Embracing Linguistic Diversity: The Importance of Language at Nova Pioneer

At Nova Pioneer, we believe in embracing linguistic diversity as a cornerstone of holistic education. With a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds represented within our community, we recognise the significance of offering a variety of languages to our students.    The Power of Native Language   At Nova Pioneer,

At Nova Pioneer, we believe in embracing linguistic diversity as a cornerstone of holistic education. With a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds represented within our community, we recognise the significance of offering a variety of languages to our students. 

 

The Power of Native Language

 

At Nova Pioneer, we understand that language is more than a subject—it’s a gateway to cultural heritage and self-expression. By offering Setswana, Isizulu, and Afrikaans as additional subjects, we empower our students to connect with their roots and express themselves confidently in their mother tongues. The Power of Native Language lies in its ability to foster a strong sense of identity and belonging among our students.

 

Fostering Confidence and Inclusivity

 

Our dedicated language teachers play a pivotal role in helping students rediscover their confidence through native language instruction. Learning their mother tongue not only enhances comprehension but also fosters a sense of pride and inclusivity. It creates a safe space where students feel valued and respected, paving the way for them to explore other languages with ease. By bridging linguistic gaps, we cultivate classrooms that celebrate diversity and promote meaningful engagement.

 

At Nova Pioneer, language is not just a subject; it’s a bridge that connects us to our past, empowers us in the present, and prepares us for the future. By offering a diverse array of languages and fostering a supportive learning environment, we empower our students to become confident communicators, proud custodians of their cultural heritage, and compassionate global citizens. Together, let’s celebrate the beauty of linguistic diversity and harness the power of language to build a more inclusive and interconnected world.

2024 Ruimsig Senior School Fee Rebate

Terms and Conditions: 2024 Rebate for Grade 8 and 9 students at Nova Pioneer Ruimsig Senior School Published on 16 November 2023 Any student enrolled in Grade 8 or Grade 9 at Nova Pioneer Ruimsig Senior School in 2024 will receive a 15% rebate on their tuition.  This is specific

Terms and Conditions: 2024 Rebate for Grade 8 and 9 students at Nova Pioneer Ruimsig Senior School

Published on 16 November 2023

  • Any student enrolled in Grade 8 or Grade 9 at Nova Pioneer Ruimsig Senior School in 2024 will receive a 15% rebate on their tuition. 
  • This is specific to Nova Pioneer Ruimsig Senior School campus (previously known as West Senior School).
  • The rebate is applicable to tuition fees only and does not cover any other expenses such as (but not limited to) non-refundable enrolment fee, uniforms, textbooks, transportation, aftercare or extracurricular activities.
  • The tuition rebate will apply for the 2024 academic year only. Nova Pioneer reserves the right not to extend this rebate into the 2025 academic year.
  • In order to receive the rebate, a student needs to be enrolled during the 2024 year. Should the student join either the Grade 8 or Grade 9 classes during the course of the 2024 year, this 15% tuition rebate will be applied to the prorated tuition for the year.
  • For new students joining Nova Pioneer Ruimsig Senior School, in order to qualify for the rebate, a student’s spot will need to be fully secured (i.e. the full enrolment process needs to be complete – details below).
  • Qualification for this offer is provisional on space availability in the requested grade – spaces are limited – as well as all other admissions requirements being completed in full.
  • Confirmed enrolment at Nova Pioneer Ruimsig Senior School will be subject to all admissions requirements. We draw your attention to the following specific requirements:
    • Space being available in the requested grade
    • An entry assessment completed to establish grade readiness
    • An affordability assessment completed with financial clearance for admission granted. 
    • Payment of the full enrolment fee
  • The rebate will be applied to tuition costs only, equivalent to 15% of the tuition amount billed as per the chosen payment plan associated with the student’s account – namely annual, termly or monthly.
  • Should the student transfer to another Nova Pioneer Senior School during the 2024 academic year, the tuition rebate will fall away.
  • The rebate will not be applied should the student account be in arrears.
  • The rebate is non-transferrable and cannot be substituted for cash or a refund/credit.
  • The rebate is not transferable and can only be applied to the tuition costs for the specified child who is enrolled at Nova Pioneer Ruimsig Senior School in Grade 8 or 9, and not to the tuition costs for a sibling or any other student.
  • Should a student receive a Nova Pioneer bursary, scholarship or hardship financial support in 2024 for a percentage of tuition that is greater than this  15% rebate, then they will not also be eligible for the 15% rebate. Only their bursary/scholarship/hardship support will be applied. 
  • If applicable, sibling discounts and referral discounts will still be applied.
  • Staff members do not qualify for this rebate.

