Curro Westbrook

In the foundation phase, we focus on teaching the foundational skills, concepts and knowledge which are required for further learning. We offer a vibrant, invitational atmosphere where the learners enjoy coming to school and where they acquire a love for learning, that will sustain them throughout their school years. We acknowledge the potential in each learner to reach optimum ability; therefore, there is less emphasis on competitiveness and more emphasis on individual achievement. We encourage opportunities for growth in independence and responsibility so that learners can take up the challenge of being personally responsible and accountable for their actions in the intermediate phase. Home language (English) and first additional language (Afrikaans).

In the literacy subject, we have incorporated the latest global trend of matching learners to book levels and of teaching guided reading and writing. This develops conceptual understanding at the learners’ own pace. Literacy skills are also taught using structured text types.

The curriculum has been written with a learner-centric, problem-solving approach leading to an individualised, well-developed number concept in young learners. This facilitates the successful learning of Mathematics as an abstract subject from Grade 4 to Grade 12.

We have added Robotics and Science to this subject as it involves design and a deep level of cognition, which underpins the learners’ creativity in using software to program their Lego educational toys. Collaboration is encouraged by allowing learners to work in pairs.

In the intermediate phase, the emphasis is still on establishing basic foundations but learners are led into more abstract thought and independent work. Application of skills and concepts is also a focus area in this phase. This phase aims to prepare learners for the senior phase in the high school.

We aim to embrace 21st century learning by incorporating the use of tablets into our classrooms. We currently raise children who are ‘digital natives’. By embracing innovative technology into our school, we are speaking the language our learners understand.

Our ethos is governed by Christian values, where learners are encouraged to explore and express their individuality within acceptable boundaries, and ultimately take responsibility for their actions. We guide them to follow their hearts and minds to develop into the best people they can be.

Our dynamic curriculum covers problem-solving, critical thinking and the development of skills and values. Both individual and group work are evaluated. Curro Westbrook produces a community of teenagers who know how to think innovatively, express their ideas and take charge of their own lives. We give your child the advantage of 21st Century learning, balanced academics, sport and experienced teachers! Learners are prepared for the matriculation examinations set by the Independent Examinations Board (IEB).

In this phase the CAPS curriculum is implemented, with Mathematics allowing for a more focused and problem-solving approach. The same literacy principles as in previous phases are included in the home language teaching, with a bigger emphasis on language. In the Science and Technology curriculum we focus not only on 21st century technology, but also on nanotechnology and a study of the Da Vinci inventions. This is all done with CAPS and the IEB in mind.

Participation in sport and the role of physical development are based on the ethos of Curro Westbrook. This is to ensure that all learners are educated in totality and to create opportunities as far as possible for each learner to develop as an individual. It is therefore important that learners are encouraged to participate in sport. Participation in sport and the role of physical development are based on the ethos of Curro Westbrook. This is to ensure that all learners are educated in totality and to create opportunities as far as possible for each learner to develop as an individual. It is therefore important that learners are encouraged to participate in sport.

The Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) is a formal organisation composed of parents, educators and staff that is intended to facilitate parental participation in a school. The role of the Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) is to encourage closer links between home and school. The PAC is best known for its fundraising work, but it has a useful social function too. Fundraising events provide an opportunity for parents, staff and learners to get together.