Mr Prince Mafojane Governing Body Chairperson (2003 - 2007) (Mr Mafojane is currently serving his second term as Governing Body Chair. In his 'other' life he is an attorney.)

Before I brought my child to Saxonwold Primary School I did an investigation of various primary schools. It was at Saxonwold however that I found the ethos in which I believed I would like to see my children grow. Saxonwold has a commitment to realizing the values of our new South Africa which for me was important. The school embraces a whole range of cultures in a dynamic and open-minded atmosphere. Importantly children are exposed to, and are taught, to tolerate people of different cultures and religions, which is a valuable skill in our global village. There is also a range of social classes from poor- through to middle- and upper-level income parents. This gives children a healthy experience and understanding of the differences in our country. The Principal, Marion Wheater, creates an environment where such diversity can flourish. On the academic front it is possible to compare it favourably with other state and independent schools. During the political transformation period many white parents moved their children to private schools because they feared a drop in education standards. This was not to be and the opposite occurred. Saxonwold became a centre of innovation and a pilot school in terms of Outcomes Based Education. In the National Olympiade, our learners excel with platinum and gold certificates. The school's standards are rigorous but not in a narrow-minded manner. The education provided is holistic. The aim is to produce well-rounded, balanced children. There are well-organised and varied extramural activities and the teachers are kind, helpful, and encouraging. Support staff too are dedicated and of a high calibre. On the School Governing Body we are committed to keeping it this way. Our challenge is to keep the cultural diversity and this includes attracting more white children back to the school. Saxonwold is a unique pioneering school. It produces children who have been nurtured and educated holistically so that when they enter high school they are confident and have a sound formative education. They are after all the people to whom we are going to hand the baton in the future.