Advancing education and opportunity through Rugby

Atlas understands that education is a vital part of a child’s personal development as well as a vital step for a happy and fulfilling life. It’s why we partner with local organisations and charities who share this recognition and who can give a tangible impact to each of the children we support.

Like any pioneering, there have been a few bumps in the road in the development of the Atlas DigiBus but thanks to the hard work of our partners and supporters, the DigiBus is now serving the children of Langa, Cape Town! South Africa has an unequal education system with many schools struggling with overcrowding, staff and pupil absenteeism and poor educational attainment as well as high drop rates which are perpetuating cycles of poverty. The DigiBus is a converted Scania bus, fitted with 40 laptops and 2 teaching stations, it is helping children in the Langa community with English, Numeracy and digital skills. Since children learn in their mother tongue until Grade 4 and then transition to English, they are left unable to understand the content and fall behind which had left a staggering 40% drop out rate. But the DigiBus is now helping to change this as it supports children to make the transition between English and their mother tongue.

Supporting Atlas means supporting direct change and to make a meaningful impact to the lives of children and young adults. Our partner, Gauteng Women’s Rugby Institute, is also based in South Africa and has helped establish pathways for young girls and women to pursue education and a performance-based career with their rugby. Lebogang is one such player who has faced a lot of hardship in her life, sadly losing her grandmother earlier this year who she had lived with since she was young. The programme has supported her with resources and emotional support, as well as keeping her motivated to play rugby. Lebogang is now set to receive a scholarship to study at a tertiary institute this year.

Thank you for your support the last few months, not just for donations but for your continued engagement with Atlas and our partners on our socials and at our events. Together we can create the momentum to drive forward more change for these children. Have a look at our website for upcoming ultra-challenges in London and Dorset, as well as next years’ Golf Day and Tour of Cambridgeshire.