Woodridge

WELCOME

Woodridge College and Preparatory School is rich in heritage and has grown to become one of Eastern Cape's leading independent, co-educational schools.

In a tranquil and caring atmosphere, underpinned by sound Christian principles, children are welcomed from Pre-Primary (Grade 0000) and go through to Grade 12, learning vital skills that will contribute to their schooling career at Woodridge and well into their future.

In accordance with the Notarial Deed of Trust, signed by the founders, Leslie and Mervynne Carter in 1957, the school leadership is entrusted to encourage and assist in the advancement of education and learning in the union of South Africa, and to foster Christian citizenship…”



location

The school is situated on a magnificent 365-acre multi-adventure estate, equidistant (40km) from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) and Jeffreys Bay, and only 9km from Crossways Farm Village, South Africa’s first contemporary rural new town. Crossways and Woodridge forms part of one of the largest trail networks in the country. The network spans approximately 200 km and is managed, operated and maintained by 3Rivers Trails. About 60 km of this is purpose-built single track, which can be accessed from any of its two heads located at Woodridge and Crossways Country Kitchen. Find out more by clicking below.

 visit crossways  visit 3rivers trails  

download school yearbook

Explore the Woodridge experience by paging through the Woodridgean yearbook to
understand why we are more than just a school.

DOWNLOAD OUR 2023 YEARBOOK

Mission, Vision and Values

WOODRIDGE VISION

More than a school...an experience.

WOODRIDGE MISSION

To provide a distinctive experience in a unique, natural environment where all belong and are empowered to realise their full potential.

CORE VALUES

We believe that the family has the following basic rights:

  • Pupils have the right to learn;
  • Staff have the right to teach; and
  • Parents have the right to service.

In order to uphold these rights, the following moral values are encouraged:

  • Mutual respect and dignity;
  • Integrity and honesty;
  • Empathy and interaction;
  • Tenacity and teamwork; and
  • Appreciation and care for the environment

our history

In January 1936, Woodridge Preparatory School opened its doors to only two boys and a girl on the first day. What had been known to the locals as the Cadles Hotel was now a school. This was an act of faith and courage by founders Leslie and Mervynne Carter, who had no funders at the school's inception.

What was an idea during the Christmas holidays of 1935 was now a school ready to serve the community. With the help of friends and relatives being roped in to help set up the school in time for the opening, it was now a reality.

The tale of our history actually begins in 1862...

discover the full story

GOVERNANCE

As an independent school, Woodridge College & Preparatory School is governed according to accepted national and international practice for Independent Schools.

find out more

OUR STAFF

Our staff is our greatest asset and the lifeblood of our school. From our dedicated and passionate teachers to management, support, administration, housekeeping, maintenance and ground staff, we have a dynamic team of people who collectively make the Woodridge schooling experience a memorable one.

FIND OUT MORE

POLICIES

Our policies provide a framework for the smooth functioning of our school based on our strategic plan.

READ OUR POLICIES HERE

VACANCIES

Become part of one of the Eastern Cape's leading independent, co-educational schools. View our available vacancies to apply.

WORK WITH US


 

WOODRIDGE ALUMNI

Reconnect with Old Woodridgeans.

Together we can share fond memories and continuously nurture the Woodridge experience for future generations.

Get in touch and stay informed.

find out more