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KNYSNA NEWS - Over the last five years, the young learners of Little Elephants (the preprimary of Knysna Primary School) have enjoyed trips to JB Furniture factory in Knysna Industrial Area. The learners are first introduced to wood and trees, the history of the industry, its dangers, and issued with ear muffs, before embarking on a guided tour around the carefully demarcated factory.

While visiting JB Furniture, the writer could sense the great love and appreciation of youngsters through the great enthusiasm imparted by joint owners Russell Buland and Kimberley Snook. Every aspect of the manufacturing process is explained to the learners, and it was evident that the employees also enjoyed, with pride, showing their skills.

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Various products were developed to enable the youngsters to assemble it themselves (each learner is given a mini toolbox), which gives them hands-on training and appreciation. 

These visits have proved so successful that the company has now extended the invitation to clubs for young people in the Knysna area, and even market (originally unintended) the products.

Little Elephants hard at work making their own toolboxes at JB Furniture factory in Knysna.

Nelson Mandela stated, and I quote, "There can be no keener revelation of society's soul than the way in which it treats its children." This statement is certainly amplified by the way JB Furniture has "gone beyond their call of duty" to enlighten young learners.

This report is written on behalf of Esther Beyleveld (head) and staff of Little Elephants as a huge thank you to JB Furniture for their continued support. 

Article: John Graham

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