how we started
Our Story
In January 1977, the pupils and teachers of Drakensberg Primary School were still attending classes in the southeastern wing of Ferrum High School. Initially known as School No. 5, it was the fifth primary school built on the north side of the Ncandu River. On May 2, 1977, School No. 5 was officially renamed Drakensberg Primary School.
On December 2, 1977, Drakensberg Primary School relocated to its new premises on Drakensberg Drive, in the Paddock Drive complex. By January 16, 1978, the staff and students began the new school year in their dedicated facility.
The school was officially opened on March 27, 1980, in a grand ceremony by the Administrator of Natal, Mr. JCG Botha. He remarked:
“Each generation leaves its mark on the history of a nation, and it is at school, especially at the primary level, that this mark will be defined, for this is the starting point of South Africa’s future.”
Die beheerliggam het in 2016 die ingange van die skool opgeknap met ‘n paar nuwe verbouings. Dit sluit die muurtjies, mannetjies en nuwe “logo’s” in. Ontwerp deur Mev. L. Viljoen.
About Drakensberg Primary
did you know?
Drakensberg Primary School boasts a remarkable and picturesque gate. In 1987, the decision was made to replace the old gate with a new one that would embody the school’s name and motto. The design was created by Mr. Japie van Blerk, a talented local architect. After receiving approval from the Department of Education, construction began.
The gate features two distinct pillars, each carrying symbolic significance. The taller column represents the adult educator, including teachers and parents, who guide and support the students. The shorter column on the right symbolizes the child, illustrating the nurturing relationship between the educators and the students.
The school badge was designed by Mr. DE Clapham, a heraldist from Pietermaritzburg. The white dragon against the blue background symbolizes the name of the school, derived from the majestic Drakensberg mountains.
The peaks on the upper part of the blue mountain range represent the summits of the Drakensberg. The yoke and ploughshares symbolise the Voortrekkers, after whom Pioneer Park, the location of the school, is named. This imagery also reflects the ties to our heritage and ancestors, from whom we received our cultural legacy.
The motto, “Altiora Petimus” (Aim High), reminds us to set our goals as high as the mountain peaks. It also signifies striving for excellence under divine guidance, giving “Aim High” an eternal perspective.
22 Paddock Drive,
Pioneer Park, Newcastle,
KwaZulu-Natal, 2940