Samaritaan Huis marks 15 years of giving little learners a head start

For 15 years, Samaritaan Huis has laid the foundation for young learners in Boksburg North, ensuring financial hardship does not stand in the way of a child’s education.

Mari Russell founded the crèche after she recognised a gap in early childhood education for families who could not afford preschool fees.

Today, the school continues to help children develop essential skills before entering Grade One, regardless of their families’ financial circumstances.

Russell, who has experience in preschool education, said the initiative grew out of concerns that children from disadvantaged communities were starting formal schooling without the preparation they needed.

“Financially strapped people do not have the money to pay R700, R1 000 or even R3 000 a month for preschool. These kids get left behind,” she explained.

“Children who miss out on early learning opportunities often struggle at primary school, with some falling behind academically and eventually dropping out.

“Our crèche was established to help address this challenge by giving young children a stronger educational foundation before they begin their formal schooling journey.”

Unlike larger schools, Samaritaan Huis keeps classes small so teachers can focus on individual learners.

The Grade R class has a teacher and a junior teacher who can provide extra support to children who need it.

“We really try to give our best to the children,” Russell said.

Affordable early learning

Teacher Jessica Maartens encouraged residents to enrol their children aged two to six at the crèche.

“We want to give every child the opportunity to learn, grow and prepare for school,” she said.

Children who attend Grade RR pay R300 a month, while their subsequent Grade R year is free.

Russell said the monthly contribution is not compulsory for families who cannot afford it, and no child in need is turned away.

The support extends beyond the classroom.

Children receive meals and snacks during the school day, while the organisation provides uniforms and seasonal clothing, including T-shirts, jackets, beanies, scarves, and gloves, with help from sponsors.

The organisation also arranges birthday celebrations for the children, ensuring special occasions can be celebrated without placing additional financial pressure on their families.

For Russell, the school’s success is measured by the progress its learners make long after they leave the crèche.

She said she was particularly proud of former learners who went on to perform well academically in primary and high school.

“I’m very proud of my school. I’m very proud of my kids, and I’m proud of my staff because they really work hard,” she said.

The school’s approach includes identifying learners who may need additional educational or developmental support and working with their parents to find appropriate assistance.

Russell said the school accommodated children with learning difficulties wherever possible, with teachers working to understand their individual needs rather than excluding them because they learn differently.

Where necessary, parents are encouraged to seek professional assessments, therapy or specialised schooling to ensure their children receive the support they need.

Beyond education, Samaritaan Huis maintains close working relationships with local social services and police.

Russell has also worked with animal welfare organisations to assist with cases involving neglected or abused animals in the community.

The crèche’s Christian foundation guides its approach, with its doors having also been open to children from different religious backgrounds.

As Samaritaan Huis celebrates 15 years of early childhood education, it remains focused on allowing young learners to enter formal schooling better prepared, while ensuring a family’s financial circumstances do not determine whether a child gets a solid start in education.

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