Hillcrest College Secondary School, located in Mutare, Manicaland Province, is a mixed boarding institution that offers a low-fee, broad-based secondary education. It is a non-racial, Christian, and co-educational institution committed to providing quality education.
The School emphasizes academic excellence, sporting activities, cultural development, and community service.
The college was conceived as part of a community project aimed to create a top-tier educational establishment for the children of Manicaland.
In January 1985, Hillcrest College opened its doors as an ‘Upper Top’ Rural Day Secondary School, with two classes of twenty-five Form 1 pupils.
Over the years, the college has built a proud tradition of academic success, complemented by sporting and cultural programs that allow students to grow in a well-rounded, nurturing environment.
At the heart of Hillcrest College is a strong commitment to community engagement and service, ensuring that students develop academically, socially, and spiritually, preparing them to be responsible and compassionate citizens.
Curriculum
Hillcrest College follows the internationally recognized Cambridge curriculum.
Junior Secondary – Forms 1 and 2
Students in Forms 1 and 2 follow a comprehensive curriculum. All students are required to take the following core subjects and choose at least two practical subjects:
Core Subjects
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Geography
- Science
- Shona (L1 or L2)
- History
- Computers
- French
- Music
Practical Subjects (Students choose at least two)
- Woodwork
- Art and Design
- Agriculture
Middle Secondary – Forms 3 and 4 (IGCSE Level)
In their second and third years of secondary education, students follow the ‘Secondary 2’ curriculum, studying for the International General Certificate for Secondary Education (IGCSE). The examinations are taken at the end of Form 4.
Pathways for IGCSE
Hillcrest College offers three distinct pathways at the IGCSE level, with different subject options for each.
1. Pathway 3A (9 subjects)
Core Subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Geography
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Computer Science / Literature in English
Option Blocks:
- Block 1: Art & Design, Accounting, Design & Technology (TG/RM), Agriculture
- Block 2: Biology (Extended)*, History, Information & Communication Technology (ICT), Travel & Tourism
- Block 3: Business Studies, French, Enterprise, Travel & Tourism
2. Pathway 3A1 (8 subjects)
Core Subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Geography
- Combined Science
- Literature in English
Option Blocks:
- Block 1: Art & Design, Accounting, Design & Technology (TG/RM), Agriculture
- Block 2: Biology (Extended)*, History, Information & Communication Technology (ICT), Travel & Tourism
- Block 3: Business Studies, French, Enterprise, Travel & Tourism
3. Pathway 3A2 (7 subjects)
Core Subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Geography
- Biology (Core)
- Travel and Tourism
Option Blocks:
- Block 1: Art & Design, Accounting, Design & Technology (TG/RM), Agriculture
- Block 2: Biology (Extended)*, History, Information & Communication Technology (ICT), Travel & Tourism
- Block 3: Business Studies, French, Enterprise, Travel & Tourism
Upper Secondary – Lower and Upper Sixth (A Level)
In their Lower Sixth year, students follow the Advanced Subsidiary (AS) curriculum and sit for AS examinations at the end of that year. Students who achieve a grade B or better in the AS examinations can proceed to the A Level (A2) curriculum in the Upper Sixth year.
Subject Options for AS and A2 Levels
Senior students at Hillcrest College choose from the following option blocks for their A Level studies. Students must choose one subject from each block:
- Block 1: Mathematics, Travel & Tourism, History, Information Technology, Global Perspectives
- Block 2: Chemistry, Geography, Economics, Computer Science, AS English Language
- Block 3: Biology, Business, Design & Technology, Art, AS English Language
- Block 4: Physics, Literature in English, Accounting, Geography, Global Perspectives
Additional Notes:
- Global Perspectives or AS English Language must be chosen as a fourth subject in the Lower Sixth.
- Art is only offered at the AS level for examination in June. It can also be taken as an additional subject.
- Life Skills is a compulsory non-examination subject for all sixth-form pupils.
Hillcrest College Secondary School Pass Rates
Hillcrest College prides itself on its outstanding academic achievements, with students consistently performing at a high level across all stages of education. The school’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its impressive 2024 pass rates:
- IGCSE Pass Rate: 82%
- AS Level Pass Rate: 77%
- A Level Pass Rate: 81%
These exceptional results are a testament to the dedication and hard work of both students and teachers.
Hillcrest College Secondary School Fees
The last known fees at Hillcrest College are as follows:
Tuition Fees:
- US$1,675.00 for day students
- US$3,435.00 for boarding students
Please note that fees are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information regarding the current fees, kindly contact the School's Bursar at [email protected] or +263 772 100748.
Hillcrest College Admission Requirements
Hillcrest College Open Day – 21 March
Current Grade 6 and 7 students are invited to attend the Open Day on 21 March. The event will provide an opportunity for prospective students and their families to explore the campus and learn more about the college. The schedule for the day will be as follows:
- 8:30 AM: Welcome Ceremony
- 9:30 AM: Campus Tour
All interested families are encouraged to participate in this informative event.
