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Our Charter: Mission Statement
Mission Statement
The College will offer excellence in education by:
Developing children to their full potential through an
integrated programme that attends to their physical,
emotional, social, cognitive and spiritual development;
Implementing a dynamic and relevant curriculum that
address the changing needs of society and encourages a
sense of responsibility.
In so doing prepare each
child to achieve a life of Integrity and fine character,
reflecting the Fruits of the Sprit:
Love
Joy
Peace
Patience
(Galatians 5:22)
Kindness
Goodness
Gentleness
Faithfulness
Self Control
The College will fulfil the calling of
outstanding teachers who are committed to their
profession and who embrace the College’s Christian
ethos.
The College will run as an efficient
business enterprise to ensure affordability to the
school’s community.
Vision
Our local vision is to equip your children, unearth
their personal potential, fill them with confidence and
build up the family. Our global vision is to raise
a new generation of nation builders that are full of
integrity, impacting our region, nation and the global
community itself.
The school is founded upon solid
Christian principles with local churches represented in
an advisory capacity. Our strong leadership team
has a passion and a vision for the future of education.
This vision and culture extends from the child to the
parents and to the community at large.
Our
Motto
Our Motto, Ad Integritatem, means 'towards integrity'
and it is this value that underscores HeronBridge
College's efforts at every level.
Curriculum
Our Heads of School represent us in various ISASA and
SAHISA executives and actively guide a full complement
of well-qualified academic staff. Registered with the
Independent Schools Association of South Africa (ISASA),
HeronBridge College presently subscribes to the Revised
National Curriculum and its associated Outcomes Based
Approach. We are also members of the Association
of Christian Schools International (ACSI).
Conduct and Appearance of Pupils
The “Code of Conduct” found within this website (ABOUT
HERONBRIDGE; OUR CHARTER; CODE OF CONDUCT) needs to be
read carefully and discussed with your children to
ensure that they understand, and will abide by these
boundaries.
Open Door Policy
Parents are welcome at all times to make appointments to discuss concerns
they may have. Kindly phone the College
office to make appointments with the relevant staff at
mutually agreeable times.
In the High School it
is preferable that issues are first resolved at the
Grade Tutor level. Should this not be possible, parents
are invited to contact the Deputy or Head as the case
may be. Grade 8 and 9 matters are handled by the Deputy
Head and Grade 10 -12 by the Head.
In the
Preparatory School it is preferable that issues are
resolved at the class teacher level. Should this
not be possible, parents are welcome to contact the
Grade Head. If issues are still not resolved,
contact should then be made with the Deputy Head or
Head, as the case may be.
In the Pre-Preparatory
School it is preferable that issues are resolved at the
class teacher level. Should this not be possible,
parents are welcome to contact the Head.
Should
the issues still be unresolved, and the amicable
resolution of a parent’s grievance no longer be
possible, a formal grievance procedure is recommended
for parents to follow. This procedure is available
on our website or from the College Office.
Transport
The College provides a bus service along various
routes in the mornings, and early and late afternoons.
Full details of times and routes are available on this
website (ABOUT HERONBRIDGE: BUS INFORMATION).
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PRE-PREPARATORY & GRADE R INFORMATION |
| School Hours |
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| Grade 000 |
08h30 – 12h30 |
(Mon – Fri) |
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| Grade 00 |
08h30 – 12h30 |
(Mon – Fri) |
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| Grade R |
08h00 – 13h00 |
(Mon, Tues, Wed & Thurs) |
08h00 – 12h30 |
(Fri) |
HeronBridge Pre-Preparatory prides itself on the
fact that it provides a loving, nurturing, safe
environment for children from the ages of three to six.
The classroom environment, as well as the outside play
area is child orientated with ample space for little
bodies to run, walk, and play.
Qualified
teaching staff deliver a curriculum that provides for
optimal learning to take place at each developmental
stage. It caters for Social, Emotional, Physical,
Cognitive and Spiritual Development, while meeting the
requirements of the National Curriculum.
Each
theme works over a period of two weeks and is conveyed
through three rings. The first ring includes Language
and Theme discussion, News and Show-and-Tell. The second
includes Movement, Music, Perception, Science, Drama and
Maths. The last ring of the day includes our story ring.
Playball supports the gross motor programme and
all children participate in a half hour lesson once per
week. A specialist music teacher adds variety and
movement to our music rings. Innings and Outings make
memories and give meaning. The children are exposed to a
variety of different events throughout the year.
