A significant construction milestone was reached on May 6 as six new classrooms at Global Leadership Academy (GLA) received their roofing structure.
The development represents a major advancement in the school’s expansion of its Technical Education Stream, which was recently introduced to diversify the institution’s academic offering.
Principal Stefan Kleyn said that the addition of these classrooms is part of a broader strategic vision to prepare learners not only academically, but also practically, through skills that are relevant to today’s job market and the economic needs of South Africa.
He said that as a Christian school, GLA remains committed to its founding vision of “Making Disciples and Shaping Leaders” and views this expansion as both an educational advancement and a step of faith.
Kleyn said that the construction approach was deliberately innovative and purpose-driven.
“Instead of traditional brick-and-mortar buildings, the school opted to use recycled shipping containers, aligning with sustainable practices while providing a flexible and cost-effective infrastructure solution. More notably, GLA integrated technical training and skills development directly into the construction process,” said Kleyn.
He said that from the start of the project, local labour was employed and trained in the key technical skills of welding and machining.
Kleyn further said that all construction elements, roof trusses, structural modifications, and fittings were manufactured on-site, with a focus on skills transfer and capacity building.
“This practical approach has already contributed to the local economy by equipping workers with skills that can now be applied in future employment or entrepreneurial ventures,” said Kleyn.
He said that GLA’s Technical Stream officially launched in January this year with its first Grade 10 intake.
Kleyn said that learners are currently enrolled in subjects such as Civil Technology, Electrical Technology, Engineering Graphics and Design, and Technical Sciences.
“Once the classrooms are completed, these learners will move into a facility that reflects the very principles of hands-on learning and real-world application that their curriculum is built upon,” said Kleyn.
He said that the school’s long-term vision includes completing the full technical infrastructure by 2026 and by 2027, celebrating the first cohort of Grade 12 learners to graduate with a National Senior Certificate (NSC) that is aligned with the N3 Technical Qualification.
Kleyn said that these learners will also be eligible to pursue a range of post-school options — from Bachelor’s degree study to further technical certification or direct employment.
“This development represents a strategic response to South Africa’s unemployment challenges and the national shortage of technically skilled professionals. By embedding faith, leadership, and practical skills into its education model, Global Leadership Academy aims to contribute meaningfully to the future of its learners and the growth of the Kouga region,” said Kleyn.
For more information or to get involved, email Stefan Kleyn at principal@gla-jbay.orgarrow_outward, contact the school at 042 293 3053, or visit their website at www.gla-jbay.org.
