Grade 4 learners from Olympic Primary School embarked on a historical journey to Kimberley’s iconic Big Hole.
Image: Danie van der Lith
A SENSE of excitement filled the air as 160 Grade 4 learners from Olympic Primary School set off on a journey through history - one that took them straight into the heart of Kimberley’s most famous landmark, the Big Hole.
With bright eyes and eager chatter, they walked from their school to the site, guided by teachers and assisted by the local traffic department. For many, this was their first glimpse at the legendary diamond mine that helped shape their city’s history.
The adventure began with a short movie about the history of the Big Hole, immersing the learners in the world of diamond mining. Whispers of amazement and gasps of surprise could be heard as the young minds absorbed the incredible story of how miners dug tirelessly in search of sparkling treasures beneath Kimberley’s soil.
Next came a tour of the displays, where learners got a closer look at the tools, techniques, and people who made the diamond rush what it was. They then entered the vault - a highlight for many - where they were able to marvel at dazzling diamonds on display.
The learners patiently walked through the displays, looking at everything that was there to see.
Image: Danie van der Lith
For 10-year-old Undibabale Sakati this was a moment he would never forget. “I enjoyed the tour a lot, and it was nice to see the diamonds in the vault. Everything was beautiful,” he told the DFA with a beaming smile.
But not everything was sparkle and shine - there were a few surprises along the way!
The learners were led into a replica underground tunnel, where their guide prepared them for a simulated mining explosion. The moment the word “bomb” was mentioned, panic set in. A large group of learners, convinced they were in immediate danger, bolted for the exit with shrieks of fear. The guide quickly reassured them, explaining that it was only a sound effect. Eventually, the remaining learners, now pre-warned, embraced the experience, enjoying the rumbling explosion simulation complete with flashing lights and tumbling rocks.
The learners were taken into the tunnels to see how the miners used the tunnels during the mining years.
Image: Danie van der Lith
Nine-year-old Kenalemang Mabe admitted that parts of the tour made her a little nervous but she still found it fascinating. “I liked the colour of the water at the bottom of the hole. When we went underground, it was nice, but the sound of the bomb scared me,” she confessed. Despite the fright, her favourite part was admiring the diamonds’ many different colours.
The grand finale of the tour was the viewing platform, where learners stood in awe, peering down at the vast depths of the Big Hole. Some hesitated at first, nerves kicking in as they approached the edge, but soon enough, the breathtaking sight won them over.
The learners were in awe, looking down at the big hole.
Image: Danie van der Lith
To wrap up their adventure, the learners enjoyed a well-deserved treat of fat cakes and drinks before heading back to class, their heads now brimming with newfound knowledge - and a few funny stories to share with their families.
Nyakallo Setrus celebrated his 10th birthday on the Kimberley Big Hole Tour.
Image: Danie van der Lith
The visit to the Big Hole was more than just a school outing; it was a journey through Kimberley’s rich past, a thrilling experience that turned history into a vivid reality for the young learners. And for those who momentarily feared for their lives in the tunnels - well, it’s safe to say they’ll be talking about this trip for years to come!
Learners and teachers shout with joy during their visit to the Kimberley Big Hole.
Image: Danie van der Lith