To encourage a commitment to reading from an early
age all children go to the library once a week. They are
read a story and then able to choose a book to take
home.
Grade R is the beginning of the Foundation
Phase and as such adopts a child-centred school
readiness programme that is balanced with play. In
keeping with the National Curriculum, the children are
assessed on an ongoing basis.
| PREPARATORY INFORMATION |
| School Hours |
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| Grade 1 – 2 |
07h40 – 13h40 Mon - Thurs
07h40 – 13h20
Fri |
incl. of our Integrated Day |
| Grade 3 – 7 |
07h40 – 13h20 Mon – Fri |
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At HeronBridge Preparatory School, we subscribe to
an Outcomes Based approach to delivering a mainstream,
academic curriculum. The dynamic programme is built
around the 12 Critical Outcomes as laid down by National
Policy for all education sectors. It is mindful of the
present needs of our community and as such is constantly
evolving. It heads towards the end goal of an IEB exit
exam at Grade Twelve. Our close connection with the
Reception Year and The Senior Phase ensures that the
curriculum is delivered seamlessly.
Foundation Phase
Following the excellent foundation set in Grade R, our
Grade One children enter formal education where the
focus is on developing fundamental Literacy and Numeracy
skills. In order to make learning relevant, an
integrated curriculum is followed throughout this phase.
We follow a comprehensive, multifaceted Literacy
programme, which incorporates international best
practice. Language is central to learning and
consequently reading, written and oral skills are
promoted within this programme in order to develop
creative and critical thinkers who can read fluently and
communicate confidently both verbally and non verbally.
Children today need to be equipped to
participate in an increasingly numerical world and
therefore it is crucial for the learners in this phase
to gain a strong foundation in basic numeracy. The
teaching of Mathematics is integrated with other
learning areas and the children are required to apply
their numerical understanding to real life situations in
order to develop sound problem solving skills.
Our Life Skills curriculum provides the context for the
teaching of Literacy and Numeracy and consists of Life
Orientation (including Bible Education), Natural
Sciences and Social Sciences. Arts and Culture comprises
of Drama, Music and Visual Arts lessons which are taught
by specialised teachers. Regular physical activity forms
a vital part of the curriculum and in the early years of
Grade One and Two, an Integrated Day serves as an
excellent introduction to the various sport’s codes.
By the end of Grade Three our learners have
experienced a creative and well balanced curriculum
which adequately prepares them to apply their learnt
skills to all learning areas offered in the Intermediate
Phase.
Intermediate and Senior Phase
Moving into
this phase (Grade 4 to 7) we continue with a full
timetable, incorporating the same eight Learning Areas.
There is an increased emphasis on higher order thinking
skills and an introduction to Economic and Management
Sciences. The children are required to note current
affairs and broaden their general knowledge. Research
and Presentation Skills are honed in these years.
Co-Curricular Activities
Co-Curricular Timetables
will be issued at the beginning of each season. Please
note that once pupils have registered for a
co-curricular activity they have made a commitment and
will be expected to meet that commitment. They will not
be allowed to come and go as they please and, except in
the case of illness, must excuse themselves in advance
if unable to attend a meeting, rehearsal, practice or
match. The following sporting activities are on offer
during the course of the year (cost inclusive)
Soccer (Gr 3 - 7)
Netball (Gr 3 - 7)
Athletics (Gr 3 - 7)
Cross Country (Gr 3 - 7)
Cricket (Gr 3 - 7)
Tennis (Gr 3 - 7)
Swimming (Gr 3 - 7)
Hockey (Gr 3 - 7)
Mountain Biking (Gr 4 - 7)
Rock Climbing (Gr 3 - 7)
Softball (Gr 3 - 7)
Equestrian and riders are selected to represent
HeronBridge College at Inter-School events.
The
following cultural activities are on offer during the
course of the year
Chess Drama
Choir Computers
Pottery Art
Our Grade
Ones and Twos enjoy an Integrated Day where all the
above activities are scheduled for each child, on a
rotational basis, as a part of their school day.
GENERAL PREP AND PRE-PREPARATORY INFORMATION
Aftercare is run daily from 13h30 until 17h30. Full
details are available on this website (ABOUT
HERONBRIDGE: AFTERCARE).
