School marks 20 years of empowering learners

Boksburg’s School of Transformation marked a milestone on October 25.

It celebrated 20 years of providing tailored education for children with diverse learning needs.
What began as a modest vision in 2002 has grown into a thriving institution serving over 300 learners across three educational streams.

The school’s journey began with founder Gwen McKechnie’s personal experience.
“Back in 1994, my daughter, Stacey, was born with ADHD, and we struggled to find a suitable school for her. That challenge sparked the idea for the school,” McKechnie recalled.

Her brother, Dr Johan Meyer, had done his research thesis on learners with ADHD. Together, they took a leap of faith in 2002 by purchasing an educational franchise in Boksburg.
“We were very ill-equipped at the time, but sometimes God plans ahead. We started in a small shop. It was chaotic, but it laid the foundation for what was to come.”

Soon after, they bought a house in Boksburg and, within a month, moved more than 100 part-time learners into the space. Around that time, a friend from the Department of Education encouraged McKechnie to register a full-time school.

“In 2005, the School of Transformation officially opened its doors at its current premises. We began primarily as a remedial school but soon realised the need for multiple educational streams.”

Also Read: Boksburg High School celebrates CAT teaching excellence

McKechnie said the school offers three pathways: A supportive mainstream curriculum aligned with the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement system (grades R to 12, Umalusi-accredited); a vocational stream preparing students for the workforce through Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO)-accredited qualifications; and a specialised support stream for learners who require more intensive assistance.

“Additionally, a dedicated facility in Alberton provides daily living and vocational training for young adults with more significant needs. The school has grown from a single property to seven, each with its own story.
“Our goal has always been to nurture each child as an individual. Class sizes are small, just 10 to 14 learners, and every child receives personal attention from our committed team, led by principal Johan Bloem and deputy principal Jennifer Beukes, whose leadership has been a cornerstone of our success.”

Over the past two decades, the School of Transformation has developed its own remedial and learning-support programmes. It also plans to launch an online curriculum to reach more families beyond its immediate community.

Reflecting on the journey, McKechnie humbly credited faith and persistence.
“Every property, every milestone has a story. None of this would have been possible without God going before us. Our dream has always been to give every child the opportunity to thrive, no matter their starting point.”

Also Read: Sunward Park High principal lauded for school’s ‘e-maturity’