Dressing inappropriately as a student during teaching practicals at schools is not a choice.
“Sometimes what they’re wearing is their best,” says Kedibone (Bonnie) Sesenyamotse from the Faculty of Education at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley.
Sesenyamotse, who observes education students at schools during their teaching practicals, says she noticed that there are students who are dressed too lightly for winter, or too casually for a professional teaching environment – simply because they do not have anything else to wear.
To help these future educators do their practicals with dignity and confidence, The Boutique was launched as a student support initiative. It is a campus-based store where students can find stylish, professional clothing, everyday teaching wear, and other event-appropriate outfits for free.
Rebaone Swartland, an administrator in the faculty, says The Boutique represents the values and qualities the university wants to instil in students.
“In some cases, the inappropriate clothing gets associated with SPU,” she explains, adding that it is too easy to judge those who are inappropriately dressed.
Sesenyamotse says fourth-year education students will soon start teaching practicals for a whole term, which means they will need even more professional teaching wear.
Appropriate clothing boosts confidence
Although The Boutique has not settled into its allocated space yet, it is already being used.
One female student was delighted to find appropriate clothing in The Boutique. In her thank-you note, she said she received 85% for her presentation and that the clothing boosted her confidence.
A young man could not stop smiling after finding formal trousers and a button-up shirt for his presentation.
The Boutique also helped a student whose accommodation was burgled whilst she was away.
This initiative reaches out to anyone with clothing they no longer wear — professional clothes but also anything in good condition for males and females in all sizes.
People can contribute to The Boutique by donating gently worn professional clothing such as blazers, shirts, trousers, skirts, dresses, suits, formal wear for events, smart-casual and clean, good-quality casual items, plus accessories like shoes, belts, ties, handbags, and other items.
Woven or reusable shopping bags are also needed.
The Boutique is not just for education students – it is for any SPU student. The “full dream” is to have bedding, care packages and toiletries available for students who are struggling to make ends meet.
Dream of a ‘real boutique’
Once The Boutique moves to its allocated space, the dream is to give it the feel of a real boutique – mirrors, fitting rooms, proper lighting, and even a sofa.
A current challenge is the lack of rails and hangers for all the clothing that has already been donated.
Currently, donations and browsing happen by appointment. As soon as the new space is ready, it will be an everyday operation. However, during office hours, donations can also be taken to the third floor of the Education building on Central Campus.
“Your contribution will give our students dignity to show up, work with confidence, and represent SPU with pride,” those involved say. “Please donate if you have something; if you need something, come and have a look.”
- Write to Sesenyamotse at Kedibone.sesenyamotse@spu.ac.za or call her on 082 318 5266 or write to Fatima Ajimundin at Fatima.ajimundin@spu.ac.za
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