The transition of Rhodesfield Technical High School for Boys, from opening its doors only five months after the June 16 massacre in 1976, to entrench Afrikaans, to a beacon for hope under democracy, is now complete.
The Rhodesfield school has now become the first school with its own aeroplane, where children can learn the technicalities of aviation.
At the handover of the plane to the East Rand school recently, Gauteng MEC for education Matome Chiloane said the event spoke volumes of the vision and partnership between government and business and augured well for the future of the pupils.
“Rhodesfield has a remarkable history,” he said. “It opened its doors on 19 November 1976 as HTS Rhodesfield THS, an Afrikaans-medium boys’ school.
“Over time, it evolved into a parallel-medium institution in 2000, and later transitioned to an English-medium school, a reflection of our country’s journey towards inclusion and
diversity,” he said.
He said the Kempton Park school had a clear aviation and engineering focus, and the securing of the Mirage V aircraft for display, donated by South African Airways, showcased this.
He said the school offered an attractive curriculum, offering mechanical technology, such as fitting and machining, welding and metalwork, as well as civil technology, such as woodworking and construction.
“These subjects equip learners with critical, scarce skills, exactly what our economy needs.”
He said he was also heartened to learn about the spirit of compassion at the school.
“Every year, matric learners donate their uniforms to support those in need, while the school support team ensures that hungry learners are fed through donations and fundraising.
He added that the aircraft was an inspiration that would allow pupils to develop practical, hands-on skills that are directly relevant to the aviation industry.
“It will prepare highly skilled technicians and engineers who can serve the aviation sector with excellence.
“With this aircraft, Rhodesfield is no longer just a place where learners dream about the skies; it is a place where they start their journey to conquer them.
“Here we can create a future where our children are not just passengers in the aircraft of life; they are the pilots.”
