KAREEDOUW – A small but growing homeschool support and tutoring centre in Kareedouw is making a meaningful impact in the lives of local families, particularly those with neurodivergent children.

Kareedouw Online, established in 2024, operates from a private residence and currently serves 32 learners ranging from two years old up to matric level.

The centre offers a unique alternative to traditional schooling by focusing on small, personalised classes, inclusive education, and support for families who may not otherwise have access to quality educational resources.

Co-founder, Melodie Lezar, said the initiative was born out of a deeply personal journey.

She said that as parents of two boys on the autism spectrum, the centre is very close to their hearts as they wanted to provide them with a place where they, and other children like them, could thrive.

“In 2023, we really felt God putting it on our hearts to move to the Eastern Cape and start something that could eventually grow into a school and skills centre,” said Melodie.

She said they started small, initially running a playgroup and homeschooling their own children online.

“At the time, we didn’t know where exactly we were going; we just trusted God, and He led us to Kareedouw. That’s where it all started,” said Melodie.

She added that the centre’s personalised approach sets it apart and they work in small groups to adapt to each child’s needs.

“We focus on the whole child, academically, emotionally, developmentally and spiritually, and we meet each child where they are. It’s important to us to create a calm, structured space where every child feels safe, valued and supported,” said Melodie.

She further said that the need for such a service became increasingly clear as more families sought help.

“Many of the children coming to us had been overlooked or misunderstood in mainstream schools, and we could see they needed something different. That’s when we really felt the importance of creating a space where they can learn in a way that works for them,” said Melodie.

Despite its growth, Kareedouw Online faces significant financial challenges, operating without government funding while supporting families who often cannot afford the full cost of specialised education.

Co-founder, Shawn Lezar, said the centre’s biggest challenge is balancing daily operations with long-term sustainability.

He said the centre’s current facilities limit its ability to expand.

“We currently operate from a private residence, which has allowed us to begin the work, but it limits how many children we can help,” said Shawn.

He said that while they have land available and the vision to expand, they need funding to establish suitable classrooms, ablution facilities, safe play areas, and learning spaces where children of all ages can thrive.

Shawn said that the centre is working towards registering as a non-profit organisation, which would open doors to funding opportunities and help build a more sustainable structure.

“Our immediate focus is Phase 1, which requires R732,494. This will help secure operational stability, improve learning resources, support staff, provide meals where needed, and lay the foundation for future growth,” said Shawn.

The centre has launched a BackaBuddy fundraising campaign titled “Help Us Transform Lives Through Kareedouw Online” to support its development and meet growing demand, with plans to expand into a fully equipped community learning centre that maintains its small, personalised approach.

“With the right support, Kareedouw Online can become sustainable and expand its impact. We are not driven by profit, but by a desire to serve children, especially those who need smaller classes, individual attention, and a place where they can truly belong,” said Shawn.

He said that community support has already played a vital role in the centre’s journey, with donations of meals, resources and skilled labour helping to keep the initiative running.

Shawn said that the growing waiting list further highlights the need for accessible, inclusive education in the area.

“Kareedouw Online is more than just a school; it’s a community built on compassion and faith, with a heart to see every child reach their full potential. We want to walk alongside families as well, because we know the journey is not always easy,” said Shawn.

For more information or to support the centre, send an email to kareedouwonline@gmail.com.

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