School Uniforms
We have our own uniform shop on the school property
where you can purchase all your uniform requirements.
This shop is open daily during the school term as well
as on selected days during the school holidays.
Please contact Helen Balabanoff should you need any
information on uniforms. All pupils (Grade 3 – 7) are
requested to buy their own case or satchel. These should
have a hard cover or hard backing in order to protect
books. Pupils in Grades 1 and 2 need the prescribed
school bag and lunch cooler.
Stationery and Text Books
Grade 000 through to Grade 3: For your convenience, and
in order to ensure consistency, the school has secured
the services of related agencies to supply stationery
and workbooks for children in Grades 000-3.These
compulsory packs will comprise of all stationery
required, all writing books, covers, files, etc. and are
delivered directly to the school in preparation for the
new school year. Your school account will be debited
accordingly. Grades 4 through to 7: compulsory writing
books and text books will be ordered for your child and
related costs will be debited to your school account.
Other stationery requirements (pens, rulers, glue,
pastels, etc) may be purchased through any stationery
outlet.
Private Extramurals
Flyers containing information regarding costs and times
of the private extra murals are distributed to the
relevant age groups separately. They are also available
at the office and contact details may be found on the
school’s website. These activities are for the parents’
account. They include:
Catrobatkidz (Gr 000 - R)
Tennis Coaching (Gr R - 2)
Pottery (Gr 000 – R & Gr
3- 7) Brix ‘n Blox (Gr 000 - R)
Drama (Gr R - 12)
Powerplay (Gr 000 - R)
Creative Kids (Gr 000 - R)
Piano (Gr 2-7)
Play Golf (Gr R – 2)
Ballet (Gr 000 – 2)
Tap, Hip Hop and Modern Dancing
(Gr R-12 )
General Communication
A school newsletter will be emailed to you weekly and
posted on the website. Incidental communication may be
conveyed to you via the homework diary or by separate
letter. Please remember to keep us updated with your
personal information (contact number, postal address
etc) so that we can reach you in case of an emergency.
| COLLEGE
INFORMATION |
| School Hours |
| Our College runs on a 7
day academic timetable. |
| Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday |
07h30 to 14h30 |
| Wednesday |
07h30 to 13h05 |
The College assumes it’s curriculum at Grade 8,
continuing the Senior Phase through to the end of Grade
9. The pupils participate in all Eight Learning Areas,
as laid out by the National Curriculum. They end that
phase with externally set exit examinations and each
obtain a GET Certificate. Those staying on into the FET
Band (Further Education and Training) stay in the school
for Grades Ten, Eleven and Twelve. In this phase they
will carefully select their specialist subjects. At the
end of Grade Twelve, the learners sit the IEB
(Independent Examination Board) National Senior
Certificate.
Class Size & Lifestyle
Class size is limited to mid- twenties, although because
of subject choice, some classes may be considerably
smaller. Pupils are encouraged to communicate
effectively with their teachers. HeronBridge is an
English medium, co-educational College and offers a
comprehensive programme to prepare the children for
life.
Our ultimate aim is the development of
sound thinking and problem-solving skills such that the
various faculties produce highly educated pupils who are
able to tackle new problems effectively and with
confidence! Pupils develop the traits of creativity,
sensitivity, self-confidence and resourcefulness. Our
approach is determined by the pupils’ interests,
experience and environment. They are encouraged to
express, analyse and substantiate personal opinions,
responses and preferences.
Our academic staff
are highly qualified and continual professional
development is emphasized. Pupils are encouraged to
develop a sound work ethic and small class sizes allow
for individual attention. Academic Support is available
to pupils in every subject.
CURRICULUM - GET – GRADE 8 AND GRADE 9
The GET (General Education and Training), Band
follows the National Curriculum with pupils
participating in all eight learning areas. The phase
ends with externally set exit examinations.
Subjects
offered in Grade 8 and 9 :
English
Afrikaans
Mathematics
Natural Sciences
Human & Social
Sciences
Economic & Management Sciences
Technology
Life Orientation
ArtFET – GRADE 10 – 12
The FET (Further Education and Training), Grades 10 -
12, pupils carefully select carefully their subjects. At
the end of Grade 12, pupils sit the IEB Examination.
(Independent Examination Board) National Senior
Certificate.
