Bergsig Primary celebrates long-awaited school hall
School-governing body member Abdul Basier Elmie, Bergsig Primary School principal Imelda Stewart, chairperson of Garden Cities Archway Foundation, Myrtle February circuit manager Dylan Tommy, and John Matthews, Group CEO of Garden Cities at the unveiling of the Bergsig Primary School hall plaque.
Image: Supplied
Bergsig Primary School in Bonteheuwel has officially opened its first school hall, marking a historic milestone for the 62-year-old institution.
Principal Imelda Stewart said the hall was a dream finally realised.
“This is a game-changer for our pupils, staff, and community. We now have a safe and sheltered space for assemblies, performances, sports, and gatherings. Our school is ready to shine.”
Bergsig Primary School's choir rendering an item on the official school hall opening day, led by teacher Meliza Mapoo.
Image: Supplied
Ms Stewart is a former pupil of the school who became the principal in 2021.
The hall was made possible through the Archway Foundation, an initiative of Cape development company Garden Cities, in partnership with the Western Cape Education Department (WCED).
Bronagh Hammond, WCED spokesperson, said the department’s partnership with the Archway Foundation delivers about six school halls a year, depending on funding. While not built for indoor sport, the halls serve as multipurpose spaces for assemblies, events, and community gatherings.
She said schools are selected based on applications supported by their education district, achievements in academics, sport, and culture, available space, and in some cases, the ability to host matric exams.
Since its launch 22 years ago, the programme has built 132 halls across the province to help address the shortage of facilities at under-resourced schools, John Matthews, Group CEO of Garden Cities.
Bergsig Primary, which has 895 pupils and 26 teachers, was one of more than 700 schools in the province without a hall. The facility will now serve as a multipurpose space that brings pupils, teachers, and parents together and supports both academic and extracurricular activities, said Mr Matthews.
Mr Matthews said the impact of the halls is clear. “From the start of the project, we’ve seen improvements in academic performance and morale. Education is the key to stability and financial security, and as corporate citizens, it’s our responsibility to help redress past inequalities.”
Ms Stewart said the new facility adds value not only to the school but also to the community. “It’s a 5-star benefit. The pride and excitement are tangible, and the memories created here will last for years to come.”