MR H P J PRETORIUS
PRINCIPAL
pretoriush@glenstantia.co.za
From the
Principal's Desk
Dear Parents
As we reach the midpoint of Term 1, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the progress our learners have made so far. It’s heartening to see our learners settling into routines that foster both academic and personal growth. For our new learners, we hope they feel welcomed and supported as they navigate their new environment. The Intersen Phase learners are encouraged to stay focused and committed to their goals, striving to surpass the goals they set for themselves earlier this year.
We are excited to announce that the new sport uniforms are available at Constantia Outfitters. As from Term 2, all learners representing Glenstantia Primary School, in any sport, must wear the new uniform. Photographs of the uniforms can be found in the Grade 4 to 7 learner diaries.
We wish our Swimming Team all the best for the Inter-School Swimming Gala that is taking place on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, at Hillcrest Swimming Pool.
During March, our learners will be participating in the Global Recycling Day. Teaching our youth the importance of taking responsibility for our environment is a crucial step towards a sustainable future. By engaging in such initiatives, our children can learn about the impact of their actions on the environment and develop habits that contribute to a healthier planet.
Mrs O’Kelly will be going on retirement at the end of February. We thank her for the 32 years she selflessly served our School Community, as a dedicated teacher and coach. Mrs O’Kelly is known for her kind-heartedness, her love for children and nature as well as her dedication to teach learners to swim. Mrs O’Kelly, we will surely miss your good sense of humour and passion towards saving all living creatures. Enjoy your retirement!
A reminder that School closes at 11:30 on Friday, 27 February 2026.
Yours faithfully,
Mr H P J Pretorius
Principal, Glenstantia Primary School.
History
Of the school
On 7 January 1981, 516 pupils arrived for their first day at the new Waterkloof Glen Primary School.
But the history of the school goes back much further, to 1978, when residents started campaigning for a new English primary school in the area; nor did the opening end the battle – parents were far from happy with the name forced on the school by the education authorities.
In 1979 matters came to a head when Lynwood Ridge refused to enrol any more five-and-a-half year olds because of overcrowding at the school. The Transvaal Education Department had indicated that a site had been earmarked for the building of a new school, but no date had been set for its construction. As a result, a Vigilance Committee was formed to campaign for the new school.
It was led by Mr RGW Thomson and the committee organised canvassing, publicity and public meetings, and by 1980 the school buildings were taking shape.
After a fire, and a scare that construction would not be finished on schedule acting principal Mr Tommy Stevens and 19 teachers opened the school on time, but without exercise books, which had to be borrowed from Constantia Park Laerskool, Brooklyn Primary and Lynnwood Laerskool.
The first assembly was memorable, with Mrs. Stevens officiating among plants, and scaffolding to the singing of “All Things Bright and Beautiful” accompanied by Mrs. Bronner on a piano accordion.
Once school started the final touches were added: on 21 January a new piano arrived, the first School Committee was elected on 19 February; and on 17 March a major victory – the TED agreed to officially change the name to Glenstantia Primary School.
Even with the proper name, much was still to be done: the playing fields had to be levelled, and grass planted; until then sports activities were held at The Glen, and in its first soccer match, against Burger Right, Glenstantia A and B list, 4 – 0 and 7 – 0 respectively.
The first of October saw the appointment of Mr Pretorius as principal, and Mr Will Bowker as his deputy, to take over from the start of the 1982 school year.
On 23 November, just two days before the first standard five valedictory service, the school finalised its motto: “Strive Joyfully”.
OUR VALUES
Glenstantia Primary School incorporate the below-mentioned values to foster a holistic and well-rounded education.
COMMITMENT
LOYALTY
RESPECT
HONESTY
(INTEGRITY)
TOLERANCE
RESPONSIBILITY
HELPFULNESS
FRIENDSHIP
PERSEVERANCE
EXCELLENCE
SELF-CONTROL
GRATITUDE
These values serve as the moral compass for students, guiding their behaviour, decisions, and interactions within the school community and beyond.
By instilling these values, we aim to not only impart academic knowledge but also to cultivate strong character traits that will empower students to become responsible and ethical individuals, capable of contributing positively to society.
These values lay the foundation for creating an inclusive and nurturing environment where students can develop both academically and personally.
SCHOOL LOGO
School song
Words: Cecilia Engelbrecht | Music: Cecilia van Tonder
At our school we all do try
to be of service to the Lord
Build the road of peace before us
Faith in Him, Strive Joyfully
We are grateful for His blessings
To help the weak and guide the strong.
God please grant us truth and honour
Faith in Thee, Strive Joyfully.
May our goals be reached in future
Peace and joy for mankind free
May the motto of our school
Be true in every walk of life
We are grateful for His blessings
To help the weak and guide the strong.
God please grant us truth and honour
Faith in Thee, Strive Joyfully
