Schools 4 schools

What is School 4 Schools?

Schools 4 Schools is an exciting initiative of The Oaktree Foundation, Australia's first youth run aid and development organisation. A unique and innovative program, S4S partners schools in Australia with schools in South Africa and is empowering communities to deal with the challenges of poverty, HIV / AIDS, crime and drugs. 

STA Travel believes that travel is the best education and share Schools 4 Schools vision for social change. We are the experts in Work, Study and Volunteer programmes that inspire individuals to get the most out of their experiences.

In 2008, Schools 4 Schools launched it's first ever Partnership Exchange Program, whereby four Australian high school students participated in a three week cultural exchange to visit their partner schools in South Africa. The Partnership Exchange Program provides students with the opportunity to engage and interact with their peers in their partner communities. Students involved work together to problem solve, share knowledge and develop strategies to address issues facing young people in the developing world and Australia alike.

During the exchange you will:

• Explore South Africa’s vibrant urban townships and traditional rural communities, taste Zulu food and live with a Zulu family, experiencing their way of life and discovering their unique culture
• Discover South Africa’s spectacular natural beauty and get close to big game such as rhinos and hippos at a game reserve
• Engage with South African students from your partner school at a Leadership Forum, discussing issues facing young people in your respective communities and working together to come-up with ideas to address them
• Explore the thriving ethnically diverse city of Durban with its unconventional markets and stunning beaches
• Connect with your partner school, experiencing life as a South African student and forming new friendships

STA travel sponsored places on the Partnership Exchange Program in 2008 to develop the Schools 4 Schools vision.

Read below to meet the Australian participants who were involved in the Partnership Exchange Program and hear about their experiences.

Check out their website here

Let's say hello to Olivia Smith

It may sound corny, but the first thing I always say when people ask me about my trip to South Africa is 'where to begin?' I honestly have no idea! It's one thing to learn about the issues but quite another to witness the effects with your own eyes and feel the emotions...suddenly it all becomes personal.

I love South Africa. The people are beautiful and their community spirit and traditions are something I wish we had in our daily Australian lives. I found the home-stays fascinating and am amazed by the differences in schooling.

The part I think of most is the young, talented leaders I met and the massive impact GOLD and Schools 4 Schools has had on their lives. Their stories are both incredible and beyond belief. To process what I have heard - it's difficult. However, the Peer Educators' strength and positive outlook is so encouraging. When one looks at life in such a hopeful, uncomplicated way despite the adversities surrounding them - it's beyond inspirational.

Undoubtedly, my life has changed from this experience. Not only am I more grateful for all I have, but I have truly learnt the strength of the human spirit and know that it can overcome nearly all in it's path. I also now know my future lies in working for such causes and I can't wait to return.