Attend our Open Day and win!

Beats by Dre Open Day Competition Terms and Conditions     The Beats by Dre competition will run from 14 October until 31 October 2023 In order to be eligible for entry into the competition, the following steps need to be completed: Attend Nova Pioneer’s Open Day event on Saturday,

Beats by Dre Open Day Competition Terms and Conditions

 

 

  • The Beats by Dre competition will run from 14 October until 31 October 2023
  • In order to be eligible for entry into the competition, the following steps need to be completed:
    • Attend Nova Pioneer’s Open Day event on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at any of our campuses, including Ormonde, Paulshof, Ruimsig, Boksburg, Midrand, and North Riding.
    • Your child must be assessed at the Open Day on 14 October 2023.
    • Participants must complete the enrolment process by October 31, 2023.
  • Completing the enrolment process is subject to all admissions requirements. We draw your attention to the following specific requirements:
    • Space being available in the requested grade
    • An entry assessment completed and passed to establish grade readiness
    • An affordability assessment completed with financial clearance for admission granted. 
    • Payment of the full enrolment fee
    • Only participants who have met the criteria mentioned above will be entered into the prize draw.
  • The winner will be selected at random from the pool of eligible entries. The draw will take place after the enrolment fee payment deadline, on a date specified by Nova Pioneer.
  • The winner will be notified via the contact information provided during the Open Day registration process. Nova Pioneer will make reasonable attempts to contact the winner. If the winner cannot be reached within a reasonable period or does not claim the prize, a new winner will be selected.
  • The prize is a set of Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones (Beats by Dre Iconic Collection) – Matte Black. The prize is not exchangeable, transferable or exchangeable for cash. 
  • The winner must collect their prize in person at a Nova Pioneer campus or another location specified by Nova Pioneer. The prize must be collected within a reasonable period as communicated by Nova Pioneer.
  • Nova Pioneer staff do not qualify for entry into this competition.
  • By participating in this campaign, participants agree that their name and likeness may be used by Nova Pioneer for promotional purposes without further compensation.
  • Nova Pioneer respects your privacy and will handle all personal information in accordance with applicable privacy laws and our Privacy Policy.
  • Nova Pioneer reserves the right to modify, suspend, or terminate the campaign, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice.
  • Nova Pioneer and its affiliates, employees, and representatives shall not be responsible or liable for any loss, damage, injury, or any other claim arising from or in connection with the campaign or the use of the prize.
  • Participation in the campaign constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.
  • This campaign is subject to the laws of South Africa and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the South African courts.

 

 

Difference between AS and A Levels (Grade 13)

Choosing the right secondary education path is a pivotal decision that shapes a student’s academic journey and future prospects. At Nova Pioneer, we offer two distinct pathways to a university exemption for our students: the AS Level (Grades 11 and 12) programme and the A Level (Grade 13) programme. Each

Choosing the right secondary education path is a pivotal decision that shapes a student’s academic journey and future prospects. At Nova Pioneer, we offer two distinct pathways to a university exemption for our students: the AS Level (Grades 11 and 12) programme and the A Level (Grade 13) programme. Each programme presents a unique approach to education, catering to diverse interests, strengths, and ambitions.

