About Us
Empowering lives and supporting unique abilities since 2021.
Our Origin & Mission
Who we are, where we came from, and why we do what we do.
How It Began
Sibanye Centre for Special Needs was founded in February 2021 as the successor to St Bartz Academy, a beloved centre that closed during the COVID pandemic. Sibanye picked up where St Bartz left off, continuing to serve the children and young adults of Gqeberha who needed it most.
NPO Number: 263-115
Our Mission
Through stimulation, therapy and skills development in a safe and friendly environment, our mission is to teach learners to become independent individuals who can integrate into society and in time, sustain themselves with the skills they have built.
A Place for Family
When you enter this loving space, consider yourself one of the members of an extraordinary family. We do not receive government or private funding - our work is sustained by the school fees of our learners, which we try our best to keep as accessible as possible.
Who We Serve
The individuals and families at the heart of everything we do.
Ages
Children and young adults from 6 to 25 years old.
Needs & Diagnoses
Autism (any severity), ADHD, Down syndrome, slow learning and other learning disabilities.
Who We Can Help
We welcome any severity of autism or learning difference. We cater for physically abled learners who can move independently.
What We Do
A look at the programmes and activities that fill our days.
Art
Creative expression through painting, drawing, mosaics and more.
Music
Music therapy and performance to build confidence and coordination.
Dance
Movement and rhythm to develop motor skills and self-expression.
Education
Literacy, numeracy and computer skills tailored to each learner.
Baking & Gardening
Practical life skills through hands-on food and garden activities.
Outings & Concerts
Educational excursions and performances in the wider community.
Occupational therapy is available on-site in a private capacity, subject to therapist availability.
Our Approach
Individual education plans and a structured, caring daily routine.
A Typical Day
- Morning — Assembly / morning ring for younger learners
- ~9:00 — Structured work tasks (one-hour lesson)
- 10:00–10:30 — Break
- 10:30 — Continue work tasks / Day-dependent creative activities
- 12:00–12:45 — Lunch break
- 12:45 — Class continues
- 14:00 — End of day (Fri: 13:30)
How We Teach
- Individual education plans tailored to each learner
- Verbal and non-verbal classes to support all needs
- Younger learners: literacy, numeracy, basic life skills
- Young adults: life skills, money management, social skills
- Creative activities: art, music, baking, gardening, etc.
- Full-time and part-time staff
- After-care available until 17:00
Community & Values
The principles that guide every interaction at Sibanye.
Compassion
We meet every learner where they are, with patience and care.
Inclusion
Every learner belongs, regardless of ability level or diagnosis.
Growth
We celebrate every step forward, big or small.
Dignity
Learners are respected and celebrated as individuals.
Safety
A secure, nurturing environment is the foundation of learning.
Community
Families and staff are one extended Sibanye family.