Bryandale Primary School, formerly known as the Bryanston Third Primary School, opened its doors in January 1973 to over 200 budding learners.
The school was led by eight teachers and one secretary all under the eye of the first and youngest principal, David Anderson.
The school was built by the community of Bryanston itself as many volunteers came together to lay the foundation and bricks of the school. This not only built the school but also created a precedent that the school was to remain a part of the community.
The current parent-teacher association is but one example of the communal relationship.
As Bryanston grew and developed from farms and cattle, so did the school.
The school was renamed and expanded. A major addition to the school was the sports facilities – previously the school would make use of the facilities at Bryanston Primary and Bryanston High School.
“To them we owe a debt of gratitude and remain close working neighbours to this day,” noted long-time Bryandale historian Claire Fraser.
Staying true to its character, the school has created the ‘We Care’ committee in partnership with a number of disadvantaged schools. The committee looks for opportunities to make a sustainable and meaningful contribution to the school all while teaching the learners about social responsibility.
Fraser concluded that the Bryandale community continues to grow and expand, constantly looking to award its learners with ‘higher-order thinking skills, through innovative and creative learning and collaborative interaction, resulting in critical thinkers who can hold their own in the face of any requirements’.
