Van Kervel School caters for learners with special educational needs. Our students mostly include learners who are intellectually challenged and have difficulty in academic and abstract learning styles and who experience barriers in reading, writing and numeracy. They do not benefit from the academically orientated education in mainstream schools because of the tempo, work overload and pressures of mainstream education. These learners benefit more from concrete learning programs where they learn by doing. In most cases they will eventually find employment in practically orientated professions; therefore more emphasis is placed on the skills or vocational learning programs in our school where learners can acquire skills such as panel beating, spray painting, motor vehicle repairing, woodworking, welding, building and maintenance, hospitality studies, educare, office administration and hairdressing.

School for learners with Autism

Mindstretch School serves children with learning challenges and developmental delays. We have done so since 2014. Our coordinated educational and therapeutic programme ensures every learner achieves their potential. At Mindstretch we look beyond the 'labels' to the causes underlying learning or behavioural difficulties. Having identified the causes, Mindstretch educators develop individualised programmes aimed at strengthening and building the neurological pathways vital for learning and optimal functioning. Our approach is science-based. We follow tried and tested methodologies, but with the understanding that good teaching is also an intuitive art. Our teachers are highly qualified, in keeping with national accreditation standards.