helping children build essential skills early, we aim to contribute to brighter futures for learners, their families and the wider Helderberg community.”

Kim Julius, the estate’s human resources manager, encouraged parents to play an active role and engage with the teachers.

“The more involved you are, the greater the chance of success for your children,” she said.

. The Cub Hub at Vergelegen operates Monday to Thursday from 14:00 to 17:00, with Grade R to Grade 2 learners attending from 14:00 to 15:30 and older learners attending from 15:30 to 17:00.

. Visit www.vergelegen.co.za for more information.