Free Lessons for Knysna Schoolchildren - Free tuition in Knynsa, South Africa
Last updated 12/08/2009 15:04:58
The FLKS charity runs on the following principles:
Focus on tuition: No charitable effort can be all things to all people. We focus only on extra tuition lessons - over and above any regular schooling.
Zero administrative overhead: There is no diversion of funds to pay for administration of the charity. Those who help with organisation give their time for free.
Free at the point of need: There is no charge to the schoolchildren who attend the lessons.
Teachers remuneration: Teachers who provide the lessons are paid in full for their time - at a rate that matches their best alternative e.g. hourly rates for private tuition to richer children.
Teaching materials: Reasonable expenses associated with tuition (stationery, calculators etc.) are covered in full.
Trust: Teachers are not expected to go out of pocket for their work. They receive cash advances from the bank account set up in Knysna. The balance on this account typically never exceeds US$1000-US$2000. Sponsors top up the account as required.
Accountability: Teachers are asked to keep simple records of expenditure. This is not intended to be demanding - we want them teaching, not doing bureaucratic chores. However sponsors have to be reasonably satisfied that the money is well spent.
Small scale: We believe 'small is beautiful' and giving money in this way provides excellent direct benefit where it is really needed. Not much money goes a very long way.