Kathstan College, in Rynfield, celebrated its 30th birthday on Wednesday (August 8).
Tracy Bolleurs, principal of the school since 2017, said that a history of the school was presented to learners during a special assembly that morning.
“One child from each grade read out a section of the history.
“We also had a cake cutting and for that we chose our youngest and eldest child in the school,” she said.
The history of the school dates back to 1988.
Michael and Kathleen de Villiers, former Benoni residents, saw the need to provide children who suffered with dyslexia a specialised learning environment in which they would flourish.
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Glynis Cox Millett-Clay, a Benoni historian enthusiast, spoke to Kathleen, who reminisced that the focus was on meeting the needs of the individual child when the idea of the school came about.
This resulted in helping parents and children in their “journey of dyslexia” and changing the lives of many families.
On August 8, 1988, at 8am, eight pupils were enrolled at the school and Kathstan College was born.
Stanley and Kathleen de Villiers (Michael’s parents) were instrumental in helping to establish the school, and the name “Kathstan” was in honour of them.
Fast-forward 30 years and the establishment has 296 students who enjoy the specialised learning environment that caters to their needs.
Students were enthralled with the day planned for them and, in the spirit of celebration, an informal dance competition took place where pupils and teachers showed off their skills.
Matriculants, who attended the special assembly, did not participate in the events.
“Education is at the forefront of the school.
“We would have loved for the matrics to be part of the celebrations but prelims are coming up shortly so they are in class and busy preparing for it,” Bolleurs said.
The children were filled with glee and excitement and, as an extra treat because of the public holiday (Women’s Day, August 9) the next day, they were allowed to leave at 12 noon.
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