Waterkloof House Preparatory School (WHPS)

Nature's masterpiece.🌹 Gr 5 outing to Ludwig Rose Farm as part of our Eco education programme. Roses are associated with achievement and perfection. Thank you to Ludwig's Roses for a wonderful morning.

Discover WHPS - Grade 000 to Grade 0 for 2025 and beyond

Visit our website to RSVP: www.whpsschool.com

We will be hosting a Discover WHPS morning at 09h00 on Saturday, 27 July 2024 for all prospective parents and children for Grade 000 to Grade 0 in 2025 and beyond.
• Grade 000 and Grade 00 (Boys and Girls)
• Grade 0 (Boys only)

We are looking forward to meeting you and sharing more about what WHPS has to offer your child.

Happy Red Rose Day!

An exciting start to the term at Waterkloof House Prep School where kindness reigns and adventure awaits - AWSUM School News An exciting start to the term at Waterkloof House Prep School (WHPS) – where kindness reigns and adventure awaits! Welcome back, boys and girls in the Whippets Pre-Prep and boys in Grade 0 to 7! As the sky painted itself in breathtaking hues of pink and gold, a sense of anticipation enveloped the ...

WHPS Term 2 2024 - Your Adventure Awaits - What a great way to start the second term!

WHIPPETS - Colours and Shapes!

It is always fun learning about colours and shapes. At the Whippets Pre-Prep we have created some fun and engaging ways for our boys and girls to explore the world around them while investigating colours and shapes. Some of these exciting activities include shape hunting outdoors, painting circles, sorting colours and experimenting with different colours. Recognising and working with shapes is an early math skill that forms the basis for abstract math later on.

GRADE 3 - ART

Our Grade 3 boys have embraced the challenge of creating depth and spatial realism in their artwork by creating one-point perspective drawings. From mastering the vanishing point to understanding horizon lines and converging lines, they've tackled each concept with enthusiasm and creativity.

INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING

In Grade 0 we have been exploring theme My Body and through our inquiry-based learning we decided to explore how lungs work.

The boys paired up with their Grade 6 buddies and Mrs Shaw gave them a science lesson on how lungs work. The Grade 6’s helped the Grade 0’s to make their own pair of lungs using brown paper bags, straws and tape. This will be a lesson that they will never forget!

Inquiry-based lessons captivate our boys interests and foster exploration which are invaluable learning experiences. By encouraging them to ask questions, seek answers, and draw conclusions, inquiry-based learning empowers children to take ownership of their learning and to become lifelong learners equipped to navigate an ever-changing world.

MATHS AT WHPS

Discovering the properties of 3D objects firsthand is essential for children's cognitive development and understanding of spatial concepts. By engaging in hands-on exploration, boys not only grasp geometric principles but also cultivate problem-solving skills and creativity. This experiential learning approach encourages curiosity and empowers children to become active learners.

BAKING AT THE WHIPPETS PRE-PREP

Baking can help a child’s language development. While baking, a child will be exposed to new words, expanding their vocabulary, and allowing them to better understand the actions that go with different words. It is a great way to help improve their math skills. Counting and measuring ingredients ensure a successful end product. One of the biggest benefits of baking is that it can teach children how to follow instructions. Learning how to follow directions can be challenging for them, because they simply want to do their own thing. Baking can also help a child improve their motor skills. Spreading, cutting, or pouring enhance their motor function, control, and strength. A child can also gain a boost in self-esteem when they bake. A lot of hard work, concentration, and patience go into baking and when it is finally done and they get to taste-test their treats, they will feel accomplished and proud of their work.

GRADE 0 FARM VISIT

Our Grade 0 boys had an amazing farm experience on Wednesday when we visited our sister school St Mary's DSG. The warm welcome from the staff and girls set the tone for a fantastic day. We met Farmer Harold and Farmer Tinie, and the boys and girls got to meet some adorable farm animals like Daisy the cow, Gijima the donkey, Adam the Marino sheep, and Grumpy the pig.

