An inspiring approach to education
The Capstone School
New independent school to offer a homely learning environment on a piece of an historic farm in the heart of the city .
The Capstone School will open the doors of its new Heatherbank Farm campus in 2017 . This will mark 20 years since the school ’ s founder and principal , Jacqui Zeelie , first established Children ’ s World Pre-Primary School in 1997 .
NEW BEGINNINGS As the school is growing and will now also be offering primary education , it is time for a new name as well as a relocation from its current premises in Walmer to the Heatherbank Farm . Over the years , Children ’ s World has steadily built a strong reputation based on the excellence of its programmes and the character of its school community . Parents now look forward to the extended offerings that the Capstone School will provide and are excited about the possibilities of an integrated approach to learning alongside nature .
A REASON TO GROW The decision to position the school as a provider of both pre-primary and primary education came as a response to ongoing requests from parents . The first cohort of primary pupils was enrolled in 2016 . These learners will continue into Grade 2 at the Capstone School ’ s new campus in 2017 . This means that next year , the school will offer pre-primary phase ( Grade 00 to Grade R ) and foundation primary phase ( Grade
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Jacqui and a group of children visit the soon to be campus of the Capstone School on Heatherbank Farm .
1 to Grade 2 ). Jacqui says “ We plan to grow by a new Grade 1 class every year , until we have the full complement of 7 Grades , with a maximum of 18 children per grade .”
NATURE AND LEARNING The Capstone School ’ s beautiful new campus is enhanced by the abundance of trees , open spaces and meadows where horses and cattle feed nearby . The beauty , history and traditions of Heatherbank Farm combine with the new to create a peaceful teaching-learning environment where pupils can grow their own vegetables and learning through the natural environment is made possible . The school will be housed in the original homestead , nestled between giant fig trees and overlooking a pond .
RECOGNISING THE INDIVIDUAL The school ’ s low student-teacher ratio will ensure that the individual needs of each child is recognised and nurtured . Jacqui speaks about the school ’ s foundational values , “ Our children , teachers and administrators share a bond of acceptance , respect and trust . Priority is given to the emotional needs and self-esteem of our children . We encourage children to work and play together in peaceful , caring groups . Our children learn how to be good friends .“ Teaching at the school is anchored in a loving , Christian-centred approach and Jacqui emphasises