As youth unemployment continues to challenge South Africa, corporate and HR professionals in Cape Town are stepping in to equip Grade 12 learners with critical job-readiness skills through a hands-on initiative at Christel House South Africa.
Based in Ottery, the no-fee school supports 976 learners from disadvantaged communities, offering holistic education from Grade RR to Grade 12, along with continued support for five years after matric.
Tackling youth unemployment
This includes transport, healthcare, daily meals, psycho-social services and career development, ensuring learners are prepared for life beyond school.
A key component of this preparation is the school’s annual Speed Interviews initiative, which brings professionals from various industries into the classroom to conduct mock interviews with matric learners.
The programme gives learners an opportunity to engage in one-on-one interview scenarios, receive constructive feedback and better understand employer expectations, said school spokesperson, Megan Losper.
Building job skills
“The recent scenes at Athlone Stadium, where thousands of unemployed young people queued for limited job opportunities, is highlighting the urgent need for greater access to opportunity, networks and support,” said Losper.
For many learners, the Speed Interviews event is their first experience of a formal job interview. Participants say the exposure helps build confidence and provides valuable insights into workplace expectations.
“Our unique, annual Speed Interview event provides a platform for professionals to engage in mock interviews with our matric learners, offering invaluable feedback and guidance to equip them to better transition into the professional world. Guests represent companies that support Christel House SA through donations and partnerships, showcasing a commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent,” said Losper.
Partnerships grow
Monique Ruthenberg, conservation manager at CapeNature, who took part in the initiative, praised the programme for preparing learners for the realities of the job market.
“This has been my second time attending the Speed Interview event and once again Christel House has exceeded all expectations. I think it’s incredible that the learners are given this opportunity. It’s going to make all the difference in terms of preparing them for the workplace,” says Ruthenberg.
The initiative forms part of Christel House’s broader Career Development Programme, which focuses on equipping learners with the skills, mindset and connections needed to succeed in further education or employment.
The impact is evident, with 95% of the school’s alumni either studying, working or doing both after matric.
According to Career Development Manager Louise de Marillac St Julien, collaboration between the private sector and education is key to addressing unemployment challenges.
Expanding future opportunities
She noted that partnerships like these demonstrate the positive change that can be achieved when organisations invest in young people’s future.
Looking ahead, the school is set to expand its reach and will open a second high school on its Ottery campus.
The expansion is already underway, with additional learners enrolled since last year.
By 2030, the school aims to accommodate 300 more high school learners, doubling the number of matriculants participating in programmes like Speed Interviews from 60 to 120 annually.
Christel House South Africa has expressed gratitude to its corporate partners for their ongoing support and involvement.
The organisation continues to call on businesses to contribute through internships, mentorships and employment opportunities.
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