Imperial Primary marks 40 years of learning, leadership, and legacy

For four decades, Imperial Primary School has been more than just a place of learning - it has been a home, a hub, and a source of pride for generations of pupils, families, and teachers in Beacon Valley and beyond.

On Tuesday, November 4, pupils, staff, and community members came together to celebrate this milestone at the school.

The school opened its gates in 1985. As Beacon Valley was a new area, there was a need for a primary school for pupils living in Beacon Valley and Eastridge. At the time, many pupils had to walk over bridges to schools such as Jamaica Way Primary, Wespoort Primary, and Buckingham Primary, said Alfonso Smith, former deputy principal.

Mr Smith fondly recalls walking over the Wespoort Avenue bridge in 1984 while starting his primary school career at Jamaica Way Primary.

Imperial was opened by its first principal, James William. Gail Williams, then a junior primary teacher, reflected on the size of the school when it opened, noting that parts of the campus operated from the Beacon Hill High School grounds.

“Some teachers had to walk between the two schools to teach specific classes. The school started with high pupil numbers, and to date it remains one of the largest primary schools in the province,” he said.

Imperial Primary has shaped the Eastridge and Beacon Valley corridor, striving for excellence in academics, athletics, and culture since its founding.

The school became an "athletics powerhouse, winning sectionals and cluster meetings for over 20 years and producing champions" such as twin 200m athlete Tamzin Thomas, volleyball athlete Tamlyn Booysen, and 3000m steeplechase athlete Ashley Smith.

Its alumni have also excelled culturally and academically, including award-winning director Amy Jephta, whose debut feature Barakat won a SAFTA, and Dr Liam Baker, PhD in Number Theory and lecturer at Stellenbosch University, Mr Smith said.

Principal Adielah Avontuur said: “We are not just celebrating another year, but a journey of growth, learning, and countless cherished memories."

"We honour the achievements of our students, the hard work of our staff, and the unwavering support of our community. May our school continue to grow, inspire, and nurture generations of accomplished and compassionate individuals, she said.”

Teacher Randall Norman thanked the community and parents for their continued support, which has been the cornerstone of the school’s success.

Former principal Colin Baron reflected on the school’s motto, Maintain, Attain, noting his role in designing the school badge and the growth from humble beginnings.

He said: “The 2026 intake is already full, and while school fees have changed, may we continue to grow in excellence for the next 40 years.”

Former pupil Latie Mtana shared memories of songs, lessons, and school unity, saying the school “was our home… birthing leaders and equipping us to be great people.”

Candice Steer, whose mother and father were both teachers, said, “It’s more than a school -  it’s a community. We are family. This is where my foundation started, and the sacrifices made for us will never be forgotten.”

Pastor Vincent Rhoda encouraged pupils and teachers to strive with pride, using a bow-and-arrow analogy to highlight effort and achievement.