Community Assisting Schools revamps library at HA Jack Primary School
HA Jack Primary School unveiled its new library, designed to nurture literacy, confidence, and endless possibilities.
A buzz of excitement filled HA Jack Primary School, in Highlands North on October 23, as teachers, parents, and guests gathered for the unveiling of the school’s newly renovated library.
The occasion marked not only the opening of a new learning space, but also a new beginning for the children who call the school home.
The transformation was made possible by Community Assisting Schools (CAS), a local non-profit organisation that has partnered with HA Jack for 15 years. For CAS, this project was more than just bricks and shelves; it was the realisation of a dream.
Read more: New vegetable garden brings healing and growth to Guild Cottage girls
“From the beginning, we dreamed of renovating the school library, knowing how transformative such a space could be for learners and teachers,” said CAS director Tania Watkins.
“Most of the children at HA Jack come from Alexandra, where books are scarce. We wanted to change that, and give every child the chance to fall in love with reading.”
The project was inspired by CAS’s success at Oviston Primary School in 2023, where a new library dramatically improved reading levels. “That experience showed us how a library can become a true home of hope.”
The new HA Jack library captures that same warmth and possibility. Bright shelves overflow with colourful books, inviting corners offer space to read and dream, and teachers now have resources to bring lessons to life.
Watkins admitted that the journey was not easy. Funding was a constant challenge, but the vision inspired sponsors and community members to join in.
Also read: Still Good Mondays delivers hope across Rosebank
“Their belief turned what once felt impossible into reality. Every chair, table, and book here represents what compassion and purpose can achieve.” For the learners, this is more than a library; it is a doorway to discovery. Watkins hopes it will become the heartbeat of the school, nurturing confidence and curiosity.
“For many of our learners, this will be their first real access to a library. Through reading, they can dream without limits.”
Quoting Nelson Mandela, Watkins reflected: “’Education is the most powerful weapon’. This library is that weapon of hope.”
For the children of HA Jack Primary, their next chapter begins here.
Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!
