Joy as Robertsham Primary School turns 70
The school has produced several professionals who are proud to be associated with it.
On March 27, Robertsham Primary School turned 70 and principal Sharon Lynch is proud to be at the helm during this milestone.
She said their grounds and walls have housed countless memories, hosted a variety of events and nurtured thousands of individuals.
“On March 27, 1953, we opened our doors to learners from the neighbourhood and learners were transferred from Booysens Central School to the new premises, now known as Robertsham Primary. Our first assembly counted 270 learners and 12 teachers. Today, our hall is too small to accommodate the 65 members of staff and 1 055 learners,” she said.
Principals at the helm of this successful school, Mr Jacobson, Mr Liebenberg, Mr Booysen, Mr Nel and Mrs Lynch, the first female and the longest term of office at Robbies.
“In 1956 the school saw the first concert, staged at the local church, and since then our stage has presented countless concerts, revues, shows and many proud learners have crossed the stage to receive their accolades for the fine work they presented in the classrooms and on the sports field.
“Our young learners leave our doors at the beginning of their teens and move to the neighbourhood high schools and schools in greater Johannesburg and all over the world, achieving fine matric results.
“We are proud to say that four doctors, a horse racing commentator, an idol finalist, a Strictly Come Dancing host, a national ballroom dancing champion, head coach of Lions rugby team, lawyers, charted accountants and other professionals, all started their path of success in the Grade One classes here at Robbies
“Many of our learners boast provincial and national colours in a variety of sport codes. Their first exposure to their talent was on the sports field and stage at Robbies.
“The rivers that run through our premises: Limpopo, Vaal, Orange and Tugela hosted Inter House, everything and the children in our care got to experiment in singing, shotput and softball, drummies, drama and debating.
“Guest speakers and visitors came from far afield to share in our successes. We also had the Traffic Department visiting regularly to highlight the importance of road regulations.
“The health inspectors checked in on the health of the buildings and grounds, as well as the health of our learners. The nurses reported on the health of Robbies’ children’s teeth and hearts and well-being. The Flying Squad were also on campus finding clues for the burglary, several pairs of scissors, two blankets and ‘some’ missing money.
“Arithmetic changed to mathematics, but remained as difficult and the boys were given specific tasks for their craft sessions. Meetings were held with the School Governing Body and the education department to discuss many renovations and additions to the buildings to house the ever-growing numbers of flocking to Robbies.
“Our Lion and motto Animo Et Fide talk to the strength, faith and courage Robbies has always projected. Seven decades. So much has happened and is still happening.
“We celebrate a birthday, and we honour the importance of celebration. Robertsham Primary School, you are part of the building blocks of many who have passed through your gates, you have given soul to hundreds, and you nurtured us and grew with us.
“This is our school, let peace dwell here. We celebrate all you were, all you are, and all you will be. Happy 70th birthday,” she said.
