Teaming up to make a difference!

MySchool proudly joined forces with the Woolworths Making the Difference Through Design Programme, Safmarine and Afrisam to transform an abandoned container into a much needed classroom for Grade R learners at Visserhok Primary School in Contermanskloof.

Grade 10 to 12 learners in the Western Cape were tasked to make over the container into a safe eco-friendly room that would inspire creativity, encourage learning and develop young minds – mission accomplished!

Thanks to our Supporters, MySchool sponsored R14 000 worth of shelves, furniture, beanbags and lap desks, towards the renovation.  

Mashaarn Brink, a grade 10 learner from Stellenberg High School’s room design was selected based on his ingenuity to combine the container with an outside jungle gym and develop sensible solutions for storage and construction materials.  Mashaarn also placed a focus on using sustainable materials and ideas, which were translated into architectural elements – like a green wall in the guise of a vertical vegetable garden. This shelters the play area from south-easterly winds while encouraging the learners to grow their own vegetables – now that’s sustainable thinking!

To prevent the container from getting too hot in summer or too cold in winter, it is shielded from direct sunlight by a dramatic steel roof that also encourages the collection of rain water, and is cooled down by cross ventilation from the colourful windows on both sides.

His design entry also included a patio space where learners can sit, eat their snacks and socialise.  This area was converted into a small amphitheatre, courtesy of Afrisam, who generously donated materials and levelled the ground, creating a space where the school would be able to host outdoor events and plays for the learners.

Mashaam’s vision came to life to the benefit of 25 children and hundreds more to come – demonstrating the difference that we can make when combining our strengths in the best interests of our children, while having fun at the same time.

 We are immensely inspired by the commitment of all parties involved in this groundbreaking project and are left pondering…if given the opportunity, what more can young bright minds do

Stay tuned for more socially uplifting projects!