One of the highlights this term was a visit to DHL Stadium, where our kids had the incredible opportunity to train with Damian Willemse, Johnny Sexton, and members of the Stormers squad. The excitement was palpable as they learned from the pros, soaking up skills and inspiration.  Thank you John Dobson and Duncan Cruikshank and the Stormers for making this incredible opportunity possible. 

Fifteen of our VUSA children and staff laced up for the beautiful ABAX Milkwood Run last month, soaking up the stunning coastal views and fresh air over 10km of camaraderie and determination. Thank you to Olympic for generously sponsoring a brand-new pair of running shoes for each of our participants, and to the Harfield Harriers for once again inviting us to be part of this special event.

After crossing the finish line, our athletes enjoyed a well-earned breakfast at Spur—refueling after their incredible effort. Our very own social worker, Sabelo, is already in training for the next one—proof that this programme creates opportunities for both the young and the young-at-heart.

Thanks to an incredible partnership between Great Britain 7s Rugby team and Active Ops through the Try for Good campaign, our children enjoyed an unforgettable rugby clinic filled with fun, energy, and inspiration. Even more powerful was the impact off the field — the R80,000 raised has gone directly into renovating our computer lab, creating a brighter, better space for learning.

Thank you to everyone at Team GB7’s and Active Ops for making this possible.

Stodels has partnered with us to breathe new life into the garden at Ikhaya le Langa – a space that has long been in need of some love. Together, we’re working towards a vibrant transformation that includes a succulent garden, a thriving veggie patch, a peaceful library garden, and a splash of colour to brighten up the children’s playground.

We cannot wait to see this beautiful space come to life and we’re so grateful to Stodels for helping us sow the seeds of change.

Thank you to Capitec and their incredible staff for rolling up their sleeves and helping us with renovations. We’re also deeply grateful to Asset Matrix and GIMCO for the beautiful furniture (and to All Office for transporting it) that’s bringing our vision to life.  Together, you've helped us take huge strides toward creating a vibrant hub at our new home in Langa.

Next up:

Transforming the old diner into an income-generating training space, building an undercover area for all-weather use, completing a homework classroom that doubles as a community boardroom / workshopping space, and adding the finishing touches – windows, Nutec boards, gutters, and a fresh coat of paint for the buildings.

Want to get involved? There’s still work to be done and we’d love your help! Whether it’s time, resources, or expertise – every contribution helps us grow something special. Reach out to info@vusaacademy.org and be part of the change.

Pre-season kicked off with a match at Hamiltons Rugby Club, where our players tested their skills and built camaraderie ahead of an action-packed year. With a strong emphasis on teamwork, discipline, and growth, the match set the tone for an exciting season ahead, where our players will continue to develop their skills and take on new challenges.

Our Early Childhood Development (ECD) programmes are giving young children the best possible start. Through play-based activities that build literacy, numeracy, and motor skills, over 100 little ones (Age 4-6)  across three centres are gaining the confidence whilst they learn through play.  Run by passionate local facilitators, the programme is laying strong foundations for a lifetime of learning.

Thank you to Mercedes Artigue-Beatty for assisting with staff training this term.

Our Digibus continues to be a game-changer, helping children strengthen their English, Maths, and Coding skills in a fun and interactive way. Through the use of incredible computer programmes like Reading Eggs (thank you 3P Learning), Matific, and Code4Kids, this programme is growing from strength to strength — giving children the tools they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond.

We’re incredibly grateful to Coronation Fund Management for their continued investment in this vital programme.

A sincere thank you to Shoprite through their Act For Change initiative and to the Lunchbox Fund for partnering with us once again to ensure that our children are well-nourished every day. Because of your support, our children never have to play a match hungry or try to learn on an empty stomach.

Your commitment helps us do more than just feed children — it fuels their potential.

Thanks to Investec’s generous support, we’re thrilled to introduce Kuhle-ke Mkosana a passionate new teacher to our Maths programme — someone who brings experience expertise to the classroom.

With a BSc in Mathematical Sciences and Statistics and a PGCE, she combines academic excellence with a deep commitment to community upliftment. Raised in the Cape Flats, she understands firsthand the power of education in transforming lives. As the founder and former chairperson of the UWC Math Club, and vice principal of her church’s Sunday school, she’s spent years mentoring and inspiring young minds both in and out of the classroom.

Her goal? To create a safe, inclusive space where every learner can discover their potential and build confidence through Maths.

Thank you, Investec, for helping us make this kind of impact possible.

The art and music programmes are up and running - we cannot wait to show you some of the creative talent - watch this space.

For growing children, shoes are more than just a necessity—they're a symbol of dignity, comfort, and care. Little feet grow quickly, and for many families, keeping up is a challenge. That’s why we’re incredibly grateful to In Our Shoes and The Catch Trust for their inspiring initiative to collect and redistribute second-hand shoes to children who need them most.

A special thank you also to Sue and Darren at the Woodbridge Tennis Club for rallying together to collect shoes for our children and to Katie and the Moran family for getting them to our children all the way from the UK. These donations mean everything — warmth, confidence, comfort and style and the chance to run, play, and learn with pride.

Thank you for putting shoes and smiles on so many little feet.

Beyond sport and academics, we are committed to the overall well-being of the children in our programme. Our social worker, Sabelo, in collaboration with SAPS, has been leading community workshops, tackling important topics that equip children with the knowledge and confidence to navigate their environment safely.

We continue to strengthen our work with 5 schools in Langa, ensuring that young children receive the foundational support they need to thrive, being able to say no and recognising the potential pitfalls in society.

We’re so happy to welcome a group of wonderful new faces to our VUSA team — from dedicated coaches and caring teachers and facilitators to our friendly and dependable driver. Each one brings a ton of experience and a passion for working with children. It’s always special when our VUSA team grows, and we hope VUSA brings as much joy, growth, and purpose to their lives as we know they will bring to our children’s.

We’re going to miss this guy! Monwabisi Tshotwana joined the VUSA team as a strength and conditioning coach, and from day one, brought not just expertise, but also passion. We always knew his growing business would eventually pull him away, but that doesn’t make saying goodbye any easier.

Monwa, thank you for your time, your knowledge, and your kindness and for always expecting the best from others by leading with your own. VUSA is better because of you.

If you’re looking for an incredible personal trainer, we guarantee, Monwa is your guy and can be reached at 067 927 7733

Reflections on My Time at VUSA

“During my time at VUSA, I have gained invaluable experience working with a large number of children and collaborating with an incredible team. The supportive and welcoming environment felt like a second family to me.

My journey at VUSA has also contributed significantly to my personal growth. Attending therapy and participating in workshops helped me develop both professionally and personally, enhancing my ability to work with children. I have also cultivated essential qualities such as discipline, punctuality, teamwork, and a deeper love for the game.

What I will miss most are the children and my wonderful colleagues, whose kindness and camaraderie have made this experience truly special.

As I move forward, I am grateful for the friendships, love, and respect I have built, which I hope will continue beyond my time at VUSA.

The Bishops PA VUSA Golf Day is around the corner, and fourballs are filling up fast! If you haven’t secured your spot yet, now’s the time. It’s set to be a fantastic day of golf, networking, and community support.