Community Christian Schools Vanuatu
Providing Affordable, Accessible, Quality Christian Education to Communities in Need
For many children in remote and squatter communities in Vanuatu, the need of more schools is an urgent reality. Public schools are located too far away or are too expensive and statistics present a serious challenge to the nation: over 80% of students drop out by the end of Primary School.
In 2005, Steve & Helen Blake founded 'Community Christian Schools Vanuatu' in response to the need.
Currently there are six ‘CCSV’ schools in the islands Efate and Tanna, with 600 students and 40 dedicated Christian Ni-Vanuatu staff members in full time paid employment. The schools are overseen by a team of Australian & Ni-Vanuatu directors. Vanuatu’s Education Department officials enthusiastically endorse and express their appreciation of the schools.
Enrolment is regardless of belief or background. Preference is given to children from poor families and so fees, being calculated on the basis of family income, are very low. Families who can’t contribute fees participate in fund raising events and help with grounds maintenance etc.
The students study a Christian curriculum shipped from Australia. Literacy, numeracy, sciences and social studies texts teach the essential values of honesty, human worth and dignity, manhood and womanhood, knowledge and skills, reliability and industriousness. Students are encouraged to become role models and valuable members in their local communities.
Community based PTA’s at each of the schools assist with fundraising and other events, adding to the sense of community spirit in the schools. Empowerment and ownership of some aspects of school life ensures the local communities share in the success and overall positive impact of the school.
Once students reach year 9 level, they are helped to choose whether or not to continue schooling or pursue vocational training. Jobs are scarce in most regions, and so young men and women's futures are often in their local village settings. Basic life skills as well as vocational training are an essential part of their school education.
CCSV schools are committed to bring positive change into young Ni Vanuatu people’s lives, one person at a time!
Teams from Australia visit regularly, bringing their skills, friendship and encouragement. Some come to build, install water tanks or solar power, or fix machinery; others come to work in the classroom and enjoy friendship with the staff and students in the classroom and on the sports field. The schools are truly blessed! We invite you to be a part.
