Blog

At Knysna Education Trust, we believe Early Childhood Development (ECD) practitioners are some of the most important people in our communities. They lay the foundation for lifelong learning, emotional resilience, and future success – often with very few resources and little recognition.

We sat down with Principal Nokwazi of Bethel Early Learning Centre in Khayalethu because her journey is one of true determination. What started as a small shack creche with 15 children in the backyard of her home has grown into a registered preschool that now educates 45 children. Her story shows what’s possible when passion meets perseverance – and a little support. 

Why did you want to educate young children?

I saw there was a need in the community. There was only one crèche and it was far. Parents had to walk up a big hill with their children. I asked my neighbours: “If I opened a school, would you bring your children?” It wasn’t my career — I just saw the need.

What challenges did you face when you first opened?

I had nothing — no tables, no chairs, and no teaching materials. And I didn’t have training. I started before I studied, just because I saw the need.

What are the biggest challenges now?

The number of children goes up and down. If they’re not relocating, something else happens. Staffing is also difficult.

How do you fundraise to keep the preschool going?

We ask parents to contribute R5 every Friday. We also sell second-hand clothes — sometimes at the school, sometimes over weekends. If parents know someone who’s interested, they send them to us.

Is that how you were able to recently extend your 3-4 year old classroom?

Yes.

Both of your practitioners are enrolled in our NQF Level 4 ECD Practitioner’s course, why do you think it’s important that your practitioners are qualified?

So they have the knowledge and know how to apply it to the kids.

You went through training with SmartStart via KET, do you still use their programme?

Not much, because I’m not in the classroom all the time anymore. But it was very helpful. I did NQF Level 1 first, and SmartStart added more practical ideas. I still use what I learned there — and I combine it with my own planning and KET’s lesson plans.

What has been the most valuable support from KET?

A lot! I don’t even know where to start. When I was still in the backyard, I didn’t know anything about NPO registration or funding. Then Portia from KET came and asked if I was registered — I didn’t even know what an NPO was.

She helped me register, and took me to a DSD (Department of Social Development) workshop in George. That changed everything. KET opened my mind. They plugged me in. I found out about Lotto funding and other workshops through them. Before, I was just sitting alone in a shack, not knowing what was out there.

KET brought light to me — and I’ve made sure to use that light.

You are part of our Adopt a Child’s Education (ACE) programme, sponsoring children’s fees when parents can’t afford it. How does that help your finances?

ACE helps us with maintenance, adding to salaries, and sometimes food.

We heard that Sparking Minds is also helping you now. How do they support your preschool?

Yes, they helped with the jungle gym, dividing my one classroom and other resources. If we need anything, they come and check how they can help.

What advice do you have for other principals?

To be wise — and to be patient.

Principal Nokwazi’s journey is a powerful reminder that community-led change is possible — and that ECD practitioners like her are the heartbeat of early learning. With vision, hard work, and the right support, she has built more than just a preschool — she has created a safe, nurturing space where children can thrive. While the road is still long and the challenges remain real, we are incredibly proud of how far she’s come. Her story shows what’s possible when we invest in those who invest in our children.