Opening Eyes to Better Learning at Prestwich Street Primary
As part of Alive Foundation’s ongoing support of Prestwich Street Primary School, we recently partnered with Tomlinson Optometrists to facilitate eye screenings for learners identified by their teachers as experiencing difficulty seeing clearly in class.
Out of the 630 learners at the school, 93 children were screened as part of this first phase of the project. These screenings focused specifically on learners flagged as possible “problem cases” — those who may be struggling to see the board, read, or focus during lessons.
Being able to see properly plays a vital role in a child’s confidence, learning ability, and overall school experience. For many learners, poor eyesight goes unnoticed and can become a silent barrier to education.
This screening forms the foundation of the project. In the next phase, we will assess how many learners require corrective glasses and share more about how we can support them further.
We are incredibly grateful to Tomlinson Optometrists for their professional support and care in helping us open doors to clearer futures for these learners.
Phase 2: Eye Tests and Glasses
Following the initial screenings, Alive Foundation began the next phase of the Clear Vision Project — arranging full eye examinations for the learners identified during the first stage.
The first group of 12 learners visited the practice of Esna van der Walt at Tomlinson Optometrists for comprehensive eye tests. Of these children, 11 require glasses, while one learner has been referred to Dr EC van Aswegen, an ophthalmologist, for further specialist assessment.
Testing continued in the following days:
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9 March: 9 learners tested — 7 require glasses
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10 March: 10 learners tested — 9 require glasses
So far, 31 learners have received full eye examinations, and 27 children will receive glasses to help them see clearly in the classroom.
We are incredibly grateful to Tomlinson Optometrists for conducting the eye tests, and to Leigh Fourie from Vision in Focus, who generously donated 20 frames for learners who need glasses.
This project began after 63 learners were identified during the initial school screening, and additional learners will continue to be tested in the coming weeks.
For many children, something as simple as a pair of glasses can transform their ability to learn — allowing them to see the board, read their books, and participate confidently in class.
Alive Foundation continues to raise funds to ensure every learner who needs glasses receives them. Donations towards this project are greatly appreciated.
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