Volunteer Applications for 2017 Year Beyond Programme Now Open | Western Cape Government

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Volunteer Applications for 2017 Year Beyond Programme Now Open

22 November 2016

Matriculants and university graduates who have great Maths and English marks are encouraged to apply to become tutors in the Western Cape Government’s Year Beyond programme for 2017.

The programme, launched in 2014, is run in partnership with a number of NGO’s and aims to improve educational outcomes and reduce dropout rates at schools in the province.

It is run in 27 primary and high schools with Mass participation; Opportunity and access; Development and growth (MOD) centres – the afterschool programme run by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sports in schools across the province.

Young people whose applications are successful will work for a year, providing literacy, numeracy and homework support to learners after normal school hours.

At the same time volunteers will have the opportunity to gain much-needed work experience and will be awarded with a leadership certificate from Stellenbosch University.

The volunteer programme also includes a Social Innovation Challenge coordinated by the Frederick van Zyl Slabbert Institute for Leadership Development where volunteers need to propose solutions to socio-economic challenges in the schools where they tutor. Winners receive prizes and their ideas are piloted in their respective schools.

Previous Year Beyond volunteers have benefitted enormously from the programme including gaining valuable life and leadership skills; expanding their social and economic networks and accessing bursary and work experience opportunities.

We therefore encourage keen and compassionate young people who want to make a real contribution towards positive change in South Africa to apply for the 2017 programme (starting in February).

The minimum requirements for Year Beyond volunteers are:

  • Not older than 24 years;
  • Should display personal initiative, courage, leadership and self-management;
  • Have a minimum of a matric certificate with good (60% plus) passes in English and Maths;
  • Should have computer skills; and
  • Should be committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Prospective volunteers can apply via the Year Beyond website – http://www.yearbeyond.org.za

Note to journalists: 2015 Year Beyond volunteers are available to be interviewed on their participation in the programme.

 

Media Enquiries: 

Michael Mpofu
Spokesperson for Premier Helen Zille
071 564 5427
021 483 4584

Michael.Mpofu@westerncape.gov.za