About Us
Ubunye Educare Centre (Ubunye) is an Integrated Early Childhood Development (ECD) programme based in Dunoon Township, Cape Town.
Our Story & History:
Ubunye began operating in 2007 as a community response to the lack of quality early learning opportunities in Dunoon. What started as a small initiative to provide safe, structured care for young children has grown into a dedicated centre serving the township’s youngest learners. Over the years, we have become a trusted space in Dunoon where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn.
Our Mission:
Our purpose is to provide quality Grade R early childhood education, routine pediatric health check-ups, and nutritional support for 120 children aged 5–6 years from Dunoon Township enrolled in our care. We believe every child deserves a strong start in life, regardless of their family’s income or circumstances.
What We Do:
At Ubunye, learning happens through play, guided activities, and structured daily routines. Alongside our Grade R programme, we provide nutritious meals and snacks and coordinate regular health check-ups to identify and address early health concerns. Our educators work closely with each child to support their cognitive, social, and emotional development, preparing them for a confident transition into primary school.
We are a small, community-rooted team committed to creating a nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and build brighter futures—one child at a time.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
Make a Difference Where It Starts: Early Childhood Education
If you want to make a difference in young children’s education, start here. At Ubunye Educare Centre in Dunoon, Cape Town, you will work directly with 120 children aged 5–6 in Grade R.
That means reading with them, playing, doing art activities, and helping with daily routines. These early years shape everything that comes after—and your time gives children the attention they might not otherwise receive.
We are different because we are integrated. You will see how early learning connects with nutrition and health check-ups. It is real, hands-on experience you will not get in a lecture hall.
We are a small team that has been part of the Dunoon community since 2007. Volunteers work side by side with our educators and become part of the team from day one. There is no busywork—just meaningful work with visible impact.
Requirements
- Police Clearance
A valid police clearance or criminal background check issued within the last 6 months is required. International volunteers must provide clearance from their home country.
- Experience with Young Children
Prior experience working with children aged 3–7 is required. Teaching, childcare, volunteering, or Early Childhood Development (ECD) studies all count. Please provide a reference or proof of experience.
- Screening & Agreements
You will be screened against the Child Protection Register and must sign our Code of Conduct, Confidentiality Agreement, and Safeguarding Policy on your first day.
- Other Requirements:-
- Valid ID or passport copy
- Minimum 2-week commitment (8:00–14:00, weekdays)
- Basic English proficiency
- Health declaration confirming you are fit to work with children
We cannot accept volunteers without police clearance or those with convictions involving children. Safeguarding training will be provided on your first day.
Please email your documents to us to begin the application process.
Volunteer experience
- 7:30–8:00 – Welcome the children and assist with hand sanitizing, temperature checks, and breakfast.
- 8:00–9:10 – Join Morning Ring and support small groups during Maths Focus Time with counting activities and games.
- 9:10–9:55 – Supervise free play and help the children tidy up after activities.
- 9:55–10:25 – Assist with toileting routines and serve lunch.
- 10:25–11:25 – Join performing arts, movement sessions, and outdoor play.
- 11:35–12:50 – Support Home Language activities and Story Time to build reading and speaking skills.
- 12:50–13:00 – Help pack bags and tidy up before pick-up time.
You will work directly with children in small groups, support teachers, and observe daily developmental progress.
$15/week
Ubunye Educare Centre can host up to 8 volunteers at a time. Volunteers are responsible for arranging their own accommodation and transport to and from the centre.
Volunteers are required to provide their own meals.
Life in Cape Town Around Ubunye:-
Cape Town has plenty to offer outside volunteering hours, and you’ll be based close enough to take advantage of it during weekends and evenings.
Close to Ubunye in Cape Town:
- Kirstenbosch Gardens – 15 minutes away. A beautiful place for walks, picnics, or summer sunset concerts. Free entry for South African residents on selected days.
- Hout Bay & Chapman’s Peak Drive – Scenic coastal drive, harbor markets, and boat trips to see seals.
- Muizenberg & Kalk Bay – Surf lessons, colorful beach huts, cafés, and tidal pools.
Cape Town City Highlights:
- Table Mountain & Signal Hill – Hike or take the cable car up Table Mountain. Signal Hill is popular for sunset views and paragliding.
- V&A Waterfront – Restaurants, markets, an aquarium, and harbor cruises.
- Bo-Kaap & Company’s Garden – Colorful historic streets, museums, and relaxed city walks.
Weekend Trips:
- Cape Point & Boulders Beach – See penguins, explore coastal hikes, and enjoy dramatic cliffs.
- Stellenbosch / Franschhoek – Wine tasting in the Cape Winelands, about a 45-minute drive away.
- Surfing & Beach Days – Llandudno, Noordhoek, and other nearby beaches.
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