The school, which was incorporated into the Mpumalanga educational landscape in 2013, also obtained an intermediate licence during the last quarter of 2014, underwriting the department of education’s confidence in what has shown to be a very progressive learning institution.

Now that Grade 4 to 7 learners can also be enrolled, Hillside Private School, under the capable stewardship of the principal, Mr Raymond Mukono, plans to expand rapidly on its exceptional achievements during the previous school year in which a pass rate average of well above 83%, was maintained in the senior secondary phase.

The school has eight, tertiary qualified, full time teachers registered with the SACE, including two of the most sought after maths and science teachers, who make it their goal to not only optimally enhance the capabilities of Hillside’s learners, but also the math and science capabilities of all other students in need of extra tuition at a nominal fee – however, for enrolled learners all extra tuition is free.

Presently, the school has gained ten more learners from last year’s 69, rendering a ration of nine learners per teacher, which ensures one-on-one contact between teacher and pupil, underwriting Hillside’s mission of individual development, and identification of shortfalls, which are dealt with expediently and effectively.

“Our aim is not only to create sustainable academic capabilities, but our holistic approach of targeting to the emotional and physical wellness of our students alongside academics, has rendered unsurpassed results in a matter of 730 days, or two academic years, which ever way you look at it,” Mr Mukono beams.

He motivates his enthusiasm with last year’s results for Grade 8 – 12, averaging 83% – with a 100% pass for Grade 10, a 76,4% pass in the FET Grade 11 phase and Grade 12, with a 85% pass.

The impressive average is streamlined with a pass rate of 83% and 84% pass rate for Grade 8 and Grade 9 respectively.

Each child who is fortunate enough to study at Hillside, which offers flexible payment options, know that they have an open door policy with the principal and teachers alongside their parents.

“By taking hands we ensure that a favorable learning environment is created, not only at the school, which offers a clean and secure environment, but also at home,” Mr Mukono explains.

Hillside Private School has shifted its focus from referrals to active canvassing, and enrollments have been steadily streaming in from as far as Duvha.

The school has dealt impressively with a number of challenges, among others picking up where some government schools have left off, financing without grants from government, and maintaining a competitive edge over similar private institutions.

Despite the challenges, Hillsides achievements, far outweigh these pitfalls.

“I wish to thank the parents and students for their unwavering support, and for prospective learners and the community, we would like to say that we’re here to serve you and develop your child to fulfill his or her rightful place in society, given the chance we’ll shine much brighter, and raise the bar higher, together achieving more,” Mr Mukono concluded.

Go shake hands with the formidable principal by visiting Hillside Private School at 37 SADC Street, or drop Mr Mukono a call or a mail on 013 243 3142 or info@hps.edu.za respectively. The school’s informative website can be accessed at www.hps.edu.za.