Tag Archives: learning

News from our school nurse in the Waterberg, South Africa

June 11, 2025Africa, Charity, Education, Healthcare, HIV awareness, HIV prevention, Limpopo Province, Nonprofit, Orphans, School vegetable gardens, South Africa, The Waterberg Trust, Uncategorized, Vaalwater, Vulnerable Children, Waterberg, YouthAfrica, Charity, Education, learning, Limpopo Province, news, South Africa, WaterbergSophie Neville

Every morning, School nurse Sister Grace checks into Meetsetshehla High School where her office is located, before attending other schools on weekly, scheduled visits. Teachers help identify needy learners and refer them to her on a one-to-one basis. She also spends time with groups of girls, educating them on puberty, menstruation, hygiene and access to contraceptives.

Examinations are looming. Grade 12’s attend classes from Monday to Sunday to ensure they are well prepared and can catch where they are behind.

Sporting activities, with learners competing with other schools in soccer and netball are popular. Winning teams have advanced to the next round of competitions.

School vegetable gardens are suppling extra food for the existing feeding scheme.

Recycling projects are generating funds for schools. The initiative empowers learners and reduces littering while keeping school premises clean. Each school now has four different waste bins for plastic, tin, glass and paper.

Coding and robotics classes are being introduced in primary schools to prepare children for the future. Tablets have been delivered for them to use:

PROGRESS:

Teachers have attended workshops on supporting learners and producing good results.
Extra classes have been provided for the Matric students of 2025.
Learners eat breakfast before classes commence and lunch during break.
The EMS Foundation is supporting schools on farms with lunchbox meals. These include instant porridge and lunch, adding to the existing feeding schemes.
The lunchbox is one of the best initiatives to help children from disadvantaged families.
Absenteeism in schools has declined since learners eat at school.

CHALLENGES:

Lack of parental involvement in school meetings or children’s activities
Gender Based Violence, sexual abuse and harassment
Poverty leading to dropping out of school
Increased teenage pregnancies
Bullying and physical fights among learners
Poor family background i.e. unemployed, low or no source of income & alcoholic parents or guardians

PREGNANT LEARNERS	NUMBER OF LEANERS PER SCHOOL
Meetsetshehla Secondary School – 4	596
Leseding High School – 8	1363
Motakamhotala High School – 1	368

BELOW ARE THE LEARNER ENROLLMENT PER SCHOOL

PRIMARY SCHOOLS	TOTAL LEARNERS	NUMBER OF TEACHERS
Mokolo Primary	1224	34 Teachers
Mahlasedi Primary	1423	38 Teachers

TOTAL NUMBER OF LEARNERS SEEN INDIVIDUALLY = 555

Medical condition=65 (Epilepsy 8, asthma 25, dental abscess 6, allergic conjunctivitis 26)

Social Problems = 45 (orphaned 25, alcoholic parents 10, physical abuse 8, suicide attempt 2)

Menstrual issues = 105 (Pads distributed to girls)

Referral for contraceptives =150 (girls aged 13-19 years-old accessed injectable contraceptives)

Minor ailments = 85 (soccer injury, physical cuts after picking a fight, insect bites, colds)

Counseling = 115 (HIV/AIDS preventative measures, how to deal with addiction and coping methods, how to overcome depression.)

Sister Grace adds, “Other learners discussed in class matters about learning, combating fatigue, importance of exercise, career guidance and the disadvantage of bullying in schools.”

Schools will have a winter break towards end of June but Matric learners have no holiday as they need to intensify their studies and prepare for the year end final exams!

Every donation made towards Sister Grace’s salary is recognized by the local community and the schools she helps. The Waterberg Trust is looking for people who would like to make a monthly donation, as small regular payments help hugely with budgeting. Please see the HOW TO DONATE page for more information.

Sixty teenagers from Leseding High School benefit from a residential course at Lapalala Wilderness School in the Waterberg, South Africa

March 21, 2025UncategorizedEducation, environment, learning, news, teachingSophie Neville

The Waterberg Trust sponsored sixty grade 10 students from Leseding High School, along with one of their teachers and a SGB member, enabling them to attend a residential course at Lapalala Wilderness School in the Waterberg, South Africa from 10th-14th March 2025.