 

The AS Level Programme at Nova Pioneer

 

The AS Level programme at Nova Pioneer provides students with a holistic education that combines academic excellence with personal development. This programme is tailored to the educational landscape of countries like South Africa and other African nations where the Grade 12 qualification holds significance. Here’s what sets the Nova Pioneer AS Level programme apart:

Comprehensive Curriculum: The AS Level curriculum encompasses a wide range of subjects, fostering a well-rounded education. Students engage with core subjects like mathematics, sciences, languages, and humanities, ensuring they acquire a broad spectrum of knowledge, but also much greater depth of understanding than they would acquire in the CAPS curriculum.

Individualized Learning: Nova Pioneer’s AS Level programme acknowledges the multi-faceted talents of students, and approaches learning in a diversified way. Through personalised attention and support, educators empower students to achieve in their chosen subjects while nurturing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

University Readiness: The AS Level programme prepares students for university entrance, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in higher education. Our focus on holistic development ensures that Nova Pioneer graduates are not only academically prepared, but also socially and emotionally ready for their next chapter.

 

The A Level (Grade 13) Programme at Nova Pioneer

 

The A Level programme at Nova Pioneer aligns with the British educational system, emphasising specialisation and depth in subject areas. This programme is designed for students seeking an intensive academic experience that cultivates expertise in specific fields. Here’s why the A Levels programme at Nova Pioneer stands out:

Specialised Study: A Level students at Nova Pioneer choose two to three subjects to study at an advanced level. This approach allows for a deep dive into chosen disciplines, setting the stage for specialised university studies and future careers.

Rigorous Assessment: The A Level programme is known for its rigorous examination system, fostering critical analysis and independent learning. Our teachers guide students through this process, enabling them to excel in exams and develop attitudes and skills crucial for success in higher education.

Global Recognition: A Level qualifications are widely recognised by universities worldwide, making Nova Pioneer A Level graduates competitive candidates for top institutions globally. This programme opens doors to diverse opportunities on an international scale.

At Nova Pioneer, we understand that education is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Our AS Level (Grades 11 and 12) and A Level (Grade 13) programmes cater to the varied aspirations and academic strengths of our students. Whether students choose the AS Level programme’s well-rounded approach or the A Level programme’s specialised focus, Nova Pioneer’s commitment to academic excellence and holistic development remains unwavering. We empower students to embrace their unique strengths and interests, preparing them for a future that is both successful and fulfilling.

Nova Pioneer Midrand Students Shine at Northern Suburbs District Eskom Science Expo

Nova Pioneer Midrand students showcased their exceptional talent and passion for science at the Northern Suburbs District Eskom Science Expo held at Curro Rivonia on Friday, 13 May. This event provided a platform for young innovators to present their groundbreaking projects across various scientific categories. With the guidance of their

Nova Pioneer Midrand students showcased their exceptional talent and passion for science at the Northern Suburbs District Eskom Science Expo held at Curro Rivonia on Friday, 13 May. This event provided a platform for young innovators to present their groundbreaking projects across various scientific categories. With the guidance of their dedicated science teachers and the support of their parents, the students from Nova Pioneer Midrand demonstrated their creativity, scientific acumen, and commitment to finding innovative solutions to real-world problems.

 

A Showcase of Brilliance

 

Under the supervision of Associate Dean of Instruction Mrs. Ummi Shaik and science teachers Ms. Gugu Jiyane, Ms. Mbalentle Lutya, and Mrs. Judy Doorasamy, the Nova Pioneer Midrand students participated in the Eskom Science Expo with remarkable projects. Their outstanding presentations captivated the assessors and judging panel, who provided valuable mentorship, insights, and feedback to the students. Among the talented participants, Ryan Chinhaba, Sai Charan Gurala, and Azariya Rampersadh’s contributions stood out, securing them a spot in the upcoming regional expo.

