GRADE RRR TO GRADE R
The Cowan Cubs
Play is at the heart of learning at Cowan House Pre Primary.
GRADE RRR TO GRADE R
The Cowan Cubs
Pre Primary.
The Cowan House Pre Primary, affectionately known as “The Cowan Cubs” is for children from age 3 (turning 4) to age 5 (turning 6). Our Cowan Cubs thrive in small classes where creativity, exploration and connection come first. With expansive play areas and access to specialist lessons, including Computers, Music, Drama, Library and Sport, Cowan House offers a rich, balanced start to school life as a Cowan Cub.
We place a strong emphasis on social and emotional growth, helping children build confidence, empathy and resilience through meaningful relationships and guided play. Physical development is supported through daily movement, structured physical education and plenty of outdoor activity, strengthening both gross and fine motor skills. Cognitive development is sparked through curiosity-led learning, early literacy and numeracy activities and creative experiences that build focus, memory and problem solving. By the time they move into the Junior Primary, our children are socially, emotionally, physically and cognitively ready, confident, capable and excited for the next step.
Our Early Childhood Development Programme embraces the following seven learning areas:

Foundational
Numeracy

Physical
Development

Social & Emotional
Development

Cognitive & Perceptual
Development

Creative
Arts

Language &
Literacy

Discovery
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can I enrol my child in Grade RRR?
Children may begin Grade RRR in the year they turn 4, to ensure they are age appropriate for Grade 1. All children need to be potty trained prior to starting.
Is there Aftercare?
Yes. Aftercare is included in our school fees and available until 17h00. Our Cowan Cubs remain in the Pre Primary area until 15h30 and then join the Grade 1 - 3 children for the remainder of the afternoon.
What time does school start?
Our school day runs from 7h30 - 12h30 and following the structure below:
- Children arrive between 07h30 and 08h00.
- Morning tea (fresh sandwiches) is served at 10h00.
- Optional cooked lunch is available at 12h00 at an additional fee. Children are, however, welcome to bring their own lunch to enjoy with friends.
- Home time is at 12h30.
- Aftercare runs until 17h00.
What curriculum do we follow?
We follow the ISASA Early Childhood Development Curriculum, designed to support holistic growth, emotional, physical and intellectual.
- "Keys to Learning" is our Mathematics programme.
- "Time2Read" is our Language and Literacy programme, supported by a visiting expert who works with Grade R classes twice weekly.
What do I need to pack for lunch?
We offer a dietitian-approved, cooked lunch or you are welcome to pack your child’s own meal.
Please send a water bottle and a change of clothes daily for Pre Primary children.
If your child is staying for aftercare you would need to pack a healthy afternoon snack.
Do children in Pre Primary wear uniforms?
Uniform is minimal and age appropriate.
- Compulsory items: Cowan House hat, backpack and two library bags.
- A Cowan Cubs T-shirt and Hoodie are available from our school shop and encouraged for outings, school plays and sports days.
What Extra Curricular Activities Do You Offer?
We offer a variety of exciting Extra-Curricular Activities that families may choose to enrol their children in. These activities are optional and are not included in the school fees. Each is run by a private coach or facilitator.
- Young Engineers – Introducing children to the exciting world of coding, robotics, and early engineering concepts through hands-on learning and play.
- Ballet – A graceful introduction to movement and rhythm, helping children develop balance, coordination, and self-expression through the art of dance.
- Teddy Tennis – A fun and engaging way for young children to develop their coordination, balance, and love for sports through tennis-inspired games and activities.
- Cricket – A fantastic way for children to build teamwork, coordination, and motor skills while learning the fundamentals of this exciting sport in a fun and supportive environment.
- Playball – A dynamic sports program designed to develop children's physical skills, teamwork, and confidence through a variety of fun games and activities that promote fitness and coordination.