News

Have a Blessed Festive Season!

As the festive lights begin to glow and the air fills with laughter, song, and the sweet promise of new beginnings, we find ourselves filled with profound gratitude — not just for the season, but for continued support from our generous donors.

Their unwavering support has turned classrooms into places of wonder, transformed tools into dreams, and whispered hope into the ears of children who believe — for the first time — that their future is bright.

This year, we’ve watched learners light up as they learn about coding and robotics. We’ve seen shy faces beam with pride after they finish a gross motor activity, or finished reading a book they chose for themselves. We’ve seen learners come to life during interactions with dedicated volunteers. We’ve seen learners imagination sparked during site visits.

We’ve seen the ripple effect of so much generosity — in every smile, every “I can do it!” and every quiet moment of discovery. In this year’s Sparrow UK newsletters, you’ve I journey with us through stories of resilience, triumph, and the sheer magic of education in action.

However, before the year is over, From our youngest learners in Foundation to our budding Grade 7’s, we have some more stories from the last chapter of 2025 to share! Updates on how what support continues to make possible.

To our donors, we would like to say thank you and as we close this chapter and look ahead to 2026, we invite you to pause, celebrate, and savour the joy you’ve helped create. You’re not just a donor — you’re a guardian of dreams, a believer in possibility, and a quiet hero in the lives of so many.

To those who have not donated but looking for somewhere to make a difference, to give back. We invite you to reach out and find out how we can create meaningful change together.

Wishing every reader and their loved ones a season overflowing with warmth, rest, and the kind of happiness that lingers long after the last gift is opened.

Eeufees Tea

On 6 November, Sparrow Combined Technical Skills School opened its doors to residents from the Eeufees Old Age Home for a heartwarming afternoon of laughter, connection, and celebration.

The guests were warmly welcomed and cared for by our Hospitality learners, who served delicious meals with genuine love and dedication—thanks to the generous support of South Bakels, whose contribution made this nourishing experience possible.

To make the day even more special, the Beauty Hub Academy provided pampering sessions—gentle hand massages, hair styling, and thoughtful touches that left our guests feeling cherished.The air filled with music as the school’s marimba band brought the afternoon to life with vibrant, joyful performances. Tunes that had residents tapping their feet, smiling broadly, and even dancing in their seats— proof that connection knows no age.

This event was more than an outing—it was a reminder of the power of community, compassion, and the simple magic of being seen and heard. We are deeply grateful to all our partners, learners, and staff who made this day unforgettable.

First Annual Art Festival at Sparrow

On 31 October, the stage at Sparrow Combined Technical Skills School came alive with creativity, courage, and heart—marking the inaugural Sparrow Art Festival.

Learners took center stage with a powerful, moving performance of the original play Through the Generations.

The evening soared even higher with the school’s very first Talent Show—a dazzling showcase of hidden gifts and boundless potential.

This unforgettable night was made possible by the dedication of our staff, the unwavering support of our community, and the extraordinary energy of our students.

Crazy Black Dudes brought their creativity, vision, and infectious enthusiasm to the festival— turning a dream into a dazzling reality.

The festival ignited a new tradition of pride, possibility, and community at Sparrow.

Activating Sparrow

On 30 October, Sparrow Schools Educational Trust had the privilege of participating in a vibrant community activation event hosted by Shell Melville.

Our learners took the stage to showcase their marimba talents, filling the air with rhythm, joy, and the unmistakable spirit of Sparrow. Their performance not only entertained but also reminded everyone present of the transformative power of music—and the potential that thrives within our learners.

Shell Melville’s invitation to participate in the activation provided a powerful platform for our learners to share their music and connect with the broader community.

Special Awards Ceremony

On 23 October, the Sparrow Combined Technical Skills School honoured its top performers with a special awards ceremony.

The prestigious Richard Bernhard Award was presented to Lesedi Maketa (Y3A), the Jason van Wyk Award to Senathi Zondi (Y3A), and the Ulf Brinkmann Award to Kgaugelo Mahoa (Y3A)—each a shining example of perseverance and achievement.

Lesedi Maboa, Mbowane Hope, Zikalala Cebisa, Atlegang Mogorosi and Lesedi Rakhetsi (from Y3A all received the South Bakels Bursary Award.

We extend our deepest gratitude to South Bakels for your unwavering support and generosity— your investment in our learners’ futures is making a lasting difference.Congratulations to all our award recipients—your hard work, discipline, and spirit continue to inspire our entire school community.

The following day, on 24 October, we celebrated another milestone: the graduation of our Assistant Chef cohort from 2023 and 2024.

We have no doubt they will continue to cook up greatness—both in their careers and in their communities.

Open and Market Day

On 18 October, Sparrow Foundation School proudly hosted its very first Open Day — a milestone moment for our community!

