Every summit has a start
Founded in 2015 as a small preschool in Honeydew, Skye College has grown into a vibrant independent school offering education from babies through high school. As a registered Cambridge International School (ZA502) and member of ISASA and ACESA, we combine global standards with a warm, values-driven environment.
What began as a nurturing preschool community is now preparing to celebrate its first matric class in 2027, while staying true to the same heart that shaped our beginnings.
Affordable
fees
We make private education more accessible to families seeking both academic excellence and values-driven learning. Our students enjoy world-class facilities and a rich experience at affordable fees.
About
ThriveEd
ThriveEd is a growing network of independent schools dedicated to providing “an education to thrive, for all.” ThriveEd is committed to making high-quality private education more accessible. Skye College is part of a distinguished group that includes 9 other schools, including our neighbours Broadacres Academy and St Luke’s College - two successful schools in Johannesburg known for their innovative approaches and focus on holistic student development. Each school in the ThriveEd network operates with its own unique identity and vision, enabling them to serve their communities in relevant, meaningful ways.
EXECUTIVE HEAD
Claudia Pienaar
With over 20 years in education and 17 years in school leadership, Claudia Pienaar is an innovative and passionate leader committed to shaping thriving school communities. She holds a Bachelor of Education, a B.Ed. Honours in Leadership, Management and Policy (cum laude), and is currently completing her Master’s in Educational Leadership.
Claudia has pioneered three successful schools, creating communities where staff, parents, and students feel safe, seen, and able to thrive. She has also worked in higher education as a Teaching and Learning Specialist, where she lectured in education, led the Bachelor of Education programme, and developed modules for the Independent Institute of Education. A specialist in leadership and curriculum, Claudia has contributed to national conversations on diversity, inclusion, and instructional leadership through conferences and panel discussions.
“Paulo Freire reminds us that education does not change the world, it changes people, and people change the world. Education has the power to transform not only individual lives, but entire communities. When we nurture meaningful relationships, equip students with resilient habits, and inspire purposeful contributions, we prepare them to climb every summit. I am proud to lead Skye College in building a school where every student can discover their strengths and thrive.”
- CLAUDIA PIENAAR
Built for belonging
Located in Honeydew, Skye College offers bespoke spaces for each phase of school, carefully designed to balance academics, physical activity, and recreation. Filled with natural light and playful architectural features, our campus is vibrant and welcoming - a place where every student feels a true sense of belonging and purpose.
Intentionally designed, modern spaces
At Skye College, facilities are designed to spark innovation and creativity. Our campus includes a Design and Technology Lab for hands-on tech exploration, a fully compliant Cambridge Science Lab, collaborative learning spaces, and equipment for sport and movement that lets students jump, kick, tumble, and bounce. Each detail supports curiosity, collaboration, and growth from day one.
Designed to foster curiosity, confidence, and character.
Skye College provide exceptional sports and co-curricular facilities, including:
A top-tier swimming pool
A heated learn-to-swim pool
Multi-courts, mini astros, and basketball court
A sports field for rugby, soccer, and athletics
Outdoor playscapes, jumping pillow, ball court, table tennis, and outdoor chess
At the heart of our school are collaborative and social spaces, including our on-site café, where students and families can gather to connect, build relationships, and share in a vibrant sense of community.
At Skye College, we offer a well-rounded education rooted in our four pathways to thrive, nurturing academic excellence, meaningful relationships, resilient habits, and purposeful contributions. Our approach ensures every student is equipped to thrive in every dimension of life.
Curriculum & academics
As a Cambridge school, we uphold internationally recognised standards that prepare students for university and beyond. In the early years, our Montessori-inspired approach fosters independence, curiosity, and a love of learning, laying a strong foundation for the academic rigour and holistic growth that follows.
Our approach combines academic rigour with 21st-century skills, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and student-centred learning. Through a rich curriculum, students are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world, with subjects including:
Preparatory School: English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, Maths, Creative Arts, Drama, Humanities, Science, Technology, Business Studies, Enviromental Management, Music Appreciation, Wellness, Physical Education.
High School: English, Afrikaans or isiZulu, Maths plus three elective subjects (Business Studies, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, History, IT/Computer Science, Environmental Management).
Non-examinable: Music, Physical Education, Wellness.
We offer focused academic support to develop deep mastery for key subjects.
Skye College operates on a Cambridge hybrid four-term calendar, with carefully planned breaks to support student well-being and academic success.
We also encourage outdoor and adventure activities to foster confidence and resilience.
Aftercare & holiday programmes
For students up to Grade 7, our aftercare programmes provide a safe and nurturing space until 17:30. Galaxy Club, for primary students, offers homework supervision, engaging activities, and healthy snacks, while our preschool Stay & Play Programme combines structured fun with care and enrichment. Both include a light lunch and snacks, and our exciting holiday programmes ensure students remain active, supported, and inspired during school breaks.
