Over the past five years, The Learning Trust (TLT) has worked to strengthen After School Programmes (ASPs) across South Africa, ensuring they have the resources, skills, and support needed to sustain and scale their impact. But how effective has this approach been?
Our Impact Evaluation Report (2018-2022), conducted by Impact Consulting, provides a deep dive into the outcomes of our funding and capacity-building model. Here are five key takeaways:
1. Funding Alone Isn’t Enough
While financial support is critical, organisational development is just as important. 84% of ASPs that received TLT’s support expanded their reach, demonstrating the power of a holistic approach.
2. Stronger Organisations Deliver Higher-Quality Programmes
89% of grantees reported improvements in leadership, governance, and monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) systems. This means more structured, impactful, and sustainable programmes for young learners.
3. A Thriving After School Sector is Essential for Education
TLT’s work has helped shift the perception of ASPs from “nice-to-haves” to critical education interventions. We must continue advocating for their integration into South Africa’s education system.
4. Collaboration Fuels Growth
ASPs that engaged in networking, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing were able to expand their programmes, secure more funding, and strengthen their impact.
5. A Clear Path for the Future
This evaluation guides our next steps. By scaling collaborations, enhancing sector visibility, and mobilising more resources, we can ensure sustainable growth for ASPs nationwide.
Read the full report and explore the findings here.
