The fire broke out in a Wendy house situated on the premises of St Augustine’s R.C. Primary School in Wynberg, just after 9pm.
Witnesses André Blignaut, 56, from Wynberg said he was driving home after supper when he saw the smoke billowing.
“The schools are closed, but there are still activities, I think, during the day. I could see afterwards it was closer to the St Augustine’s School than Immaculata [High School]. They are on the same premises, but we were so relieved to see it was not the main structure,” says Blignaut.
Theresa Carelse, 43, from Retreat adds: “We called the emergency services and the fire engine arrived soon after that. The flames were doused and at least the school is still standing.”
Fire and Rescue spokesperson Theo Layne confirms a Wendy house on the premises had burnt.
“The Wendy house is on the premises where the St Augustine’s School is situated. One Wendy house was severely damaged, but the cause is, as yet, undetermined. No injuries have been reported,” says Layne.
Jessica Shelver, from the Western Cape Education Department, says: “The fire spread to the boys toilet, causing damages to the roof of the toilet and cracks in the walls [as a result of the heat].
“Wynberg SAPS and Fire Department were at the scene and are investigating.
“The estimated cost of damages is around R200 000.”