Cape Town - Matric learners from Modderdam High School are in for a treat as they will be having a Kings and Queens breakfast every morning for the duration of their final exam starting 21 October and will conclude on 28 November.
The breakfast is organised by community organisation Hope For The Future and founder Vanessa Nelson said that her initiative is in its fourth year and learners will be served with a three course breakfast.
“It is a final matric exam so as Hope for the Future we are walking alongside them and making sure that when they write they do not have growling tummies but their tummies are filled and are able to focus on their paper.”
“During breakfast it is a brief moment to just forget about the exam. We motivate and engage with them and continue to give them support. For those who are not writing on the day, they can also come and eat because they might not have anything to eat at home.”
“It does not just end with the breakfast but we also assist with application to tertiary institutions, youth programs, internships and help with employment.”
The tables are set with overlays that suit the school colours including centrepieces with crockery and a photo booth and at the end of the year the initiative is concluded with a braai. On the menu are muffins, pumpkin fritters, cereal, sausages, eggs, fruit, tea or coffee and juices just to name a few.
Liam White who attended Cathkin High School in 2023, who came to the breakfast, spoke about what it meant for him.
“For us who was less privileged, the breakfast meant a lot and helped because there is nothing to eat at home but we get to come to school with a breakfast set up with options and the people serving you are so kind which was needed.”
Western Cape Provincial Minister of Education, David Maynier said that the WCED is currently feeding 535 665 learners at 1 055 schools two meals a day.
“We have always maintained the importance of these meals for our children, as for some, these are their only meals for the day. Feeding for our matriculants will continue during their matric examinations and there is flexibility to accommodate their examination timetables.”
“We do, however, appreciate initiatives that further promote wellness and nutrition during the exam period. These are the most important examinations of a learner’s school career, and being hungry and tired will affect concentration and energy levels. We want all our learners to give their best academic performance they can, and having a nutritious meal, coupled with a good night’s sleep, is important.”
Nelson is appealing for any assistance to please contact 076 073 6777.