Summerhill Preparatory School · Grades 1 – 7 · Midrand
Building Foundations
for a Remarkable Life
"If we are to have bright children, we must teach them to think."
An exceptional primary school experience that builds both the academic foundations and the human qualities our students need to lead, innovate, and contribute.
Prep school hours · Monday–Friday: 07:30–15:00
Welcome
A Message from our Principal
"Unlocking every child's potential today, to inspire the leaders, thinkers, and creators of tomorrow."
Welcome to Summerhill Prep School - a place where children are nurtured, challenged, and inspired to become confident learners and kind, capable individuals. It is both a privilege and an honour to serve as principal of a school that has been my professional home for over two decades.
At Summerhill, we believe that every child is unique, with their own strengths, passions, and ways of learning. Our role is to nurture these abilities, helping children discover confidence, resilience, and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
We prepare our students not only for academic success but for life. From Grades 1 to 7, we equip young learners to become thoughtful, socially responsible, and globally aware citizens. Our curriculum combines foundational literacy and numeracy with creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. We embrace technology and AI so that our students are confident, capable, and adaptable in a rapidly changing world.
Learning at Summerhill extends far beyond the classroom. Reading, exploration, and inquiry are at the heart of everything we do. By encouraging curiosity and reflection, we cultivate students who love learning - not just students who succeed at school."
Vanessa Singh
Preparatory School Principal, Summerhill School
Our Philosophy
Two Pillars of an Extraordinary Education
At Summerhill Prep, we focus equally on who our students are becoming and what they are capable of achieving.
Dispositions
The personal, moral, social and emotional dimensions of our students. We believe that nurturing these qualities enables students to become ethical, reflective and empathetic citizens.
- Personal growth and self-awareness
- Moral integrity and ethical reasoning
- Social responsibility and empathy
- Emotional intelligence and resilience
- Respect for self, others and the environment
- Servant leadership and community contribution
Competencies
The academic rigour of school life - the skills and knowledge that prepare students for success in high school, university and beyond.
- Advanced literacy - reading, writing, comprehension
- Robust numeracy and mathematical reasoning
- Science and natural world understanding
- Life skills - drama, music, Physical Education
- Digital literacy, coding and AI readiness
- Research, inquiry and independent learning
Academics
CAPS Curriculum: Subjects & Structure
Our Prep curriculum is aligned to the national CAPS framework and enriched with additional programmes that prepare learners for a global future.
Grades 1 – 3
Foundation Phase
- English Home Language
- Afrikaans First Additional Language
- Mathematics
- Life Skills
- Arts & Crafts
- Physical Education
- Computer Literacy
Grades 4 – 6
Intermediate Phase
- English Home Language
- Afrikaans First Additional Language
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Technology
- Economic & Management Sciences
- Life Skills
- Arts (Visual, Drama, Music)
Grade 7
Senior Phase
- English Home Language
- Afrikaans First Additional Language
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Technology
- Economic & Management Sciences
- Life Orientation
- Arts & Culture
Future-Ready Learning
Technology, Coding & AI Literacy
At Summerhill Prep, we understand that the world our learners are graduating into will be shaped by artificial intelligence, robotics and digital innovation. Rather than treat technology as an add-on, we embed it throughout our curriculum.
Coding & Robotics (CAPS aligned)
From Grade R through Grade 9, coding and robotics is embedded in the CAPS curriculum. Students learn sequencing, looping, conditional logic and more through platforms like Scottie GO! and hands-on robotics kits.
Mathletics & Reading Eggs
Globally recognised adaptive learning platforms that respond to each learner's pace and level - building mastery in maths and literacy through engaging, digital practice.
AI Awareness Programme
We introduce learners to the concepts, opportunities and ethical considerations of artificial intelligence so they enter high school and beyond as informed digital citizens.
Computer Lab & Digital Projects
A dedicated computer lab supports research projects, digital presentations, coding challenges and creative digital work across all year groups.
Beyond the Classroom
A Rich and Balanced School Life
At Summerhill Prep, education extends beyond textbooks. Every child has the opportunity to discover their strengths through sport, culture, art and leadership.
Competitive Sport
Swimming, netball, soccer, cricket, athletics and tennis. Term-based programmes with inter-school competitions.
Arts & Culture
Visual art, drama, choir, marimba, chess, Eisteddfod participation and creative writing competitions.
Leadership Programmes
School council, student mentorship programme, Gr 7 mentoring, community service projects and public speaking.
Extra-Curricular
Dance, karate, ballet, Young Engineers, pottery, Boots Soccer Club, Swimming Club and more.
Values Education
Heart to Heart: Our Values Programme
Our Heart to Heart programme recognises and rewards students who go above and beyond - for their peers, their school, and their community. It reflects our belief that character counts just as much as academic achievement.
Students earn points for donations, community contributions, and charitable initiatives. These accumulate toward badges that are worn with pride - recognition that giving back is as important as getting ahead.
Assessment & Progress
How We Measure Growth
Our assessment approach is designed to give parents and students a clear, honest, and encouraging picture of progress.
Continuous Assessment
Work is assessed throughout the year - not just in examinations. Projects, presentations, oral assessments and tests all contribute to a holistic view of progress.
Formal Examinations
From Grade 4, learners experience formal exam conditions - building examination technique and resilience for the demands of high school and beyond.
Parent-Teacher Communication
We maintain close communication with parents through regular reports, formal consultations, and ongoing dialogue. You will always know how your child is doing.
Learner Support
Our Learning Support team identifies learners who may need additional support early. Tailored programmes are implemented with parental involvement and care.
Standardised Benchmarking
We benchmark our learners against national and international standards to ensure our outcomes are genuine and competitive.
Holistic Reporting
School reports reflect academic achievement alongside character development, participation, leadership and attitude - because the whole child matters.
School Life Gallery
In Pictures
Parent Voices
What Our Prep Parents Say
"Good morning ma'am", "Hello ma'am", "Afternoon ma'am"—guys move out of the way for a parent! I have heard these phrases from the start of school and all I can say is WOW. Now I know why I put my child in this school and refused to go to any other! The love the teachers have for the children, and the way they have moulded them, is so special. What they are taught is not even being tested. Well done teachers. You are developing the talents of our future.
Natalia Christine Butcher
Summerhill parent
I can't have enough words of thanks to the Summerhill family for all the assistance and support the school has provided for me to raise and educate both of my children. I am really grateful to have been part of the parenting mission.
Libe Mapeshoane
Summerhill parent
Frequently Asked Questions
Prep School: Parent Questions
Enrolment
Join the Summerhill Prep Family
We welcome applications for Grades 1 to 7. Book a tour to meet our team, experience our campus and discover why Summerhill Prep is the first choice for families across Midrand.