Prep's emphasis on a well rounded individual with academic, sporting and cultural exposure encouraged me to develop potential in me which I had never known existed. With the teaching staff and...
About the School
Durban Prep is a school steeped in tradition, with impressive facilities and the best Educators who provide top-quality education.
There is always a buzz – things happening - because the school has so much to offer. You can sense the passion. Amongst all of this are high levels of support from all connected to the school. There is a terrific sense of pride. And much emphasis on fair discipline.
Taking the example of the Educators, the well-mannered boys learn leadership and develop high levels of integrity, in an environment which provides a down-to-earth yet highly professional approach to education - in perfect balance; sport and sportsmanship; academics; culture, and a cross-cultural understanding and acceptance, where anyone is welcome.
This school is not for the faint-hearted however. It is progressive and fresh, and very challenging, and one can only feel privileged to be a part of it. And in no other way is this better demonstrated by the legendary Grade 7’s last bell on their final day at Prep, after which of course, better fortune follows.
Reception Unit (Grade R)
The DPHS Reception Unit is situated on the border of the main school campus, providing a friendly and stimulating environment for three Grade R classes. In these groups, the fundamental concepts and positive attitudes for formal learning are pursued, catering for individual needs and interests. In so doing, the school morning becomes a dynamic balance between informal exploratory play opportunities and carefully planned teacher-directed lessons. The close liaison between the Pre-school teachers, as well as the Junior Primary specialists and staff at the Main Campus, helps to ensure a sound foundation and easy transition into formal schooling the following year. Each class in the Reception Unit has a fully qualified Foundation Phase teacher assisted by a full time teacher assistant, thereby creating a most favourable teacher: pupil ratio. The entire Reception Unit is headed up by the Head Teacher, Les Phipson, assisted by a full time administrative member of staff.
Grades 1, 2 and 3
Laying a sound foundation for the formal component of a boy’s schooling is the unique and critically important challenge facing the Junior Primary. During a boy’s three years in this phase the essential learning areas of Literacy, Numeracy and Life Skills are covered through a dynamic and relevant programme. Small class sizes of no more that 22 are a key element in this process. A team of fully qualified JP specialist teachers guided by their own head teacher are tasked with this challenge.
The Junior Primary reflects its own unique ethos. The boys enjoy their own special activities and occasions throughout the year such as galas, sporting events and concerts. The Junior Primary boys have their own playground and occupy the old wing of the school.
These boys are fortunate to benefit from the expertise of specialist teachers in the following fields: Information Technology; Media Science; the Performing Arts, both Music and Drama; Physical Education; Design Technology and Visual Arts. A Learning Support Centre offers additional benefit. As part of this foundation building experience the boys are exposed to a full range of sporting activities centred on skills and enjoyment. At the end of their Junior Primary career, boys can confidently look forward to the challenges and opportunities that the Senior Primary will present.
Grades 4, 5, 6 and 7
Challenges and opportunities abound in the Senior Primary for boys to explore and develop their cultural, sporting and academic talents and interests during a busy, dynamic and extended school day.
It is the school’s wish that every boy in his preparation for high school is able to enjoy the rewards of taking responsibility for his learning, making healthy choices and building a strong sense of self belief and self worth. This grounding includes an introduction to leadership and real life opportunities for a boy to exercise and develop his emotional and social intelligence by way of the DPHS Prep Pal family system.
In the final outcome a Durban Prep boy must confidently enter high school knowing that he is able to make a unique and valued contribution to school and life.
School Staff
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Executive Headmaster:
DoE Appointed Acting Headmaster: |