MEDIA RELEASE | 24 November 2025
WOODRIDGE PREP APPOINTS NEW HEAD
We are delighted to announce that Mr Clifford Reed has been appointed as the new Head of Woodridge Preparatory School, with effect from 1 January 2026.
Clifford Reed brings over 14 years of rich, multifaceted experience at Woodridge, where he has taught various grades and subjects, led the rugby programme, served as a boarding house master, coached young athletes, and run the extensive Outdoor Education programme. He matriculated from Graeme College in Makhanda in 2001 and obtained a BA in Primary Education in 2006 from Nelson Mandela University.
For the past three years, he has served as Deputy Headmaster, playing a pivotal role in whole-school development, Pastoral Care, and the implementation of restorative discipline practices. At the heart of his educational philosophy is a child-centred approach. He believes every aspect of schooling should nurture growth and development. Drawing inspiration from the principle of preparing children for the road ahead, rather than preparing the road for the children, he fosters a school culture that inspires students to think boldly, use their voices wisely, and explore the world with curiosity and courage.
He is deeply committed to academic excellence, emphasizing a love of learning through high expectations, curiosity, and motivation. He values the energy of curious young minds, the breakthroughs in understanding, and the privilege of watching children grow in confidence. His family is firmly rooted in the Woodridge community. His wife, Geneé, has taught at the school since 2012, and their children are currently in Grades 6 and 8. Over the years, they have watched Daniel and Abigail grow into grounded, nature-loving young people, thanks to the very environment Woodridge provides. The family holds a deep commitment to the school’s founding Christian philosophy that continues to nurture children of significance.
“Reed takes over the reins from Trevor von Berg, who was appointed in 2006 and was instrumental in building on the vision of Woodridge being a leading South African educational institution.
Woodridge Trust Chairperson, Andrea Puggia, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment: “We warmly welcome Clifford as Head of Woodridge Preparatory. His dedication, experience, and vision align perfectly with our commitment to providing a world-class education through ‘the experience’ that Woodridge is known for.
“We look forward to working closely with him as we celebrate the 90th year of the Preparatory School next year. We also thank Trevor von Berg for his contribution to the growth of Woodridge over the past 19 years and wish him all the best for the future.”
