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JUNIOR PRIMARY AT DPHS

The Junior Primary Phase at Durban Preparatory High School marks the beginning of a boy’s journey into structured learning, independence and school community life. From their first steps into Grade 1 to their confident transition into Senior Primary, our boys are guided by passionate, experienced teachers and supported by specialist staff across a wide range of disciplines. We believe in building a strong foundation rooted in literacy, numeracy, life skills, creativity and self-belief while ensuring every boy feels seen, supported and excited to come to school each day.

GRADE 1: THE START OF THE JOURNEY

There is nothing quite like a Prep boy’s first day in Grade 1 filled with emotion, pride and anticipation. Within days, our new learners settle into a rhythm of the school routine along with assemblies, specialist lessons and Saturday morning mini-sport.

Throughout the year, boys progress towards reading fluently, working with numbers confidently and developing key life and social skills. The Grade 1 year includes exciting theme days and excursions, our annual Inter House Gala and Sports Day as well as their grade assembly performance, reinforcing the joy of learning in a dynamic and stimulating environment.

GRADE 2: GROWING IN INDEPENDENCE

Grade 2 is all about consolidation and growth. With their foundations laid in Grade 1, boys now refine and apply their skills in literacy, numeracy and life skills while continuing to develop independence, curiosity and self-discipline.

Specialist subjects like Music, Speech & Drama, isiZulu, Computers and Ball Skills round out the curriculum, alongside theme days and educational excursions across Durban. Boys end the year looking forward with anticipation to the challenges of Grade 3.

GRADE 3: READY FOR THE NEXT STEP

Grade 3 is a transformative year full of new experiences, responsibilities and firsts. It supports the transition from the foundational years into the Senior Primary phase, and with it comes greater autonomy and exposure to specialist instruction.

BOYS NOW:
• Attend small-group lessons in Computer Science, Design & Tech, Visual Art and Media Studies
• Participate in inter-school sports fixtures (Rugby, Cricket, Hockey)
• Enjoy Club Activities like Art & Crafts, Gardening and Chess & Games.
• Perform in the much-anticipated Grade 3 Concert
• Embark on their first overnight excursion

Each moment is designed to develop confidence, teamwork and readiness for the more structured academic and sporting demands of Senior Primary.

JUNIOR PRIMARY SUBJECTS

Across Grades 1-3, the following subjects are taught by a mix of class and specialist teachers:
English :Home Language
Afrikaans
isiZulu
Mathematics
Life Skills
Information Technology
Physical Education & Sports Coaching
Swimming
Class Music & Drama
Visual Arts / Design & Technology
Media Science
Learning Support

A SPACE FOR BOYS TO BELONG, LEARN AND THRIVE

From day one, our boys are treated as individuals within a team. We celebrate their milestones, guide them through challenges and instil in them the values of respect, responsibility and resilience preparing them not only for Senior Primary, but for life.