Climbing for Education: The Elizabethfontein Primary School Charity Initiative 19.05.2025

How It All Began

During last season in Rocklands, we were having a conversation with Christian Lehmann from Black Diamond after the climbers' evening at Elizabethfontein Primary School. Christian proposed an inspiring idea: a partnership between Black Diamond and Padadise where Black Diamond would donate crashpads, Padadise would manage the rentals, and 100% of the proceeds would directly benefit the local primary school.

We approached Headmaster Annatjie Dames with the proposal, and she enthusiastically embraced the concept. Annatjie is currently developing specific plans for how the funds will be used to support the students and school community.

School headmaster Annatjie Dames:

As a rural school, the support of sponsors is vital to ensure quality teaching for every child in every classroom. We teach holistically to ensure maximum development of the child. We often receive less funding which affects resources like technology and infrastructure. Nutrition programs ensure learners are well-fed and ready to learn. Sponsors fund workshops, learning materials or even scholarship opportunities.

In essence, sponsors help bridge the gap between rural and better-resourced schools, ensuring that all learners have a fair chance at quality education in an improved learning environment contributing to personal development.

Padadise Crash Pad Rental’s contributions will be put to good use as we are constantly expanding our sleeping quarters and bathroom facilities as 200 learners reside in the Hostel from Sunday to Friday. Creating a safe haven with up-to-date- facilities is our main aim.

We truly appreciate your commitment to education and our community

About Elizabethfontein Primary School

Just a few kilometers from the R365 road, near the junction leading to the Sassies climbing sector, sits Elizabethfontein Primary School. This vital educational institution serves 200 pupils who travel from both nearby and distant communities. Many students, even the youngest, live in the school's residential facilities. The campus also includes a pre-primary section for early childhood education.

The school has become a cherished part of the Rocklands climbing season through its annual climbers' evening. This special event features delicious local cuisine, vibrant cultural dance performances, and valuable opportunities for climbers to connect with each other and the local community.

The Crashpad Program

Through Black Diamond's generosity, we now have 15 premium crashpads available for rent:

  • 5 Mondo pads - Perfect for highball problems and maximum coverage
  • 5 Z-Triple pads - Versatile protection with excellent portability
  • 5 Circuit pads - Ideal for longer hike problems and lower problems

Ready to support this cause? Visit the Padadise Elizabethfontein crash pads page to reserve your charity crashpad today. You'll get great climbing gear while making a meaningful difference in local children's education.

Join Us

Whether you're a seasonal Rocklands veteran or a first-time visitor, renting these charity crashpads is a simple way to give back to the community that welcomes climbers year after year. Every rental directly supports educational opportunities for the children of this special region.

Make a difference with every climb.