Beyond the bell: KILT’s After-School Programmes are changing lives!
In many South African communities, the hours between school and sunset can be the most vulnerable time in a child’s day. When the final school bell rings in Knysna, many children need after-school programmes and somewhere to go.
After-school programmes play a critical role in offering structure, safety, and support. For children facing poverty, overcrowded living conditions, or lack of supervision at home, after-school hours often mean exposure to unsafe environments. According to UNESCO, In sub-Saharan Africa, over one-fifth of children between the ages of 6 and 11 are out of school, followed by one-third of youth between the ages of 12 and 14. Additionally, almost 60% of youth between the ages of 15 and 17 are not in school. Added to this a study by the Centre for Justice and Crime Prevention found that incidents of youth victimisation peak between 2pm and 6pm — the very hours when many children and young adults are out of school but not yet home. In this context, these after-school programmes don’t just keep children safe — they help them stay in school, improve academic performance, build life skills, and develop a sense of belonging and purpose.
That’s why, at KILT, we believe education shouldn’t end when the bell rings. Our after-school programmes offer more than academic support—they are lifelines, providing safe, structured, and nurturing spaces where our children can holistically thrive, stay safe and in school.
Now when class ends they step into a world of opportunity, support, and growth. Our after-school programmes are designed to provide safe, nurturing environments where they can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. It’s about creating a network of care at our schools, beyond the bell.
How are KILT’s After-School Programmes changing lives?
In many ways, these after-school programmes are when real opportunity begins. Our After-School Project is more than just an academic support programme; it’s a lifeline for our kids, a foundation for the future, and a catalyst for unlocking untapped potential.
A Safe space to learn, play, and grow:
Through our After-School Programmes, children across all our partner schools in Grades 4 to 12 are offered structured, supportive spaces to study, gain practical skills, play sports, and explore exciting fields like robotics and coding. The project includes four key programmes:
1. After-School Study Clubs:
Safe, structured spaces where KILT Study Club kids and young adults receive academic support, do homework, and build study habits in a nurturing environment.
2. LEGO Robotics and Coding:
A hands-on programme that introduces children to the world of coding, robotics, technology, problem-solving, and creative thinking through fun, tech-based learning and competitions.
3. Vocational Focus Programme:
A life-changing initiative that helps high achieving youth explore career pathways, gain practical skills, and prepare for work, study and life after school.
4. After-School Sport (Primary & High School):
Encouraging healthy living, teamwork, and confidence through inclusive, structured sport sessions that keep children engaged and active after hours.
In 2024 alone, we held 2922 structured sports sessions across Knysna’s no-fee paying schools. This effort ensured our kids not only had physical outlets but also developed vital life skills like teamwork and resilience.
These initiatives aren’t just extracurricular—they’re critical!
