Curro Hillcrest Preschool | Durban

Welcome to Curro Hillcrest Preschool, nestled in the picturesque suburb of Hillcrest, Durban! We offer an exceptional early childhood development programme designed for little learners from 2 years (turning 3) up to Grade R.

Our vibrant classrooms are thoughtfully structured by age, with meticulously controlled numbers to ensure every child receives personalized attention, nurturing care, and endless opportunities for joyful engagement. Our bespoke, internally developed preschool curriculum sparks inherent curiosity and celebrates the natural love of play, fostering holistic well-being in every aspect of your child's growth. For added convenience, we also provide comprehensive aftercare services and an early drop-off option.

At Curro Hillcrest, we believe that the most profound learning happens through discovery. Young minds absorb knowledge much faster and more efficiently when actively exploring and playing, rather than through rigid, 'forced learning' at a desk. We cultivate an environment where every day is an adventure in learning.

As a proud member of the esteemed Curro school group, our children benefit from a robust programme that champions their complete well-being – physically, socially, emotionally, and cognitively. Our unique approach to early childhood development is deeply rooted in the power of play, prioritising natural growth and joyful exploration over the pressure of strict milestones. This ensures that every child feels genuinely supported and encouraged, free to develop at their own unique pace without anxiety or undue pressure.

Here, the magic of learning unfolds naturally. Our youngest toddlers embark on their mathematical journey by playfully engaging with colourful building blocks, bouncing balls, and manipulating objects, intuitively grasping concepts like size, shape, and spatial awareness. As they grow, our older toddlers discover the foundations of writing and reading comprehension through creative expression – drawing, painting, singing themed songs, and exploring objects that bring specific learning themes to life.

Holistic Development Through Play

Our play-based methodology cultivates growth across crucial developmental domains:

• Mathematics: Igniting early understanding of shapes, sizes, time, counting, and foundational addition and subtraction through hands-on discovery.
• Communication: Nurturing confident speech, active listening, emergent reading skills, and comprehensive understanding.
• Creativity: Fostering artistic expression through drawing, painting, developing fine motor skills for pencil grip, and joyful movement through dance.
• Physical Well-being: Enhancing balance, coordination, gross motor skills, and an early awareness of personal safety.
• Identity and Belonging: Cultivating a strong sense of self, developing positive morals, empathy, caring, the joy of friendship, and the importance of sharing.

Seamless Transition to Grade 1

We expertly prepare your child for the exciting transition to formal learning in Grade 1. Housed within our dedicated preschool building, they gradually acclimate to new structures while remaining secure and comfortable in familiar surroundings. Here, they build the essential foundational pillars for all future academic success:

• Language: Developing comprehensive skills in reading, spelling, understanding, speaking, and active listening.
• Mathematics: Mastering counting, number comprehension, and fundamental operations including addition, subtraction, and an introduction to multiplication.
• Life Skills: Cultivating physical literacy through engaging physical education, gaining practical wisdom from real-life experiences, honing problem-solving abilities, and fostering boundless creativity.

Enriching Daily Activities (Included)

As a proud Curro School, we firmly believe that a rich tapestry of activities is vital for early childhood development. Our daily programme is therefore thoughtfully curated and packed with a diverse array of physical and cognitive engagements. Children continuously learn through play, and all these enriching activities are seamlessly included within our school fees, offering exceptional value and holistic growth.

Optional Extramural Enrichment (Additional Cost)

Beyond our comprehensive daily programme, we offer a selection of optional extramural activities. These are specifically designed to provide additional opportunities to deepen focus in particular areas or to further hone specific talents and skills that benefit from dedicated, extended development time. Led by expert external tutors or coaches, these enriching activities typically take place on our school premises and are available at an additional cost.

To discover the full spectrum of exciting extramural opportunities available, please refer to our detailed fact sheet in the Downloads section.

Welcome to Curro Hillcrest Preschool: A Foundation for Lifelong Learning!

Nestled in the vibrant community of Hillcrest, Durban, Curro Hillcrest Preschool offers an exceptional early childhood development experience for children from 2 years (turning 3) up to Grade R. Our innovative, internally developed preschool programme is meticulously designed to ignite your child's innate curiosity and love of play, fostering their holistic well-being and preparing them for future academic success.

Supporting Busy Parents with Convenience and Care

Understanding the demands of modern family life, Curro Hillcrest provides flexible solutions for working parents:

• Early Drop-off: Begin your workday with peace of mind, knowing your child is welcomed into our warm environment from early morning.
• Comprehensive Aftercare: Our enriching aftercare programme extends the day with engaging activities, ensuring your child is cared for within our secure premises until they are safely collected. Please refer to our fee schedule for additional details regarding this service.

From the moment they arrive until they are safely collected, your child's well-being and engagement are our top priorities.

A Nurturing Environment Rooted in Christian Values

At Curro Hillcrest, we believe in creating a nurturing, family-like atmosphere where every child feels loved and valued. Our classes are thoughtfully structured by age group, ensuring a developmentally appropriate experience. Each dedicated teacher is supported by one or more experienced assistants, guaranteeing a low child-to-teacher ratio. This personalised attention ensures that all children receive the same level of love and nurturing they would at home, complemented by devotional care based on strong Christian values, fostering ethics and morals that will last a lifetime.

Unwavering Commitment to Your Child's Safety and Security

Your child's safety is paramount. We implement stringent security measures to create a secure and protected environment:

• Controlled Access: All visitors are required to sign in and out at reception to gain access, and the number of visitors per class is carefully limited.
• Constant Surveillance: State-of-the-art CCTV cameras continuously monitor all playgrounds and classrooms, providing an extra layer of vigilance.
• Secure Collection Protocol: Children are signed in and out daily upon arrival and departure, and are collected directly from their classrooms by authorised individuals, ensuring they are always accounted for.
• Prepared for Emergencies: Designated staff members are fully trained in first-aid, ensuring immediate and competent response to any minor incidents or emergencies.

Inspiring Indoor Learning Landscapes

Our preschool classrooms are more than just rooms; they are vibrant 'learning landscapes,' thoughtfully designed to inspire curiosity and facilitate discovery. Each space maximizes room for active play and movement, while offering rich visual and tactile stimulation crucial for holistic early childhood development. Additionally, a dedicated indoor play area provides a dynamic alternative for active exploration, ensuring uninterrupted learning and fun, regardless of the weather outside.

Dynamic Outdoor Play and Exploration

Beyond the classroom, our expansive outdoor play areas are a child's paradise! These engaging spaces feature:

• Exciting jungle gyms and imaginative playhouses.
• Wonderfully shaded areas for creative and sensory exploration.
• Robust physical play encouraged across all areas.
• Synthetic grass surfaces to minimize allergic reactions and enhance safety.

Children enjoy invigorating outdoor play on days with moderate weather conditions, preventing excessive cold or sunburn. Additional safety measures are always taken on sunnier days to ensure their comfort and protection.

Take a look at the video below to see what exciting experiences await your child at Curro Hillcrest Preschool!