The original school was built over 60 years ago as a temporary structure made out of wood and asbestos. The new premises was previously a vacant lot adjacent to the old school, which will now be turned into a sports field.

“The school community was promised a permanent structure 10 years later, and unfortunately we had to wait more than 50 years for the new school.”

According to Deven Combrinck, acting deputy principal, the project officially started in 2016 and building began in 2018. “The new school will accommodate 16 classrooms and 3 specialist classes.”

The state of the art building was designed to accommodate a 360 degree view of the Stellenbosch mountains.

“This school is a beacon of hope for everyone living in Kylemore and will bring so much joy back into the school, with the learner friendly environment, specialised classes and massive hall.”

The school has partnered with Community Keepers, a local non-profit organisation, since 2017, said Meriel Bartlett, media, marketing and funding executive for Community Keepers. The NPO has child-friendly consulting rooms at the school where students, educators and parents have access to a counsellor / social worker / psychologist, free of charge.

Community Keepers are excited to be moving into the new school building, said Bartlett. “What better symbol of belonging, dignity and hope; than for learners in a rural community to be part of a school that has a building, services and opportunities equal to that of their peers in other communities.”

Staff and students are grateful and overwhelmed with excitement for this new chapter in the history of PC Petersen primary school, said Combrinck.

“We believe that our children are the future leaders of tomorrow and every child deserves a learning environment like this.”

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