OUR MISSION
We are intent on developing each pupil as an individual, whole person, in mind, body and spirit. "While it is wrong to coerce young people into opinions, it is essential to compel them into experiences", was the credo of Kurt Hahn, founder of Gordonstoun, and we embrace this philosophy with enthusiasm. Intellectual, academic and physical growth are our targets.
We offer opportunities for the building of character, the development of self-discipline and the nurturing of leadership so that our pupils will be equipped to take their place in society as responsible, well-adjusted citizens who are also free-thinking, independent individuals.
ACADEMIC MATTERS
To foster positive self-evaluation and empower each pupil to cope with gradually increasing responsibilities, we follow a unique system, known as the Training Scheme. This means that at any stage of their senior grades at Woodridge, a pupil could, depending on the progress of his/her development, be ranked as a full School Prefect.
Woodridge uses up-to-the minute teaching technology and modern methods to maintain our high academic standards. The individual attention which is only possible in small classes is of major significance.
The curriculum in Grade 8 and 9 is aimed at a broad education and includes these subjects; English, Afrikaans, Mathematics, Physical Science, Geography, History, Biology, Accounting, Business Economics, Music, Art and Computer Studies.
We prepare our Grade 11 and 12 pupils for the Independent Examination Board Senior Certificate of which the examining body is a leader in its field. From Grade 10 pupils specialise by selecting subjects from the following: English, Afrikaans, Mathematics, Computer Studies, Business Economics, Accounting, History, Geography, Art, Biology, Physical Science and Music.
The majority of staff are resident on the campus, which ensures that academic, emotional and social support is available at all times.
PRE-SCHOOL
Our Pre-school caters for pupils from 3 - 6 years old. The Pre-School follows the same outcomes- based curriculum as the rest of the Foundation Phase. The pupils are exposed to wonderful experiences outside the classroom in the form of outings, swimming, mini-olympics, tennis, with the optional extras of Monkeynastix, Playgolf, Judo, Dancing and Kindermuzik.
PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Following a long tradition of providing a warm home-from-home atmosphere, Woodridge offers a diversity of activities to help shape our day scholars and boarders in their vital junior school years. They study the usual academic subjects which are augmented by exposure to computers and entrepreneurial classes in order to develop important life skills. Grade 0 to 7 scholars can expand their interest through subjects as varied as Chess, Cooking, Crafts and Pottery.
Teachers make full use of the 'outdoor classroom' which is our own Nature Reserve in order to educate the whole child and stimulate an interest in conservation, ecology and wildlife.
We cater for children eager to enjoy the traditional sports and, in addition, we arrange regular Outdoor Education expeditions to increase the scope of their physical and mental development.
BOARDING
Pupils enjoy a relaxed, homely atmosphere in which to interact with peers and staff. We try to allow them privacy and individuality while maintaining a healthy sense of discipline. Friendships developed at Woodridge last a lifetime, testimony to which is given by Old Woodridgeans both nationally and internationally.
Meals at Woodridge are provided by professional caterers who ensure that food is well balanced and varied. We do our best to supply acceptable alternatives for vegetarians and those who require special diets. Our pre-planned menus are subject to the approval of a dietician.
Medical care is available at Woodridge. We have a fully-equipped Sanatorium, staffed by two resident qualified nursing sisters. Our School Doctor attends to those requiring further treatment, in Port Elizabeth.
