Why Groenheuwel Primary School?

The school demonstrated resilience, strong governance, and exceptional academic results despite severe financial and infrastructural limitations. With no budget for upgrades and a community facing significant socio-economic challenges, Groenheuwel was an ideal beneficiary for strategic investment.

Creating Equal Learning Opportunities in the Paarl Winelands

Groenheuwel Primary School, located in the heart of the Paarl winelands, serves 1,235 learners from a predominantly coloured, Afrikaans-speaking community with an unemployment rate of around 45%. Despite facing poverty, social challenges, and operating from an RDP-style infrastructure, the school has consistently achieved exceptional academic results—maintaining a 96% average pass rate over the past three years.

To help sustain this performance and support long-term growth, the SAME Foundation undertook a major technology-focused revitalisation project.

Computer Lab Upgrade

Before the project, the school lacked sufficient digital infrastructure, limiting learners’ exposure to technology and impeding the integration of digital learning—an essential requirement in modern education.

Our Intervention

The SAME Foundation established a fully equipped computer laboratory designed to accommodate at least 30 learners at a time, including:

• New computers, furniture, and classroom infrastructure

• All necessary software and learning resources aligned with the curriculum

• Training and support for teachers to effectively manage and integrate the facility into daily teaching

Impact:

• Increased computer literacy across all grades

• Improved pass rates in technology and related subjects

• Reduced dropout risk by enhancing learner engagement

• Empowered teachers through upskilling and ongoing support

• Creation of a safe, modern, and inspiring learning environment