VANDERBIJLPARK – New year, new name.
A fresh start for the former Prestigious Aureate Primary School, now named Oakwood Primary School.
All this happened on March 7, during a celebration held at the school attended by district officials, neighbouring principals, School Governing Body (SGB) members, and School Management Team, residents, valued Sponsors (Unitrans), pupils, and parents.
According to the school, the old name was synonymous with bad news in and around town.
Having started with only three teachers and 59 pupils, no desks, chairs, and no books, the school now has a good story.
Speaking to Ster, SGB chairperson Joseph Kubayi explained the process of the name change after a competition held in 2023.
“On July 25, 2023, a competition form went out to all parents and community members around the school. The idea was that all stakeholders would take part in this new name. Each teacher chose their most preferred name and added it to a list of 12 names that were created. The SGB followed the correct circulars, created a criterion, and selected the top three names. A vote was taken by the parents, and the most preferred name came out to be the winner.”
Boitumelo Mthimkulu’s suggestion was the chosen one that stuck.
Principal at the school, Wilmarié Botha, explained why they chose that specific name.
“The name, Oakwood, was chosen thoughtfully to reflect the characteristics we hold dear: *Strength and resilience: much like the sturdy oak tree, we aim to cultivate an environment where learners develop the resilience to face challenges and the strength to stand tall in our school principles.
*Growth and Development: Our school is a place where young minds are developed, allowing each learner to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. *Community and Roots: just as oak trees are deeply rooted in the earth, our school is firmly rooted in the community, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.”
Giving her reaction on the name change, Botha said the event was a huge success. “It brought the school, parents, learners, sponsors, and community together and showed the importance of collaboration between all stakeholders. As they say, it takes a village to raise children… and indeed at this school it takes a village.”
