ORT SA CAPE

ORT SA Cape is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) at the forefront of education. Based in Cape Town, South Africa, we are committed to enhancing teaching quality and providing educational opportunities in underserved communities. By supporting educators with training and resources, we aim to ensure that all children, regardless of background, receive the quality education they deserve. Better-trained teachers lead to better-educated children.

Vision:
A future where all educators receive high-quality training and every child has access to excellent education.

Mission:
Empowering teachers and children in underserved communities through educational development and intervention at critical stages of the learning journey.

The strength of our team lies in our extensive educational background and strong quantitative skills, combined with vast teaching and training experience. This equips us with a deep understanding of the challenges within the education sector. Collectively, the ORT SA Cape team works on enhancing our operations and capabilities, ensuring we remain leaders in development and provide the best learning opportunities for all our beneficiaries.

Name of Organization ORT SA Cape
Head Office Location Cape Town, South Africa
Age range High School, Post-High School, Adult Education
Students 3310
Professionals 20

Key Programs and Services

Qualification for Early Childhood Education (ECD) Level 4:​​ 

This accredited 18-month program offers aspiring and current ECD practitioners a comprehensive learning experience, blending theoretical knowledge with practical expertise. Students receive a monthly stipend, sponsored by a corporate partner, ensuring financial barriers to education and development are removed.

ECD Qualification for In-service Practitioners:

In response to new policies, ORT SA CAPE offers a one-year, part-time ECD Level 4 qualification for experienced practitioners, allowing them to balance their work and educational goals while enhancing their skills.

Short Courses for ECD Practitioners and Teachers (Foundation Phase):

  • Learning Through Play: Focus on using LEGO to support language development and critical thinking.
  • Perceptual Skills: Essential foundational skills to help learners interpret instructions and engage with content.
  • Classroom Management: Strategies for creating structured and engaging learning environments.
  • Educational Coding: Using a fun, hands-on approach to introduce coding and robotics.
  • Social and Emotional Learning: Building social emotional intelligence and fostering empathy and  connection in the classroom.

12-month Work Experience Program for Unemployed Youth:

This program provides young individuals with practical work experience in schools and businesses. Participants gain valuable skills and training in Child Development, Learning Through Play, Communication Skills, Career Counselling, and more. They are also paired with mentors and have access to a wellness program.

Alumni Network:

A supportive network for former beneficiaries, providing ongoing professional development, resources, and a community of peers.

ORT SA CAPE Jet:

Our flagship program, Jet, provides mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs, equipping them with the tools and motivation to thrive and contribute to their communities and economies.

Principal’s Network Forum:

Quarterly forums where ECD principals network and engage in professional development, addressing the evolving needs of ECD leadership.

Food Relief:

We distribute monthly food parcels to under-resourced ECD centres, ensuring children have regular access to nutritious meals, which supports their overall development.

Educational Resources:

We provide essential resources to ECD centres, including books, stationery, and other materials that facilitate effective learning.

Impact

Over the past five years, ORT SA Cape has trained over 15,000 educators, impacting nearly 500,000 learners. Our programs equip teachers with the skills and confidence to innovate and inspire, while also supporting over 1,000 unemployed youth through learnerships (qualifications) and internships in schools and small businesses.