 

Expanding Horizons

 

The students’ exceptional achievements have earned them the opportunity to present their prototypes at the regional expo, where they will compete against other talented individuals from different schools. This experience will not only broaden their horizons but also challenge them to push the boundaries of scientific exploration. It is an exciting opportunity for these young minds to showcase their skills and innovation on a larger stage.

 

Celebrating Dedication

 

Recognizing the dedication and hard work exhibited by all the participants, the organizers awarded each Nova Pioneer Midrand student with participation certificates. This acknowledgement celebrates their commitment to scientific inquiry and serves as a testament to the school’s dedication to nurturing and inspiring young minds in the field of science.

 

Pride and Gratitude

 

Nova Pioneer Midrand takes immense pride in the accomplishments of their students. Associate Dean of Instruction, Ummi Shaik, expressed her appreciation for the unwavering support of the passionate science teachers who have nurtured and guided these aspiring scientists throughout their journey. It is through the combined efforts of teachers, parents, and students that Nova Pioneer Midrand continues to foster a culture of excellence in scientific exploration.

The participation of Nova Pioneer Midrand students at the Northern Suburbs District Eskom Science Expo highlights their remarkable talent and passion for science. These young innovators have demonstrated their scientific acumen, creativity, and commitment to finding solutions to real-world problems. As they move on to the regional expo, their journey of scientific exploration continues, and Nova Pioneer Midrand stands behind them, proud and supportive. The school’s commitment to nurturing and inspiring young minds in the field of science shines through the accomplishments of these exceptional students.

 

Apply today!

Nova Pioneer Students Exceed Global Benchmarks in Cambridge A-Levels

Nova Pioneer Ormonde Senior Campus is buzzing with excitement as students celebrate yet another year of outstanding results in their Cambridge A-Level examinations. With an impressive 83% of Nova Pioneer’s graduating class achieving University Exemptions, the school has reason to be proud. Notably, Nova Pioneer students surpassed global subject pass

Nova Pioneer Ormonde Senior Campus is buzzing with excitement as students celebrate yet another year of outstanding results in their Cambridge A-Level examinations. With an impressive 83% of Nova Pioneer’s graduating class achieving University Exemptions, the school has reason to be proud. Notably, Nova Pioneer students surpassed global subject pass averages in English, Physics, Chemistry, Geography, Business, and History. As a pan-African independent school group, Nova Pioneer is dedicated to providing world-class education from preschool to secondary levels, offering internationally accredited Cambridge curriculum and examinations.

 

Academic Excellence

 

The A-Level year at Nova Pioneer is an equivalent to Grade 13, allowing students to pursue a world-recognized exit qualification. It widens their university prospects both locally and internationally while providing an opportunity to improve their options based on previous IGCSE and AS-level performances. Theuns Opperman, the school leader for Nova Pioneer Ormonde Secondary, expressed his pride in the students’ achievements, highlighting the “Always Growing” culture principle that Nova Pioneer embodies. He emphasized the students’ dedication, tenacity, and the unwavering support and inspiration provided by their teachers.

Chief of Schools, Rahel Wondwossen, praised the Grade 13 class of 2022 for their commitment and hard work. She commended both students and teachers for their exceptional results, recognizing the dedication and perseverance that paved the way for their successful futures. Wondwossen emphasized Nova Pioneer’s aim to equip students with the best academic qualifications and a lifelong love of learning, thereby improving their life opportunities.

 

Student Success Stories

 

Among the top performers, Andrew Williamson, who will be attending Stellenbosch University, expressed his excitement about the newfound independence and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and unlikely friends at university. Sinovuyo Titi highlighted her personal growth in adapting to uncomfortable situations, acknowledging the importance of navigating challenges with a “Solutions First” mindset. Isabel Enechi, who achieved outstanding results in English and Maths, reflected on her understanding of herself and how it contributed to her success in achieving her goals.

