Stacey Brewer

Stacey Brewer is the Co-Founder and CEO of SPARK Schools, a network of private schools in South Africa focused on providing high-quality, affordable education.

Education and Background

• Stacey Brewer holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics, Ergonomics, and Organisational Psychology from Rhodes University.134
• She also obtained an MBA in Entrepreneurship cum laude from the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), where her thesis focused on a sustainable financial model for low-fee private schools in South Africa, laying the foundation for SPARK Schools.134

Career and Achievements

• Before founding SPARK Schools, Brewer worked as the FIFA HQ Onsite Manager for Delmont Caldow Caterers during the Confederation and World Cup in 2009-2010.3
• In 2012, she co-founded SPARK Schools with Ryan Harrison, with the mission to provide accessible, high-quality education to South African communities. The first school, SPARK Ferndale, was launched in 2013.458
• Under her leadership, SPARK Schools has grown to become the third largest network of private K-12 schools in South Africa, operating 26 schools and serving over 16,000 students from diverse backgrounds.257

Innovative Education Model

• SPARK Schools employs a blended learning model that combines teacher-led instruction with adaptive online learning, rotational classroom setups, and strong emphasis on educators’ professional development. This model aims to deliver high-quality education at an affordable price.245

Recognition and Awards

• Stacey Brewer has been recognized with several accolades, including being named an Elle Boss in 2015, a Mail and Guardian Top 200 South African in 2014, and a Mandela Washington Fellow in 2015. She is also an Endeavor Entrepreneur.14

Funding and Impact

• Brewer has successfully raised significant funding for SPARK Schools, including R200 million from various investors, which has enabled the expansion of the school network and the education of thousands of students.6

Core Beliefs and Vision

• Stacey Brewer is driven by a purpose to make a sustainable impact on education in South Africa. She believes in investing in high-calibre people who align with the company's vision and values, and she emphasizes the importance of adaptability, passion, and social-emotional growth in education.146