Future Developments

Great strides have been made with the development of the physical infrastructure over the past eleven years to support a school of this size. The campus is both beautiful and functional and this beauty and functionality have contributed to drawing pupils to the College from all over Southern Africa, however, there are several major projects outstanding at this stage.

The first priority is a sports complex between the astro turf and the swimming pool. This will include a gym, squash courts, change rooms and a school shop. We also require covered stands around the rugby field. The estimated cost of the entire project is in the region of R12 million. For financial reasons, we are developing a phased approach to the construction of this facility. The alternative is to look at building the facility as a commercial gym, with membership available to the local community.

A further priority is the planned renovation of the dining area and entrance to the school hall which will include a new tuck shop.

The next priority is the Science Centre of excellence. This is a R20 million project and includes 6 laboratories and a lecture theatre. In all likelihood, it will be several years before this project becomes a reality and it, too, will have to be built in phases. Given the magnitude of this project, the decision was taken to use the new chapel and art room as temporary laboratories.We are most fortunate to have a parent, Mr Howard Walker, who has come on board to champion this cause.

Howard is motivated by the need for the College to have buildings and grounds that nurture the soul. Places that reflect inner peace, quiet places where pupils can sit, reflect and form lasting friendships.
Howard started the initiative by making a very generous donation of R500000 to ensure that the chapel really looks and feels like a chapel, even of it is going to be used as a laboratory in the short term. It is almost finished and takes proud place as the central and focal point of the College.

He followed this up with the donation of his boys’ two debentures. These will form the foundation of an appeal fund established to finish off the landscaping in the central quad. The landscaping in front of the Chapel is beautiful and rich in religious symbolisms and will form yet another feature that will set Uplands College apart.

If there are any other parents who would like to contribute to the funding of this enduring gift or to any of the other initiatives, please indicate this by contacting either Howard or me. Contributions “in kind” would also be most welcome.

As always, your generosity to the College is greatly appreciated.