Merlyn Diamond's school - Auas Primary, Namibia

World Class 2012 in partnership with the British Council tell the stories of the schools where the dreams begin.

Auas Primary is twinning with St Mary's Episcopal Primary in Stirling

Auas Primary is one of the largest schools in Namibia

Auas Primary is in the Katutura township in Windhoek, Namibia's capital.

SCHOOL STATISTICS

Students - 1,400, ages seven to 14

Teachers - 50

Where in the world? Windhoek, Namibia

Languages - English and Afrikaans

With 1,400 pupils, it is one of the largest schools in Namibia and also one of the oldest. Learners come from a wide range of backgrounds including Katutura's informal settlements and nearby middle class suburbs.

The school is proud of its pupils who take pride in the school and work hard to improve its prospects. According to head teacher, Mr Gerson Kongoro, the school's success is also dependent on the hard work of the 50 dedicated teachers who teach with limited facilities in difficult conditions.

Lessons are taught in English and pupils also speak Afrikaans.

From Auas Primary, Merlyn went on to nearby Jan Mohr High School where she is currently completing her secondary studies. Merlyn then hopes to go on to a sports scholarship at university in the United States.

Sporting role models

Pupils look up to Merlyn and see her as an example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.

TALKING TEACHER

Merlyn's achievements show our children what you can do if you set your mind to it. Our pupils all work hard to be a credit to the school

Mr Gerson Kongoro, head teacher

The learners' other role models include Namibian Olympic silver medallist sprinter, Frankie Fredericks, as well as football and rugby players. Pupils credit Merlyn with raising the profile of the school and "putting it on the map."

Merlyn continues to visit the school and Mr Kongoro credits her with inspiring current students to work hard at school and pursue their goals.

Fundraising for sports facilities

Learners and staff are looking forward to supporting Merlyn in 2012 and hopefully seeing her become Namibia's first female Olympic medallist. The school is hoping to improve its facilities in the near future and is currently raising money to build an assembly hall and sports facilities.