CAPE TOWN – A newly appointed school counsellor aims to enrich and nurture the lives of the youth as she steps into her new role at Christel House South Africa.
Najma Fakier was welcomed by the school as their new high school counsellor on Wednesday 28 January, bringing with her seven years of specialised experience supporting children and young people from under-resourced communities.
Fakier’s appointment aims to strengthen the school’s healthcare and social services programme, which provides essential medical, dental, vision care, and mental health support for learners from 29 of Cape Town’s most severely under-served communities.
“Christel House stood out for me because of its strong focus on care, structure and supporting the whole child, emotionally and academically, which aligns with my experience and values,” Fakier explained.
Her role involves individual and group counselling alongside classroom-based interventions that help learners develop emotional and coping skills.
Working closely with the school social worker, she provides comprehensive support both at school and through family engagement including home visits when necessary.
“Our learners come from communities where violence, crime, substance abuse and poverty create deep-seated trauma. Our teaching staff recognises the importance of meeting our children with care and compassion,” she said.
Many learners arrive at Christel House carrying trauma from communities where violence, crime, substance abuse, and poverty create deep-seated emotional challenges.
Fakier’s trauma-informed approach emphasises empathy, patience, and understanding.
“I focus on helping learners feel safe, calm and respected. This includes simple grounding techniques, breathing exercises, emotional check-ins, clear and consistent boundaries. Many learners experience stress, anxiety, emotional overwhelm and the effects of difficult life experiences,” she said.
Fakier supports them by helping understand emotions, learning healthy coping skills, and feeling reassured they’re not alone.
“When learners feel emotionally supported, they are better able to focus, engage and believe in themselves,” Fakier noted, emphasising how counselling helps learners manage stress, build confidence, and develop life skills.
“Families and caregivers play an important role in a learner’s well-being.
“Where appropriate I work together with families while always respecting confidentiality. Strong partnerships between home and school help learners feel supported in all areas of their life,” she added.
Her ultimate goal is creating a school environment where learners feel safe, supported, and understood – knowing help is available when needed.
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