 

Preparation for Life Beyond School

 

Nova Pioneer places great importance on supporting students as they transition beyond school. The Post School Success (PSS) Team and the school’s Psycho-social Support Team play crucial roles in equipping students with practical tools for life after school. The PSS Team assists students in understanding their options, benefits, and challenges, while the psycho-social support team provides personalized assessments and career guidance based on individual talents and skills. Nova Pioneer students leave the institution feeling confident about their future pursuits, whether it be pursuing higher education, launching businesses, or other paths.

 

Continued Engagement and Alumni Network

 

The journey of a Nova Pioneer student does not end with their exit examinations. The school maintains an active and networked pan-African Alumni community, ensuring ongoing engagement and support for students beyond their time at Nova Pioneer. This network provides a platform for collaboration, mentorship, and continued growth as students transition into the next phase of their lives.

Nova Pioneer’s Ormonde Senior Campus has once again demonstrated its commitment to academic excellence with exceptional Cambridge A-Level results. Students have surpassed global benchmarks, laying the foundation for their future academic and professional endeavors. Nova Pioneer’s emphasis on supporting students in their post-school journey and nurturing a love for learning ensures that they leave with the necessary qualifications and skills to thrive in the African Century.

Find your Nova!

Let Nova Pioneer unlock a world of great opportunity for your bright star!   If the future is African, then we have the responsibility to prepare our future African leaders to meet the demands of a turning African century.  Find Your Nova encompasses the mission for parents and students to

Let Nova Pioneer unlock a world of great opportunity for your bright star!

 

If the future is African, then we have the responsibility to prepare our future African leaders to meet the demands of a turning African century. 

Find Your Nova encompasses the mission for parents and students to explore the opportunities available to them at Nova Pioneer and beyond. The answer to the question of “what do you want to be when you grow up?” no longer needs to be a tough one for your child to respond to. At Nova Pioneer, our students have the confidence to see themselves with the potential to be anything that they want to be under the sun. We empower their imaginations to see themselves as future doctors, climate change activists, agriculturalists, and astronauts of their generation.

This is why when choosing a school for your child, it is important to ensure that the school can adequately inspire and equip your child for a world that doesn’t exist today. Our school develops skills such as critical thinking, life-long learning, problem-solving, curiosity and self-awareness through academic rigour, leadership, and enquiry-based learning. These are the fundamental skills that we at Nova Pioneer anticipate the future will essentially demand from your child.

 

Academic Excellence

 

Nova Pioneer exceeds high expectations on academic excellence for your child. Our students are challenged to critically interrogate and analyse content, investigate possible ideas and develop practical solutions that they can apply in their in-class activities, helping them achieve their academic goals. 

For our students to achieve academic success, our learning cycle involves learning to overcome the fear of failure, and the value of reflection, and feedback.

Kewell Moodley (pictured below), a current Grade 12 Nova Pioneer Ormonde student, achieved the top position in the world for Cambridge IGCSE for Business Studies in November 2022! This amazing achievement is a testament to Kewell’s dedication, hard work, and passion for learning. 

As a Cambridge International Curriculum school, we are proud to have played a part in Kewell’s outstanding academic success. He is one of many Nova Pioneer students to achieve great heights and to continue benefiting from Nova Pioneer’s high-quality school offering.

 

 

Marclus Marite (pictured below) is an alumnus from Nova Pioneer Boys Secondary in Tatu City, whose dream is to become a prolific architect who will design eco-friendly and futuristic infrastructure in Africa. 

He achieved an A of 83 points in the 2022 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KSCE) examinations. With the support of Nova Pioneer’s teaching and post-school-support team, Marclus focused his high school journey on improving his artistic and design skills. 

Given his outstanding academic results, he received early admission offers from University of Southern Mississippi and Snow College with a scholarship of US$29,000. For students at Nova Pioneer, like Marclus, we believe that their future is bright!

