School Type: Co-Educational

WATERBERG ACADEMY is a developing independent, coeducational school for a new, innovative generation. We cater for children from Grade 000 to Grade 7, growing by a grade each year, up to Grade 12. Our High School phase will be launched in 2007 with our first Grade 8 class (and Grade 9 if there is sufficient demand).

The school was born out of a need to provide quality education and a fresh alternative to traditional education. It has at its heart a deep commitment to blend the age old principles of environmental interdependence with the modern need for social responsibility and leadership. It recognises that educating our youth in traditional values, morals and ethics while equipping them with essential life skills and knowledge, is essential to secure their future.

Quality, English-medium education is offered in small classes with an excellent pupil: teacher ratio. A pupil centered approach, modern curriculum design and committed educators ensure the fulfilment of these ideals.

The locality of the school, set in the natural beauty of the pristine Waterberg Biosphere has been ideal for propagating a school with its ethos in a strong environmental code. Through our environmental, weekly enrichment programme, pupils are exposed to a variety of pertinent issues and challenges.

BACKGROUND

Waterberg Academy is situated in the town of Mabatlane (Vaalwater) in the western part of the Limpopo Province, only 2hrs from Gauteng. The locality of the school, set in the natural beauty of the pristine Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, is ideal for propagating an ethos entrenched in a strong environmental code. Every effort is made to utilise the unique, stimulating opportunities of the Waterberg and its environs.

This exceptional school was established in January 2003, and was founded and self-funded by the community, for the community. 120 pupils have already made it their home and as the word continues to be spread, the school is geared towards establishing itself as an independent school of excellence. It has already produced successes and impacted the local community and environment in ways that many schools do not achieve in a decade. Every effort is made to utilise the unique, stimulating opportunities of the Waterberg, promoting a love of, and respect for, the natural environment and its resources. From our Pre-Preparatory, pupils are made aware of the intricacies and wonder of nature and are taken on educational excursions.

We strive to develop a strong sense of selfworth, accountability, and encourage creative and critical higher order thinking in all areas. Firm, positive discipline lays an ethical foundation for dealing with the pressures of an increasingly demanding and complex world. A wide range of academic, sporting and cultural activities provides a firm foundation for individual expression and the attaining of goals.

MISSION

Waterberg Academy aims to provide, through quality education, innovative and enlightened teaching, free thinking, open minded, yet self disciplined individuals with self respect, as well as respect for others and the environment.

ACADEMIC

A range of challenging learning areas based on the New National Revised Curriculum statements is offered. The inherent principals of O.B.E. are followed as our children benefit from this cross-curricular, problem solving and co-operative approach.

Children are observed on a continuous basis in order that consolidation, extension and remediation can occur. Highly qualified, child-centred class and subject teachers facilitate the pupils’ learning experience. Arts and Culture; Physical Education and N. Sotho are among our specialist subjects.

Our Economic and Management Science programme and the development of entrepreneurship and life skills ensures our pupils are equipped to deal with the challenges of the future, in order to make a real contribution to the world in which we live. Academically, the school keeps pace with modern trends in order to stay at the forefront of education.

SPORT AND CULTURAL PROGRAMME

A variety of physical and cultural opportunities is provided. Rugby, Netball, Hockey, Cricket and Athletics form part of compulsory sport. In addition, Crosscountry, Tennis, Gymnastics, Ball Skills and Karate are offered. Culturally, pupils may join public speaking and debating, chess and the choir. Additional cultural options include drama, art, music and ballet.

OUTREACH

In keeping with our Christian ethos and sound value system, Waterberg Academy places a strong emphasis on emotional intelligence. Our comprehensive and sustainable outreach and leadership programme further inculcates social responsibility, environmental and community awareness.

School Phase:

• Pre-Primary
• Primary
• Secondary

Lowest Grade: Grade 000
Highest Grade: Grade 11
Boarding: Yes
Boarding From: Grade 7
Number of Pupils: 126
Founding Year: 2003
Religious Affiliation: Christian
Lowest Tuition Fees Per Annum (2008): R8280
Highest Tuition Fees Per Annum (2008): R28200
Lowest Boarding Fees (inc. Tuition): R41800
Highest Boarding Fees (inc. Tuition): R56200
Examinations or Curricula:

• General Education and Training (GETC)
• National Senior Certificate (IEB)

Postal Address: PO Box 655, Vaalwater
Postal Code: 0530
Telephone: 014 755 4460
Fax: 014 755 4460
Website: http://www.waterbergacademy.co.za/
Suburb: Mabatlane
City/Town: Mabatlane (Vaalwater)
South African Province: Limpopo
Country: South Africa