Belvedere calls for support
Belvedere School is looking to increase the chance of their learners finding work when they leave school; many are unable to find employment as they do not have a matric certificate.
The school’s principal, Hannes du Plessis, said about 50 per cent of children who enter his school later battle to find work, because many leave before matric.
“That disqualifies a lot of children in my school,” he said.
The principal explained that a large number of children leave the school at the first exit level, which is Grade Nine.
Based on performance, they will be allowed to continue with Grades 10, 11 and 12.
In an effort to increase the number of learners who find jobs after school, du Plessis is calling on business owners to employ his learners, who, he said, already have several years’ experience by the time they leave school.
Belvedere School mostly caters for children who are mildly intellectually disabled.
They also have children who have specific learning disabilities and those who are severely intellectually disabled.
Apart from their normal schooling subjects, depending on the grade they’re in, the boys are able to obtain skills in woodwork, construction, plumbing, welding, sheet metal making and fitting and turning.
There is also a motor centre and one for forklifting, where learners can obtain an operational management licence and forklifters’ licence.
For girls, there are options of office practice, hospitality studies and hairdressing.
Although the school does have sponsors, du Plessis said work placement is the next priority.
“My need is to get them placed into a job,” he said.
“We need to partner with industry in Benoni and, with that, we can have an open day and show businesses what our children can do.
“Are you willing to help us?
“Are you willing to get involved by taking these children into the workplace and giving them a chance?”
Llywelyn Moodley (20), who left Belvedere after Grade 11, last year, has battled to find work this year.
His mother, Julie, said her son has done odd jobs, but has not found permanent work.
She added that he is an example of the many children who cannot find work when leaving the school, despite the school’s good work with them.
“As a parent, the attention they gave my son and the building up of his self-esteem has really been a help to him,” the mother said.
Du Plessis said some of the former pupils have gone on to open their own businesses, with one recently obtaining his qualification in motor mechanics.
The principal added that many children are unable to afford the expensive cost of skills training.
To assist, contact du Plessis on 011 849 4131/54 or 072 570 1121.
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