 

 

Leaders and innovators that will shape the African century

 

We believe that every child has the potential to lead, thrive and shape the world they live in, and this can be achieved through our 3 C’s – Character, Capabilities and Connection. We develop students into the innovators and leaders that will shape the African century. Discover how Nova Pioneer can help you Find Your Nova:

 

Discover how Nova Pioneer can help you Find Your Nova:

 

 

Nova Pioneer Fosters Positive Behaviour From An Early Age

At Nova Pioneer we believe that the objective of discipline is to encourage awareness, and that discipline, rather than punishment, should focus on inclusive methods of communication, reinforcement, and modeling. Above all, we want to create a warm and supportive environment in which children can grow, learn, and learn to

At Nova Pioneer we believe that the objective of discipline is to encourage awareness, and that discipline, rather than punishment, should focus on inclusive methods of communication, reinforcement, and modeling. Above all, we want to create a warm and supportive environment in which children can grow, learn, and learn to love learning. A case in point, Nova Pioneer Ormonde refers to an affirmation mirror, which our young Novaneers use to modulate and learn about their emotions. They make affirmations by looking in the mirror and expressing something positive about oneself; it does not have to be physical characteristics, but it might be something about their personality, for example, “ I am intelligent” or “I am kind”.

According to Nova Pioneer’s pre-primary senior resident teacher, Asmaa Khan, “When we encounter challenging behaviour, we must establish why, what the child is attempting to communicate, and how we may assist the child. Our role as adults are to assist the child in communicating their feelings and guiding the child toward a constructive resolution of the problem.”

In situations like these, Nova Pioneer teachers are trained to take a supportive rather than punitive approach to build strong bonds of trust so that our Novaneers develop a sense of accountability from early childhood. Understanding the impact of one’s actions (positive or negative) is an important part of early childhood development. The Reggio Emilia approach which our curriculum is founded on facilitates this level of consciousness. 

Our teachers (all of whom are required to be certified) can encourage positive conduct by rewarding good behaviour using our positive reinforcement model. This stems from an understanding that our tots have a constant need for validation, and that “misbehaviour” is a cry for attention, so when “misbehaviour” occurs, it is also important to reflect on what we as caregivers are not adequately providing. (This applies at home as well!). The positive reinforcement model is heavily reliant on communication and consistency-verbal or physical rewards for appropriate and responsible behaviour create an appreciation for appropriate and responsible behaviour and an awareness of the opposite.

We value the relationship that we have with our parents. Teachers and caregivers are encouraged to develop relationships with Novaneer parents through day-to-day engagements during drop-off and pick-up times as well as staying accessible to parents when needed. This collaborative relationship also assists in ensuring that the home and school environment is helping our Novaneers get the best out of themselves and behaviours that could be harmful (or good) are monitored and handled accordingly. 

Nova Pioneer strives to create a community that continues with our learners from the start of their school career until they graduate. Our school philosophy is developed to ensure the success of every child who passes through our doors; we want them to be major actors in any setting they inhabit during and after their time at Nova Pioneer. (As we say, once a Novaneer, always a Novaneer!). 

Click here to read more about our Post School Success programme.

In 2023 we will bring you added value and more affordable pricing. Read more or reach out to admissions.sa@novapioneer.com  for more information. 

Space is limited for 2023 applications

 

A Checklist for Choosing a Pre-Primary School

“Young children learn in a different manner from that of older children and adults, yet we can teach them many things if we adapt our materials and mode of instruction to their level of ability. But we miseducate young children when we assume that their learning abilities are comparable to

“Young children learn in a different manner from that of older children and adults, yet we can teach them many things if we adapt our materials and mode of instruction to their level of ability. But we miseducate young children when we assume that their learning abilities are comparable to those of older children and that they can be taught with materials and with the same instructional procedures appropriate to school-age children.” David Elkind-Child Psychologist

Parents naturally want to provide their children with the finest prospects in life, and for the majority of us, this begins with a good education. Learning, for our children, begins as soon as they are born, and it is our obligation to create environments that maximise their endless learning potential. 

