What the children at Buttercup Preschool in Beverly thought would be a day of dressing up and enjoying a royal high tea turned into a celebration of a much bigger achievement when they discovered their school had been named a Best of Joburg winner.

The surprise had been carefully kept under wraps, with principal and founder Cindy Davidson unable to reveal the news before the official announcement on November 3.

So, when the children arrived in their fancy outfits, expecting a prince and princess-themed celebration, they had no idea they were about to become part of a special moment in the school’s history.

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Davidson said she was particularly excited to share the news with the children, who, together with their parents, teachers and assistants, had helped secure the recognition through their votes.

“They all came dressed up thinking it was the prince and princess’ royal high tea. Meanwhile, little did they know it was actually a Best of Joburg celebration,” she said.

“It was a real team effort. It wasn’t only us that did it or only me. The children, their parents, the assistants and teachers were all part of getting the votes.”

Recognition for community support

For Davidson, the recognition was also an opportunity to thank the families who have continued to support the school and its community.

“Every single year we’re just so grateful for the wonderful families we have in the community and for their support,” she said.

Buttercup has received the Best of Joburg recognition several times, with certificates dating back to 2018, 2019 and 2025.

Although some certificates have been lost over the years, Davidson estimates that the school has won about nine times.

She believes the consistency comes from the passion shared by those behind the school.

“I think we truly are passionate about what we do. Even though schools are a business, there’s got to be a heart behind it and a passion. We all love what we do,” she said.

The celebration also included a thank you to Douglasdale Pick n Pay, which sponsored doughnuts for the children.

Meaning behind the name

Davidson also shared the story behind the school’s name. She said she struggled to find a suitable name before Buttercup unexpectedly caught her attention while she was working on her computer.

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“I thought, that’s the one,” she said.

Inspired by the small yellow flower, the name reflects the happiness and growth Davidson hopes the school represents.

She said yellow, which features around the school, represents friendship, calmness and joy.

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