Charlotte Lesch
A promising new partnership was recently formed between the Goedgedacht Trust and Riebeek Special School. This initiative came forward following an insightful visit by Dr Andre Rowan, education specialist and psychologist of the school to Goedgedacht’s open day at the POP Centre in Riebeek West in November last year.
“During this visit, it became evident that the school could greatly benefit from the various community-focused initiatives offered by the trust,” says digital manager Lavern Maarman, in a press statement.
The Riebeek Special School, is a skills-based school focused on providing hands-on workshops and practical training in various vocational fields, including woodwork, haircare, general maintenance, office practice, mechanics, welding, agriculture, upholstery, hospitality and much more.
The Goedgedacht Trust, an NGO dedicated to empowering rural communities in the Swartland region, achieved to create sustainable opportunities for growth and development through this new venture.
“As part of this collaboration, five learners from the school had the opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience through practical training at Goedgedacht Trust’s departments. Over the course of a week, the learners were immersed in our hospitality and agriculture departments, learning essential skills that will empower them as they move forward in their careers.”
This initiative is according to the trust, a crucial step in creating pathways for these learners to gain practical experience and increase their chances of finding meaningful employment in the future.
“Following the signing, staff members from Riebeek Special School visited the farm to tour the various departments where the students had been working. “The visit gave them an opportunity to see firsthand the positive impact the programme had on the learners.
The hospitality team played a vital role during the visit. Under expert guidance, the learners were able to refine their culinary skills and gain confidence in a professional setting. This experience not only enhanced their abilities but also fostered a sense of accomplishment. This partnership between Goedgedacht Trust and Riebeek Valley Special School represents a powerful collaboration, one that will have a lasting positive impact on the learners involved,” Snyman added.
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