African school set up by postman goes from strength to stre

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African school set up by Prestatyn postman goes from strength to strength

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AN AFRICAN school created by a retired Prestatyn postman is going from strength to strength.

Ron Cavie, aged 66, helped found St Ronnie’s Academy in Kenya after striking up a friendship with Lilian Pendo, a teacher at Little Angels, located in the village of Shanzu. Little Angels was becoming overcrowded. Mr Cavie offered his assistance and he and Ms Pendo found a building about a mile away which they transformed into St Ronnie’s Academy.

The school, which opened last January, started with nine pupils. Over four weeks this grew to 30, then 70 and now 90. The school is hoping to have 120 pupils by the end of the year as well as a school garden.

Mr Cavie, a member of the Prestatyn and Rhyl Lions who has three children; Rachel, Julie and Martin, said: “In October I will be visiting the school. I am so looking forward to seeing Lilly and all the children again.

“I am pleased with the progress. Maureen, who is in charge of the cooking now, has an assistant and with 90 pupils and growing all the time, she needed help. Lilly, who is headteacher, has enrolled two more teachers. We now have four classrooms with one more to build.

“It is amazing, it has given three people employment and a better standard of living even though the wage is only 8,000 Kenyan shillings a month, about 60 pounds.”
Mr Cavie said he plans to take pencils, crayons, rubbers, books and small toys on his next visit.

Ms Pendo added: “The project has been doing well. The garden will help pupils learn how to plant attractive flower plants. We also aim to have a trip the end of this year.”

Mr Cavie carries out talks about the project. On Tuesday, May 19 at Central Beach Club, Bastion Road, Prestatyn there will be a quiz night in connection with the Prestatyn and Rhyl Lions. 8pm start. All welcome.

For more news from across the region visit rhyljournal.co.uk