Our visit to Stockwell in 2024 was as momentous as always. In 2023 we saw the school being steered by Gawain because the principal was unwell. This year when we arrived, we were met by the amazing school secretary, Tanz Lee, who announced our arrival to Beverley Jonas. Beverley, the principal had returned from sick leave. Although, at first, she was unsure who we were, it only took seconds on seeing us for to envelop us in hugs and love! This school continues to be an example to all teachers globally of a school that survives and progresses under the leadership of a very charismatic head and some of the most dedicated teachers and staff we have ever met.

 

We are pleased to say that the money we provided for the school this year from Friends of Stockwell School will allow them to pay for a special needs educator for the rest of the year.

 

It was especially pleasing to see established staff in the school. This is a challenging school simply because it is under-resourced financially but over resourced with love and care. It was pointed out to us that the majority of these children live in shacks and, when they come to school, they are also taught in shacks. If it wasn’t for the dedication of all the staff, these children would not make the progress they do.

 

In 2024, the children of South Africa are still suffering from a poorer provision simply because of their background. Amongst these children you could find budding athletes, rugby players, netball players and entrepreneurs. How can we ensure they reach their potential? We send an annual update to the local education authority but have never received a reply although, in the past, there has been some evidence of a response.

 

If you would like to try to help these children, if this plight touches your heart, and you would like to see at least one or two of these children reach their potential, please donate. We do not use PayPal because it is too expensive for such a small charity. However, do respond to emails.