One of the highlights was getting the chance to feed the animals and even enjoy pony rides! The joy on the boys' faces was priceless. Throughout the morning, our students had the opportunity to interact with each farm animal, learning about their habits, diet, and fascinating facts, while also understanding the importance of compassion towards animals.

What made the day even more special was the chance to form new friendships with the girls from St. Mary's DSG while experiencing this hands-on farm adventure together. It was a wonderful opportunity to deepen our boys' appreciation for nature and strengthen the bonds between our schools.

As we boarded the bus to head back to our school, our hearts were full and spirits lifted. The boys excitedly chatted and reflected on the amazing adventures they had experienced that day. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to St. Mary's DSG for their warm hospitality and for creating memories that our students will cherish forever.

GEOGRAPHY AT WHPS

Exploring geography in a whole new way! The Grade 7 boys put their map skills to the test with an Easter egg hunt using coordinates around school. Hunting for knowledge and chocolate treats!

Pi DAY AT WHPS

Pi Day holds significant importance at WHPS as it celebrates the mathematical constant π (pi), which is essential in various branches of mathematics and science. Observing Pi Day fosters enthusiasm for mathematics among our children, encouraging them to explore the beauty and relevance of mathematical concepts.

It serves as an opportunity for teachers to engage our boys in interactive activities, such as memorising digits of pi, exploring the history of pi, and participating in mathematical challenges. Moreover, Pi Day promotes critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity.

Celebrating Pi Day on March,14, reminds us about the importance of mathematics in everyday life and will hopefully inspire a lifelong appreciation for the subject.

WHIPPETS - The Wonders of Our Hearts!

Dr. Mooloo, a proud Whippets parent and Cardiologist from Zuid-Afrikaans Hospital, paid us a visit! He enlightened us about the wonders of our hearts and even let us listen to our own heartbeats with a stethoscope! Our boys and girls had a blast asking questions, and Dr. Mooloo used a heart model to explain everything in detail!

WHPS GRADE 3 OUTING - Margaret Robert’s Herbal Centre

‘Time spent in nature is never wasted’- This quote rings true as the Grade 3s enjoyed a wonderful day outdoors exploring the gardens. This informative and educational outing is certainly a highlight on our calendar where we promote outdoor education, and we celebrate nature and biodiversity at its best!

GRADE 2 - ART

Our Grade 2 artists have been honing their skills and unleashing their creativity through the exploration of shading techniques, all in preparation for an exciting Paul Cézanne still life project. From mastering the art of light and shadow to experimenting with clay to form 3D shapes, our students have been fully immersed in the process of creating depth and dimension in their artwork.

WHY CODING IS IMPORTANT AT WHPS

In today's digital era, coding isn't just a skill, it's a superpower! At WHPS we continue to embrace this trend, empowering our boys with essential tools for the future. From problem-solving to fostering creativity, coding opens doors to endless opportunities. We equip our boys with the skills they need to thrive in tomorrow's world!

WHPS OPEN DAY - 16 March 2024

Haven't RSVP's for our Open Day yet?
Don't worry there is still time, and we would love to have you join us so visit our website to submit your response: www.whpsschool.com

WHPS SWIMMING - Inter-Primary and Prestige Galas

We are very proud of fielding 3 impressive competitive swimming teams at the various Inter-Primary Galas on the 4th, 5th and 6th of March. Our A, B, and C teams competed with determination and passion and we commend our amazing WHPS boys for their performances. The boys gave their all in and out of the pool.

In addition, on March 6th, our A and B team swimmers showcased their talent at the Prestige Galas hosted at St Stithians and St Benedict's respectively. A huge congratulations to all the boys who participated in the thrilling final galas of the season. We're incredibly proud of our swimmers!

WHIPPETS - Mommy and Me Morning

The Whippets Mommy and Me morning was a delightful success, enjoyed by all who participated. Following the theme for Term 1 of "Let Your Imagination Fly," we engaged in a creative pottery activity by making bird feeders. The mothers and children alike embraced the occasion with enthusiasm, and enjoyed a special bonding experience. It was heartwarming to see everyone come together, nurturing creativity and building cherished memories.

