Thinking boldly about careers early!

27 August 2025

Grade 7 learners from Bonteheuwel and surrounding areas were given an opportunity to step into the world of work through an exciting and interactive Career Expo arranged by the Metro Central Education District.

The initiative, on Tuesday, 26 August 2025, was led by Kim Thompson and formed part of the district’s Life Orientation programme to broaden learners’ horizons and plant seeds of aspiration long before they leave primary school. “Too often, our learners only begin thinking seriously about careers much later in their schooling,” said Thompson. “By introducing them to different industries and professions now, we give them the chance to dream earlier, plan better and see the possibilities that lie ahead.”

The Expo brought together an impressive line-up of guest speakers, including Anslin Gysman, Dr Mervyn Coetzee and Dr Chezlyn Baatjies, who challenged learners to think boldly about their futures. The hall was abuzz with excitement as learners engaged with exhibitors from diverse fields, including engineering, law, arts and law enforcement.

The Career Expo was also part of the district’s larger vision of Building the Bonteheuwel Brand and aligns with the Growth 4 Jobs strategy, highlighting the importance of preparing young people with the skills and exposure they need to thrive in the modern world.

To ensure impact and focus, four schools were selected to participate in this pilot project, with three schools attending on the day – Bergsig Primary, Mimosa Primary and Cedar Primary. This smaller grouping ensured that every learner had time to engage meaningfully with speakers and exhibitors.

The event was a collaborative effort, driven by passionate Life Orientation teachers working closely with Thompson. They were Senami Syce and Graham Hector from Bergsig Primary School, Ammarah Ford-Pieters and George Snyders from Cedar Primary School and Nadia Fisher from Mimosa Primary School.

Strong support also came from the Specialised Learner and Educator Support team and Safe Schools, with Yvahn Gerwel and Devin Adams playing key roles in ensuring the smooth running and safety of the programme.

“These teachers and partners embraced the vision wholeheartedly,” Thompson said. “They helped shape the programme, prepared their learners, and showed what can happen when schools, districts and support services work hand-in-hand. This was about more than just an event; it was about building bridges to opportunity.”

Learners left the hall buzzing with questions, ideas and new ambitions. The Career Expo proved that when schools, communities and industry partners come together, education becomes a powerful tool to inspire hope and drive change.

MCED plans to build on this success, ensuring that this Career Expo is just the beginning of a new tradition that empowers Bonteheuwel’s young people to dream bigger and reach higher.