OUR STORIES

Christel House South Africa is proud to once again be recognised as a Microsoft Elevate Showcase School for the 2026–2027 programme year, joining a global community of schools committed to innovation, digital transformation and the future of education. 

For our non-profit, no-fee school in Cape Town, this recognition is particularly meaningful. Christel House South Africa serves children from some of the city’s most vulnerable communities, and we believe that a child’s socioeconomic circumstances should never determine their access to technology, digital skills or opportunities for the future. 

Bridging the digital divide through education 

Technology-enabled learning is already embedded across our school. Our students benefit from a 1:1 student-to-device ratio, giving them access to digital tools that support learning and help build the confidence and skills required for an increasingly technology-driven world. 

Beyond the classroom, students have opportunities to develop practical future-ready skills through coding, robotics, drone technology and esports, alongside learning in our fully equipped Computer Applications Technology (CAT) lab. 

These opportunities are particularly important for young people growing up in communities where access to devices, connectivity and emerging technologies can be limited. By providing this exposure at school, we aim to help bridge the digital divide and ensure our students can participate meaningfully in the future economy. 

Preparing students for an AI-powered future 

Next Gen Learning is a key strategic focus in Christel House South Africa’s 2026–2030 Business Plan. As technology and artificial intelligence reshape education and the world of work, our focus is not simply on giving students access to technology, but on teaching them how to use it effectively and responsibly. 

We are building AI proficiency among both educators and students, while exploring how AI and other digital tools can strengthen teaching, learning and innovation. 

Importantly, we believe technology should enhance rather than replace the qualities at the heart of a great education. Our approach to responsible AI in education places creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, empathy and human connection alongside digital proficiency. 

Technology with purpose 

Being recognised as a Microsoft Elevate Showcase School gives Christel House South Africa the opportunity to learn alongside innovative schools around the world, share best practices and continue exploring how technology can improve educational experiences and outcomes. 

It also reinforces an important principle behind our model: students from vulnerable communities deserve access to the same high-quality technology, learning experiences and future opportunities as their more affluent peers. 

Providing this level of technology-enabled education requires continued investment in devices, infrastructure, specialist programmes, educator development and access to emerging technologies. Support from donors and corporate partners helps us sustain and expand these opportunities, ensuring that students can build the digital skills they need to succeed beyond school. 

Our Microsoft Elevate Showcase School recognition reflects a collective commitment across Christel House South Africa. We thank our leadership and Next Gen Team for driving this work forward, as well as every staff member who continues to embrace new ways of teaching, learning and working.