Newlands East, KZN
Quarry Heights Primary School, founded in 2006 by passionate principal Mrs Ntombi Madlala, has grown tremendously over the years. While a library was built in 2012, it stood largely unused due to a lack of books and resources. In 2019, The LEARN Project partnered with key sponsor FMI to change this. On Nelson Mandela Day, 18 July, a newly resourced library and classroom book corners were officially handed over during a heartfelt outdoor assembly attended by over 1,000 learners, teachers, KZN Department of Education representatives, and FMI staff.
On the 12 September 2025, in celebration of Literacy month, the story continued with a meaningful library revamp made possible through a partnership with Bidvest Life. As part of Literacy Month, the existing library was beautifully transformed and upgraded with fresh paint, new books, literacy resources, tables and chairs, as well as 15 Foundation Phase classrooms equipped with vibrant book corners and literacy charts.
The handover celebration was filled with joy, creative performances and deep gratitude, marking a powerful moment for the school community, ensuring that every child has daily access to books.
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LEARNERS
1
LIBRARY
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BOOK CORNERS
4245
BOOKS
Transformation takes teamwork
The first school transformation in 2019 had the full support of FMI staff who were actively involved. A book covering party held at FMI on 18 May 2019 was attended by LEARN volunteers, FMI staff, and teachers from Quarry Heights and other beneficiary schools who gave their time to ensure over 1000 books were covered. Thirty Quarry Heights teachers also enjoyed a training course on the use of the library and librarian Sindiswa Shazi completed her librarianship training, as did Lungile Nkosi who was appointed head of the Foundation Phase book corners. Twelve library monitors were inspired to look after their library and encouraged to share their love of reading with their peers. Set up week was assisted by teachers, the principal and the FMI team who helped set up the library and each book corner, efficiently prepared by our LEARN team.
Fast forward to the revamp of this library and new book corner set up on 12 September 2025 where, in half a day, with the hands-on involvement of the Bidvest Life and LEARN team, we were able to complete an entire library revamp and all 15 Foundation Phase book corner makeovers. A true testament to the of the power of collaboration and team work and the impact of shared purpose.
Watch the original library launch video here.
”“It is so important to be able to read. There is nothing that excites the children of Quarry Heights more than to be in an environment that is conducive to learning and that is contributing to their lives. This library has made a significant impact.”
— MRS NTOMBI MADLALA, PRINCIPAL
A picture speaks a thousand words
From start to completion, this is Quarry Height’s transformation story.
