Dear Parents
“Appreciation is the highest form of prayer, for it acknowledges the presence of good wherever you shine the light of your thankful thoughts.” Alan Cohen
We are halfway through celebrating 175 years. An amazing achievement and we are humbled by the significance of this milestone.
I seize this opportunity to express appreciation to all parents and guardians, for their continued commitment towards our learners and staff. They have proven their commitment by investing time, effort and patience to ensure a successful term for their children and the school and have diligently paid school fees. Many parents and guardians have arranged payment options with the bursar, understanding the imperative effect this action has on the efficient running of the school.
To ensure the future progress of our school, York Road Primary and its motto “En Avante” (Ever forward), every parent must recognize how essential their contribution of school fees is and the benefits attached, not just for their child, but every learner who roams and will roam the school grounds in the future, some being younger siblings.
Closer to the end of the term, we noticed a decrease in school fee payments. This stirred immediate concern, as a labelled quintile 5 school responsible for covering all operational costs, dependent on school fee payments. Without the support from the school community, we will be unable to provide learners with resources they’ve become accustomed to or improve technology to make learning even more current.
Long term investments, may take time to show fruits, but is everlasting! Short term investments (instant gratification) such as payments for excursions, casual/combo days etc. bring excitement for a moment and for many, become short lived.
Facts are: 29% school fees have been paid up to June 2025, which amounts to R1 111 063,00. Operational costs from January to June, which includes, but is not limited to the daily cleansing of our ablution facilities and classrooms as well as salaries, have amassed R2 647 578,69. Leaving the school with an operational deficit of R1 536 515, 69. Should the situation exacerbate, I shall have to make incredible changes which would have to include the reduction of staff and technology currently accessed by many learners.
EDUCATION IS AN INVESTMENT! PLEASE PAY SCHOOL FEES!
“The root of education is bitter, the fruit is sweet.” Isocrates
We could not embark on this momentous year without celebrations and kicked off with: York Road’s very first “Movie under the Stars” on May 9th 2025, seeing both parents and learners lounging in our snug and cozy amphitheatre, followed by our Jazz extravaganza, on the 30th May 2025, which left an indelible mark on all attendees, especially the class of 1973. Our musicians representing IMAD, talented guest artists and amazing DJ’s lit up the York Road stage. The ambience for the evening optimized by the very vibrant MC, Barry Moses.
Glimpses for activities in the Third Term, will be found on Rise Communicator, when viewing the parent term planner and flyers. We would appreciation your support and attendance!
Our third round of parent meetings will affect a selected group, decided by the class teachers. Learners will receive communication at the commencement of Term Three. These meetings will be held in the classrooms and not via Skype, WhatsApp or any other online system.
We have seen considerable improvement in Numeracy and Literacy results this term, from Grade 1 – 4, specifically. This result is largely credited to the addition of a Remedial teacher and teaching assistants. These initiatives allow teachers more contact time with learners who need more time. This programme remains viable as long as funding is available.
Future plans to improve the sport fields, classrooms and build an indoor pool are halted for the moment.
An appreciative THANK YOU, to the staff of York Road Primary, for all that you continue to do, daily. Enriching the lives of those we entrust to your care. The difference you make in the lives of these young hearts will leave an indelible mark on their future and cannot be quantified. Remember to be kind, even when faced with adversity.
Be proud of how you’ve been handling these past few months
The silent battles, whether it be at home or work. The moments you’ve had to humble yourself, wiped your own tears and given yourself a pat on the back, when there was no one to acknowledge your good works.
Be proud of yourself and take courage that I am proud of you!
Our learners face a hectic new term and we encourage them to have a restful and safe break. Where learners were unsuccessful, we urge them to note that it is not the end of the road. Take heed to your teacher’s instructions and prepare well for the next term.
I leave you with the recognition and thanks to parents who have shared inspiring words of thanks and encouragement for the efforts of our staff. Your expressions of praise and gratitude for the rewarding and challenging work they do, are deeply valued and appreciated.
Yours in Education
Mr. M. C. Johnson (Principal)