Inquiry-based learning is a form of active learning that starts by posing questions, problems or scenarios—rather than simply presenting established facts or portraying a smooth path to knowledge. This learning is done through teaching concepts by way of themes. Eg. Innovation is a concept taught to children through the theme of Invention, the concept of Connectedness is taught through the theme Around the World. 

Kagan Structures are instructional strategies designed to promote cooperation and communication in the classroom, boost pupils' confidence and retain their interest in classroom interaction.

De Bono's Six Thinking Hats is a powerful technique for looking at decision making from different points of view. It allows emotion and scepticism to be brought into what might normally be a purely rational process, and it opens up the opportunity for creativity within decision making.

Philosophy for Children. Philosophy for Children (P4C) is a movement that aims to teach reasoning and argumentative skills to children. 

Time2Read is a phonic and reading program started in Grade 0. It focuses on specific methods to help children learn spelling through learning the spelling rules and tendencies. This programme is introduced and well structured in Grade 0 and continued in Grade 1. 

Tracking is constant, daily assessment of your child’s learning, development and progress in order to reach Competency. Formal tests are not done, however, we do on occasion encourage “own brain work” to get pupils used to focusing on a specific task without the social aspect of group work and collaboration. Tracking is very comprehensive although the report parents receive is more summarised. 

The sole aim of all of the above is embedding fundamentals for learning in various ways. The goal of embedding is long-term skills and knowledge that can be built upon in higher grades. The Junior Phase is seen as one whole academic entity with three parts (Grade 1,2 and 3) and everything we do is aimed at using those 3 years to prepare a solid educational foundation.

Formal reports are issued twice a year in June and December to provide feedback to parents. These reports are published on the student portal and are based on competence and developing competence. 

Feedback is ongoing through discussions and regular meetings throughout the year.

Meetings and feedback are encouraged on an on-going basis to discuss any aspects of a pupil’s academic progress or any other matters throughout the term.

Student Led Conferences

 These are opportunities to celebrate your child’s learning and the presentation of the evidence of this learning is done by your child. Academic discussions do not take place here.

This is not done formally. Spelling and reading is sent home. Basic Maths practise activities may be sent home too. Due to the interactive nature of teaching, reading is done throughout the day, but reading of the actual reader is done at home. Use this time not only to listen to your child, but to bond with them, discuss the story and make this a positive experience. 

The Senior Preparatory Phase (SP) encompasses Grades 4 to 7, and currently consists of 4 classes for each of these Grades, each accommodating a maximum of 25 pupils.

The SP is managed by a Phase Head directly responsible to the Principal, and is staffed by teachers who are motivated not only by their love for children but also by their passion for education.

We believe that the empowerment and potential for success brought about by a holistic approach to education such as the one offered here at Tyger Valley College, is the inalienable right of every child. This approach focuses not only on the acquisition of subject knowledge, but also on the development of both practical and life skills, competencies, values and attitudes characteristic of a joyful, well-adjusted, productive and successful future member of the South African- and indeed the international community.

The stimulating and challenging academic curriculum, based on the National Curriculum Statement, has been developed and refined by our expert educators to prepare all our pupils for the rigors and challenges of academic life after Grade 7 and even beyond their years at the High School.

The curriculum includes the following learning areas: English (first language), Afrikaans (second language), Mathematics, Natural Science, Technology, Geography, History, Life Orientation, music, Art and EMS. In addition, each pupil also attends Digital Literacy and physical education lessons on a weekly basis.

Pupils requiring additional academic and/or emotional support are referred to our in-house Academic Enrichment Centre (AEC), where our expert remedial educators and school psychologists assist and encourage them.

Our afternoon programme includes extra-curricular & private sports and cultural activities four days a week (Monday-Thursday), and a daily voluntary 1 hour homework and studying session.

When all is said and done however, nothing indicates the success of the work done in the Senior Preparatory better than the smiles on the faces of our pupils and the laughter, happiness and good cheer that abounds in the classrooms, on the corridors and on the playground.

The first two lessons every Friday are dedicated to “formal” testing. Informal testing happens on a continuous basis during the week.