Students from Leseding High School taking part in a citizen science project at Lapalala Wilderness School in the Waterberg, South Africa

The aim was:

To spark an interest and passion for the natural world and conservation
To pass on knowledge relating to local and global environmental issues and demonstrate how individuals can impact the environment through lifestyle changes.
To develop team–building and leadership.

Lapalala Wilderness School provides residential courses in ecology and nature conservation

Having sent a number of teenagers to Lapalala Wilderness School in the past, we liaised with the director Mashudu Makhokah who agreed to host a group from Vaalwater for a short centre based environmental education programme.

The week proved a great success:

Learners developed orienteering skills, teamwork and communication skills.
They were provided with practical environmental education through various activities designed to deepen an understanding of nature and engage them in hands-on conservation efforts.
They learnt how to promote Sustainable Practices to empower other conservation champions with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions and positively impact the environment for future generations.

Through their youth network they plan an awareness campaign to help learners understand environmental issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, encouraging them to become more responsible and environmentally conscious.
The learners participated in a series of team-building activities aimed at improving collaboration, communication, build trust and enhance their ability to work together in group settings. Key outcomes included improved cooperation and problem-solving skills, which were applied throughout the week in all activities.

As one TWT supporter said, it’s “really encouraging to see the breadth of activities that these courses enable them to experience. They can only help in building all sorts of life skills and experiences for these youngsters.”

Nature Educational Walks

Guided nature walks allowed learners to explore the wilderness environment first hand. The walks were focused on educating learners about local flora and fauna, ecosystems, and the importance of conservation. They learned about indigenous plant species, archaeological sites, animal behaviour, and how human activities impact natural habitats.

Butterfly Traps and Citizen Science

Learners engaged in practical fieldwork by setting up butterfly traps to monitor local butterfly populations. This activity introduced them to citizen science, collecting data for environmental research. They learned about the importance of insects in maintaining ecological balance and the role of citizen science in supporting environmental research.

Game Drive

A thrilling game drive allowed learners to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. They had the opportunity to spot various species of animals and discuss wildlife conservation efforts.
This experience emphasized the importance of protecting habitats to maintain biodiversity.

Debate on Environmental Issues

Learners participated in a structured debate where they discussed pressing environmental issues, such as climate change, habitat destruction, sustainable resource use, overpopulation, pangolin conservation, rhino poaching, and waste disposal. The debate promoted critical thinking and allowed learners to express their views on environmental responsibility and the need for immediate action to preserve the planet.

The Waterberg Trust — New experiences for local children

Obstacle Course

A physically challenging obstacle course tested learners’ physical stamina, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. It was also an opportunity for learners to push their personal boundaries and work cohesively in a group under pressure. The obstacle course emphasized perseverance and resilience, both physically and mentally, while fostering a spirit of camaraderie among students.

Key Learnings & Takeaways:

Environmental Awareness: Learners gained a deeper understanding of environmental conservation and sustainability practices. The hands-on activities, such as butterfly trapping and the game drive allowed them to connect with nature in a meaningful way.
Collaboration & Teamwork: The team building exercises fostered strong relationships among the learners, enhancing their ability to collaborate effectively in both academic and extracurricular settings.

Critical Thinking: The debate on environmental issues encouraged students to think critically about challenges we face and to develop well-informed opinions on how to address them.

Physical & Mental Growth: The obstacle course and other physically demanding activities helped students push their limits and learn to overcome challenges together.

Conclusion

The week-long visit to Lapalala Wilderness School was a highly educational and impactful experience for Leseding High School’s Grade 10 learners. It not only broadened their knowledge of environmental issues but instilled a sense of responsibility towards nature. The activities provided valuable lessons in teamwork, conservation, and personal development. The learners returned with a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

This is the 6th group TWT has been able to send form Vaalwater schools. You can see photos of the last group that went on this website.

We would like to thank TWT’s kind donors for sponsoring this excursion.

On Saturday 10th May, TWT are organising a cycle ride from Cambridge to raise funds to send another group. If you’d like to join us, please sign up here.

In 2026 it only costs about £30 a night to send a teenage or a 5 day residential course at Lapalala Wilderness School – great value for a life changing experience.

If you would like to sponsor a group of up to 120 local school children to attend a course there please contact The Waterberg Trust.

We also collect donations on Justgiving

Good news from our School Nurse in the Waterberg, South Africa

December 13, 2024UncategorizedEducation, learning, news, school, teachingSophie Neville

This was the final quarter of the year in South Africa and it was time for exams for grades 8 – 12 at secondary schools and grades 1 -7 at primary schools. Matric learners were assisted with extra classes and different educational camps or chosen lodges away from home to prepare them and provide a conducive environment to study.

Girls are missing school less, which is encouraging:

Every female learner receives free sanitary towels donated to schools or provided by the Department of Education
Low numbers of teenage pregnancies were noticed this quarter
Increased numbers of girls are accessing contraceptives and abstinence is encouraged

Sister Grace working with schoolgirls of the Waterberg

Sister Grace says, “I was privileged to be part of the ceremony.” As a guest speaker she was able to motivate students and to encourage parents to support their children’s schoolwork.

Farewell parties were held for the matric learners. Mokolo and Mahlasedi grade 7 primary school learners had a farewell too as they will be going to High School next year.

SOME OF THE MATRIC STUDENTS DURING THEIR FAREWELL CEREMONY

PROGRESS:

Teachers were trained how best they can assist and prepare learners before their final exams and in various ways of invigilation. Exams were written without any disruptions. Pupils were guided and supported on how to apply for University and other higher learning institutions according to their career preference.

Dedicated teachers who are passionate about their work put in extra hours to ensure learners are well prepared and engaged in various topics
Enrichment educational programs gave learners opportunities to explore activities and subjects that increase their knowledge and skills
Stakeholders are involved are involved in providing extra lessons in science, physics and mathematics along with career guidance, reading and a spelling bee at the Waterberg Innovation Center.

EVERY MOMENT CAPTURED WITH LEARNERS IS FILLED WITH LOVE AND LAUGHTER

LEARNERS RECEIVED AWARDS, GAVE SPEECHES AND PERFORMED DANCES AT END OF YEAR CELEBRATIONS

CHALLENGES:

Some teenage girls below the age of 15 years are sexually active and involved in relationships.
Poor family support. (Some well performing learners have alcoholic parents who don’t care about the future of their children.)
Shortage of teachers due to relocation puts others under pressure as they have to teach multiple subjects to different classes.
Too many learners per teacher, which makes it difficult to ensure they understand topics.
Fatigue in senior classes due to workload, extra classes and the stress of large classes.
Schools risk vandalism from thieves during school holidays.
Schools built on privately owned land risk evacuation from property owners.

School Nurse Sister Grace making sure that girls do not miss school — School nurse Sister Grace at the Waterberg Innovation Centre

FUTURE PLANS:

Sister Grace says, “I will continue to support learners, counseling and educating them on ways of living a healthy life, while stressing the importance of abstinence and access to contraceptives. I will liaise with the Social Development, the Victim Support unit based at the local police station, and the local Government Clinic to ensure smooth collaboration and understanding.”

School nurse Sister Grace sponsored by The Waterberg Trust to help girls make the most of their education in the Wateberg, South Africa

Schools closed on 11^th December 2024 and reopen in January 2025

Many thanks to all those who support Sister Grace’s invaluable work in the Waterberg. If you would like to make a donation The Waterberg Trust has a Justgiving page here.

School nurse Sister Grace looking at new equipment in the Waterberg Innovation Centre — School nurse Sister Grace working with schoolgirls in the Waterberg

Chairman’s Annual Report

October 8, 2024Africa, Charity, Community projects, Education, Ending period poverty, Healthcare, HIV awareness, Limpopo Province, Nature Conservation, Nonprofit, School vegetable gardens, South Africa, The Waterberg Trust, Uncategorized, Vaalwater, Vulnerable Children, Waterberg, YouthAfrica, Charity, Education, learning, Limpopo Province, news, Small but effective grass-roots project helping rural people in the Waterberg, South Africa, Sponsored ride, teaching, Waterberg, womenSophie Neville

For the last ten years, The Waterberg Welfare Society Trust has been operating under its new and broader remit as The Waterberg Trust (TWT) supporting welfare initiatives across the Waterberg, uplifting the people.

Quarterly reports from Sister Grace and Dr Peter Farrant detail the social welfare of the less privileged of The Waterberg. They give a measure of what TWT is seeking to address and are increasingly alarming. Major concerns include increasing substance abuse, vagrancy, absenteeism from school and general poor behaviour.

