Hillcrest Preparatory School, founded in 1982, is a co-educational, independent private school located in the heart of Mutare. It offers a comprehensive and holistic education from Early Childhood Development (ECD) through to Grade 7.
The School provides both day and boarding facilities, catering to the diverse needs of families with options that include flexi, weekly, and full boarding.
Established with a vision to deliver an inclusive, multicultural education, Hillcrest is committed to nurturing the potential of every child. The institution upholds Christian principles while promoting respect, environmental consciousness, and the spirit of service.
Hillcrest aims to develop well-rounded learners who are confident, creative, and prepared for future academic and personal success.
As a member of the Association of Trust Schools (A.T.S.) in Zimbabwe, Hillcrest Preparatory School demonstrates its dedication to maintaining high educational standards.
As part of the Hillcrest family of schools, Hillcrest Preparatory School acts as a feeder school for Hillcrest College.
This means that upon completion of their primary education at Hillcrest Preparatory, students have the opportunity to transition to Hillcrest College.
Curriculum At Hillcrest Preparatory School
Hillcrest Preparatory School follows the Cambridge framework. Learners are also prepared for ZIMSEC examinations, ensuring a well-rounded academic foundation. The curriculum is structured into three key stages: the Early Childhood Development (ECD), Infant, and Primary departments.
During the ECD phase, the school emphasizes the development of foundational skills in reading, writing, and numeracy by integrating these skills within meaningful contexts. This approach fosters an early understanding of the world as students engage in thematic activities that explore various subjects and themes.
In addition, in the Infant department, pupils are guided to achieve developmental milestones across seven key learning areas by the end of Grade 3. These areas are:
- Expressive Arts and Design
- Personal, Social, and Emotional Development
- Physical Development
- Communication and Language
- Literacy
- Mathematics
- Understanding the World
In the Primary Department, a broad and balanced curriculum is offered. Key subjects include:
- English
- Mathematics
- Computers (accessible from Grade 1 to Grade 7)
- Environmental Science
- Art
- Religious & Moral Education
- Shona
- Music
- Physical Education
Through this curriculum, learners are prepared to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, with a strong emphasis placed on both local and international learning standards.
Hillcrest Preparatory School Pass Rates
The School is a beacon of academic excellence. This is consistently demonstrated through outstanding pass rates in both local and international assessments. In 2024, Hillcrest attained the following pass rates:
ZIMSEC Results:
- 100% pass rate based on units
- 94% pass rate based on subjects
Subject-Specific Pass Rates:
- English: 100%
- Mathematics: 100%
- General Paper: 100%
- Agriculture: 100%
- Shona: 71%
Cambridge Checkpoint Results
The School performed remarkably well in the Cambridge Primary Checkpoint assessments. The results are as follows:
- English: 91%
- Mathematics: 84%
- Science: 94%
Hillcrest Preparatory School Fees
As of 2024, Hillcrest Preparatory School fees were structured as follows for the Prep Department:
- Tuition (Day Scholars): US$1,063.30
- Tuition (Weekly Boarders): US$1,329.12
- Tuition (Full Boarders): US$1,514.24
All fees are subject to review and may vary depending on policy adjustments made by the school administration. Parents and guardians are advised to confirm the latest fees directly with the school office.
Hillcrest Preparatory School Admission Requirements
To secure a place for a child at Hillcrest Preparatory School, an application form must be completed and submitted to the school. A non-refundable application fee is charged upon submission.
Prospective parents or guardians are encouraged to visit the school for a tour and further information. To arrange a visit, click here and fill out the form.
Hillcrest Preparatory School Uniforms
All students are expected to wear the official school uniform at all times. Enbee is the school's approved supplier for uniforms, and parents are required to purchase the necessary items from them. Below is a list of the uniform requirements:
Girls’ School Uniform:
- Light blue school dresses
- White ankle socks
- Black shoes
- Navy blue slacks (winter only)
- Open-neck white shirts with school logo (winter only)
- Navy blue school hat with logo
- Navy blue jersey with logo
- Navy blue blazer with logo
- Raincoat
Boys’ School Uniform:
- Navy-blue shorts
- White button-up shirts
- Grey stockings
- Garters
- Navy blue school hat with logo
- Black shoes
- Navy blue jersey with logo
- Navy blue blazer with logo
- Navy blue slacks (winter only)
- Navy blue tie (compulsory from Grade 3)
Sports Uniform (All Grades):
- Blue swimming costume
- Swimming towel
- Swimming cap
Sports Kit (From Grade 3 – Girls and Boys):
- Navy-blue tracksuit
- Navy-blue boxer shorts
- White T-shirts (Penguin shorts with logo)
- Coloured house T-shirts (according to house allocation):
- Red – Eagle
- Green – Falcon
- Blue – Harrier
- Yellow – Kestrel
Boarding Facilities at Hillcrest Preparatory School
Hillcrest Preparatory School offers boarding facilities to girls and boys, providing a safe, structured, and nurturing environment that supports all aspects of a child’s development.
Boarders enjoy a rich variety of co-curricular activities, such as ICT skills development among others.
Weekends are thoughtfully structured to avoid inactivity and maintain high spirits. Pupils participate in a variety of activities such as sports matches, Chapel services, DSTV entertainment, and more. This ensures that boarders remain continuously occupied in a positive and stimulating environment.
To ensure the safety and well-being of all boarders:
- 24/7 security guards are stationed on the premises to maintain a secure environment.
- A fully equipped sick-bay is available, providing prompt medical attention when needed and ensuring the health and comfort of every pupil.
Extracurricular Activities At Hillcrest Preparatory School
The School offers a wide range of sporting and creative activities throughout the year, promoting physical health, teamwork, creativity, and personal growth. Some of the sports students can participate in are:
- Hockey
- Cricket
- Netball
- Rugby
- Tennis
- Crosscountry
- Swimming
Creative and Cultural Activities:
- Arts & Crafts:
Through these extracurricular offerings, students are encouraged to discover new passions, build confidence, and develop lifelong skills in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Conclusion
Hillcrest Preparatory School stands as a nurturing and dynamic learning environment where academic excellence is matched by a strong emphasis on character development, creativity, and holistic growth.
With a well-structured curriculum that blends both Cambridge and ZIMSEC standards, outstanding extracurricular offerings, and a caring boarding environment, pupils are prepared not just for exams but for life.
For parents seeking a well-rounded education that balances academic achievement with personal development, Hillcrest offers the ideal foundation.
Every child is encouraged to thrive, explore their potential, and grow into confident, capable individuals ready to succeed in an ever-changing world.
Hillcrest Preparatory School Contact Details
Tel: +263 2020 63120/+ 263 772 249 009
Cell: +263 772 249 009
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.hillcrestprep.net/
See the School on Facebook here
FAQ's on Hillcrest Preparatory School
Hillcrest Preparatory School offers two types of boarding fees: weekly boarding, with tuition fees set at US$1,329.12, and full boarding, with tuition fees pending confirmation at US$1,514.24.
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