Chelo changing lives in Hout bay
Raising funds CHELO raises much needed funds through various initiatives and is also supported by sponsors and donors to keep the programme running.
Image: Supplied
A Hout Bay organisation is looking to add more students to their thriving bursary programme.
Back in 2007, a group of parents at the Hout Bay International School (HBIS) partnered with the school administration to launch a bursary programme focusing on previously disadvantaged pupils in Hout Bay.
At the same time, they established Children of Hout Bay Education and Learning Opportunity (CHELO), a non-profit organisation to help support the inclusion and success of these new pupils at HBIS.
CHELO chairperson, Danielle Timmins, said the programme currently has 13 pupils – from Grade R to 12 that are enrolled at the school and supported by the CHELO programme.
"While HBIS provides the bursary, CHELO offers essential support, including mentorship, occupational therapy, educational services, tutoring, extra-mural activities, school uniforms, and stationery," she said.
In December later this year, CHELO will celebrate a significant milestone, which is the graduation of their current oldest and a very promising student from the CHELO programme with an International Baccalaureate (IB) DP Diploma.
"This achievement opens the door to a wide range of higher education opportunities, both locally and internationally. We are delighted that they plan to continue studies at university," Ms Timmins said.
The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is a rigorous, internationally recognised curriculum for pupils aged 16 to 19, respected by leading universities around the world.
CHELO is managed by a board of five volunteer parents with expertise ranging from finance to marketing and is supported by volunteers assisting with fundraising and mentorship. Funding for this programme comes from private sponsors and donors, civvies halloween dress-up fundraisers, and their much loved annual Festival of Fun, where the entire HBIS community purchases tickets for an evening of fundraising, unity and community building.
Parents and guardians are invited to apply for Grade 1 for next year (January 2026 entry). Applications are open until Monday June 9.
To support CHELO’s mission or find out more about the programme and how to apply, visit their website at www.chelo.org.za