Khanyisa supports children with disabilities 

In 1994, Khanyisa opened its doors with one teacher and three pupils. The school grew quickly, and in 1997 moved from the one classroom it occupied in Wynberg, to larger, rented premises in Plumstead. At the end of 1999, the staff, supported by the Executive Committee, did extensive work redefining the mission of the school. It was decided that Khanyisa is for the child with a permanent disability.

The school caters for children and young people aged between 8 and 19, who cannot manage in a mainstream school system. Most of the learners fall in the grey area between mainstream and government special schools. The school offers children the joy of learning and discovering in their own way.

Khanyisa School Objectives 

• To cater for children who have a disability that cannot be met through remedial education alone.
• To enable each child to reach their academic potential.
• To work with the individuality of the child, allowing him/her to step through his/her encumbrance, in order to find a place in life with confidence. 
• To work towards equipping young people to gain practical life and technological skills. This will enable them to be productive in the workplace and independent in life.

Khanyisa school structure

In 2008, there will be six classes with 74 learners aged between 9 and 19. Khanyisa accepts learners from all over the Cape Peninsula, from different cultural and economic backgrounds. Lower School (from 9 – 13 years old) Central to our approach, is the use of specific themes for particular ages, aimed at meeting and assisting the inner development of the child. This is accompanied by recognition of the profound healing power of arts and crafts and supported by a rhythm in daily and weekly activities. The child’s sense of self worth is fostered in a way which provides alternative channels for development.

In addition to the reading, writing and cultural subjects, the special education curriculum includes cognitive training, movement, painting, hand-crafts and sport.

Senior School (from 14 – 19 years old)

The curriculum is divided into three major parts; 

• Acquiring general knowledge and improving basic reading, writing and number work, through a daily main lesson. 
• Learning skills, such as; gardening, home maintenance, woodwork and pottery.
• Participating in art classes, such as; painting, music eurhythmy (movement) and gym. Through the variety of tasks offered during the school day, the young people gain confidence and self-esteem and are able to contribute to their world in a more meaningful and productive way.

Should you wish to make a financial contribution to the school, the bank account details are as follows: Bank Account (in the name of Khanyisa School) Account number 1011 0465 20 Nedbank Constantia Branch 101-109 Cape Province Accreditation NPO Number: 005-907 NPO SARS Reg No: 930001491 For more information, please contact the school on 021-761-1709, or 021-762-9134. Alternatively, e-mail info@khanyisaschool.co.za.