From Franschhoek to Germany: A Cultural Exchange Begins
Our Grade 4 learners are taking part in a Cultural Exchange Programme with St Elisabeth School in Duderstadt, Germany. The project connects our learners with children from another part of the world. Through a film exchange, they will share what life is like in their own communities and learn about the lives of children in Germany.
This experience helps develop language skills and global awareness. It also encourages curiosity, empathy, and respect for different cultures.
Learners from both school have already traded the first introductory videos. In the coming months we’ll share more with each other about the highlights of our daily school programme, and the community we call home. They’ll get to discover what afternoons look like for children in different geographies — how they play, spend time with family, and enjoy everyday life.
By sharing their own stories and learning from others, our learners grow in confidence and begin to see the world from a wider perspective. They discover that while our lives may look different, many hopes and experiences are the same.
Popcorn, Laughter, and a Powerful Message
Learners from The Kusasa Academy recently enjoyed a special screening of Khumba at the Franschhoek Theatre. For many of our learners, it was their very first cinema experience. The excitement was clear from the moment they arrived. Our youngest learners climbed into oversized theatre seats with popcorn in hand, eyes wide with anticipation. Laughter filled the room as they experienced the magic of a movie on the big screen.
Khumba tells the story of a zebra born with only half his stripes who must learn that being different is something to embrace. One Grade 4 learner summed it up beautifully: “You don’t have to be the same as everyone to fit in.”
The message of courage, perseverance and self-belief was incredibly powerful for children growing up in challenging circumstances. Our learners experienced more than just a joyful outing. It created a moment of inspiration, reminding them that they are unique, capable, and free to dream big.
This memorable outing was made possible by the generosity of Joanna and David Ulph and the Franschhoek Theatre – thank you so much!
