St Ronnie’s Academy founded by former Prestatyn postie finally able to reopen its doors

St Ronnie’s Academy in the village of Shanzu, a suburb of Mombasa in Kenya, was forced to close on March 13 2020 due to Covid.

After a lot of preparation, the school has now been able to re-open its doors.

A total of 31 children turned up on January 4. St Ronnie’s Academy can only have up to a maximum of 70 children.

Headteacher Lilly Pendo.

Fundraiser Ron Cavie, who founded the school, said: “People have been so kind over Christmas and I managed to send out £700 which made such a difference. Lilly Pendo [headteacher] bought everything she needed for opening and plenty of food.

“We had to close between March 13 until now. Preparations and safety measures include changing of desks - all pupils should be front facing and not facing each other, making water points for washing hands, dividing up classes buying sanitiser, a thermo gun for checking temperatures and more.

"Nobody is allowed to enter the school gate without a mask. We also fumigated our school before we open and do it frequently.”

Ron said there is also a temporary isolation room for any pupil who is unwell.

“We will keep them there they can be picked up,” he added.

A lot of safety measures have been put in place.

“The parents and guardians are so happy to have the school open as they believe their children are safer in school than at home. They also have their jobs back after a long time of being jobless.”

“The situation in this area is good so far in terms of Covid. There is no cases.”

Ron, who usually visits the school, has found it difficult not being able to fly out and offer his support in person.

“Of course it is impossible to visit at the present time,” he added.

The room incase anyone has a high temperature, she or he will wait for her parents. It is temporary for the pandemic and will be removed

“I’m hoping to visit in a few months time when we have all had the Covid vaccine.

“I have managed to keep in touch with Lilly via What’s App video and people here in Wales have been so kind; they are still fundraising for the school and we were able to send out £700 to Lilly to do all the work needed to open the school.

“We are still fundraising.

Ron Cavie is going to Africa with his suitcases packed with gifts for school children. Pic: GA120418A.

Ron Cavie - Photo from a previous visit prior to Covid

“I’d like to give a mention to Rhyl Lions. They have donated £300 and people from the parish church have given donations plus many friends. Volunteers from Rhyl Pavilion Theatre have also been general.

“As soon as it is possible for me to travel safely to Mombasa, I will be up and away.”