The construction of the school took place in 1950, through the donation of Colonel J. Donaldson the D.S.O for the community of White City Jabavu in Soweto.The aim was to respond to the plight of the community of Jabavu considering the illiteracy level which was high by then. The school was therefore named after him. This was a good gesture to show honour for his immense contribution to the community of Jabavu.The school admitted learners from different background and irrespective of language and ethnic groups. The first head master was Mr Bundwini in the early 50's and the successor thereafter was Mr Mokgethi in the early 60's until 1972.

Mr H.B Ngwekazi took over the reigns from 1972 until 1998. He served the school for 40 years until his retirement. The current Head Master is Mr J.J. Hlatshwayo.

Donaldson Primary School served the purpose of transforming the lives of the children of this community. Products of this school are prominent leaders in our society, those who did not make it to the top are also responsible citizens.

This is due to the kind of values that have been inculcated to our learners . The products of the school have full confidence in whatever is being transferred to their children. They send their own kinds to the school to receive what they have also gained during their childhood.

Times changes, cultures are dynamic. The community at Donaldson still believes in a culture of hard-work . The commitment that was displayed over the years it's still maintained to uphold and sustain the reputation that has been the trademark in our community.


The school has been performing well in terms of extra curricular activities particularly in athletics over the years in our cluster and the region as the whole. The outstanding achievement was to win the Mini World Cup in 2002. That experience will always remain in our minds and hearts. Our objective in this competition is to retain our championship and to remain champions.