On the 4th of May we officially welcomed 23 new Grade RR students as part of our Junior School expansion journey.

For many of our newest students, it was their very first day of formal schooling, a day filled with excitement, curiosity, and new beginnings. Students met their teacher, explored their new learning environment, connected with classmates, and proudly received their school uniforms as they took their first steps into the Christel House South Africa family.

While this moment was deeply meaningful for our students and families, it also represents something far greater: a long-term commitment to expanding access to quality, holistic education for more children and communities across Cape Town.

This intake forms part of our strategic growth pathway to 2030, through which we aim to expand our Junior School to a full capacity of 90 students per grade from Grade RR to Grade 7.

This growth is not simply about increasing numbers. It is about deepening our impact, strengthening educational opportunity, and creating pathways for more children to access the comprehensive support and learning environment that Christel House South Africa provides.

Behind this milestone has been months of careful planning, collaboration, and preparation across multiple teams within the organisation.

This expansion reflects the dedication of educators, leadership teams, support staff, and community partners who share a collective vision of creating greater educational access and long-term impact for children and families.

As we welcome this new Grade RR class, we are reminded that every student journey begins with a single step, and every opportunity created today has the potential to shape a brighter future tomorrow.

As our Junior School Principal, Carol Kriel, shared:
“Our Junior School expansion is about creating access and opportunity for more children during some of the most important developmental years of their lives. Watching our newest students walk through the school gates for the very first time was a powerful reminder of why this work matters. Every child who joins our school brings with them potential, hope, and the opportunity for a brighter future. We are excited to welcome these students and families into a community that is committed to nurturing both learning and wellbeing.”

As our school grows, so too does the need for additional classroom resources and increased teacher capacity to ensure that every learner continues to receive the high level of support, care, and individual attention that defines the Christel House approach.

If you would like to support this expansion and be part of enabling access to quality education for more learners, please reach out to our Development and Partnerships Director, Lara Black at lblack@sa.christelhouse.org