A local organisation, a preschool and a resident were recently celebrated for their exceptional contribution to early childhood development (ECD).

Founder of the Play with a Purpose Educational Trust and resident Robyn Wienand, along with preschool Cradle Tjokkertjies vir Jesus, were celebrated for the immense work they are doing within the community.

According to PR and marketing co-ordinator and child justice specialist for the trust, Roxanne Robbins, the organisation has been a registered NPO since 1991 and recently celebrated its 35th anniversary at Silverstar. Together with their anniversary, they also hosted their annual Play-with-a-Purpose National Early Childhood Development Awards for the 17th time.

During the event, Roxanne highlighted that Tjokkertjies received the Model Preschool of Excellence award. This is a highly prestigious recognition, as only six schools in the country are awarded for excelling across every single award category in the Play-with-a-Purpose programme.

“For the families of Tjokkertjies, winning a place among the finest preschools in the country is confirmation of what they have long known: Their little ones are in very good hands,” she said.

Roxanne further reflected on the milestone anniversary, emphasising the impact of 35 years of championing quality early childhood education.

She shared that children who receive quality early childhood education are up to 70% less likely to be arrested for violent crimes later in life. Nobel laureate economist James Heckman quantifies this investment, noting that quality early childhood education delivers up to a 13% annual return on investment for society. In South Africa, where only 42% of children in early learning programmes are developmentally on track, the work being done right here in this community has never mattered more.

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During the awards evening, Robyn was honoured with a special award, receiving a standing ovation for her 35 years of contribution to ECD in South Africa and 13 other countries internationally.

“It was a fitting recognition of a life’s work that has quietly shaped the futures of tens of thousands of children across the country and beyond,” Roxanne said.

Helen du Plessis, principal of Tjokkertjies, commented on the significance of the award.

“Small steps, taken consistently, create a ripple effect. This award is a wonderful testament to our talented team and to our partners who walk this journey with us. Our little ones are our superstars, and this recognition inspires us to keep shining,” she concluded.