Brescia House learners grow their voices and a forest in Madagascar
Through storytelling, entrepreneurship, and environmental action, Brescia House School’s Grade 5 and 9 learners' year-long journey has transformed them into authors, leaders, and changemakers and even helped plant a forest in Madagascar.
Brescia House School has redefined what purposeful education can look like.
This year, the school’s Grade 5 and 9 learners embarked on two enrichment programmes: The Wonderful World of Trees and Write a Book to Change the World, a study in spreading hope.
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What unfolded was far more than a curriculum; it was a journey that empowered the learners to see themselves as creators, collaborators, and global citizens.
In partnership with Upschool and guided by Kyle van der Merwe, the school’s media and curriculum support specialist, the programmes invited learners to explore how storytelling can shape society and how environmental stewardship can change the future.
“Throughout the year, the girls explored global tree species, environmental challenges, world issues, and the power of writing with purpose,” said Van der Merwe. “They learned how ideas grow stronger through collaboration, and how their voices can inspire real-world change.”
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A highlight of the experience was the cross-grade teamwork, with Grade 5 and Grade 9 learners pairing their unique strengths to support each other’s stories and research.
Meanwhile, the Grade 9 Market Day added an exciting entrepreneurial layer. By budgeting, pricing, and marketing their stalls, learners raised R3 800, contributing directly to Brescia’s environmental mission.
That mission became a reality when students raised about R12 000, securing the planting of the Brescia-branded forest in Madagascar through a partnership with Evergreen.
Their chosen location will help restore forests, protect endangered species, and support local communities. “This incredible, student-driven effort stands as a shining example of young people turning creativity into climate action,” Van der Merwe said.
The year culminated in the inaugural Literary Linkup, where eight Grade 9 learners represented Brescia among literacy leaders from more than 30 Gauteng schools. Their confidence, professionalism, and storytelling talent captivated attendees.
“They created, they served, they led and they made a difference. I am immensely proud of the faith they placed in me throughout this journey.”
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