Junior Prep Academics
ACADEMIC APPROACH
At Dainfern College children develop strong foundations of academics, physical literacy, art and culture within a curriculum that focuses on content, teaching methodology, critical thinking and the dispositions that lay the foundations for competent, relevant and ethical citizens of the world.
The education of our children is child-centred, emphasising the uniqueness of each individual. Our children experience the excitement and achievement of learning new concepts and skills through teaching methods that stimulate, motivate and encourage each child to achieve to his or her full potential, taking into account each child’s individual talents and needs.
The Grade 0 programme focuses on play and the child’s innate curiosity whilst ensuring that the perceptual, social and emotional foundations of academic learning are developed. Class teaching predominates in Grades 1-3. All students have specialist teachers for Afrikaans, Art, isiZulu, Music, Media and Physical Education. Class teachers are responsible for the pastoral care of the students in their classes.
The academic offer in Grades 1-3 comprises Languages (English, Afrikaans and isiZulu), Life Skills, Mathematics, Art, Information & Communication Technology, Media, Music and Physical Education
INTEGRATED DAY
We run an integrated day in Grades 0, 1 and 2 where cultural and sporting extramural activities are incorporated into the school day. This allows students to participate in a single programme designed to provide a strong foundation of physical, social, cultural and academic opportunities. These rich and varied experiences and exposures ensure sound, holistic development and growth within an extended school day.
From Grade 3, the extramural programme runs after the academic day has ended and students may choose to participate in sporting and cultural activities that interest them.
FLEXIBLE CLASSROOMS
Recognising that the traditional classroom space does not match the high-tech, colourful, digital, connected, social world that today’s students inhabit, our Prep School classrooms have undergone a complete revamp in the last year. They are now welcoming colourful and innovative spaces where students can choose from a variety of seating and desk options.
These new learning spaces immediately sparked interest and engagement in our students. Our teachers have found it easier to connect with students, group work (a core 21st Century skill) is much easier and students are able to concentrate for longer periods as they do not stay in the same position and space for hours on end.
TECHNOLOGY & BYOT
Dainfern College is well resourced in technology and has four fully equipped computer labs for use by all students. While never using technology just for technology’s sake, we do recognise that it can enhance the academic potential of a lesson or task. We therefore strive to offer our students a technology-enriched environment that speaks to real-world learning and content creation in the form of project or inquiry-based learning. To facilitate this approach we also supply iPads and Chromebooks in the Junior Prep classrooms.
EXTENSION & SUPPORT
Our collaborative academic staff offer enrichment to all students in Grades 1 to 3 in collaboration with the class teachers. They work with small groups of children and provide valuable support in the classroom.
Academic support is offered to students in Grades 0 to 3 by external therapists who work in our Junior Prep Enrichment Centre. A remedial therapist, a speech therapist and an occupational therapist comprise the academic support team. The cost of these additional therapies is for the parents’ account and paid directly to the therapist.
RECOGNITION & AWARDS
In line with our motto of ‘Celebrate’, we love to recognise and award our students’ positive behaviour and achievements in and out of the classroom.
HOMEWORK CLUB & AFTERCARE
Aftercare facilities are available every afternoon during term and most days of the school holidays. We also have Homework Club after school each day.