Waterfall Schools is a dynamic educational hub, offering a personalised journey from Pre-Primary to Grade 12 – all within a uniquely beautiful African setting
The start of 2018 marked a significant milestone for the parents, staff and pupils of Waterfall Schools, as the campus completed its educational offering of quality, attainable independent education from Pre-Primary through to Grade 12. Set on an elevated site with breathtaking views, prized for its spiritual heritage and indigenous landscape, the 48-acre iThemba Eco-campus in
Hillcrest offers boys and girls the opportunity to flourish. Visitors draw inspiration from this humble place, which is rooted in its South African landscape, a place of endless possibilities that holds the complete education of the child at its core.
The trio of schools – namely Waterfall Pre-Primary, Waterfall Preparatory and Waterfall College – share philosophies of Christian values, teachers who are in step with a world-ready curriculum and a nurturing school environment. The meteoric growth in pupil numbers at all three schools, with over 500 pupils enrolled in 2018, bears testimony to the interest in this unique offering.
“Our vision is to ensure that our Pre-Primary children, from one to five years of age, are guided to develop the necessary physical, emotional and academic skills through structured and unstructured play, enabling them to launch themselves into a rewarding educational journey through Waterfall Schools,” explains Sharron Lane, Director of Waterfall Pre-Primary, whose passion for quality Early Childhood Development shines through.
Child-centric teaching is key at the Prep School, with children starting their days without a bell, enjoying various lessons outdoors and the terminology of “treasure hunters” for teachers. Says Headmaster Brad Cooper: “We hope that the ‘success’ of the school will be measured by the value that each child sees in him/herself and the value of those around them, rather than external measurements based solely on achievements in academics, culture and sport. These disciplines will support self-development in preparation for when, as College students, they can strive for excellence in their chosen areas of interest.”
Waterfall College is a dynamic high school, which aims to provide excellent, individualised tuition from Grades 8 to 12 in a happy, stable environment. “We believe that the daily interaction of our teachers with the students makes a difference as they approach the final phase of their school careers,” says Jeanette van der Merwe, Principal of Waterfall College. “Our mission is to create an environment where students can thrive in academics, sport, culture, service, leadership and technology. Known in the Upper Highway community for our experienced subject specialist teachers and personal approach, the College continues to grow from strength to strength.”
The first IEB matric class graduated from Waterfall College over a decade ago, before the school moved into its new home on the iThemba Campus in 2010. Waterfall College has maintained a 100% matric pass rate and continues to grow the percentage of Bachelor Degree passes every year. The school looks forward to welcoming its first Grade 8 feeder class from Waterfall Preparatory in 2019.
Pivotal moments in 2017 included the completion of the Intermediate Phase building (Grades 4 to Grade 7), the opening of a new basketball court and the establishment of a second sports field. In addition, the unique wetland on the school grounds encourages students to develop an appreciation for nature as they explore the wonderful indigenous gardens on campus.
During the course of this year, there are plans to develop a 4km cycle track and to fundraise for a swimming pool. Waterfall Prep and the College are members of the Independent Schools Association of South Africa and Waterfall College is accredited by both IQAA and Umalusi.
HiThemba Campus
111 Ngwele Road, Hillcrest
031 710 1814
Join us at our OPEN MORNING OR EVENING EVENTS:
*Waterfall Pre-Primary February 28, 9am
*Waterfall Preparatory February 28, 5.30pm
*Waterfall College March 1, 5.30pm
