Milkwood Pre-Primary marks 50 years of nurturing young minds

Milkwood Pre-Primary School in Fish Hoek will mark its 50th anniversary on Saturday March 15, with a special event at the school.

The occasion will celebrate half a century of dedication to early childhood development and community service, a milestone for the school and the wider community.

Founded in 1975 by Mary Simpson, Milkwood Pre-Primary is located on a portion of the old Cron's Dairy site. According to the Fish Hoek Valley Historical Association, Cron's Dairy operated for over a century, first established by the Cronwright family in 1908.

The school originally opened in the old milking shed, and it operated from this location for many years, according to principal Shirley Philips, who has been with the school for over 20 years.

Ms Philips said the school underwent a complete revamp in 2008, when brick walls and a pitched roof were added. She recalls teaching from tents and two small classrooms during the renovations.

Ms Philips said after the renovations, the entire playground consisted of sand, and so she took it upon herself to plant grass.

She takes pride in the school's lush green lawn, which she cultivated gradually, ensuring it was watered daily - even during holidays when the school was closed.

The then Milkwood Nursery School started as a private nursery school in response to long waiting lists at Fish Hoek Nursery School, now Fish Hoek Primary School, and it has grown to offer four classes: 2 to 3-year-olds, 3 to 4-year-olds, 4 to 5-year-olds, and an inclusive class for children with special needs. The school now caters to around 50 children.

Ms Philips, who started working at the school in 1999 and became principal in 2003, said the school’s ethos is focused on developing the whole child — socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually — preparing them for life.

The school is also a feeder school to all the primary schools in the valley and prides itself on being family-oriented.

“We are one big family and have lots of family events. We have an open door policy so every day is open day at the school,” she said, adding that many past parents remain involved with the school.

Teacher Phillipa Warren, who has a long history with the school, said she "loved the school,”  adding that both her children and grandchildren attended the school.

Milkwood Pre-Primary is a registered non-profit and has a Christian foundation, but it welcomes children from all faiths, said Ms Philips. The school offers extra mural activities, aftercare, and holiday care.

Ms Philips said the anniversary event promises to be a joyful occasion, filled with fun and community spirit.

The event will feature a variety of activities, including a jumping castle for children, live music, and a special clown show at 11am. There will also be pizzas, boerie rolls, and a tuck shop stocked with treats for sale.

“We are thrilled to reach this incredible milestone and invite all members of the Milkwood family, past and present, to join us in commemorating 50 years of educating our Fish Hoek community,” said Mrs Philips.

For past parents and alumni wishing to contribute, a donation box will be available at the event, and donations can also be made via EFT. To show appreciation for the support over the years, the school will serve free cake and tea to all attendees.

“This celebration is not just about our history, but also about our future. We encourage everyone to participate in our fundraising initiatives and help us continue to provide a wonderful learning environment for our children,” said Mrs Philips.

For more information, call 021 782 4160 or visit www.milkwoodpreprimary.co.za