Uplands Prep School

The best advertisement for a school is its pupils, and if you ask current parents why they chose Uplands Preparatory School for their son or daughter, they invariably speak of the impression that the friendly, happy and well-balanced pupils had on them when they visited the school.

Head’s Welcome

As Headmaster, I am personally committed to the values and ethos of Uplands, and I feel very privileged to lead a school with such a rich past and an exciting future. We pride ourselves on our commitment to the individual. Every pupil is valued and encouraged to develop their own character and talents to the full. Confidence and maturity are nurtured by experienced academic and pastoral staff, in an atmosphere of opportunity and enquiry, with excellent structures of care in a stunning Lowveld setting.

Helping every pupil fulfil their academic potential has been a hallmark of our school for over 90 years, and progress and success are fundamental to what we do. Education is, however, about so much more than qualifications, important though they are. The wide range of experiences and extra-curricular opportunities on offer, in sport, music, drama and elsewhere, combined with our fine facilities, make for cheerful and self-disciplined pupils who have an appetite for discovery, and an ambition to make their mark.

I’m delighted by your interest in our school, and I hope this website provides a helpful introduction. The best way to understand us is, however, to visit Uplands on a working day and to see for yourself. So please don’t hesitate to contact us to arrange an appointment.

– Scott Hauptfleisch

Academic Excellence

FOUNDATION PHASE GRADE 1-3
Our teachers strive to see and develop the whole child. Informed by a strong and traditional value code and dynamic understanding of children, we excel in providing a solid foundation for life-long learning. The small classes enable us to really get to know our children and, thereafter, to develop an approach that resonates with each of them.

Our core academic programme consists of English, Afrikaans (1st additional language), isiZulu (2nd additional language), Mathematics and Life Skills, which are presented in spacious, computer-friendly classrooms. In addition to these subjects, our children enjoy Music, Physical Education, Information Technology and Library lessons with specialist teachers. As learning aids, we use a variety of Apps, such as Reading Eggs and Mathletics, and employ teaching techniques, such as Singapore Maths, Jolly Phonics and Phonsense, to strive for excellence in our academics. Many of our lessons take place outside so children experience first-hand the joy of exploring and discovering the beauty around them. Experiential learning opportunities include gardening, baking and dress-up days, as well as local outings and camps.

We believe in connecting with our parents to maximise the learning experience for our children. In this, we create regular opportunities for feedback, a listening ear and open conversation.

To support our busy families and engage our children, we offer a full-day programme. Our boys and girls, therefore, are able to stay at school after lunch to enjoy a variety of sport, supervised prep sessions and skills-based activities.

SENIOR PHASE GRADE 4-7
In the senior phase, the learning environment is more formal. In addition to Foundation phase subjects, the curriculum is enriched with the addition of History, Geography and Natural Science, Art, Divinity, Information Technology (IT) and Economic Management Science (EMS). Subject interest is stimulated with the directed use of technology, IT and Apps. Above all, we hope to instil a love for learning. We also seek academic excellence and consistently monitor our progress by writing national and international benchmarking assessments.

The classroom is extended well beyond the walls of our school, with pupils going on exciting outdoor educational excursions and tours. Furthermore, pupils are exposed to guest speakers, with a special emphasis on leadership development in the Grade 7 year.

Co-Curricular

SPORT
It is our intention to give an all-around education and to encourage balance in the lives of our pupils. With this in mind, we regard the coaching of sport as an essential component of educational excellence. In the Foundation Phase, the emphasis is placed on the development of skills, participation and enjoyment. By Grade 3 our players undertake their first competitive fixtures against local schools. In the Senior Phase, we extend our games-play with attendance at national festivals and a greater emphasis is placed on long term skill development. Our principal sports include rugby, soccer, hockey (boys and girls), netball, tennis, athletics and swimming.

MUSIC
A weekly lesson ensures all our pupils explore the world of music. It is in these classes that all our boys and girls have the opportunity to experiment with instruments, learn songs, and appreciate the history of music. An extensive private music programme and Choir allows our children to grow their skills and passion.

ART
In unison with our music programme, a weekly art lesson allows all our pupils to experiment with art media. For those with a passion for fine art, our afternoon programme allows them to further develop their talents.

DRAMA
To develop self-confidence and self-worth, we provide our pupils with opportunities to see, hear and participate in a variety of performance events, such as school assemblies, plays and public speaking. A drama class for all Grade 4s to 7s coaches our children to respond creatively and to become confident in expressing their ideas and feelings.

SERVICE
We support a number of local charities throughout the year to teach our children about community involvement, social responsibility, the plight of others and the role they can play in making the world a better place.

‘From when I was there, the unique aspect of the school was the focus not only on academics but sport as well. Developing a well-rounded person isn’t only about teaching, but ensuring healthy development too.’
– Past Uplands pupil

Co-Curricular Facilities