A Legacy of Learning Since 1880
Shaw Park Primary was established in 1880 as a mission school on land donated by William Shaw and Thomas Cockcroft. Apart from short closures during the South African War and the two World Wars, the school has been teaching continuously for nearly 150 years.
The office and classrooms. Photographer: Erich Adendorff - 1995
Growing Through Community and Change
From its earliest days — when pupils helped build a cricket pitch out of anthills — to the present, Shaw Park has embodied community involvement and resilience.
Over the decades, the school expanded its facilities, introduced sports, built new classrooms, and embraced inclusion, opening to all races in 1993.
Today, Shaw Park Primary continues that proud legacy, providing quality rural education in a supportive and dynamic environment.
Historical Timeline
Highlights Through the Years
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1880 – School founded as a mission school
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1890–1910 – Early classroom upgrades and reopening after wartime closures
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1954–1962 – Expansion with new classrooms and facilities
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1980 – School celebrates its centenary
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1984 – Creativity Centre opened
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1993 – School opens to all races
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2017–2019 – Grade classes reorganised and new facilities built
