The children are given a safe haven.

The Clever Kids Academy in Melkbosstrand is in need of financial help. The ACVV runs the crèche as a service for Melkbosstrand, Wolwerivier and 17 surrounding farms. They charge only R225 per child per month, but parents often struggle to pay this.

Principal, Faiza van der Merwe, remains unruffled. She explains above the clamour made by 35 Grade R and Grade 0 learners that the children “work hard.” She points at timetables and artwork on the walls. The subjects studied include vegetables, animals, and how to use scissors.

Principal Faiza van der Merwe.

At this stage, the children’s minds are blank canvasses waiting to be written on. They can be formed, for better or worse. It is because of this reason that the ACVV started this crèche for children who come from impoverished homes, where they will often be left untended during the day.

In this cheerful space at the ACVV the children are in a safe haven from 8 am to 1 pm daily. From 2 pm to 6 pm the space is given over to the care of seven other children. Children, who live far away, are collected by vehicle.

The ACVV Koeberg can be contacted on 021 553 2745 or at acvvkoeberg@afrihost.co.za.