Rosebank Primary

In 1906, a small seed of education was planted in the heart of Rosebank, Johannesburg. This seed, nurtured by the unwavering dedication of Mrs. Jeanie Henry, blossomed into what we now know as Rosebank Primary. Rosebank Primary first opened its doors to a mere 30 children. Mrs. Henry, a “teaching medical missionary” sent from County Town by the Church of Belfast to India, found herself in the Transvaal after the Anglo-Boer War. Witnessing the dire state of education, she and Nelson Herry established a modest wood-and-iron structure on 7th Avenue, now Keyes Avenue. This humble beginning marked the birth of Rosebank Primary. The school quickly became a cornerstone of the community. Initially, Rosebank Primary educated children up to Standard 4 (Grade 6), and later to Standard 5 (Grade 7). Many students entered the workforce after completing their studies at Rosebank Primary. Imagine Rosebank in those early days. A rural village on the outskirts of Johannesburg, where ox-wagons traversed dirt tracks and fences were a rare sight. Children, many barefoot, would trek for kilometers, their slates, books, and lunches in hand, to reach the little schoolhouse. Some arrived by bicycle, others on horseback or donkey-drawn carts. Rosebank Primary’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. The original school building tragically burned down in a fire that swept through the bluegum plantation in Parktown North. A new brick structure arose on Cradock Avenue (formerly 4th Avenue) in 1909. Even then, providing water proved a constant struggle for Mrs. Henry, with the borehole often running dry. The school faced persistent space constraints, finally acquiring a hall only in 1952 under Principal Percy Barnes. Rosebank Primary has witnessed remarkable transformations over the years. The school was rebuilt again in 1972 at its current location. Today, Rosebank Primary stands as a testament to its rich history and enduring commitment to education. Embracing modern technology, the classrooms are equipped with Smartboards. The school proudly utilizes solar electricity and borehole water, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability. Rosebank Primary continues to nurture future leaders, providing a holistic education in a caring environment. The school’s motto, “Manners Makyth Man,” introduced by Principal John Butler in 1915, resonates through the hallways, shaping considerate and responsible scholars.