In 2007, 19 children enrolled and Matjana Preschool opened its door for the first time. One local woman (teacher Ncobile who had then just graduated from high school) was employed as the preschool teacher and Michelle, an Australian volunteer helped her in the classroom. It was a humble beginning.
The preschool was operating from a in a borrowed ‘stick and mud’ hut, with home-made desks and learning resources, and teachers who were just beginning to develop their skills. There was lots of fun that year, but the lack of space and equipment was really noticeable. Our little school got a big end of year boost when Bernie raised us over AU$1000 baking and selling Christmas cakes, and the Macquarie Presbyterian Church Breakfast Club contributed some funds (and they have been doing so ever since).