Subject Choice
| Grade 10 – 12
Compulsory Subjects |
Grade 10 – 12
Optional Subjects |
| English First Language |
Life Science |
| Afrikaans First
Additional Language |
Physical Science |
| Mathematics – or |
History |
| Mathematical Literacy |
Geography |
| Life Orientation |
Art |
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Accounting |
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Computer IT (Information Technology) – or |
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Computer Studies CAT (Computer Aided
Technology) |
Notes
1. A pupil must offer
seven subjects;
2. A pupil must offer two official
languages;
3. All pupils must offer all the
compulsory subjects;
4. Mathematics will be on offer
at HeronBridge only to those who achieve at least 50% in
Mathematics in Grade 9;
5. Mathematical Literacy will
be the compulsory option for those who achieve less than
50% in Mathematics in Grade 9
6. Accounting, Computer
Studies IT and Science require Mathematics and so will
not be options for those who achieve less than 50% in
Mathematics in Grade 9;
7. Computer Studies CAT will
not be an option for pupils offering Mathematics, except
in special circumstances;
8. The requirements for
further studies set by the various tertiary
institutions.
Co-Curricular Activities
Pupils are encouraged to partake in as many
co-curricular activities as possible, and pupils are
required to be involved in at least one activity per
term or season.
Sporting activities offered are:
| Rugby |
Netball |
Swimming |
| Athletics |
Cross Country |
Hockey |
| Cricket |
Tennis |
Volleyball |
| Equestrian |
First Aid |
Open Water Swimming |
In the last few years our sporting achievements have
grown immensely. The HeronBridge Sports Complex
comprises Soccer, Rugby and Hockey Fields, Netball and
Tennis Courts. In 2006 to commemorate the new fields,
the Under 14 Rugby & Netball Festival was developed. We
also take part in sporting tours on a national basis.
Cultural activities offered are:
| Public Speaking |
Debating |
Choir |
| Drama |
Photographic |
Society |
We hold an annual Major Production, and are very
competitive in public speaking and debating, winning
many regional trophies for our participation.
HeronBridge College has won Best School in the Region
for the National Eisteddfod for 5 consecutive years
(2005 to 2009).
Canteen
We have a canteen style tuckshop serving healthy food
items at reasonable prices. The canteen is open
throughout the day and closes late afternoon to allow
for our co-curricular programme. Pupils are issued with
a smart card which allows for a cash free canteen.
Making School Cool
HeronBridge College launched the “Making School Cool”
policy in 2006. We encourage cell phone sms to
communicate with our pupils. Our pupils respond well to
the theme and it certainly seems like school is cool for
them! The canteen vibrates every break with music, cell
phones buzz with the daily messages and HBucks are
earned with great enthusiasm! HBucks are awarded to
pupils for academic, cultural and sporting activities.
HeronBridge Personal Challenge
This is a programme of diverse activities set to
challenge individuals to do their best over the years
they are in the College, for themselves, their school
and society. There are various levels of award, set for
a vast range of activities, from the Squacco Heron
award, through the Grey and Purple Heron awards to the
ultimate Goliath Heron accolade. The challenges are
personal in that individual pupils set their own targets
and seek to meet these outside of any assistance from
the College.
DigiSchool
2010 has seen the introduction of the College’s digital
school. Lessons have a technological flavour, pupils use
laptops in class and work is sent electronically between
school and home. Digidays have been scheduled on a
monthly basis in order to emphasise the importance of
computers in the learning process.
2009 Grade 12 Results
We are extremely proud of the College’s 2009 NSC
results. This was only the fourth group of pupils to
complete their schooling at HeronBridge. Over the four
years a reputation has now been firmly established for
excellent academic results and the pattern places the
College at the forefront of good schools.
Writing
the IEB examinations, all of HeronBridge College’s 62
candidates passed, thus achieving a 100% pass rate. The
Bachelor Degree pass rate (the number of candidates
qualifying for university access) was 92%, or 57 of the
total. The other 5 candidates all achieved the Diploma
pass, qualifying them also for tertiary education.
That’s a 100x100 rate: 100% pass and 100% access to
tertiary institutions! 7 of our pupils attained overall
averages above 75%. The pupils achieved a total of 70
distinctions, followed by 116 B symbols and 118 C
symbols. The Dux Scholar was Jordyn Laubscher, with a
total of 7 distinctions (English, Mathematics,
Mathematics Paper 3, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences,
Information Technology, Life Orientation) and an average
of 85%
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