Nkosazana Ngwadla
Booysen Park High School is taking major steps to provide students with practical skills through its diverse curriculum.
Offering subjects like office administration, hairdressing, art, agriculture, and beauty, the school aims to equip learners with real-world experience.
“These practical studies enable our learners to be qualified in a skill with experience upon completion,” said Amber Blommetjie, an educator at Booysen Park High School.
However, the school faces challenges due to a lack of essential tools and equipment.
For office administration, they require more computers, laptops, and projectors. The hairdressing course lacks hairdryers, flat irons, and clippers, while the agriculture programme needs gardening tools and protective gear. The beauty courses are short of essential oils, nail kits, makeup kits, and towels.
Blommetjie noted, “The lack of proper equipment significantly impacts the quality of education, as our curriculum consists of 70% practical and only 30% theory. This gap makes it challenging to maintain the intended high standard of the programme.”
Despite these challenges, the benefits of practical studies are unmissable. Students gain valuable skills and experience that open doors to future opportunities.
“There are several success stories. Some former students are employed as administrators, while others have started their own businesses in the beauty sector,” Blommetjie proudly shared, smiling from ear to ear.
This year marks the school’s first attempt to seek assistance from the community and local micro-businesses. Blommetjie explained, “We welcome any new or seldomly-used equipment from small businesses and individuals within our community. It’s about creating a support network to enhance our programmes.”
The school envisions an improved programme where learners are not only experienced, but also certified in their skills upon graduation.
“Our long-term vision includes connecting students with entrepreneurial influences and workshops for those wishing to pursue their own businesses post-school,” said Blommetjie.
The school ensures relevance in its courses through the guidance of a youth development facilitator. This educator keeps the curriculum aligned with industry needs and opportunities in Nelson Mandela Bay.
“We constantly update our courses to stay relevant with industry demands,” Blommetjie affirmed.
Community support is vital for the success of Booysen Park High School’s practical studies programme. By requesting donations of equipment or resources, Blommetjie stressed that local businesses and residents can play a crucial role in shaping the future of these young learners.
“We at Booysen Park High School, are committed to empowering our students, preparing them for successful careers, and fostering a thriving local community through practical education,” the passionate educator concluded.
For more info, contact the school at 041 483 5001.
