Early learning through play
Our Early Care and Education Programme (ECEP) at Pebbles Project continued to prioritise sensory play, recognising its vital role in supporting young children's cognitive, physical, social and emotional development.
Throughout the reporting period, children participated in a wide range of hands-on sensory activities that encouraged exploration, creativity, problem-solving, and learning through play.
To further enhance the quality of early childhood education across our centres, early childhood development practitioners from all regions received specialised training in sensorial development. This equipped them with practical strategies and techniques to create engaging learning environments and foster each child's development.
As part of our ongoing commitment to professional development, 14 practitioners also enrolled in the Caversham N4 Early Childhood Development online programme, further strengthening their knowledge and skills to deliver high-quality early learning experiences for the children in their care.
The popular Pallet Project also continued to grow, transforming recycled and everyday materials into interactive sensory walls. Filled with items that spin, click, rattle, slide and make different sounds. Each pallet provides children with unique sensory experiences while encouraging exploration, fine motor development and imaginative play, all through the power of learning by doing.
Did you know?
1.3 Million children aged 3 to 5 years in South Africa are not enrolled in an early learning programme, which means that many miss out on the rich sensory experiences that are essential for healthy early childhood development.
Source: South African Department of Basic Education ECD Census
Building skills for the future
Our Youth Development Programme (YDP) continues to equip young adults with the practical skills and confidence needed to pursue meaningful employment.
Following a competitive selection process, we conducted 68 interviews in January, choosing 30 motivated young adults to participate in Tjeka Training Matters' General Maintenance Programme. Throughout the programme, participants receive hands-on training in a range of trades, including carpentry, bricklaying, painting, tiling, electrical work, and plumbing. This training prepared them for opportunities within the construction and maintenance sectors.
Alongside their technical training, the young adults also receive ongoing personal development support to strengthen essential life and workplace skills.
Facilitators have commended the group for their positive attitude, commitment and discipline, creating a strong foundation for success as they work towards building brighter futures.
Pebbles Project Annual Report 2026
We are proud to share our 2026 Annual Report, highlighting the milestones challenges overcome and the achieved, collective impact made possible through the support of our donors and partners.
The report also unveils Pebbles Project's new Theory of Change, demonstrating how our integrated programmes create sustainable, long-term change for children and families in farming communities.
Click HERE to view the report.
London Marathon
Applications are now open to join #TeamPebbles for the historic 2027 TCS London Marathon, taking place over two days on 24 and 25 April 2027.
As one of the world's most iconic marathons, this is an incredible opportunity to run through the streets of London while making a lasting difference in the lives of children from farming communities in the Western Cape.
Every runner's entry fee and fundraising efforts will directly support the Pebbles Academy, providing quality education to children from around 40 farms in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.
Charity entries are limited, with applications closing on 12 August 2026, so don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable event while helping children learn, grow and thrive.
Click HERE to apply and secure your spot!
Ride for purpose at Wines2Whales
Pebbles Project is proud to be an Official Charity Partner of the 2026 Wines2Whales mountain biking event. We have two Standard Tent Package entries (four rider spots) available for cyclists who want to experience this iconic mountain bike stage race while raising funds for children and young adults in the farming communities of the Western Cape.
Interested in securing your team's entry? Contact mignon@pebblesproject.co.za for more information.