Welcome to
Bushwillow
School
Bushwillow is a
Reggio-Emilia inspired
primary school
At Bushwillow School we focus on the holistic development of children; nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, self-initiative, problem solving and creativity.
Located in a natural setting in Kenton-on-Sea, Eastern Cape, we offer a unique educational experience that is sensitive to each child’s learning style and needs, enabling all children to flourish and reach their unique potential.
Our goal is to develop confident, compassionate and responsible individuals who celebrate their uniqueness, grow academically, socially and emotionally, ultimately contributing positively to their community and the world.
Our School
Approach to Education
We strive to maintain a balance between structure and flexibility. The CAPS curriculum provides a framework from which our learning methods evolve.
These include:
Problem, and project-based learning – through relevant, real-world scenarios, our students develop critical thinking and investigative skills, drawing on their community and surroundings to explore challenges. By integrating subjects into meaningful themes and working with their peers, we inspire curiosity and deeper engagement, creating an environment where children actively shape projects and generate their own solutions without prescribing the process.
Formal Assessment
Our approach to assessment is both balanced and developmental. It begins with continuous observation, careful documentation, and portfolio building to create a rich, holistic picture of each child’s progress. This foundation is gradually complemented by the introduction of formal assessments. By the higher grades, students are equipped with the confidence, skills, and experience needed to transition seamlessly into mainstream schooling, should they choose that path.
Facilities
Nestled on a smallholding on the outskirts of Kenton-on-Sea, our school gives children the freedom to roam and connect with the natural environment. We encourage them to build dens, climb trees, and - when the weather allows - delight in the muddy puddles that appear. Our thoughtfully designed playground, including sensory swings, offers an outlet for youthful energy and supports better concentration in the classroom.
Across the grounds - a variety of fruit trees, composting system and our vegetable gardens help children understand how to grow their own food and the importance of sustainability. This is also highlighted by our four wooden buildings, off-grid solar system and eight rainwater harvesting tanks. Our spacious sports fields provide ample room for all our athletic activities and outdoor pursuits.
Learners in our older grades have access to computers for research, exploration, and project work.
Staff & Structure
The school is governed by a trust and supported by a steering committee that collaborates closely with the principal, teachers, and volunteers to ensure the smooth and effective operation of the school.
Schedule & Programmes
Opening Hours:
School is open from 7:30 until 2pm
Classes start at 8am and end at 1:30pm
Sport and Extra Murals:
Throughout the year we practice and compete in athletics, soccer, rugby, cricket and netball.
From next year we plan to include swimming and hockey.
Extra murals - Karate
Grades and Tutor Centre:
Pre-Primary to Grade 7
Grade 8 – 12 Tutor Centre
Bursary Scheme
We have committed to providing one bursary for every seven fee-paying children in the school.
Bushwillow is an independent, non profit school financed with school fees and external funding raised by the school. To ensure that we can accept children from across our communities, we have committed to providing one bursary for every seven fee-paying children in the school. Some of these bursaries are allocated to children from the “Helping Hands Soup Kitchen” in Ekuphumleni, a township located close to the school.
If you would like to contribute to our bursary fund please click the donate button below. If you are interested in supporting a child’s education for the duration of their school life, please contact us directly.
Admissions & Rates
Bushwillow offers a full-time enrollment option. In addition, children may also attend our activity day (every Friday) on a drop-in basis. Should you wish your child to attend either full-time or an activity day, please see below for details and application forms.
Fee Structure for 2026
Full-time enrollment |
|
|
Monthly school fee (12 months – to be paid by the 1st of every month) Please Note: |
Pre-primary: R1 800 (age 3-5) Remedial: R3 500 |
| Sibling discount | Pre-primary: not applicable Primary: R300 / month (+/-10%) Tutor cent: R200 / month (+/-10%) |
| Enrollment fee - (to be paid on acceptance) Non-refundable |
Pre-primary: R1 200 Primary: R2 200 Tutro Centre: R1 200 |
Activity day |
|
| Friday fee for once off visitors | R200 per child per day (R180 per sibling) |
| Friday fee for regular visitors | R400 per month, 12 months per year (R380 per sibling) |
Banking details
Account holder: Bushwillow School Trust
Bank: First National Bank
Branch code: 240154
Account number: 62633819977
Type of account: Cheque
Reference: Your child's name
Application Procedure
Complete the application form
Our application form can be downloaded below or be collected from Bushwillow school between 12-2.30pm on weekdays. Return the completed and signed application form with supporting documents to the school.
School Interviews
We will schedule a school interview and will contact you to book a time slot. We are holding these school interviews to obtain further background information on your child and their abilities as well as any questions you may have and invite both you and your child to take part in this interview.
Acceptance letter
If your child is accepted to attend our school, we will send you an acceptance letter.
Enrollment fee
To secure your place in the school we will need to receive your enrollment fee within 7 days of receipt of acceptance letter.
This application form is for both full-time enrollments
and activity day on a drop-in basis
Contact Us
+27 (0)71 480 3847
Birdsong, R343, Kenton on Sea, 6191
BushwillowSchool