Carlswald House Preparatory School
Updated July 2026
Cambridge PrimaryAccreditations
Carlswald House Preparatory is an independent, Cambridge International-accredited school in Midrand, Gauteng, serving students from Grade R to Grade 7. It combines a rigorous international curriculum with a focus on 21st-century skills, technology integration, and holistic character development.
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school prioritizes a holistic, "home away from home" environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and a positive attitude toward learning. It emphasizes the development of values such as integrity, respect, responsibility, and trust, while encouraging a growth mindset where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for improvement. The school utilizes the "Ake Sikhule" (meaning "to grow") programme to support personal development, leadership, and self-discipline.
Programmes
The school follows the Cambridge International Curriculum, integrated with the CAPS curriculum where necessary. The academic programme includes a focus on Thinking Skills—such as Habits of Mind and Thinking Maps—and an IT curriculum that incorporates coding. The school is divided into the Junior Preparatory (Grades R–3), which focuses on foundational skills, and the Senior Preparatory (Grades 4–7), which emphasizes formal education, continuous assessment, and the application of concepts. The Cambridge Global Perspectives programme is also offered to develop transferable skills like research and collaboration.
Outcomes
The school reports that its Grade 7 graduates are consistently accepted into well-established independent high schools, including Beaulieu College, St Peters College, Pinnacle College, and Curro Midrand. The curriculum aims to prepare students for future academic success by fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent research skills.
Student support
Learning support
The school maintains an Academic and Emotional Support Unit (AESU) to assist learners. Teachers employ differentiated instruction and rotational activities tailored to individual learning styles, with opportunities for one-on-one time between students and educators.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Carlswald House Preparatory School offer?
- Carlswald House Preparatory School offers Cambridge Primary and Cambridge Lower Secondary.
- How much is tuition at Carlswald House Preparatory School?
- Annual tuition at Carlswald House Preparatory School is ZAR 70.8K–ZAR 88.2K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Carlswald House Preparatory School hold?
- Carlswald House Preparatory School holds accreditations including Cambridge International.
- Is Carlswald House Preparatory School co-educational?
- Carlswald House Preparatory School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Carlswald House Preparatory School located?
- Carlswald House Preparatory School is an international school in Thembisa, South Africa.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Grade R | 5–6 | ZAR 70.8K |
| Grade 1 – 3 | 6–9 | ZAR 86.8K |
| Grade 4 – 7 | 9–13 | ZAR 88.2K |
Source:PDF2026-CHP-Gr-R-Fee-Structure-FINAL.pdfPDF2026-CHP-Gr-1-7-Fee-Structure.pdfPDFCambridge-Prospectus.pdf
Other fees(7)
| Application fee· A non-refundable application and assessment fee. | ZAR 400 |
|---|---|
| Enrolment fee· The enrolment fee is non-refundable. This is a once-off fee, payable once your application is processed, approved and you accept the place at the school. | ZAR 7K |
| Materials· Consumables Levy for Grade 1 and 2. Covers school diary, school magazine, school outings/shows, concert costume, labels, birthday book, IT development, daily writing books and stationery for the year. | ZAR 3.7K |
| Materials· Consumables Levy for Grade 3 to 7. Covers school diary, school magazine, school outings/shows, concert costume, labels, birthday book, IT development and daily writing books. Stationery is excluded. | ZAR 2.5K |
| Registration fee· Grounds and Maintenance Levy per family, payable in September. | ZAR 950 |
| Mealsmonthly· Optional Grade 1 to 7 Meals. Additional cost for a mid-morning snack and a fully-cooked lunch. | ZAR 1.5K |
| Uniform· Carlswald House school uniform is available from the school Uniform Shop. A uniform requirement list will be supplied on enrollment. | — |
Discounts
- Full-payment discount: 5%
- Sibling discount: 5%
Admissions
Prospective families are invited to complete an online application and join the school's waiting list. Applicants for Grades R through 7 must provide a birth certificate and their most recent school report, and are required to complete an entrance assessment. A non-refundable application fee and a one-time enrollment fee are payable upon acceptance.
Calendar
The school operates on a three-term academic calendar. In 2026, Term 1 runs from 14 January to 10 April, Term 2 from 6 May to 7 August, and Term 3 from 9 September to 4 December. Each term includes a scheduled half-term break.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in Carlswald, Midrand, the campus features large grassed areas, playgrounds, and shaded spaces. Specialized facilities include a STEAM block, a music centre, and a dedicated IT lab equipped with Apple and Microsoft devices. The school is fully independent, maintaining its own water source and a load-shedding-free power supply.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a comprehensive range of sports and cultural activities, including cricket, softball, soccer, netball, hockey, and tennis. Cultural and music offerings include choir, marimba, djembe drums, wind ensemble, and chess. Additionally, the school operates a swim school from January to November.
Mark HeidmannHeadmasterMark Heidmann is the Headmaster of Carlswald House Preparatory School.
Rhian JohnsonHead of Department: Junior PreparatoryRhian Johnson serves as the Head of Department for the Junior Preparatory, which encompasses Grades R–3. She focuses on establishing a supportive, "home away from home" atmosphere while fostering 21st-century skills and academic excellence.
Tracy SowerbyHead of Department: Senior PreparatoryTracy Sowerby is the Head of Department for the Senior Preparatory. She prioritizes the holistic development of children, encouraging a growth mindset and the integration of technology, creativity, and problem-solving in the classroom.