Herzlia Highlands Primary
Instilling a love of learning so every pupil can flourish in an ever-changing world.
About Herzlia Highlands Primary
About Highlands Primary School.
The happiness of the children at Herzlia Highlands Primary is evident when you meet them. As an inclusive Jewish day school, we offer an excellent education regardless of background, while instilling the values and traditions of the Jewish faith. We’re committed to creating a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment where each child is valued and respected. We recognise the unique qualities, strengths and struggles of every pupil and provide an environment that embraces them with loving, open arms. The relevant, exciting and technology-centred academic curriculum is a given, but just as important is that we pride ourselves in our determination to be a centre of kindness in an increasingly unkind world.
The Space
Nestled in the heart of Vredehoek, Herzlia Highlands Primary has 360° views of Cape Town that will make anyone gasp! From our classrooms to our library, our playgrounds (including our popular zip line!), and IT and Innovation Centre, we are ready to welcome your child into our inspiring, empowering, interactive tech-centric home. As a feeder school to Herzlia High School, which is just across the road, our pupils get to spend every day learning in a warm and modern environment that prepares them for their future.
The Team
The genuine love and concern of every teacher for every pupil is as important as the excellent quality of education. Each child’s growth and success is important and we recognise that pupils internalise knowledge in different ways. That’s why we focus on the individual, establish warm and trusting relationships between teachers and children, and meet them where they are. This is how we inspire a love of learning in all of our pupils, which gives them the skills they need to tackle the world, today, tomorrow and everyday.
Academics
Education is a partnership between the pupil, school, parents, and community – so we work closely with families to ensure our children get the support they need to achieve their full potential. Our rigorous academic programme challenges and engages every pupil, gives them the freedom to express themselves, engages them in leadership opportunities, promotes critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication, and provides them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the 21st century. We follow the National Senior Certificate curriculum via CAPS, taught in conjunction with our rich Jewish Life and Learning programme. Over and above standard school subjects, we teach Beginning Knowledge, Personal and Social Well-being, Creative Arts, and Technology, with our own Makerspace and Computer Lab, which has lessons that include Coding, Robotics and Minecraft. We also take part in Olympiads, Photography and Short Story Writing competitions and pupils benefit from immersive outings and guest speakers.
Extra Murals
As part of our curriculum, we enrich our pupils’ experience through Coding and Robotics, Junior Minecraft, Rocket League, Mini Cricket, Tennis, Swimming, Water Polo and Mountain Biking. Additionally, we offer Magic, Hip Hop and Yoga, and when pupils are interested in extra murals that we don’t offer, we work hard to make it happen. All of this helps develop new skills, interests and friendships.
Jewish Life & Learning
Herzlia Highlands Primary is rooted in the traditions and values of the Jewish faith and seeks to instil these values in our pupils. Our rich Jewish education includes formal and experiential programmes that promote a strong sense of community, a commitment to social justice and Tikkun Olam, and a deep appreciation for Jewish heritage and culture. Pupils are encouraged to develop a love for Jewish learning and to apply these values in their daily lives. On top of this, we encourage connections with the wider community and a sense of active Chesed. Charity drives include working with animal charities and The Food Bank, Reach for a Dream, One to One, a Matzah and Easter Egg drive, sanitary product and deodorant collections and school shoes and stationery collections for schools in need.
Pupil Support
We invest holistically in the child to create compassionate and independent thinkers, who care about their inner community as well as the world around them. Whether a pupil needs academic or emotional support, our unique support system of counsellors, psychologists, occupational therapists, remedial teachers, and special needs co-ordinators are available. This benefits not only those who need extra care, but all pupils, who learn to value and respect difference and diversity. Our excellent academic programme offers differentiated work for different learning profiles, giving each child a unique learning experience. Support classes are available where work is revised or pre-taught in a more intimate setting.
Mike Ford
Principal,
Herzlia Highlands Primary
Herzlia Highlands Primary
Meet Principal Mike Ford
I’ve spent nearly 40 years learning from children. I marvel at their innovation, lateral thought and creativity. My spirits are lifted by the happiness they exude. I am sustained when hearing of their successes after they’ve left our care. My role has been one of a facilitator. A person who opens the door for pupils to find their place, provides the blank canvas for them to express themselves, and offers a safe, inspiring and nurturing space in which to do it. We encourage their imaginations and give them the tools and skills they need to fulfil their boundless potential. Herzlia is a space of discovery, not just for our pupils, but for me too! The team camaraderie is unique and our bonds run deep as we support each other through challenges and celebrate successes. Everyday we work together to tackle new and exciting opportunities and create a space where every child will look back and reflect on how wonderful their school years truly were.
Sound right for you?
Find out more about how to enrol in Herzlia Highlands Primary today!
In the News
Pupil showcase. News. Events. Updates and more. Find it all or share your story with us here.
Principal Mike Ford Retiring
Mike Ford, beloved principal of Herzlia Highlands Primary since 2014 is retiring!
Obituary to Honour Mike Kessel
The late Mike Kessel was the Principal and then Director of Education for United Herzlia Schools from 1977 until 1985.
Why debating is an excellent skill for Herzlia pupils to master
Here are 10 compelling reasons why our pupils should participate in debating at school.
2023 Matric Valedictory
Herzlia’s Matric Class of 2023’s Valedictory marks a significant milestone in their Herzlia school journey!
2023 Matric Visual Art Exhibition
A definite highlight in a Herzlian art pupil’s school career is their Grade 12 Visual Art Final Exhibition. 2023 is officially open!
Herzlia Hosts Pan-African Debating Champs
Herzlia is honoured to host this debut championship with our Herzlia High School team competing against teams from all over Africa.
Feel the Beat
Herzlia High School hosts annual Musical Showcase "Feel the Beat".
Leora Raikin (MY 1987)
Leora Raikin is a remarkable Herzlian, read about her achievements here.
HFT Donor Appreciation Event
The HFT hosted a donor appreciation event combined with the opening of our new alumni art exhibition space on the 23 August.
Five Years of PJ Library
PJ Library celebrates 5 years in South Africa: Herzlia's investment partnership to foster young minds and build community