It was fun, bright, colourful and exciting environment for children aged 1-6 years, where every aspect of the design, décor, facilities, and layout was carefully crafted to ensure that every child is given a strong sense of self, independence, confidence in their abilities, and a set of values that together will equip them to embrace life’s challenges.
On Tuesday, March 1, 2022, Reddam House Ballito, located on KwaZulu-Natal’s north coast, officially opened its new Early Learning School (ELS) building which opened its doors to its first students in January this year.
The R40-million school has a capacity for 265 children, with 18 children per class in the younger stages, increasing to 25 in Stage 5 (pre-Grade 1) with a staff of 10 teachers, 13 assistants and cleaning staff. It features 16 Reggio Emilia-inspired classrooms, a multi-purpose centre, and playgrounds, as well as administrative and dining facilities.
New Head of the Reddam House Ballito ELS, Paula Algar said Reddam House Ballito ELS is rooted in the belief that every child has an insatiable thirst for knowledge and unlimited potential, with a unique individual set of talents and interests that can be supported and developed.
“It’s our job to tap into that potential and to teach our children how to think, not what to think, ” she said.
Algar describes the new school’s facilities in glowing terms, emphasising the importance of an environment that inspires curiosity and creativity.
“Every classroom overlooking the exciting playgrounds has big picture windows bathing the room in natural light. They are painted in an array of pastel colours and feature artwork that adds interest and beauty to the rooms. There are carpeted areas with cushions on the floor, books on shelves, building blocks and lots of equipment to encourage building, creativity, discovery – all within a safe and happy space.”
Algar encouraged parents looking for a school for their children to recognise that the school needs to be an extension of the home.
IOL