Fontein Full Service School in Gelvandale recently hosted its second annual Food and Art Exhibition at the Gelvandale Community Centre.
The event was a success, highlighting the exceptional talents and skills of the Grades 8 and 9 learners enrolled in the Technical Occupational Curriculum (TOC).
The school, which operates as a no-fees institution, has adopted the TOC programme for its Grades 8 and 9 learners, offering subjects such as Arts and Crafts.
This curriculum provides learners with the opportunity to explore their artistic talents and express themselves through various creative mediums. Schaista Dee Davids from Fontein Full Service School, said, “Our school caters for the needs of the community, particularly Helenvale and surrounding areas.
Despite facing numerous challenges such as limited finances, resources, and infrastructure, we remain committed to providing quality education to our learners.”
The exhibition served as a platform for learners to demonstrate their abilities and envision themselves as future entrepreneurs.
It aimed at inspiring learners to use their skills to create employment opportunities for themselves. By showcasing their work, the school hoped to demonstrate the potential of its students and encourage them to become self-sufficient and contribute positively to their communities.
The exhibition featured hands-on opportunities for learners to develop practical skills in food preparation and arts, which are essential for their personal and professional growth.
Participating in such events boosted learners’ self-esteem and confidence as they showcased their abilities and received positive feedback from peers, teachers, and the community.
However, the school faces several challenges, including a lack of sufficient space and resources. Overcrowded classes make it difficult to give appropriate attention to individual learners, especially during practical lessons.
As a result, Grade 8 and 9 learners attend school on alternative days. The school frequently organises fund-raising events to support the purchase of art materials and culinary ingredients.
The exhibition also highlighted the school’s efforts to teach and guide learners in basic techniques to create and produce art, food, and decor, as well as how to market and manage their work. The school plans to expand the TOC programme to Grade 10 next year, accommodating 30 learners. This continuity from Grade 9 will ensure that learners find it easy to move up to a higher level in their practicals.
By showcasing and delivering professional and high-standard work, the school hopes to show the community that there is hope and potential within Helenvale. “We hope to inspire stakeholders to become involved in supporting the school in terms of resources and other possible avenues,” said Davids. “Being a no-fees school, access to quality education is available to the Helenvale community. We cater for both mainstream and special needs learners, assisting them with testing and possible placement in special schools.”
