St Francis Educare Centre, a longstanding early childhood development institution, has marked its 44th year with a relocation to improved premises. From left are teachers Natasha Fortune, Rentia Pieterse, Megan Ziervogel, Tamsyn Floris and principal Geraldine Lambrechts.
Image: Marsha Bothma
St Francis Educare Centre has marked its 44th year with a move to improved premises at 20 Kabeljou Way, Strandfontein.
The new space offers a more secure and spacious environment for pupils and staff (“(“St Francis educare turns 38”, Plainsman, September 18 2019; and St Francis Educare moves down the road”, Plainsman, April 5 2023).
On Wednesday April 16, the Plainsman visited the new site and spoke with principal Geraldine Lambrechts, who said the centre officially moved into the new premises on Monday January 13.
Although the transition was not without its challenges, Ms Lambrecht said the team was focused on ensuring the space was secure and functional from day one, even without initial infrastructure such as vibracrete walls.
“Fortunately, we managed to get the Grade R group into the new space,” Ms Lambrecht said. “Funds are tight, and we are still renovating. The garage is now being used as the office and kitchen, and the courtyard has been repurposed for the pupils’ activities.”
The current facility can accommodate 125 pupils, overseen by five staff members, including Ms Lambrecht. The centre offers care for babies and toddlers under the supervision of a former professional nurse and is well regarded for its experience in Grade R education. Ms Lambrecht noted that despite financial constraints, they are optimistic and focused on incremental improvements to the premises.
“If there is funding available, we won’t say no,” she said. “There’s still a lot to do. The front yard needs a carport so parents can drop off their children without being exposed to rain. We’d also like to install artificial grass to make the space feel warmer and more welcoming.”
Feedback from parents has been positive, with many saying the new location is more convenient. The pupils have also responded enthusiastically to the change.
Feedback from parents has been positive, with many saying the new location is more convenient. The pupils have also responded enthusiastically to the change.
Image: Marsha Bothma
“The kids love it here,” Ms Lambrecht said. “It’s nice being in our own space.”
Looking ahead, the centre hopes to bring the park in the open field a bit closer to the centre. Ms Lambrecht hopes tyres can be used to demarcate a play space and garden space for the pupils and enhance outdoor learning.
“This move has been a challenge, but I still enjoy being with the children,” she said. “In a few years, I may consider scaling down my hours due to the demands of development and maintenance. But the team is well equipped and able to function independently.”
Teacher Natasha Fortune said she enjoys the new premises and is pleased with the improved layout.
“It’s like a child with a new toy,” Ms Fortune said. “We no longer have to pack up every day — we just put everything in its designated area. The pupils are more settled and visibly happy.”
She added that the children’s excitement was evident when they first arrived.
“They were shouting, running around, and exploring. They couldn’t stop talking about how nice the new place was.”
Teacher Tamsyn Floris described the move as an emotional and transitional period but acknowledged that it was necessary.
“There were mixed emotions. It was a bit stressful having to go buy resources, but we were looking forward to the move,” Ms Floris said. “It’s a relief to finally be in our own space where we have the freedom to set things up as we want.”
Ms Floris, who has been with the centre for more than 30 years, began by volunteering and together with some of the staff is now pursuing a diploma in early childhood development.