Handed a bunch of keys by the former government regime after forced removals from District Six on 15 April 1975, to almost closing its doors in August 1999 as a result of the Tornado, Surrey Primary has faced many trials to be afforded the opportunity to celebrate its milestone 50th birthday.
But, despite some struggles, the school proudly celebrated this milestone in a special assembly on Tuesday 15 April.
School principal Nawaal Williams says her goal with the assembly was to share with the current learners memories of the past and commemorate those who have built the school to where it is today.
“With the stories that are told and the fond memories that are shared and the rich history of Surrey Primary, we stand to celebrate not only 50 years of excellence, but the incredible people who have shaped this history,” she says.
The school has 794 learners. Former principal Mogamad Fuad Majiet, says the school was erected in 1973.
The vacant land was sold to the department at the time for a minimal amount by two women from the area.
Majiet, who had taught at the school for 19 years, described the occasion as a “remarkable milestone”.
“The apartheid government built the school to accommodate learners and teachers forcibly removed from District Six and the surrounding areas. I was one of those forcibly removed from Cape Town.
“We left under a cloud because our school was sold to the apartheid government for R4 000 by the committee without telling the staff a thing,” he says.
He then started at Surrey in 1977 and eventually became the third principal of the school.
“Over the years Surrey has grown, adapted and evolved, but the staff’s commitment remains unwavering. We had our fair share of triumphs and setbacks, but through it all, our pupils, staff and community demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication.”
Imtiaz Adams, the most recent former principal, says while he had some disappointments about how the conditions of the buildings were overlooked by the department, he praised the school and staff past and present for their continued dedication.
“It has been 50 years of nurturing young minds, shaping futures and creating a legacy of excellence.”
Adams shared the stories of the schools’ beginnings from the former and first principal.
“I am humbled to be part of this celebration. I would like to extend my gratitude to all the dedicated (teachers) who worked alongside me shaping the lives of countless (learners). Your tireless efforts, passion and commitment have made our school a beacon of learning.”
The school also paid tribute to all staff who have passed over the 50 years and played an integral role in the shaping of the school.
Invited guests and speakers included of the first teachers, successful alumni, officials and the current school learner leadership.
The assembly also featured entertainment in the form of song, dance and a play by learners of the school.
The event was preceeded by a walk down memory lane with photos from learners and milestones along the 50 year legacy.
The celebrations were commemorated with a special assembly. Photos: Samantha Lee-Jacobs 
Former school principal Imtiaz Adams 
Former principal of the school, Mogamad Fuad Majiet. 
The school honoured integral staff who had passed over the past 50 years. 
Among the memories was this flyer issued to parents following the destruction and proposed closure of the school by the 1999 tornado. To the right was the rebuilding of the school following the incident. 
The school created collages of old photographs to welcome dignitaries. 
According to former principal Mogamad Fuad Majiet, these pre-fab buildings had an expected lifespan of 15 years and are still standing many years later. Photos: Samantha Lee-Jacobs.
