Woodridge College | Independent School

WELCOME

On behalf of the entire Woodridge College family, it is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to you all, whether you are a prospective student, parent, staff member, alumni, or simply a visitor curious about our great College. Founded on principles of academic quality, character development, and a commitment to nurturing the whole individual, Woodridge College has been a beacon of learning and growth for generations.

Woodridge College offers a wide variety of excellent opportunities, not only in the classroom but also on the sports field, on stage for both Drama and Music, serving the community in a variety of outreach programs, exploring the outdoors through adventurous journeys and camps, as well as living our values through our Christan ethos. As you explore our wonderful School, I encourage you to delve into the wealth of opportunities and resources available to our students.

We have a dedicated team of staff who are experts in adolescent education, supported by world-class facilities. From our rigorous academic programs to our vibrant extracurricular activities, we strive to provide an enriching and supportive environment where every individual can thrive and realize their full potential – Woodridge College is more than a school, it’s an experience.

At Woodridge College, we cherish our sense of community and the bonds that unite us. Whether you join us for the first time or are returning to campus, you are an integral part of our diverse and energetic family. Together, we celebrate our achievements, support one another through challenges, and inspire each other to reach greater heights. Our school motto in Latin is ‘Fideliter’- Faithfully. Together with our core values of honesty, respect, integrity, and tenacity, we develop students of significance as they become Global Citizens making a positive difference.

I invite you to reach out with any questions or inquiries. Our dedicated staff are here to assist you every step of the way, whether you are seeking admissions information, academic guidance, or simply wishing to learn more about life at Woodridge College. Our history and our unique offering are two things of which we are proud.

At Woodridge College, we are thrilled to embark on this journey with you and look forward to many memories and successes as we move forward.

Luke Hartley
COLLEGE HEADMASTER

FACILITIES

As a private, co-educational school situated between Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) and Jeffreys Bay along the beautiful sunshine coast on the southeastern seaboard of South Africa, Woodridge College offers a rigorous academic programme focusing on innovative learning experiences and holistic education alongside an extensive sporting, cultural and outdoor education curriculum.

An awe-inspiring 365-acre estate has been utilised to accommodate many sporting activities, including hockey, rugby, cricket, water polo, netball, tennis, squash, running and mountain biking trails, and an equestrian centre.

ACADEMICS

At Woodridge College, we strive to provide pupils with a stimulating academic environment that enables achievement to the best of their ability. Our underlying values are discipline, accountability, commitment, honesty and mutual respect. We prioritise and protect academic time and provide regular and meaningful communication regarding the capabilities and performance of each pupil to enhance the quality of their learning.

THE ARTS

The arts are an essential element of education, as much as reading, writing and mathematics. Music, fine arts, drama and dance, are all keys that unlock profound human understanding and accomplishment. The future belongs to young people with an education and the imagination to create.

OUR SPORT

Sport is a vital part of the Woodridge College curriculum to promote physical development and coordination, build character and nurturing self-confidence. While we believe that competing against other schools encourages the development of self-control, cooperation, loyalty, unselfishness, determination, commitment, leadership, teamwork and initiative, we also feel that sport should be played for the right reasons, with enjoyment being a priority.

WOODRIDGE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Our formal focus starts with a Grade 10 Leadership Day, where the focus is on the context of small groups. This builds from the experiences of pupils in the classroom, sports fields and camps. Chairing meetings, captaining teams or leading a hike are all opportunities to complete a task while influencing others positively. A combination of short talks and group activities allows us to build each pupil's skills practically.

Our Grade 11 year includes a Leadership Camp as well as increased opportunities with our Adventure Programme . Grade 11s are given a chance to submit a public manifesto when they put themselves forward for the role of Prefect during the 3rd Term. We emphasise the concept of servant leadership, requiring our leaders to act in the school's best interests. The importance of shared values and the resultant culture of the school is discussed and affirmed.

Prefects meet regularly as a group and are tasked with several tasks to assist with the effective running of the school. A number of evening workshops and input from senior staff members complement increased opportunities to make significant contributions to school life, especially in public settings such as assemblies and events. Boarding Matrics can serve as Dorm Seniors and are thus expected to maintain order and a sense of belonging for boarders in the junior grades. Prefects are under the guidance of the Director of Student Affairs and the Deputy Headmaster while Hostel Leaders enjoy the input of their House Parents and
the Head of Boarding.