Here stands Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool. Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool is more than just a school. It is a cornerstone of Afrikaans education in Windhoek.
Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool is commonly called WAP. It is the only school in Windhoek that teaches in Afrikaans. Imagine the dedication required to maintain a language and culture through education.
The school’s story began on March 4, 1995. The Namibian Ministry of Basic Education approved its registration in late 1994. Piet Burger was the first principal. He led the school for a single year. Johan Esbach succeeded him in 1996.
Under Esbach’s leadership Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool re-registered in 2004. It became an institution teaching grades 1 through 12 in Afrikaans. Grade 12 students take the Independent Examinations Board exam. This board is from South Africa.
Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool started small. It opened with only 71 students. By 2000 the number had grown to 102. By 2012 student numbers reached 895. In 2016 the school celebrated its 21st anniversary. The student population was then 1053. The school has grown phenomenally.
Initially Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool operated as a company seeking profit. This changed after careful review. It transformed into a non-profit educational institution. Now an external governing authority manages the school. They set rules and regulations. They also handle executive decisions and recruitment.
The school first operated on the grounds of the Reformed Church Windhoek South. The location was on Schlettweinstraat 64. The school only had five rooms. The school needed more space because it was growing. In September 1997 Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool moved. A businessman named André du Plessis bought the current site. He made it available to the school. Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool purchased the property in 2007.
Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool uses two primary education methods. One is the syllabus from the Ministry of Basic Education. This is for grades 1 to 7. The other is the IEB for grades 8 to 12.
Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool participates in many sports. These include rugby, netball and hockey. Cricket, tennis and athletics are also included. They also offer some indoor sports and chess.
Cultural events are important at Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool. There are cultural tours and exhibitions. Annual competitions are held. The school participates in the Windhoek Cultural Festival. The school takes pride in its emblem. The flag, motto, core values and uniform are also important. The school anthem is a key part of its culture.
Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool stands as a testament to the power of language. It shows the importance of cultural preservation through education. It is a vibrant institution.