Pictured above: group photo; Below: Presentation on the circular economy by the WESSA project coordinator

On 27 January 2026, educators from Glencore-funded and independently registered schools gathered at Ogies Combined School in Mpumalanga for a dedicated teachers’ workshop under the Glencore Circular Economy Project.

The workshop marked an important moment of reflection and renewal, creating space to look back at 2025 project activities, assess progress on the ground, and identify practical ways to strengthen and grow school-based circular economy initiatives in the year ahead.

Building on what works

A core focus of the session was supporting schools to consolidate what they have already achieved. Educators reflected on recycling and waste-management activities implemented during 2025, sharing what has worked well in their school environments and where additional support is needed.

These conversations helped surface common challenges and opportunities, ensuring that the project remains responsive to the realities faced by teachers and learners in the classroom and schoolyard.

Expanding the circular economy conversation

Looking ahead, the workshop introduced opportunities to expand circular economy activities beyond recycling, with a new emphasis on upcycling.

By exploring ways to transform waste materials into usable or artistic products, the project aims to:

• deepen learners’ understanding of resource value
• encourage creativity and problem-solving
• expose learners to the idea that waste can be a resource, not just something to be discarded

This approach opens up space for learners to express artistic skills while reinforcing key sustainability principles in a hands-on, accessible way.

Strengthening local partnerships

The workshop also created a platform for two local buy-back centres to present their services and explain how they collaborate with schools. Their participation strengthened links between schools and local recycling economies, highlighting how partnerships can support consistent waste diversion and reinforce real-world learning.

In total, 30 educators from schools in the eMalahleni area took part, representing both funded schools and independently registered schools engaged in the project.

Pictured above: Group engagement sessions

Supporting accountability and progress

In addition to reflection and planning, the workshop played a practical role in ensuring project momentum. Time was set aside to:

• complete outstanding registration documentation
• support schools in compiling evidence required for assessment
• address questions and gaps affecting progress against project activities

This structured support helps ensure that schools are well positioned to meet project requirements while continuing to build meaningful, learner-led environmental action.

Turning environmental education into everyday practice

By bringing educators together at the start of the year, the Glencore Circular Economy Project reinforced the role of teachers as drivers of sustained change within their schools and communities. The workshop not only strengthened existing initiatives but also laid the groundwork for deeper engagement with circular economy principles in 2026.

As schools continue to build on their achievements, the focus remains on practical action, collaboration and creativity, turning environmental education into everyday practice.

On 2 December 2025, WESSA wrapped up the year in the most heart-warming way with a joyful Eco-Christmas celebration at Zizameleni Itekeleng Pre-School. From laughter and learning to meaningful upgrades that will last well beyond the festive season, it was truly a magical day for the children, and everyone involved.

In partnership with Wispeco Aluminium, we transformed the school into a brighter, safer, and more welcoming space, reinforcing the belief that clean, cared-for environments help young learners thrive.

Creating a safe, happy learning space

Together, we rolled up our sleeves to make tangible improvements to the school environment. These refurbishments were designed not only to uplift the space, but to support the health, safety, and wellbeing of every child.

Key improvements included:

• A colourful and cosy reading corner, designed to spark imagination and encourage a love for books and early literacy
• Repairs and fresh paint to the outside wall, creating a more welcoming school environment
• Toilet repairs and roof maintenance, ensuring safer, cleaner and healthier facilities for learners and staff

The transformation was immediate, and the smiles said it all.

Pictured above: Outside wall before and after.

Pictured above: Roof repairs before and after.

Learning through play

The celebration also placed environmental learning at the centre of the day, with children rotating through two fun and interactive eco-learning stations.

At the Recycling Challenge, learners:

• Collected litter around the school grounds
• Identified different types of waste
• Sorted items into the correct recycling bins, learning why proper waste separation matters

In the Animal Rescue Zone, children:

• Selected an animal figurine
• Shared what each animal needs to stay healthy and safe
• Placed animals in the correct habitats while learning how pollution and environmental damage affect living creatures

Through play, curiosity and conversation, learners were introduced to important environmental concepts in an age-appropriate and memorable way.

Festive joy with a green twist

The festive cheer continued as each child received eco-friendly gifts, including seed kits and green stationery, small items with a powerful message about caring for the environment. Every learner also took home a Christmas gift bucket, spreading joy well beyond the school gates and into the holiday season.

Thank you for making it possible

A heartfelt thank you to Wispeco Aluminium for partnering with WESSA on this impactful initiative, and to everyone who contributed their time, energy, and care to make the day so special.

As we closed off the year, this celebration served as a beautiful reminder that when communities come together, we can create environments where children feel safe, inspired, and excited to learn, today and into the future.