Media Release
Minister of Education Debbie Schäfer
Western Cape

29 May, 2014

Expansion of Camps Bay Preparatory.

Statement by Minister Debbie Schäfer, Minister of Education

On Monday, I was sworn in as the new Provincial Education Minister for the Western Cape.

One of the first items that was brought to my attention was the issue of the expansion of Camps Bay Preparatory, and the application to Council for the lease by the WCED of the premises currently occupied by the Camps Bay Bowling Club.

I am advised that this piece of land is required for the expansion of the school.

This application was due to be approved today.

It is clearly a very contentious issue within the community of Camps Bay and I would like the opportunity to consult urgently with all relevant roleplayers.

I could not do so by today.

In light of this, I requested that the council hold the application over until next month's meeting.

I am of the view that one more month is not unreasonable to enable me to properly consider the long term implications for the WCED.

I have already consulted with the Concerned Parents Group on this matter, who understand my situation, and have agreed that the matter be held over for a month.

I will be meeting other roleplayers, such as the Camps Bay Bowling Club, as soon as possible.

My decision to request that this matter be held over has been made in what I believe will be in the best interests of all stakeholders and education in the Western Cape.

Media enquiries:
Education Ministry
Western Cape Education Department
Tel: 021 467 2538
Fax: 021 425 5689