At OneVoice South Africa (OVSA), our Facilitators are trained Lay Counsellors who provide essential psycho-social support to high school learners, recognising that academic success is deeply tied to emotional, physical, and social well-being.

Working side-by-side with the Learner Support Assistants (LSAs), OVSA Facilitators help remove barriers to learning by offering one-on-one support, group sessions, and referrals where needed. In alignment with the Department of Basic Education’s Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support (SIAS) policy, we ensure that no learner is left behind due to unmet emotional or developmental needs.

Our Facilitators are also equipped to identify and respond to more serious challenges affecting learners—including experiences of sexual violence and abuse, rape, and signs of trauma. Additionally, they are trained to recognise issues stemming from poverty, such as nutritional deficiencies and neglect, and they take appropriate steps to connect learners with support services and interventions. Through early identification, compassionate engagement, and collaborative care, OVSA is committed to creating safer, more inclusive school environments where learners can reach their full potential, academically, emotionally, and socially.