During these foundation years, the main academic emphasis is on the acquisition of reading, writing and mathematical skills. Much of the teaching is done through rich learning experiences that encourage a deeper understanding of the girls’ own experiences and environment, while making learning relevant and fun. Girls are encouraged to achieve their potential across all areas of the academic curriculum, with a focus on creative and critical thinking, curiosity and collaboration.
Academics to think, explore and achieve
Literacy & Communication
Literacy is crucial in establishing the foundation for future learning and effective communication – encompassing skills like listening, speaking, reading and writing. Developing strong literacy skills sets the stage for lifelong learning and the ability to adapt to new challenges. Through games, role-play and storytelling, girls develop a love for language and build the skills they need to succeed.
Numeracy
In the Junior Prep, we follow the constructivist approach to mathematics. Teachers act as facilitators, encouraging active learning through hands-on activities and real-world problem-solving, allowing girls to build their mathematical understanding through exploration and interaction. Maths is presented in a way that is relevant and meaningful to the girls’ lives, rather than as a collection of abstract rules. Pupils make use of physical tools such as blocks, counters and measuring apparatus to explore mathematical concepts in a tangible way.
Additional Languages (Grade 1 and 2)
We offer Sesotho, Afrikaans and isiZulu, taught on a rotational basis through games, songs, role-play and creative activities. Teachers create a supportive environment, focusing on listening and speaking through engaging activities and consistent exposure to the language.
Academic Support Unit (ASU)
We firmly believe that each girl is unique, as is her academic journey. Children learn at different paces and in different ways. When necessary, extra support is offered through the ASU allowing teachers to identify and address specific learning gaps, providing targeted interventions where they are needed most.
We have two Academic Support Specialists who work across Grades 0, 1 and 2, bringing inclusion into the classroom. They work on specific skills with girls who are experiencing challenges in certain areas, as well as extending those who need it. Support is offered in a warm and encouraging environment where girls feel safe to ask questions, take risks and grow at their own pace.
Homework
Homework in the Junior Prep is designed to encourage family time, build independence and develop good habits – without overwhelming young pupils. We take a balanced approach that reinforces learning while leaving space for play.
Performing Arts
Though music is the focus in the Junior Prep, movement and drama are also introduced to build confidence and creative expression. Through experiential learning, girls gain knowledge of the basic musical principles while being exposed to a variety of instruments. In Grade 2, girls learn recorder and have the exciting opportunity to join a choir for the first time – an experience that focuses on collaboration and the joy of making music together.
Extra individual lessons in the following performing arts disciplines are available at school: cello, clarinet, dance, drums, flute, guitar, piano, music production, saxophone, ukulele, violin and voice.
Physical Development
Our Long-Term Athlete Development programme for Grades 0 – 2 promotes fun and movement, building confidence and laying the groundwork for a lifetime of active living and sport. Focused on learning through play rather than competition, this stage helps girls develop fundamental movement skills and co-ordination, building body awareness through engaging activities. Our goal is to inspire a love for being active.
In summer, our ‘Swim Safe’ initiative helps children develop essential water skills. In winter, the programme shifts to Physical Education and core sports – including netball, hockey, soccer and basketball – aligning with our Senior Prep to support skill development and progression.
EdTech
EdTech is an integral part of the curriculum from Grade 0 to Grade 7. In the Junior Prep, girls are introduced to Digital Citizenship, iPad Skills and Coding & Robotics. Digital Citizenship focuses on responsible device use and care. iPad Skills teaches girls how to use apps and create basic presentations. Coding is introduced through Bee-Bots, helping girls understand algorithms in a fun, hands-on way. Robotics, using LEGO, teaches basic mechanical concepts like axles and gears – encouraging creative problem-solving through building simple machines.
