Christel House South Africa officially unveiled its new high school facility as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations last week, expanding access to education for families who often face barriers associated with cost, transportation and overcrowded schools.
according to novanewsThe expansion will allow the fee-free institute to accommodate an additional 300 learners.
The launch ceremony was attended by education stakeholders, donor partners and provincial officials, including Western Cape Education Minister David Maynier, who described the institute as a significant contributor to the province's education sector.
Christel House South Africa also described the opening of the new high school building on social media following the launch 'A major milestone' In its mission to expand access to quality education for children from disadvantaged Cape Town communities.
Additional details from smile fm It was noted that this expansion is also part of a broader long-term strategy to increase learner capacity at the Otteri campus by 2030.
The new facility includes advanced classrooms, administrative offices, a media center, and a computer applications technology laboratory designed to support digital learning and career preparation.
Christel House South Africa currently serves children from 30 disadvantaged communities in Cape Town.
The organization confirmed that an additional 120 Grade 8 and 9 learners have already joined the school since the expansion process began last year.
Apart from academics, the school also provides food, transportation, health services, psychosocial support and career guidance.
Speaking at the launch event, Menier highlighted that the organization continues to help reshape perceptions about independent non-profit education in South Africa.
'Christel House is a valued education partner and is helping to reshape the way we look at independent, not-for-profit education in South Africa.' He insisted.
'They are providing excellent learning outcomes along with a support package for learners.'
Chief Executive Officer Adri Marais said the expansion represents more than just additional classroom space.
'This new high school demonstrates what is possible when government, education and investment partners join with a shared commitment to measurable impact in education.' He underlined.
'What has been created here is expanded access to quality education and holistic support, but also a scalable investment in social mobility.'
The Otteri campus currently houses approximately 1,000 learners from Grade RR to Grade 12, but the organization's broader vision goes beyond the latest ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Plans linked to its 2030 strategy include expanding the capacity of the Junior School and ultimately increasing total learner enrollment at the campus to more than 1,400 pupils.
The organization is also exploring the development of a Grade 2 RR to Grade 12 school in Cape Town, with the planning and land processes still ongoing.
Founded by philanthropist Christel DeHaan, Christel House International operates schools in several countries, with the Oteri campus being its only school on the African continent.
The model appears to be producing measurable results. According to the organisation, 95% of former learners go on to employment, tertiary study or other opportunities after matriculation.
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Picture: Christel House South Africa/Facebook