About the Polyoak Family Educational Foundation
Our inception, inspiration, purpose and accomplishments so far, as well as some frequently asked questions.
Our inception
This initiative of the Polyoak Packaging Group (PPG), was created to empower children of the Polyoak family to become skilled, economically active citizens of South Africa.
Founded in 2009, it is managed by a team of dedicated professionals operating from Polyoak’s main site in Cape Town. The vision is to be a catalyst for economic and social upliftment by providing access to meaningful employment, achieved through its tertiary education bursary programme.
Our inspiration
Polyoak passionately believes that the most effective means of uplifting those who were previously disadvantaged, is to provide access to high quality education. This benefits the entire community as working graduates are empowered to help support their parents later in life and become community role models.
Our purpose
The trust provides tertiary study bursaries for children of PPG employees, funded through dividends from its 10% ownership of PPG.
Our primary focus areas are the Polyoak Foundation Bursary and Kickstart Workshops for Work Readiness and Saili Scholarships. We also fund the Teachers Plus Foundation NPC that we founded in 2018.
Our success so far
To date, more than 102 students have qualified in a wide variety of skillsets – from accountants, teachers, hairdressers and nurses to plumbers, doctors and sports trainers. Over 50% are female and 84% of our alumni are successfully employed and economically active.
These determined young adults are now set on a path towards making a meaningful contribution to society and our country.
We believe in a holistic approach to education
Kickstart workshops
1. Popular with Grade 11 and 12 learners, the Future Forward Workshop has been developed to prepare them for the world of work.
2. The Launch Pad programme is designed specifically for our graduates who are matched with a workplace coach in their final year to assist them with the transition from tertiary education into the work environment.
3. Grade 9 Subject Choice Workshop. It can be overwhelming to choose subjects for the last three years of high school when you don't quite know what career you want to pursue. We've collaborated with a subject matter expert to assist and guide learners to make an informed subject choice in Grade 9.
Here's what learners can expect when they attend:
- Understanding Self
- Understanding Subjects
- Subjects, University Courses and Careers
- Personal Reflection
Funding
Educational fees are the first barrier to potential students looking to study further.
The Polyoak Foundation was established to assist the Polyoak Packaging families to overcome this barrier
Career guidance
We offer career guidance to Grade 11 and 12 learners, empowering them to find their path, plan how to tackle it in the best way and know what to do when facing obstacles.
Networking and support
Actively encouraging and creating space for students to find a professional community that understands their ambitions.
Click here to join our community on LinkedIn.