Farming the future: Olympia Park empowers learners through agriculture  

Olympia Park School’s commitment to educational excellence bears fruit as learners reap the benefits of a system that prioritises growth, development and success.

This project is in its third year since its implementation as part of the agriculture course the school offers. Lizl Scheepers, an educator, says the farm has provided a practical viewpoint into the industry for her learners.

“This industry has opened the eyes of my learners as they learn new and exciting subjects. This includes equipping them with skills, such as administering vaccines and tending the livestock on the premises.

“The school has a wide range of animals to expose the learners to a variety of interests. We have several chicken breeds on our farm, as well as a rabbit section. We have a layer section, and the eggs are packed and sold in Springs to restaurants and the community.”

They also have stud pigs from top bloodlines, show chickens, meat-master sheep, turkeys, guinea fowl, peacocks and several species of ducks and geese. The school also boasts a greenhouse used to cultivate luscious spinach.

“We also have peach trees that thrive in our soil.”

Lizl attributes the farm’s success to the collaborative effort of the educators in agriculture.

These educators include Lizl, Freek Scheepers, George Mashiane, Armand Kruger, Jaco Kruger and George van Heerden.

“The learners have also contributed to the success of this programme through their passion, dedication and hard work.“

The farm feeds the community with its farm stall. Though the little shop is a developing project, it has shown success in its own right.

“We sell eggs and baked goods made by our consumer studies group.”

They are also negotiating to acquire raw honey from a local beekeeper and farm-style butter to sell.

“This is all in the effort to motivate people to lead healthier lives while raising funds for the school.”