Welcome to

Rising ground journey

“THE MOST IMPORTANT THING ABOUT A MAN
IS NOT WHAT HE DOES, BUT WHO HE BECOMES”

Dallas Willard

ABOUT JOURNEY GAP YEAR

Situated on four adjoining farms – Lowestoffe, Rooken, Rockford Park and Woodhouselea – and inclusive of the magnificent Elandsberg Mountains in the Hogsback area – a gap year has been envisioned and birthed by the Rising Ground Family Farm. This innovative pioneering family who are deeply committed to Regenerative Farming, the land, the ecology, the livestock, the people and hospitality, are taking the next step into Regeneration and establishing The Journey Gap Year. This has been a deep-seated call for many years and the season is now right to embark on the next step of Our Story.

Rising Ground Family Farm consists of Grass Co (Pty)Ltd, our Livestock enterprise (cattle and sheep), Lowestoffe Country Lodge ( est 1994), Rising Ground Nature Reserve, and the Journey Gap Year

Students have access to 5500 hectares of unspoiled farmlands, to explore the expansive grasslands, where the endangered Amatola Toad reside, rocky ridges, mountainous terrain and the gentle meandering river.

The vast open spaces and diverse landscape lends itself to many outdoor activities, where there will be opportunities to horse ride, mountain bike, hike, take part in birding, fly fishing, abseiling, to name a few. The picturesque Klipplaat River criss-crosses the farm for 18 km, deep inviting pools can be shared with the yellowfish in summer.

In this unique space we are looking for gap year students who are open to learn, to live in community, to engage with nature and who would like to thrive in all aspects of their lives, by Regenerating heart, character, and renewal of minds. We believe in discipleship and this is the model we will be using for a “time out” year to focus on you. Who have YOU been made to be? To think about your PURPOSE. TO DREAM. TO THRIVE. TO RISE TO THE CHALLENGES SET BEFORE YOU and to SUCCEED WHERE YOU NEVER THOUGHT WOULD BE POSSIBLE.

Come and build the man you were created to be.

PURPOSE & VALUES

At Rising Ground Journey, we aim to cultivate a culture of stewardship that begins with personal growth. Our mission is to develop leadership skills, instill the principles of nobility and honour, and foster a commitment to integrity and service. We emphasize the importance of community and the value of nature, guiding participants to thrive in all aspects of life. We believe in creating an environment where fun and lifelong friendships flourish, enriching the journey of self-discovery and growth.

How do we achieve this? By embracing the transformative principles of the great educator Raymond Moore: a balanced approach that integrates academics, practical work, and service, along with a commitment to discipleship. Through this framework, we empower individuals to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to community, while forging deep connections and nurturing their personal journeys.

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OUR PROGRAMS

7 MONTH

This program is aimed at those who really can’t make the full ten month program.

For those whose academic year starts in August/September.

Students applying for the 10 month course will have preference at this stage due to our limited capacity.

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10 MONTH

Join our transformative 10-month program focused on personal growth and practical skills.

  • Social Development: Enhance leadership, self-image, and relationship skills in a supportive community.
  • Business Skills: Learn financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and project planning with guidance from a business coach.
  • Practical Skills: Participate in activities like first aid, survival training, and basic agriculture while enjoying outdoor adventures like hiking.
  • Service: Identify community needs and engage in meaningful service opportunities.

Experience a journey that empowers you with essential skills for the future!

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