After school is a relatively new sector in South Africa being about 20 years in development. The number of emerging providers is therefore growing, particularly in impoverished communities. The Help Desk programme was developed to support emerging providers and to offer a range of services that will build capacity and sustainability.

The Help Desk offers a range of services including telephonic support, a resource room, customised training, mentorship, manuals and resources, networking. Specific short training courses are offered to enable after schools to comply with the Children's Act, 2005. These are:

• health and safety
• financial management
• project administration
• budgeting
• governance
• first aid
• fundraising
• programme planning.

Emerging providers are also able to access practical training opportunities through a PASCAP Trust after school programme. Organisations and individuals who are interested in accessing the services may direct an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or make a telephone enquiry.

Please note:

• In the first quarter of 2012, the project will be focusing on providing support to the George region.
• The service is subsidised and nominal fees are charged.