Ex-pupils give back
Unathi shologu
FORMER Gelvandale High School pupils have taken the initiative of improving the learning conditions in the school. They have so far managed to get surveillance cameras, costing R36000 installed and are motivated to do more in "assisting the school towards functioning at its optimum best".
"The class of '84" was formed by former pupil, Desiree Bailey, who had been driving past the premises and noted that "very little had changed at the school since I was a pupil". This led her to find out what the school required in order to create a "pupil friendly" environment.
Bailey discovered "the main concern facing the school was related to challenges around discipline". The cameras installed, by Magnum Alarms, are some of the measures the school took to address this issue.
Bailey noted she was not the only one concerned in ensuring the school she was proud of would regain its prestige.
From this realisation, a group was formed on the social network Facebook, dubbed "the class of 84".
One of the initiatives this group of about 20 former Gelvandale High School pupils embarked on was to ensure the successful installment of the surveillance cameras to address the security concerns of the staff.
Desiree says "the intention of this group is not to take on the responsibilities of the already established structures such as the alumni and the school governing body". The class of 84 has not been given a formal or tabulated mandate with expectations. What they seeks to do is fill in gaps where they see fit in order to ensure that the "school runs smoothly".
Principal of Gelvandale High School, Desmond Nickall, says having the cameras installed is a "dream come true because it is a vision I've always had for the school". Nickall says the cameras will be effective in dealing with challenges of discipline as they will give them "a clearer perspective on who is and isn't in class when they need to be, and this encompasses both teachers and pupils".
Bailey emphasises this initiative "is not exclusive only to the class of '84". They appeal to anyone interested to join the group and contribute in whichever manner they can.
Individuals who do join, however are not obligated to anything.
Gelvandale High School seems to be expecting a great amount of positive change through support from proactive assistance by these former pupils. For further inquiries or to pledge support contact: Desiree Bailey: (041)405-0000.