Their educational journey begins at home, followed by preschool; the early years are quite critical, and choosing a suitable preschool usually comes with many questions. Preschool should be an extension of the home, a safe place where children can “take risks, ask questions, make mistakes, learn to trust, communicate their feelings, and grow.”

The Nova Pioneer vision is to transform the lives and career paths of students and equip them for success and to enable them to lead change in Africa and around the globe in the 21st century. This journey begins in our preschools where we provide a joyful and safe learning environment while ensuring that every child receives individualised interactions from caregivers and teachers. 

 

These are some of the concerns that most parents have before enrolling:

 

Are you a credible institution?

 

Nova Pioneer’s selection of certified and well-trained caregivers and teachers, placed in our preschools, is one of the school’s distinguishing features. While it is not mandatory within our pre-primary schools to hire a certified teacher, at Nova Pioneer we have made it a requirement. The intention is to ensure that every child’s developmental needs are met through the facilitation of well-trained educational professionals.

 

Are your campuses safe?

 

Our environment – which caregivers and teachers recognise as the third teacher – is intentionally designed to coalesce stimulation and safety for our Novaneers. The school’s Academic Team works very closely with the Nova Pioneer Property Company in defining how our schools should look and feel. Our buildings are designed not only to facilitate the learning process but safety is also an important aspect of the physical structure. We have fully trained security professionals who screen all visitors before they enter the school. All of our campuses have an Operations Team and a Health and Safety Committee that collaborate with the rest of the personnel to guarantee a seamless security system. Unauthorised persons are not permitted to exit with a child unless they have received written permission from our teachers.

 

Distance?

 

The Nova Pioneer School Group for Innovators and Leaders is building and operating world-class, affordable schools across the continent. Operating in South Africa and Kenya, we are constantly making quality private education accessible, expanding and building a school near you. See here our current list of schools in South Africa. We live up to our culture principle of “Always Growing” and have been reaching many milestones. In 2018 we acquired a Boksburg-based infant centre and preschool and in 2023 we are launching two new secondary schools

 

What and how will my child be taught?

 

Play is the highest form of research said Albert Einstein; we have adopted the pedagogy of play which aligns with our cultural principle “joy of learning.” The pedagogy of play is a method of integrating children’s play experiences with curricular learning, allowing students to solve new and current problems on their own. Our curriculum is founded upon the world-renowned Reggio Emilia approach to early education. Reggio-inspired programs emphasise the importance of creating a joyful and safe learning environment while ensuring that every child receives individualised interactions from caregivers and teachers.

Nova Pioneer is a compassionate community where students and teachers care deeply about each other. There’s a real intent, across all campuses, to foster ethical, responsible, and caring young people through the integration of our culture principles. The intent is to ensure that all students feel safe, valued, and welcome.

Nova Pioneer Pre-primary is now even more affordable and has better value. From 2023, we are reducing tuition by up to 20%! Read more about our offering here.

Nova Pioneer students exceed global benchmarks in their Cambridge A-Levels

Nova Pioneer Schools for Innovators and Leaders, recently celebrated their Ormonde Senior School students’ Cambridge A-Level results, with 83% of Nova Pioneer’s graduating class already achieving University Exemptions. Nova Pioneer students exceeded the global subject pass average in English, Physics, Chemistry, Geography, Business and History. Nova Pioneer is a pan-African

Nova Pioneer Schools for Innovators and Leaders, recently celebrated their Ormonde Senior School students’ Cambridge A-Level results, with 83% of Nova Pioneer’s graduating class already achieving University Exemptions. Nova Pioneer students exceeded the global subject pass average in English, Physics, Chemistry, Geography, Business and History.

Nova Pioneer is a pan-African independent school group that builds and operates world-class, affordable schools, offering students grades from preschool through to secondary. The school offers Cambridge, an internationally accredited curriculum, where students can write their IGSCE, AS-Level and A-Level examinations.

