Preparing for the future: Opening doors beyond High School

Alongside supporting scholars through their mid-year examinations, the Spirit Foundation focused on preparing Grade 11 and 12 scholars for life after school. The foundation hosted its first in-person Tertiary Education Day, bringing together partners, alumni and staff to provide guidance on tertiary education, career readiness and future opportunities.

Through workshops and presentations from SALT Recruitment, Feenix, the Moshal Programme and Red & Yellow Creative School of Business, scholars gained practical skills in CV writing, LinkedIn profile development, interview preparation, personal branding and accessing tertiary funding opportunities. Alumni played a key role by sharing their own journeys and encouraging scholars as they plan their futures. 

The success of the event highlighted the value of strong partnerships and alumni involvement in helping scholars prepare for the next stage of their lives. To watch the video, click here. 

Looking ahead, the Spirit Foundation is preparing for the launch of its Grade 8 2028 Scholarship Programme in partnership with Cape Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology, while also gearing up for key year-end events as it welcomes new scholars and celebrates those moving on to tertiary education and the workplace.

Spirit Foundation Bonnie People and Kapteintjies ECD Centres

A quarter filled with learning, laughter and new experiences

Quarter three was a busy and joyful season for learners at Spirit Foundation’s Bonnie People and Kapteintjies ECD Centres. During the July school holidays, children participated in the Winter Holiday Programme, enjoying a variety of educational and recreational activities, including arts and crafts, sensory play, games and outdoor fun, while continuing to learn, build friendships and receive nutritious meals.

A standout highlight of the quarter was the annual ECD Concert, themed Under the Sea. After weeks of preparation, learners confidently took to the stage dressed as sea creatures, delighting families and guests with their performances. The concert celebrated not only their creativity and enthusiasm but also the confidence and personal growth they demonstrated by performing in front of an audience.

Quarter three provided many memorable opportunities for Spirit Foundation’s ECD learners to learn and grow beyond the classroom. Volunteers from Stellenbosch Business School visited the centres, helping prepare for the annual concert and engaging children in creative activities, including a popular clay workshop that fostered connection, creativity and fun.

Learners also enjoyed their annual Animal Week outing, where they visited a local farm to see animals up close and participated in a special day of learning and exploration. Career Day encouraged children to dream big as they dressed up as their future professions, while Crazy Hat Day brought colour and excitement as the centres celebrated the arrival of spring.

These experiences highlighted the importance of holistic early childhood development, showing that learning happens through play, exploration, creativity and meaningful interactions. The Foundation remains grateful to its teachers, families, partners and supporters for helping create enriching opportunities that allow children to learn, grow and dream.

Spirit International Football Academy (SIFA)

Champions in the making!

Quarter three has been a period of strong growth and success for the Spirit International Football Academy (SIFA), with players across all age groups showing steady development and an increasing understanding of the academy’s football philosophy. The Foundation and Senior Phase teams have focused on strengthening technical skills, tactical awareness and their ability to apply training principles in competitive matches.

SIFA achieved several impressive results during the quarter, including an unbeaten run to the Bayview Tournament semi-finals and a series of dominant league victories across all age groups. The U18 team has also enjoyed a successful Coke Cup campaign, advancing to the Round of 16.

Most importantly, the academy is developing a clear and recognisable football identity, with players increasingly translating what they learn in training into match performances. This combination of player development, consistent coaching and competitive success provides a strong foundation for continued progress throughout the season.