By Phenyo Selinda
The independent school Christel House, located in Ottery, Cape Town, has been recognised for its remarkable achievements by making the top 10 shortlist for the World’s Best School Prize for ‘Overcoming Adversity.’ This prestigious acknowledgement has prompted a congratulatory message from the Western Cape Education Department, highlighting the school’s exceptional efforts in supporting learners from disadvantaged communities.
Christel House’s Mission and Community Impact
Christel House’s mission is clear and compelling: to help children break the cycle of poverty, realise their hopes and dreams, and become self-sufficient members of society. The school serves learners who face daily challenges, including gang warfare, drugs, alcoholism, hunger, and abuse. Despite these obstacles, the learners’ resilience and determination to attend school every day are a testament to the institution’s supportive environment.
Founding and Educational Offerings
The school was founded by Christel DeHaan, a German-American businesswoman and philanthropist. Christel House offers education from Grades R through 12, providing a comprehensive educational journey aimed at empowering learners from impoverished backgrounds.
Recognition from the Western Cape Education Department
Western Cape MEC for Education, David Maynier, extended his congratulations to Christel House for being a finalist in the World’s Best Schools competition for 2024. Maynier stated, “The school is doing excellent work supporting learners from poor communities to receive a world-class education, and it is fitting that they have been selected as a finalist in the ‘Overcoming Adversity’ category. We wish them all the best in the next phase of the competition, and we are holding thumbs for the announcement of the top three in September.”
Historical Achievements of Western Cape Schools
Christel House joins an esteemed group of Western Cape schools previously recognised in the World’s Best School Prizes. In 2022, Pinelands-North Primary School secured a top three position in the ‘Overcoming Adversity’ category, while West End Primary School was listed in the top 10 for the same category. Last year, Rustenburg Girls High School achieved a top 10 position in the ‘Supporting Healthy Lives’ category.
Upcoming Announcements and Prize Details
The top three finalists for each of the five World’s Best School Prizes—Community Collaboration, Environmental Action, Innovation, Overcoming Adversity, and Supporting Healthy Lives—will be announced later this year. Following a public advisory vote, the winners will be selected based on rigorous criteria by a judging academy composed of distinguished leaders from academia, education, NGOs, social entrepreneurship, government, civil society, and the private sector.
David Maynier’s Statement
“We are delighted that Christel House will have the opportunity to showcase their ‘best practice’ to the world and are rooting for them to make the finals,” said Maynier. The World’s Best School Prizes are regarded as the world’s most prestigious education awards, offering inspirational schools a share of the $50,000 (R924,816.50) prize and a global platform to replicate their best practices.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
________________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate