Oldest preschool in Kempton Park celebrates 40 years
Forty years ago, Hettie’s youngest daughter, Dané (three at the time), became the spark that ignited the dream. Dané insisted on going to nursery school.
From modest beginnings in a double garage to a thriving preschool community spanning four decades, 2024 marks a historic milestone for Peuter Kleuter Infant and Toddler Preschool in Birchleigh.
Operating from the same premises since 1984, the bilingual, multicultural school commemorated its 40th anniversary as Kempton Park’s oldest preschool this year.
To make it even sweeter, the school’s founder and principal, Hettie Mollett, also celebrated her 80th birthday this year and there is no sign of retirement.
ALSO READ: Preschool behaviours to watch out for
“My passion for working with young children stems from a deep belief in the importance of a child’s early years,” said Hettie.
“This is when the foundations are built, learning, character, and emotional well-being.
“There is something magical about a young child’s eagerness to explore, their unfiltered joy, and how they view the world with such wonder.”
Forty years ago, Hettie’s youngest daughter, Dané (three at the time), became the spark that ignited the dream.
Dané insisted on going to nursery school.
As a mother and educator, Hettie began exploring options but soon realised there was a significant need for a place where young children could learn, play and grow in a way that fully supported their development potential.
ALSO READ: Crafting with your preschoolers: Make a small felt purse
Hettie dedicated herself to creating such a space, and Peuter Kleuter was born.
“Little did I know that what began with five eager young faces in a tiny garage would grow into the vibrant school we are today.”
Since then, hundreds of preschoolers have passed these gates, and Hettie’s greatest joy remains seeing a youngster taking their first steps to independence.
“It’s incredibly fulfilling watching them learn to express themselves, build friendships, and discover their abilities.
“Knowing I can play a role in shaping these little lives, helping them become confident, compassionate individuals, has been a passion and privilege.”
Janine Venter has been a longstanding Peuter Kleuter mom.
Her son, Bijon (5) started in the infant class when he was eight months old.
Now five, she said his “academics and self-confidence are tops”.
Fellow parent Edith Phuthi, whose son Jesse (4) also joined as an infant, is impressed by how his confidence and speech have improved.
“Being part of Peuter Kleuter has been life-changing,” said Edith.
Ilse de Beer, the deputy principal at the preschool, reiterates that foundational skills like counting, reading readiness, and language development are vital.
“We, however, also want to nurture the whole child; mind, heart and spirit.”In 2025, the school aims to integrate more interactive learning tools and create more outdoor spaces that foster exploration, creativity and physicality.
ALSO READ: Benefits of independent preschools for your child
They also plan to expand the curriculum to emphasise emotional intelligence and problem-solving skills by introducing robotics as a subject.
“In a rapidly changing world, it’s essential that children not only learn academic skills but also develop resilience, adaptability, and the ability to collaborate and think critically,” said Ilse.
“We want to give every child a strong foundation, a sense of belonging, and the confidence to embrace the world with curiosity and joy,” added Hettie.
“As we move forward, we will continue to honour Peuter Kleuter’s legacy while adapting to the needs of future generations.”
