Pretoria Preparatory School: Our Story
A Vision That Sparked a Movement (1976–1977)
Pretoria Preparatory School began as a heartfelt response to a growing need: creating a supportive environment for children with learning challenges. In the mid-1970s, Mrs. Judy Davison and Mrs. Clara Gerhard, both passionate about child development, recognised that Pretoria lacked a dedicated centre to help children thrive both academically and emotionally.
Their vision gained powerful momentum thanks to Mr. Jules Pearce, a determined father whose own child was travelling daily to Johannesburg for support. Mr Pearce approached the Pretoria Rotary Club, who pledged financial backing, and also Mr Frank Salmon (the then Principal of Waterkloof Primary School), who was able to provide strategic guidance. After a compelling newspaper campaign led by journalist Elizabeth Wilson, the idea caught fire. A community meeting in May 1976 attracted over 350 attendees, and by June, a dedicated association had been formed to bring the school to life.
A School Built on Purpose and People (1977–1979)
On 12 January 1977, the school opened its doors with just one Grade 1 learner in a house in Hatfield. But the idea quickly took root. By the end of the year, there were three classes, a team of educators and therapists, and an afternoon therapy clinic serving children from other schools.
The school's growth led to a move in October 1977 to 262 Murray Street in Brooklyn, where it remains today, a home filled with history, hope, and the sound of learning.
By 1978, Pretoria Preparatory School was offering a unique, integrated model: a full-time school, an assessment and therapy centre, and a part-time clinic, all working together to support the child as a whole.
Recognition, Growth and Impact (1980s)
In 1980, the school formally became Pretoria Preparatory School and was registered as a Non-Profit Company. Over the following decade, PPS extended its reach and impact:
- Introduced speech therapy, occupational therapy, and psycho-educational assessments.
- Expanded its team of dedicated professionals.
- Attracted increasing community support and financial sustainability through partial government subsidies.
Extramural activities flourished (from swimming and drama to music therapy) helping every child shine in their own way.
Building Excellence (1990s–2000s)
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, PPS deepened its commitment to holistic education. Led by Principal Margot Elphick, the school expanded its facilities, upgraded classrooms, added a computer lab, and developed a thriving assessment department.
Strong partnerships with parents and therapists made PPS a sought-after school for children who needed both careful academic scaffolding and therapeutic support. Learner numbers steadily grew, and new spaces were built to meet the demand.
Innovation, Community and Care (2010s)
Under the leadership of Pam Cheesman and later Sherrill Wagenaar, PPS continued to evolve. New teaching technologies were introduced, outdoor spaces were revitalised, and assessment tools modernised, all while remaining firmly rooted in its mission to serve learners with barriers to learning.
PPS remained unique in its offering: a place where academic, emotional and developmental support are seamlessly integrated. New therapy models, teacher training, and specialist roles kept the school at the forefront of best practice in remedial education.
Resilience and Renewal (2020 onwards)
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 presented challenges for all schools, but PPS rose to the occasion. With swift investment in digital infrastructure and the introduction of remote learning, the school continued to serve its learners through every stage of lockdown.
In 2024 and 2025, PPS introduced a combined Grade R/1 class to cater for the varying developmental needs of our learners. Assessment tools like the MARKO-D were added, and all staff continued to receive the latest training in learning support methodologies.
Today, Pretoria Preparatory School is not just a school, it is a community. A place where every learner is seen, supported, and empowered to grow into their full potential.
