Established in 1999, Oakridge College was arguably ahead of its time.
Twenty-one years ago, education was very different, and the world was very different. Creating a learning environment that was small, inclusive and flexible went against the grain in an era when education was becoming more regulated and building towards larger numbers. Oakridge College started as a small private high school with 14 learners and five staff members in the first year and grew steadily to 43 learners by the end of the first year. Realising the need for a different schooling environment where learners who were looking for a more personalised approach with individual attention, similar to that of an extra lessons environment, Oakridge College took a leap to offer this to a small number of learners. Oakridge College has become well-respected in its niche, cementing a reputation for delivering quality learner-centred education for boys and girls from grade 8 to 12.
Over the years Oakridge College has continued to resist the temptation to grow class sizes beyond 12 to 14 learners, allowing the dedicated team of teachers to continue to focus teaching on a personal level, giving each learner the best chance of success.
Twenty-one years on, Oakridge College continues to offer an alternative schooling environment for learners. In more recent times, the demand for this type of environment has increased and many parents and learners have realised that this is a more suitable environment where learners are able to express their individuality and achieve academic success by receiving the same National Senior Certificate as one would at any other more traditional school. Not only does this environment allow for individual attention, it also allows for more discussion and debates in the classrooms, where teachers are able to manage an active and participative environment. In today’s world, we need to encourage our youth to participate actively, have a voice and contribute to society, continually improving the world. They look to continue this approach and constantly look to improve pedagogy. The world and technology is constantly changing and we need to be open-minded and adaptable, learning to accept and embrace these changes to improve the future education of our youth. This way the youth will have more power and relevance to contribute positively to society. Adjusting aspects of the schooling system that may no longer be relevant to the generations coming through the schooling system is an important aspect that Oakridge College considers and makes changes to, while maintaining some uniformity.
A comprehensive range of subjects is offered in the senior secondary phase (grades 10 to 12), allowing learners the choice that best suits their interests, and positions them in the best place for their futures. Oakridge College is accredited by Umalusi, follows the CAPS syllabus, is a registered examination centre and writes the NSC examinations in grade 12.
Oakridge College looks forward to an ever changing schooling environment…