GRADE 4 ART

We're thrilled to highlight the exciting journey our Grade 4 boys have embarked on in the world of printmaking! Over the past few weeks, our young artists have delved into the fascinating art form of collographs and reductive printmaking techniques, unleashing their creativity and honing valuable skills along the way.

DRAMA: AL IN WATERLAND - A WHIRLPOOL OF WHIMSY

"Al in Waterland" proved to be a delightful fusion of imagination and talent as the Grade 4 boys took the stage to present their whimsical adaptation of "Alice in Wonderland." Departing from the traditional rabbit hole, this aquatic rendition plunged audiences through a crab hole into a surreal undersea realm, where Al encountered a host of peculiar characters.

From the contentious Tweedledee, Tweedledum, and Tweedlethree to the carefree Jolly Jelly and Merry Jelly, the ocean floor was alive with vibrant personalities. Amidst the whimsy, tensions escalated with the Prince of Tides, culminating in a gripping courtroom scene.

Before facing judgment, Al found himself swept into the chaos of a mad sea party, where conversations with March Octopus and his guests led nowhere but deeper into confusion. Despite the absurdity, "Al in Waterland" skilfully intertwined themes of imagination, identity, and truth, resonating with audiences on a deeper level.

As Al awoke on the beach, the surreal events played over in his mind, echoed by the presence of three white crabs. Through their heartfelt performance, the Grade 4 boys crafted a production that will be remembered for its creativity, humour, and poignant reflection of life's complexities.

A special thank you is owed to the Grade 4 boys for their exceptional dedication and talent, which brought "Al in Waterland" to life with such vibrancy and charm. Their hard work and commitment to the production are truly commendable, and their performances were nothing short of magical.

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WHPS is situated in the leafy green suburb of Brooklyn in Pretoria. This year we celebrate our 101st birthday! WHPS offers education to boys and girls in the Pre-Prep and to boys only from Grade 0 to Grade 7.

Visit our website to find out about our Open Day on 16 March 2024: www.whpsschool.com

WHPS JUNIOR PREP FUN GALA - Dive into the excitement!!

The Tiny Barnetson Swimming Pool transformed into a playground as the grade 1, 2, and 3 boys splashed into a Junior Prep Fun Gala. From cowboy races to boogie board waves, each race was a thrill. Parents cheered, music played, and friendships flourished.

WHPS - PAY IT FORWARD

As part of our Kindness is King theme, we will be running a Pay It Forward Inquiry-Based Learning initiative inspired by the international Pay It Forward Day which is celebrated on 28 April.

Pay It Forward Day exists to encourage people to stand for kindness out of the goodness of their hearts! Its mission is to inspire acts of kindness in hopes that the ripple of good will continue throughout the entire year.

At our welcome-back assembly, after mid-term, on Tuesday 27 February, we introduced the concept of Pay it Forward to the boys from Grade 1 – 7.

The WHPS House Families met today, Monday 4 March, for the first time this year, and as a House Family, they explored ways of paying kindness forward and performing random acts of kindness.

On March 8th and 11th, our entire school community will come together to create ripples of kindness in our school, our city, our country and in our world.

UNLOCKING THE MAGICAL WORLD OF READING

In the bustling classes of Grade 1, a quiet revolution is taking place. These young boys are embarking on a journey that will unlock the magical world of reading. The blending of three letter words is a vital step towards literacy. A solid foundation in letter sounds becomes the cornerstone upon which they build their reading skills. By ensuring that our boys have a strong grasp of phonemic awareness (the ability to manipulate individual sounds in words) this assists them in decoding text fluently. The beauty of cvc (consonant-vowel-consonant) books is in their simplicity. With their repetitive patterns they provide a perfect scaffold for young readers to decode words and blend sounds. As they progress from simple words to complex ones, the sense of achievement propels them forward on their reading journey.