Christel House South Africa (CHSA) marked its 25th anniversary by officially opening a new high school building aimed at expanding access to quality education for learners from under served communities.

CHSA celebrated the milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its Ottery campus on Friday 22 May. The event was attended by Western Cape Education Minister David Maynier, donor partners and other stakeholders.

The expansion comes at a time when many families across the province continue to face challenges accessing quality and affordable secondary schooling.

Education expansion

The no-fee school and public benefit organisation serves learners from 30 disadvantaged communities across Cape Town.

The newly launched high school facility includes modern classrooms, a media centre, a Computer Applications Technology (CAT) laboratory and administrative offices.

It will create space for up to 300 additional learners and strengthen the school’s career development and social support services.

Since last year, the school has already enrolled an additional 120 Grade 8 and 9 learners as part of the expansion.

Maynier praised the organisation’s contribution to education in the province.

“Christel House is a valued education partner and is helping to reshape how we view independent, non-profit education in South Africa,” he said.

“They are delivering excellent learning outcomes, along with a package of support for learners.”

Future opportunities

Chief executive officer Adri Marais said the project demonstrated the impact that can be achieved through collaboration between government, communities and private partners.

“This new high school reflects what is possible when government, education and investment partners align around a shared commitment to measurable impact in education,” she said.

Marais added that the expansion was about creating opportunities for children from disadvantaged communities and investing in long-term social mobility.

Christel House South Africa currently educates 1 000 learners from Grade RR to Grade 12.

In addition to free schooling, learners receive daily meals, transport, healthcare, psychosocial support and career guidance.

The organisation also continues supporting pupils for up to five years after matric.

According to the organisation, 95% of its alumni move into further studies, employment or other meaningful opportunities after leaving school.

The launch also forms part of the school’s broader 2030 expansion strategy.

Plans include increasing junior school capacity and eventually accommodating 1 410 learners on the Ottery campus.

Founded by philanthropist Christel DeHaan, Christel House International operates 10 schools globally, with the Ottery campus remaining its only African school.

ALSO READ: Matriculant of the Year | Novus Media’s involvement a vote of confidence in SA youth