Oyster Bay – Sandwater Primary School in Oyster Bay is gearing up to host its biggest fundraising event of the year, with a community bazaar planned for 20 September.
The school, which serves a diverse community where many families depend on seasonal and farm work, will host the event from 09:00 to 14:00 on the school grounds.
Event organiser, Mariska Grebe, said the bazaar will combine entertainment with meaningful fundraising for the school’s learners.
“Sandwater Primary School is a dedicated educational institution situated in the heart of Oyster Bay, which is defined by its lush green bushes, farms and beautiful ocean,” said Grebe.
“We serve a diverse and vibrant community of learners, many from families who depend on seasonal and farm work for their livelihoods.”
Despite economic challenges facing the community, Grebe said that the school remains committed to delivering quality education and creating opportunities for every child to thrive.
“The school is more than just a place of learning – it’s a hub for community engagement and growth,” said Grebe.
The bazaar on 20 September promises a full day of family entertainment, featuring stalls with local dishes, children’s games and competitions, live music and cultural performances, a raffle with prizes, arts and crafts displays and sports activities.
A small marketplace will also allow local vendors to showcase their products.
Grebe said that community events like their annual bazaar are essential for building strong bonds between the school, parents and the broader Oyster Bay community.
“The bazaar fosters cross-cultural experiences which enable people to network, engage and interact whilst having fun,” said Grebe.
She said that all funds raised will be used to directly enhance the quality of learning and facilities at Sandwater Primary, which includes improving teaching resources, maintaining and upgrading school infrastructure, and supporting extracurricular and enrichment programmes for the learners.
Grebe said that specific projects planned include upgrading classroom furniture and equipment, and supporting the school’s feeding scheme, which provides nutritious meals for learners in need.
She further said that the school is actively seeking community support for the bazaar through monetary contributions, donations of goods for stalls and raffle prizes, and sponsorship of specific activities.
Grebe said that they welcome support in several forms, as fundraising and social aspects of the day go hand in hand.
“These events raise crucial funds that directly support our learners and improve the quality of education we provide, while creating a joyful atmosphere where people come together,” said Grebe.
Those interested in sponsoring the school or community members wanting to support the bazaar can contact Mariska Grebe at 079 880 7415, Mihlali Mqingwana at 060 397 5071, or email sandwaterprimary@gmail.com.
The school welcomes visits to discuss sponsorship opportunities in person from 08:00 to 14:30 on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, and from 08:00 to 13:00 on Wednesday and Friday.