School nurse Sister Grace sponsored by The Waterberg Trust

The academic performance of the local schools is deteriorating because they are underfunded and teacher vacancies are often either poorly filled or remain unfilled. However, there are encouraging factors with some teachers providing extra classes to help children catch up and prepare for their exams, along with some supporting after-school activities with sport being increasingly encouraged.

School sports for girls of the Waterberg in South Africa

TWT initiatives include conserving the environment and helping the poorest and all the young people of the Waterberg to achieve their potential by encouraging them to stay in education. This involves basic and simple initiatives.

School nurse Sister Grace equipping the new intake of schoolgirls with washable pads.

By providing re-useable washable sanitary wear from the nonprofit Dignity Dreams, TWT has again met its priority this year by enabling all the adolescent girls of the Waterberg to attend school for all of every month for the five years of their secondary education. As a result, fewer girls drop out of education because they no longer fall behind through missing school.

Sister Grace distributing packs of Dignity Dreams eco-sanitary pads in secondary schools of the Waterberg

TWT raises funds to pay the school nurse’s salary. Sister Grace provides primary care for the medical, mental and general welfare needs of the school children of the Waterberg. She manages the distribution of the Dignity Dreams packs and instructing the girls in how to use them, when she explains accompanying leaflet on puberty and sex education.

A letter thinking The Waterberg Trust — A letter from a schoolgirl thanking donors for her washable eco-sanitary pads

Through dedicated Life Skills teaching sessions, Sister Grace instructs the pupils in human reproduction and sex education with the use and availability of contraception methods.

A drama about the risks of teenage pregnancy performed by Waterberg pupils

As a direct consequence, the numbers of teenage pregnancies have reduced consistently each year. Sister Grace supports any teenage mums with baby care instruction, guidance and provides essentials when they are not available.

Monitoring a baby born to a teenage schoolgirl

In South Africa, you cannot attend school if you do not have a uniform, which is something that the poorest families in the community struggle to afford. TWT helps to provide school uniforms and shoes so that every child in the Waterberg can go to school.

Providing school shoes in the Waterberg — Providing hard-wearing school shoes in the Waterberg

Sister Grace champions important initiatives such as four school vegetable gardens that the children cultivate. She helps the children to remain motivated and to choose subjects that will support their career choices.

Ideas for careers open to pupils of the Waterberg

She also supports the health of the weakest in the community, distributing monthly food parcels to about seven needy households with volunteers from the “Acts of Mercy” initiative of the local St John’s Church.

TWT provides scholarships for exceptional pupils to further education and not be held back by the poverty of their family circumstances. For example, Elton Chitandra is a deserving and able student from the Waterberg who is an orphan living with his aunt. TWT awarded Elton a scholarship for his university tuition fees for three years. He is now in the third year of his Computer Software degree at university.

Elton with his recent certificates — Elton with some of his school certificates

Importantly, TWT also contributes to wildlife conservation in the Waterberg by funding vehicle recognition cameras at strategic road junctions. As a consequence, the Waterberg has lost very few rhinos to poachers in the last few years, which sadly contrasts to other areas of South Arica.

This year, TWT has made another large donation to the Save the Waterberg Rhino initiative that has changed its name to the Waterberg Landscape Alliance (WLA). The name change was made to reflect a broader conservation remit.

TWT sends school children on residential course at the Lapalala Wilderness School to learn about their precious environment and the diversity of species. Educating the young in the importance of conserving the habitat results in parents becoming more aware.

Local students on a course at Lapalala Wilderness School

Fundraising: TWT pioneered a new circular cycle route from Cambridge across the counties of Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire for its annual sponsored cycle ride that was much enjoyed by an ever increasing field of riders. Circa £13,794 was raised, beating the £10,000 target.

The Waterberg Trust charity cycle ride 2024

TWT has a number of ways you can make a donation and a Justgiving page

While there is still work to be done in enhancing the conspicuity of the Trust in the Waterberg, it has been the lead supporter of some important projects to do with health, welfare, education and the environment.

TTP have continued to provide massive support both administratively and in consultation, which is much appreciated.

Barry Burles

Chairman

June 2024