Playway Pre-primary School in Helderzicht, Somerset West, has been plagued by frequent break-ins, the most recent occurring last Tuesday (3 May). It was the second burglary this year, and altogether the umpteenth time the premises along Monte Vista Crescent has been targeted by criminals.
Principal Rosslyn Arendse is concerned about the negative impact this is having on learning, as thieves regularly make away with crucial learning resources such as the computer, copy machine, educational toys and even frozen food.
“We don’t have the funds, but have to dig deep just to conduct repairs to the windows and locks, which they break every time they enter,” she pointed out.
There are currently more than 45 children enrolled at the school and, despite parents chipping in where they can, Arendse said tighter security measures are probably the only way forward.
According to a police report, suspects gained entry through a window and forced open a cupboard from which R1 000 in petty cash was taken. A case of business burglary has been opened.
Arendse said it is frustrating to have gone through so many burglaries without any repercussions for any of the perpetrators, whoever they may be.
“I don’t know what to say anymore,” she sighed.
“We just appeal to the community to assist us with any resources, such as a computer, or even curtains for our classrooms. The learning must go on and we’ll recover from this.”
To get in touch with Arendse, contact her on 074 717 7370.
