During free play, children from all classes play together. Integrating children from different age groups allows them to develop socially, intellectually and emotionally.

During free play, teachers encourage the children to work independently and use the materials productively. If a difficulty arises, a teacher may step in to assist but will never give more help than is needed. Children are encouraged to work at their own pace and develop their own learning style.

During free play, your child has access to four carefully laid out areas, where he or she is free to choose the area of play. The structure and dynamics of the situation are also determined by the children.

From pictures and paintings to models and masterpieces, the children can cut, stick, paint and draw, build and sculpt to express their creativity and imagination throughout.

A chance to be "grown-up" for a while, this is a place where your child can pretend, in their own world of make-believe. Puppets and props, costumes and toys help them live out their dreams…

Each classroom offers the children an area to play with puzzles, construction toys like Lego and educational games that encourage them to think independently. Our book corners are comfortable and appealing. Books are changed regularly in our library to spark new interest. The children also select a library book every week to read at home.

Our spacious playground is a child’s paradise. the sandpits, cycle track, jungle gyms and slides, as well as other climbing and balancing equipment provide places to strengthen muscles and improve co-ordination. There are designated sensopathic areas using materials such as rice, gravel, sawdust and water. These areas are also used to develop technological and cognitive skills.

We encourage visits from organisations to come and speak to our pupils. These are timed to relate to our themes and aimed at extending children’s vocabulary, their interest and knowledge of the world around them.

During teacher directed times children are generally placed in classes according to age. The maximum number of children in a class is approximately 20. The children and teacher enjoy discussions, dance, music, improvised drama and movement.

The curriculum at Settlers’ Park Pre-Primary School is planned according to ISASA (Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa) and CAPS (Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements). It is designed to give children the opportunity to practise everyday skills and help them develop concentration as well as co-ordination of mind and body. The sensory materials encourage the children to use all their senses to learn.

Through these materials they are encouraged to order and classify the physical properties of the world in which they live. During teacher directed times the teacher designs activities to develop age appropriate skills and knowledge necessary for life-long learning. The children may work individually, in a small or a large group, or with a friend.