The A-Level year is ostensibly the equivalent of Grade 13 at a high school level and provides students a world-recognised exit qualification to widen the scope of their university studies both locally and internationally and, depending on how they performed in their IGCSE and AS levels, gives students the opportunity to improve their options of getting into their preferred course.  

Theuns Opperman, the school leader for Nova Pioneer Ormonde Secondary, said that he was proud of students’ results as they, again, did Nova Pioneer’s “Always Growing” culture principle proud.

“It is a pleasure to share in our students’ successes and excitement about their futures and to hear personally from them how attending Nova Pioneer has laid the foundations for  their aspirations. Their exceptional results reflect the tremendous diligence of our students and their tenacity, as well as the unstinting support and inspiration of their teachers,” said Opperman.

“We believe these results demonstrate the value in the completion of an A-Level year for those who wish to apply to the top South African and international tertiary institutions, and also for those students wishing to improve on their previous year’s AS level results.”

 

Academic excellence a priority 

 

Chief of Schools, Rahel Wondwossen said they were proud of the results achieved by their Grade 13 class of 2022. 

“I wish to commend our students and teachers for their commitment and hard work. The results achieved this year are a testament to their hard work and dedication leading up to this point and will underpin their successful progression into the future. Many of our students have now earned the necessary grades to secure places at universities locally or internationally should that be their plan,” said Wondwossen.

“We want to see students leave Nova Pioneer with the best possible academic qualifications for them and a love of learning that will remain with them for life. We are passionate about ensuring excellent outcomes for our pupils in order to improve their life opportunities. Thus, we are exceptionally proud of what the students have achieved,” she said.

 

Student spotlight

 

Top performing student in 2022, Andrew Williamson who will be pursuing his tertiary education at Stellenbosch University says he is excited about the newfound independence he will gain and finding both like-minded people and unlikely friends at university. 

“I’m most proud of the increased effort I have put into my studies this year. It was far more intensive than last year and it allowed me to discover a level of endurance that I didn’t know I had.”

When asked about what she is most proud of when looking back on 2022, top performer Sinovuyo Titi says, “If I had to pick just one, I would say I’m proud of my growth on how to adapt in uncomfortable situations. The past year has been a roller coaster academically and mentally and I taught myself that the only way to achieve your goals is to navigate through your challenges with a Novaneer “Solutions First” mindset. In that way, you don’t allow inconvenience to overwhelm you and you learn to overcome it.”

Isabel Enechi, another top performer receiving A’s in English and Maths says, “I think I’ve grown to really understand my psyche, and this has helped me in achieving a lot of goals I set for myself this year.” 

 

 

Prepared to thrive post school

 

Departing Nova Pioneer students who have completed their A-Levels, leave feeling confident as they  know what they want to pursue beyond school. Wondwossen says this was made possible through the support of the Post School Success (PSS) Team and the school’s Psycho-social Support Team.

Wondwossen explains, “We established the PSS Team with the aim of equipping students with practical tools for preparation in life after school. The team supports students in understanding their options and what benefits and challenges each may come with.” 

The PSS team, in collaboration with the psycho-social support team, provides students with personalised assessments and career guidance based on each of their unique talents and skills. They support students in cultivating pathways for success after leaving Nova Pioneer.  For many of our students, that may be university, but others pursue launching businesses amongst other pursuits.  Our PSS program, with the aid of our other support structures, supports students in their self discovery of passion and interest as they lead our communities beyond Nova Pioneer.

Both teams have, and continue to, support all students’ as they explore their options to study further or to pursue other paths.

“Also, it is important to note that the journey of a Nova Pioneer student does not end with their exit examinations – once a Novaneer, always a Novaneer. We look forward to engaging with our Novaneers who will now be part of Nova Pioneer’s active and networked pan-African Alumni community,” she added. 

Nova Pioneer is currently operational in both South Africa and Kenya with the  mission to develop generations of innovators and leaders who will shape the African Century.