This special day was all about connection, creativity, and celebrating the heart of our school. We officially opened our doors to prospective parents and community members, inviting them to experience the incredible work happening at Sparrow Foundation School. Guests enjoyed guided school tours, a warm meet & greet with our dedicated teachers, and a vibrant programme designed for both our current learners and their families.

The grounds were filled with excitement as families enjoyed face painting, cupcake decorating, a lively jumping castle, and so much more. Local businesses also brought wonderful energy to the day, showcasing their unique products and talents.

A heartfelt thank you to the amazing vendors who helped make the event truly memorable

• Tata Creations Crochet
• Catherine’s Tupperware & Fresh Eggs
• Kids Teddies & Toys by Nongaze Mzolo
• Mumukha Creations
• Remar SA
• Notz & Kross

A New Website for Sparrow Schools

Sparrow Schools Educational Trust is excited to announce the launch of our new website!

A place to explore our story, our schools, and our mission to empower every learner to thrive.

Visit us at: www.sparroweducationfoundation.org

This is more than a website. It’s a window into how we’re shaping brighter futures — one learner, one moment, one possibility at a time.

We invite all our current donors as well as companies looking for a worthy cause to support to have a look at this new and improved site.

Celebrating Wellness

On 17 October, Sparrow Schools Educational Trust paused to celebrate wellness — a vital reminder that caring for ourselves is not a luxury, but a necessity.

The day included a yoga session facilitated by Virgin Active South Africa, a powerful session on the importance of healthy eating by Discovery South Africa’s HealthyFood Studio, informative sessions and advice on financial health hosted by Standard Bank, and the opportunity to register as a stem cell donor with DKMS Africa. It also included refreshments from aQuellé, rolls from My Spar Bergborn, prices for a raffle provided by Mondi Group, and goodie bags from Vumatel.

Together, these partnerships turned a day of rest and reflection into a meaningful experience — one that reminded us all.

Athletics Day

October began with energy, spirit, and the sound of cheers echoing across the track — as Sparrow Foundation School hosted its annual Athletics Day on 3 October.

The three houses — Jaguars, Cheetahs, and Leopards — took to the field with pride and playful rivalry, showcasing not just speed and strength, but the true power of teamwork and sportsmanship. Beyond the learners, parents and teachers joined in the celebration, turning the day into a vibrant community gathering.

For our neurodiverse learners — whose gifts often shine brightest beyond the classroom — this was more than a competition. It was an opportunity to be seen, celebrated, and empowered. Athletics Day reminded us all that physical wellbeing, healthy competition, and mutual respect are foundational to growth.

We are deeply proud of our learners for their courage, our teachers for their dedication, and our families for their wholehearted support. Together, you made this day unforgettable.

The Feeding scheme

Raising Awareness, Strengthening our Safeguards

Hunger undermines a child’s ability to thrive in every area of life. Meeting basic needs such as food is essential, as learners cannot concentrate or perform academically when hungry.

At Sparrow, we recognise this challenge. Many of our learners come from under-resourced communities where going without a meal is all too common. These realities place additional pressure on children who are trying to learn, grow, and dream of a better future.

Sparrow Schools responds to this need through our feeding scheme, ensuring every learner receives a nutritious and balanced meal.

This isn’tjust about food; it’s about dignity, energy, and giving each child the foundation they need to succeed.

The feeding scheme is sustained through the generosity and care of those who believe in what we do.

If you’d like to get involved, offer support, or simply learn more about how you can make a difference, please reach out to renata.noble@sparrowportal.co.za.

A Retirement at Sparrow Schools

Sparrow Schools Educational Trust is thrilled to commend Beth-Ann for an extraordinary thirty years of devoted service to the Sparrow Education Foundation and Sparrow Schools. For three decades, Beth-Ann has been a steadfast pillar of purpose, guiding this institution with vision, compassion, and unwavering integrity.

We are so grateful for her commitment, which has not only shaped the organisation’s mission but also transformed the lives of countless learners who have passed through its doors. From the formative years of Sparrow’s journey to its evolution into a beacon of hope and excellence, Beth-Ann’s leadership has illuminated the path forward, grounding strategy in humanity and turning ideals into lasting impact.

As Beth-Ann concludes her tenure as Trustee, we extend our profound gratitude for her mentorship, service, and vision. Her legacy is woven into the very fabric of Sparrow. Hers is an enduring testament to what purpose and conviction can achieve.

HAPPY RETIREMENT – BETH-ANN KESCHNER

Thank you for your years of dedication and outstanding service. Your leadership and positive influence have left a lasting legacy within our organisation. Wishing you all the best in your retirement journey.

Sparrow Schools Celebration of Christmas

Thank you to all of Sparrow’s supporters and those who attended the Sparrow Schools 20th Celebration of Christmas. Your contributions play a vital role in transforming the lives of neurodivergent children from underserved communities.

Your support enables Sparrow to continue delivering impactful, meaningful programmes to neurodiverse children and youth.