Admission to Form 1:
Admission to Form 1 is determined through an Entrance Assessment Day, where papers in English and Mathematics are written. This assessment is held on the first Saturday of July for pre-registered pupils in Grade 7 (Year 8). An Orientation Day will be held before the beginning of the first term for all successful applicants and their parents.
Forms 1 (Second Term onwards), 2, and 3:
Applicants seeking admission into Forms 1, 2, and 3 are required to sit for an internal examination. This examination is usually conducted at the end of each term or the beginning of the holidays for the next term, with prospective peers as co-examinees. Following a successful examination, interviews are conducted with the applicants, after which places may be offered.
Lower Sixth (Form 6):
IGCSE/O Level or equivalent examination results must be submitted immediately upon receipt from the examination board. A minimum of 5 passes at IGCSE or O Level is required for admission, with C grades or above in English as a First Language, Mathematics, and a Science subject. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed, and places will be offered to eligible applicants.
Hillcrest College Uniform Requirements
At Hillcrest College, students are expected to wear the official school uniform with pride, adhering to the established guidelines that reflect the college’s commitment to discipline and excellence.
The official uniform supplier for Hillcrest College is ENBE. Please ensure all items are purchased from this supplier to maintain consistency and quality.
Boys and Girls Uniform:
- Navy Blazer with School Badge
- White Long Sleeve Shirt
- White School Hat with School Badge & blue under the brim
School Tie:
- Navy Striped Tie for Form 1-4
- Form 5 Tie and 6th Form Tie for Lower 6 & Upper 6
- Navy Raincoat
- Plain Knit Navy Jersey
- Branded School Anorak (Meant for Winter Only)
- Plain Knit/Fleece Navy Scarf (Meant for Winter Only)
- Plain Knit/Fleece Navy Gloves (Meant for Winter Only)
Girls Uniform:
- Navy Skirt
- Navy Slacks (Meant for Form 1 to Lower 6 Girls and for Winter Only)
- White Ankle Length Socks
- Black Closed, Lace-Up Shoes – Flat
6th Form Girls Uniform:
- Black Pencil Skirt (Meant for Upper 6 Girls Only)
- Black Slacks (Meant for Upper 6 Girls Only during Winter)
- Black ¾ Plain Court Shoes
- Stockings: Berkshire “Flair”/Sheer Black
Girls' Sports Uniforms:
- Tennis/Hockey Navy Skirt & Navy Ski Pants
- Navy and White Swimming Costume
- White Ankle Socks
Boys Uniform:
- Navy Shorts (Form 1 – 4 only during summer)
- Navy Long Socks (With Garters)
- Grey Flannel Longs (To be worn every day during winter by Form 1 – 4 and every day through the year for Lower 6 Boys)
- Black Lace-Up, Proper School Shoes
Boys' Sports Uniform:
- School Rugby Jersey – Navy
- Black/Navy Blue Swimming Trunks
- White Boxer Shorts
- Long White Socks
Boys and Girls Sports Uniform:
- Navy Tracksuit with White Stripe
- Parachute Shorts
- Penguin Shirt
- House T-shirt
- Athletics Vest
- Sports Shoes/Tackies
- Hockey/Rugby Socks – Navy with White Tops
- School Cap
- Swimming Cap
Extracurricular Activities At Hillcrest College Secondary School
At Hillcrest College, students are encouraged to explore their interests and talents beyond the classroom through a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs.
Clubs and Activities:
- AIDS Awareness
- Art
- Bridge
- Chess
- Choir
- Contact School Newspaper
- Crestcan
- Drama
- Environmental Club
- First Aid
- Interact
- Leo
- Marimba
- Media Production
- Scripture Union
- Sign Language
- Technopreneurship
- Toastmasters
Sports Offered:
Summer Sports:
- Boys: Athletics, Cricket, Cross Country, Basketball
- Girls: Swimming, Cross Country, Athletics, Basketball, Tennis
Winter Sports:
- Boys: Rugby, Hockey, Soccer
- Girls: Hockey, Soccer, Tennis
These extracurricular activities and sports programs allow students to develop a variety of skills, form lasting friendships, and actively contribute to the school community.
Conclusion
Hillcrest College is committed to providing a holistic education that nurtures academic excellence, personal growth, and community involvement. The School places emphasis on academic achievement through the Cambridge curriculum, alongside a wide array of extracurricular activities, sports, and leadership opportunities.
For parents seeking a school that fosters intellectual curiosity, character development, and a sense of social responsibility, Hillcrest College provides the perfect foundation.
Students are encouraged to excel, explore their passions, and contribute meaningfully to their community, all within a supportive and inclusive environment.
By choosing Hillcrest College, you are giving your child the opportunity to thrive academically and personally, ensuring they are well-prepared for the future.
Hillcrest College Secondary School Contact Details
Tel: +263 (20) 60773
Cell: +263 772 249 005
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.hillcrestcollege.net/home/
Address: PO Box 840, Mutare,
Manicaland
Zimbabwe
The last known fees for Hillcrest College are US$1,675.00 for day students
US$3,435.00 for boarding students
In 2024, Hillcrest College attained an 82% pass rate at IGCSE, a 77% pass rate at AS Level & 81% at A Level.
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