Christian foundation
Skye College is a Christian school shaped by values of love, compassion, and integrity, where faith influences teaching, relationships, and community life. At the same time, we welcome students from all backgrounds, creating a safe and inclusive space where families may choose to opt out of faith-based activities while still feeling fully part of the Skye community.
Skye College is a Christian school shaped by values of love, compassion, and integrity. Our faith influences the way we teach, build relationships, and create community. At the same time, we are a school where all students are welcome. We value diversity and respect the choices of families who do not share our beliefs. Parents may choose to opt their children out of faith-based activities, while still feeling fully part of the Skye community.
Faith in practice
Faith at Skye is lived out through Thrive Youth, which provides worship, discipleship opportunities, pastoral care, and community-building activities. These practices encourage students to reflect, grow, and explore Christianity in ways that are authentic and relational.
In this way, Skye holds fast to its Christian foundation while creating a safe, inclusive space where every student can thrive, whether they are deepening their faith or simply learning in an environment shaped by compassion and respect.
General information
Who is ThriveEd?
Who is ThriveEd?
ThriveEd partners with schools to deliver high-quality education that balances academics and character development. Skye College is one of several ThriveEd schools, alongside 9 other schools including Broadacres Academy, Skye College, Waterford College and St Luke’s College.
Admissions & school structure
What grades does Skye College offer?
What grades does Skye College offer?
Skye College is a place to grow and thrive from your very first years through to your final school milestones. Our learning community welcomes children from 3 months old and will extend up to Grade 11 in 2026, with our first Grade 12 class matriculating in 2027.
What curriculum does Skye College follow?
What curriculum does Skye College follow?
We offer the Cambridge qualification, ensuring an internationally recognised standard of academic excellence.
What are the school hours?
What are the school hours?
| Preschool | ||
| Babies – Gr RR | ||
| - Half Day | 07:30 – 12:00 | |
| - 3/4 Day | 07:00 – 15:00 | |
| - Full Day | 07:00 – 17:30 | |
| Gr R | 07:00 – 14:00 | |
| Prep School | ||
| Gr 1 – 6 | 07:30 – 13:30 | |
| High School | ||
| Gr 7 – 11 | 07:30 – 14:30 | |
| 07:30 – 14:00 (Fridays) |
Preparatory and high school gates open at 06:30 but informal staff supervision begins at 07:00.
Aftercare available until 17:30 at additional cost for Gr R – Gr 7.
Babies – Gr RR: Two and three days a week available as well as 3/4 and full day options.
Does the school follow a four-term calendar?
Does the school follow a four-term calendar?
We are a four-term school with a hybrid calendar. This model gives our students the teaching time they need to excel in Cambridge exams, while keeping the four-term rhythm that helps families plan and stay connected. Although it differs slightly from the traditional four-term calendar, it is a proven approach used by other leading Cambridge private schools.
What is the fee structure at Skye College?
What is the fee structure at Skye College?
Skye College is committed to offering high-quality private education that remains accessible to families. Our fees are structured to provide exceptional value, giving students access to bespoke learning spaces, a rigorous academic programme, and a vibrant co-curricular offering at competitive rates.
School life & facilities
Sports
Sports
Athletics, swimming, cricket, rugby, soccer, basketball, netball and chess.
Offered seasonally and based on student uptake.
Cultural activities
Cultural activities
Choir, public speaking, debating, theatre club, book club, fitness club, coding club, Eisteddfod, eco club, fine arts club.
Offered rotationally and based on student uptake.
What does the school’s Christian ethos include?
What does the school’s Christian ethos include?
At Skye College, our Christian faith is an important part of who we are. Students are invited to take part in devotions, worship, prayer, and community service opportunities that nurture compassion, respect, and community. While these practices reflect our Christian foundation, we honour the diversity of our school and respect the choices of families who may wish to opt out. In this way, Skye offers a school environment where faith is valued, and inclusivity is embraced.
What is the Thriveway Programme?
What is the Thriveway Programme?
Thriveway is a structured programme developed by ThriveEd to ensure that schools provide high-quality academics, social-emotional learning, and strong character formation. It is externally assessed to maintain teaching excellence, leadership development, and a nurturing school culture.
Student support & practicalities
Does Skye College offer aftercare and holiday programmes?
Does Skye College offer aftercare and holiday programmes?
Yes. Aftercare runs from the end of the academic day until 17:30 for students up to Grade 7.
Holiday care is available during school breaks but excludes public holidays and a portion of the December / January holidays.
Is there a cafeteria service?
Is there a cafeteria service?
Yes, Khula Cafe offers a selection of nutritious, whole-food meals that can be pre-ordered or ordered on site. While meals are not included in the preparatory and high school fees, preschool students receive meals as part of their daily programme.
