Learners’ Experiences and Expectations: Evaluating Psychosocial Support and Safe Parks in the Thari Programme

Children’s mental health is a critical concern in South Africa, particularly given the high prevalence of adverse childhood experiences such as violence and poverty. Despite the absence of reliable national data, it is evident that many children require psychosocial interventions. Schools and Safe Parks are essential environments for delivering these services. This study explores the psychosocial support provided by the Thari Programme to secondary school learners in Botshabelo and examines learners’ perspectives on the services that Safe Parks should offer. The Thari Programme, using the Isibindi Ezikoleni Model, employs Child and Youth Care Workers to deliver psychosocial support in schools. Findings show that 89% of learners expressed high satisfaction with the services provided, particularly in counselling, educational development, and life skills. A significant need for additional academic support—such as reading, writing, and homework assistance—was noted, with 48% of respondents seeking help in these areas. Learners also indicated a strong demand for Safe Parks, with 87% expressing interest in using them for sports, counselling, and educational support. However, the study’s small sample size and focus on a semi-rural community may limit generalisability. Future research should include a broader sample, and increased promotion of Safe Parks is recommended. The study highlights the importance of employing social service professionals in schools, especially in disadvantaged areas, to ensure comprehensive psychosocial support.