Over one thousand learners at Orleansvale Primary School, located in Chicago, Paarl East, witnessed the realisation of a dream that was created in 1981 on Friday, 1 September 2017.
A roof constructed over the school quad now provides learners and the greater community with an area that is protected from rain and heat.
The Franschhoek-Paarl Valley is known for its extreme weather conditions – ranging from bitter cold, rainy winter days, to summer temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius. For more than 35 years, Orleansvale Primary School has had a dream to one day build a roof over their quad.
Elmo Cairncross, principal at Orleansvale Primary School, has worked hard to make this dream a reality over the years. ‘For too long, our children have been denied a comfortable shelter and place to gather,’ he said. The Val de Vie Foundation was introduced to his dream through Khula Development Group, which subsequently led to a fundraising event at Pearl Valley, the annual Celebrity Golf Day, where all funds were donated to the development of the roof.
On a beautiful and bright Spring Day 2017, learners from Orleansvale Primary School said thank you to all involved through beautiful song and poetry and were treated to snacks supplied by the Val de Vie Foundation.
At a special afternoon ceremony that followed, mayor Conrad Poole officially unveiled the area.
‘Orleansvale Primary School has always been a beacon of hope in the community, as it is the nearest place of safety for residents living in dire circumstances. The new roof most certainly has lifted the spirits of the community, and will be enjoyed for many years to come,’ said Dalene Labuschagne from Khula Development Group.
Lorraine Hadfield, Val de Vie Foundation advisor, said: ‘Today you could almost touch the excitement in the air as learners witnessed the unveiling of a structure that will eventually transform into a fully walled building as funding allows. Our hearts are today overjoyed witnessing how this memorable occasion will affect positive change in the community.
‘The Val de Vie Foundation’s mission is to give back to the larger community to help create a better life for all. It is primarily funded by 1% of all developer sales income and 5% of HOA levies from new homes. We target to distribute R100m in the next 8 years to numerous viable community projects in the Berg River Valley.
‘Khula Development Group believes that we can make a difference through love and education. The mission of Khula to integrate children at risk of dropping out back into the school system, is the backbone of the organisation.’
