About RENS

An association of parents started Roosevelt Extension Nursery School in 1964 and the parents of today continue to run our school. Purpose-built to serve the needs of the community, RENS – as we are affectionately known – has been Growing, Happy Children for nearly six decades and is one of the most-established nursery schools in Gauteng. 

We are a Public Benefit Organisation, managed by a Governing Body and the support and involvement of parents and the community at large is a key pillar of our school’s philosophy.

We believe that school should be an extension of the home. Our children feel safe and treasured while in the care of our qualified, experienced and committed educators.

RENS respects all religions, accommodates all dietary requirements and welcomes children from all cultural backgrounds and heritages. We are proud that our student body mirrors the diversity of our neighbourhood and country.

RENS is registered with the Gauteng Department of Education, Early Childhood Development, Gauteng Department of Health and the Department of Social Development.

Communication

At RENS, we believe that good communication is essential – between children, teachers and parents, alike. We stay in touch on a daily basis with via class and school WhatsApp Groups and e-mail, to keep parents abreast of school events and share insights into what the little ones get up to during their busy day. Private messages are encouraged and welcomed. 

A comprehensive written developmental progress report is prepared for each child three times a year. Your child’s progress can also always be discussed directly with the teacher in a scheduled meeting. We have a monthly calendar which highlights the events for the month, provides day-to-day reminders and keeps you informed of themes.

Download and complete an application form or contact us for more information.

Parents are invited to attend the school’s Annual General Meeting – often held to coincide with the Mini Walk – and actively contribute to its operation. Our Governing Body comprises a group of parents, the RENS Principal and an elected staff representative.

Social Media

Our Facebook page and Instagram account offer parents of young children useful parenting information and showcase school events and experiences. Photographs of children are only placed on these public platforms with individual permission from parents.

Calendar

We operate a four-term calendar based on the GDE’s four-term schedule.

Rather than being prescriptive about starting at the start of a new term or month, we welcome new children anytime – in line with our policy that ‘every day is Open Day’.

Contact us to arrange a visit to the school during operating hours, at your convenience – and then sign your child up to start as soon as you like.

Annual Highlights

Mini Walk

Our annual Mini Walk takes advantage of our proximity to Emmarentia Botanical Gardens, with stops for photo opportunities and ice lollies, along the way! The Mini Walk culminates in a celebratory get-together at the school with music, food & drinks on sale and a party atmosphere. An event for the whole family!

Pyjamarama

A firm favourite for kids and parents alike! One Friday a year, kids are dropped off at school in their PJs with a picnic supper and a torch for an evening of fun and adventure in the care of their teachers.

Arbour Day

We celebrate the start of spring by planting indigenous plants on our well-tended campus – and host the whole family for a picnic, braai and extra-special fun!

Bumboarding

Once a year, we lead each of our groups off to the slope of the nearby Emmarentia Dam wall – under the watchful eye of our local security company and teachers – to race down the grass bank on cardboard sleds. There’s plenty of laughter, tumbling, jumping and running – and we wrap things up with a special packed picnic lunch before heading back to school.