What is the school’s approach to discipline?
What is the school’s approach to discipline?
At Skye College, discipline is seen as training for growth. Guided by Positive Behaviour Support and restorative practices, students learn self-awareness, accountability, and the natural consequences of their choices. Expectations are clear, consistent, and framed with love and care. In this way, discipline builds responsibility, resilience, and strong habits, equipping students to thrive in life and relationships.
How does Skye College approach technology and media?
How does Skye College approach technology and media?
We encourage intentional, educational technology use, ensuring students engage with high-quality, age-appropriate content. In the prep school, we use technology in age appropriate ways, using class devices. From Grade 8 onwards, students require personal devices. A levy, not included in school fees, is applied.
Does Skye College allow cellphones?
Does Skye College allow cellphones?
No, at Skye College we believe students thrive when they are fully present, building real connections, focusing on learning, and engaging in the life of the school. This approach fosters healthier relationships, stronger concentration, and a joyful, distraction-free environment.
We recognise that some high school students may need cellphones after school for travel or safety. A clear process is in place to allow secure access when needed, ensuring a balance between student wellbeing and practical family needs.
General information
Who is ThriveEd?
Who is ThriveEd?
ThriveEd partners with schools to deliver high-quality education that balances academics and character development. St Luke’s College is one of several ThriveEd schools, alongside Broadacres Academy and Skye College.
What is St Luke’s connection to Bishop Bavin School?
What is St Luke’s connection to Bishop Bavin School?
There is no formal connection between St Luke’s College and the former Bishop Bavin School. ThriveEd purchased the facilities from the previous owners, and we are building a new, independent school that honours the site’s rich history.
Admissions & school structure
When does St Luke’s College open, and which grades will be offered?
When does St Luke’s College open, and which grades will be offered?
We open in January 2026 for students from Grade 0000 to Grade 9, with Grade 10 to Grade 12 phasing in over subsequent years.
What curriculum does St Luke’s College follow?
What curriculum does St Luke’s College follow?
We offer the IEB (Independent Examinations Board) qualification, ensuring an internationally recognised standard of academic excellence.
What are the school hours?
What are the school hours?
Preschool: Start at 07:30 – half day, three-quarter day and full day options available.
Preparatory and High School: 07:30 – 14:00.
Does the school follow a four-term calendar?
Does the school follow a four-term calendar?
Yes, St Luke’s College follows a four-term calendar, aligning with other leading private schools.
What is the fee structure at St Luke’s College?
What is the fee structure at St Luke’s College?
St Luke’s College is committed to making high-quality private education accessible. Our fee structure is designed to offer exceptional value, providing world-class facilities, and a rich academic and co-curricular programme at very competitive rates.
School life & facilities
What sports and cultural activities are offered?
What sports and cultural activities are offered?
Sports: Athletics, swimming, tennis, cricket, rugby, soccer, basketball, netball and chess.
Cultural Activities: Choir, public speak and debating.
What does the school’s Christian ethos include?
What does the school’s Christian ethos include?
Our Christian faith is woven into daily life at St Luke’s. This includes daily / weekly faith-based activities, service projects and outreach opportunities. All students participate in faith-based activities as part of school life.
What is the Thriveway Programme?
What is the Thriveway Programme?
Thriveway is a structured programme developed by ThriveEd to ensure that schools provide high-quality academics, social-emotional learning, and strong character formation. It is externally assessed to maintain teaching excellence, leadership development, and a nurturing school culture.
Student support & practicalities
Does St Luke’s College offer aftercare and holiday programmes?
Does St Luke’s College offer aftercare and holiday programmes?
Yes. Aftercare runs from 14:00 – 17:30 for students up to Grade 7.
Holiday care is available during school breaks but excludes a portion of the December / January holidays.
Does St Luke’s College offer transport services?
Does St Luke’s College offer transport services?
A bus service is being investigated. More information on this will follow soon.
Is there a cafeteria service?
Is there a cafeteria service?
Yes, our cafeteria offers a selection of nutritious, whole-food meals that can be pre-ordered. While meals are not included in the preparatory and high school fees, preschool learners receive meals as part of their daily programme.
What is the school’s approach to discipline?
What is the school’s approach to discipline?
At St. Luke’s, our practices are grounded in Restorative Discipline. We see mistakes as valuable learning opportunities rather than reasons for punishment. When conflicts arise, we help children recognise the impact of their actions, take meaningful steps to make amends, and rebuild relationships.
How does St Luke’s approach technology and media?
How does St Luke’s approach technology and media?
We encourage intentional, educational technology use, ensuring students engage with high-quality, age-appropriate content. From Grade 8 onwards, students will require personal laptops. A laptop levy, not included in school fees, will be applied.