Northwood Primary pupils learn through art mentorship

Pupils at Northwood Primary School discovered new ways of learning and self-expression when a team from the non-profit organisation Art Sm-Art – Supporting Mentorship Through Art visited the school on Tuesday, November 11.

This initiative introduces mentorship through creative expression, using various forms of art to uplift, empower, and inspire young learners. The Art Sm-Art team believes that art can be a powerful tool for transformation and personal development.

Zeenat Isaacs, chairperson and founder, said that they have discovered that children are eager to learn through art and other creative methods.

She said she established the NPO to assist schools in previously disadvantaged areas in supporting their students, adding that many children face challenges in their communities, making it difficult for them to cope with traditional academic approaches.

“I am a product of art, too. We bring counsellors as teachers. We teach them all forms of art and conduct workshops in various disciplines. Each child develops differently. If you want art painting, visual art, graphic design, music, or self-defence, we cover it all. We have 400 staff members nationwide, but we chose this school for our project,” she said.

Ms Isaacs said she was excited about how quickly the children are learning and their interest in exploring new things. She mentioned plans to extend the project to other schools in and around Mitchell’s Plain, with the informal settlement of Isiqala being another target.

As part of the project, the team will be based at the school from 8am to 4pm, offering after-school programmes which include art workshops, mentorship sessions, counselling, psychosocial support, and art therapy activities aimed at promoting healing and emotional well-being.

School principal Leon Jones praised the NPO for its work at the school, encouraging children and parents to engage with the facilitators.

“It is a fact that schools face many societal challenges. What they do is alleviate pressure from the teachers because there are children who struggle with formal education. However, when they are with the facilitators, the children learn quickly. The facilitators possess a wealth of talent. Our children are benefiting immensely, and I am super excited,” he said.

Deputy principal, Edwina Liedeman, who often refers children to the group, also expressed her gratitude for having such a team at the school.

“The programme is incredibly beneficial. The facilitators are mature individuals who have the time to sit and meet with the children. Now, the children receive individual attention. They engage not only through conversation but also through needlework, art, and drama, and we are witnessing progress. The children can now explore art, wrapping, drama, music, and singing -v opportunities that are not always available,” she said.

She called on parents and the community to support the NPO in its efforts to grow and develop Mitchell’s Plain.

Denzel Hendricks, a facilitator and artist, said the aim was to enhance children’s talents and education. He urged teachers to collaborate with the organisation for the betterment of the students.

Following the announcement of the team and some performances, the NPO donated sports equipment and a bicycle to the school.